22-31 December2014,Safar 1435
BR COMMUNICATIONS WINS ‘BEST NEW BUSINESS IN 2014’ AT SME STARS OF BUSINESS AWARDS Communications consultancy is one of UAE’s over 327,000 small and medium businesses By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: R Communications FZE, a Dubai-based public relations, marketing and design consultancy, has been named the ‘Best New Business in 2014’ during the
B
SME Stars of Business Awards held on November 30 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. Bahaa Fatairy, Managing Director of BR Communications FZE, said: “We are truly honoured to be recognised for this category. Since launching our business in December 2013, we have been striving to make a mark in t h e r e g i o n ’s h i g h l y competitive communication s and media industry. This award definitely serves as motivation for us to continue doing our best in delivering valued-added service to our clients.”The SME Stars of Business Awards is an annual event organised by CPI Media Group, recognising the most outstanding small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the GCC region through 22 categories. The event highlights the significant role that SMEs play in helping grease the wheels of economic growth across the region.In the UAE alone, the number of small and medium
businesses is estimated to be around 327,000 with total revenue at USD234 billion.“SMEs are undoubtedly the backbone of any nation’s economy. And platforms such as the SME Stars of Business Awards are ideal in
celebrating the achievements of these businesses, while also emphasising their contributions to national a n d e c o n o m i c development,”said Fatairy.Like many new startup ventures, BR Communications FZE is a young company with a
dynamic and highly skilled team of media, design and communications professionals who have extensive knowledge of the GCC market. From its office in Dubai, the company serves several clients from a broad spectrum of industries including finance,information and communications technology, government services, as well as events management and exhibitions, among others.
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
LEBANESE SENSATION MYRIAM FARES TO HEADLINE ‘JALSAH LIVE!’ AT VOLVO OCEAN RACE ABU DHABI STOPOVER Fares to be accompanied by Fouad Abdel Wahid ‘Jalsah Live!’ on December 26th Skyline Stage to be transformed into traditional Arabian majlis
'BILLY BISHOP GOES TO WAR' OPENS TONIGHT AT DUCTAC By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: or the fifth consecutive time, Eros Group - the sole distributor of worldrenowned brands Samsung, Hitachi, Candy & TCL, has been voted the SuperBrand by the SuperBrands Council UAE the independent authority and arbiter of branding.The SuperBrand status is assigned to a company or a brand based on market dominance, quality, trust, l o n g e v i t y, a c c o u n t i n g practices, goodwill, customer loyalty and market acceptance. Following a comprehensive evaluation process, only exceptional brands that reach and meet all the requirements set by the UAE SuperBrands Council are awarded the title.Mr. Niranjan Gidwani, Deputy CEO, Eros Group on being
F
voted for a 5th year said, “ We a r e t h r i l l e d a n d honored to receive and maintain prestigious SuperBrand title year after year. This is a very proud moment for Eros Group to be recognized for all the hard work of our huge team and this will go a long way in encouraging everybody at Eros to keep up the good work. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has made this recognition possible for Eros Group.”Eros Group is today standing tall as an organisation with over AED 4.5 bn in revenues, 33 retail stores across UAE, 15 world-class brands in its portfolio, and industry recognized awards. Eros Group is one of the leading players in consumer electronics, telecom, and allied multi-products in the Middle East.
OOREDOO LAUNCHES FIRST 4G+ NETWORK IN QATAR The Biggest and Fastest network is becoming even faster; 4G+ to Offer Double the Speeds Of Ooredoo 4G in Selected Areas By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: oredoo, Qatar ’s l e a d i n g communications company, has launched its new state-of-the-art 4G+ network at a major event
O
held at the company’s headquarters in West Bay.With the launch of 4G+, Ooredoo’s bigger and faster network has become even faster, making Qatar one of a handful of nations in the world to have the fastest mobile Internet service available.The event, which was attended by Ooredoo’s CEO, Sheikh Saud Bin Nasser Al Thani, Chief Operating Officer, Waleed Al-Sayed, and Ooredoo’s brand ambassador Nasser Al Attiyah, alongside other senior staff members, invited employees from across the company to come and celebrate the next step in the company’s bigger and faster network. The state of the art 4G+ network has been designed to offer the fastest browsing speeds in Qatar for smartphone users and will offer speeds of up to double the current average 4G mobile Internet speeds.Using a 4G+ enabled device that supports Ooredoo Qatar’s 4G frequencies, customers will be able to access the superfast 4G+ network for free, taking advantage of the extra speeds and smooth browsing experience to stay in touch, check emails, video call and more.Waleed Al-Sayed, said: “We need to be one step ahead of our customers and of the
country’s needs, which is why we were the first to launch Fibre, first for 4G and now first to launch 4G+. This service truly puts us on the map as one of the most connected countries in the world and will provide the
fastest and best LTE service in Qatar for our people.”The current available Ooredoo 4G speed is up to 150 Mbps. With 4G+, customers are now able to reach up to 225 Mbps, nearly double the average 4G speed in areas of Doha. Areas with access to 4G+ speeds are the Corniche, West Bay lagoon, Katara, Souq Waqif, Al Rayyan, Shahaniya and Sealine. 4G+ is available from December 1st, 2014. 4G customers living in a 4G+ area without a 4G+ enabled device will continue to enjoy standard 4G speeds.To ensure customers can take advantage of the superfast 4G+ speeds from launch, Ooredoo has launched three smart devices into the market which will work with 4G+ frequencies. The devices, which include the Samsung Alpha, Huawei Ascend Mate 7 and Huawei E5786 Mi-fi, are available via Ooredoo Shops now. Customers can enjoy access to Ooredoo 4G+ super-speeds at no added cost with a device that supports Ooredoo’s 4G+ technology and supports 800 or 2600 MHz frequencies. Customers can find a list of Ooredoo supported 4G+ devices at http://www.ooredoo.qa/en/ 4G-devices
Edition 71Pg1
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ne of the Arab world’s biggest stars, Lebanese singing sensation Myriam Fares is to headline ‘Jalsah Live!’ the traditional ‘majlis’ music gathering which will be performed on December 26 on the unique Skyline Stage built into the waters
O
of Abu Dhabi Corniche as part of the city’s Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) S t o p o v e r programme.Myriam, who’s one of the biggest social media sensations in the region with over 10 million Facebook likes and 2 million Twitter followers, will be joined on stage by the 24-year-old Yemeni star, Fouad Abdel Wahid who
sprang to fame as a winner of the Abu Dhabi TV competition ‘Gulf Star.’ The dynamic music duo will perform on the incredible, 400 square metre ‘Skyline Stage’ which will be transformed into a traditional Arabian majlis with Abu Dhabi’s stunning Corniche vistas as the backdrop. The production will deliver full concert sound and include a multicamera video broadcast of the performance on a 60 square metre video wall suspended above the stage. Myriam Fares has promised everyone a night to remember. “I’m looking forward to meeting all my fans and sharing the best moments with them in this ‘one of a kind’ evening.”And Fouad Abdel Wahid, who is best known for hit singles such as ‘Washington, Mafik Heela and Arbaa Wa Eeshreen, says the Jalsah Live! audience can expect to hear all their favourite songs and more.We will perform many of our most beautiful songs including some of our newer material,”said “Our fans will n o t b e disappointed.”Tickets for the one-night only
performance range from Platinum VIP seating in a hospitality terrace with cinema surround sound at AED 600 (US $164) to Gold seating at AED 500 (US $137) and Silver at AED 300 (US $82), both at floor level. Tickets can be bought o n l i n e a t www.timeouttickets.com or from box offices in Marina Mall Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Media City. “It’s extremely rare to see a ‘Jalsah’ performed live, especially with performances by two such big stars,” commented Mohammed Al Zaabi, of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), which is behind the emirate’s three-week Stopover celebration. “Add this to the Blue Planet in
Concert, which opens the Stopover on 12th and 13th December, and we really do have an incredible entertainment line up to get the celebrations off to fabulous start.”Up to 175,000 people are expected to visit the purpose-built VOR Destination Village on Abu Dhabi Corniche Breakwater for the Stopover celebrations. The village will open to the public from 12th December until 3rd January, when the hardy VOR race fleet departs for its next endurance sailing leg to Sanya, China. The Stopover will feature three weeks of sailing action, live concerts, water-sports and family entertainment.
PORTFOLIO PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS A DOCUMENTARY BY STUART CAMERON ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE DIRECTED BY: STUART CAMERON PRODUCED BY: STUART CAMERON AND MEDDY EZRAH ORTEGA EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: SUZY AMIS CAMERON, PATRICK DUNN, STUART HIGTON, AND STUART CAMERON By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: roduced by Portfolio Films America – ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE is a documentary that focuses on the lives and dreams of the children of
P
not just their plight, but also the positive way that these children go about their lives in conditions and under
Good Morning School in the district of Mae Sot,
Thailand.Mae Sot is one of the many towns along the
T h a i B u r m a border w h e r e hundreds o f thousands o f Burmese nationals have chosen to live as a result of the repressive actions taken by Burma’s military junta. T h e y f l e d f r o m Burma a n d escaped to Mae Sot with the hope that they will be able to sustain their families and
become free from the fear of getting shot and arrested . However, the vast majority of Burmese in the town exist as people without nationality, rights, or any solid future. This is the h a r s h reality that t h e Burmese children in Mae Sot have to face every day. The documentary highlights
circumstances we dare not even imagine.
22-31 December2014, Safar 1435
TELLY AND SAUDI ARABIA’S TELFAZ 11 TEAM UP TO BRING ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT TO VIEWERS ACROSS MIDDLE EAST REGION By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai UAE: s part of its vision to become the leading premium c o n t e n t provider and streaming service in the Middle East, Telly teamed up with Telfaz 11 , S a u d i Arabia’s p r i m a r y Internet television network, to deliver the Telfaz 11 most popular and unrivaled online video entertainment to its subscribers across the region.As part of the agreement, Telfaz 11 fans will be first to enjoy episodes of their mostloved Telfaz 11 shows such as, Temsa7LY, Khambala and La Yekthar when they subscribe to Telly service, before it is published on YouTube or anywhere else. Once they become Telly subscribers, users will also have access to Telly’s most comprehensive library of multi-lingual Movies and TV Shows in the region. “We are delighted to join hands with one of the region’s most popular online TV network,” said Mo Al Adham, Telly co-founder and CEO. “This business marriage makes perfect sense, as Telly’s platform caters mainly to the youth and the content that Telfaz 11 provides is very popular amongst the same segment of the population. Telly’s service is ad-free and easy to use, making it convenient for subscribers to sit back and enjoy watching their favorite Telfaz 11 shows,” added Mo.In addition to content from Telfaz 11, Telly has local content in Arabic and films from Sony, Miramax, Lionsgate, Weinstein Co. and other features licensed through third-party distributors for the Middle East and Africa region. In addition, the Telly service provides Arabic subtitling for films. Alaa Youssef, CEO of C3 Films t h a t o w n s Te l f a z 11 , commented: “Since its outset in 2011, Telfaz 11 aimed at establishing a podium for attracting local creative talents within the Middle East, through providing light-hearted and
A
entertaining online content, to reflect positive changes within our society. We created a series of comedy shows, which quickly won
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
PEPSI DEMONSTRATES ITS PASSION FOR CULTURE, ARTS AND FASHION AT THE LAUNCH OF SOLEDXB By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: IBF has announced the launch of a new globally-recognised Islamic Finance Pathway developed by the Institute in cooperation with the a w a r d i n g b o d y, t h e Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), UK.As part of the p a t h w a y, f i n a n c e professionals will be able to
B
partners in the field of Islamic Finance”, added BIBF Deputy Director Dr. Ahmed Al Shaikh.Kevin Moore, Chartered MCSI and CISI Global Business Development Director said: “Since 2007 when we launched the IFQ, 4,000 examinations have been sat in over 50 countries. This new Islamic Finance Qualifications Pathway has been developed with BIBF
the hearts of the youth in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Today, we have millions of viewers following us on social media and YouTube, across the Middle East region.“Our agreement with Te l l y a l l o w s u s t o supplement our production
costs, which in turn enables us to do more interesting things for our audience. At the same time, it gives us access to Telly’s growing subscriber base across the MENA region and brings Telfaz 11 most popular shows closer to them,” concluded Alaa. Telly premium service is available on web and on mobile (via Apple iOS and Android apps), with a monthly subscription of only USD$9.99 (KD2.99, SR36.99, AED36.99.)Telly and Saudi Arabia’s Telfaz 11 team up to bring online entertainment to viewers across Middle East region:Subscription to Telly service is very easy and convenient as it can be made via cash-on-delivery, via app stores, PayPal, credit cards, gift cards and carrier billing service in Kuwait and other countries in the near future, where consumers can charge the transaction to their monthly mobile bill, or using their prepaid credit.
go through a tiered form of training that can start with a basic diploma covering fundamentals of Islamic finance, or choose, depending on their previous qualifications, another path, with the most advanced path being an advanced diploma that covers highlyspecialised concepts and ideas within the Islamic finance industry. BIBF Director Solveig Nicklos noted that unlike many of the qualifications on Islamic Finance that are currently available in the market, the result of the collaboration between BIBF and the CISI will focus on specialised key areas in Islamic banking and finance, such as Shari’ah auditing, governance and ethics, risk management, and Islamic financial markets and instruments."The Islamic Finance Qualification of the CISI has gained an admirable reputation among industry practitioners in both the Islamic banking and traditional banking industry. BIBF and CISI are collaborating to build pathways around this qualification, by providing clear progressive paths with varying levels of depth and specialisation.“It has been a privilege to work with the CISI as founder and awarding body of this revolutionising pathway. We are proud to serve as their international strategic
to provide a progressive study path for practitioners to support career development. Students will also obtain free CISI Student membership, which means they can become associated from the outset with a Chartered, professional body working all over the world.”Matthew Cowan, CISI Regional Director for the Middle East added, “I am delighted to have been working with BIBF for a number of years and this latest development strengthens our partnership. We are both confident that the new Islamic Finance Pathway provides tangible value to market practitioners and will increase their knowledge, s k i l l s a n d professionalism”.The new CISI/BIBF Islamic Finance Qualification Pathway, for Islamic Finance practitioners, is based around the established Islamic Finance Qualification (IFQ) l’Ecole Superieure des Affaires (ESA) and CISI joint venture.While the pathway is scheduled to launch early next year, both the CISI and BIBF will be available to speak to delegates of the 21st Annual World Islamic Banking Conference about the qualification. The Conference is taking place at Kingdom of Bahrain from the 2nd to the 3rd of December 2014.
AMSI SCHOOLS CELEBRATE THE 43RD UAE NATIONAL DAY By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: arking 43 years of prosperity and giving in the UAE, Academia Management Solutions International
solidarity and unity that mark the National Day celebrations. AMSI students also took part in creating the world’s longest Graffiti scroll, an initiative announced by HH Sheikh
grades especially the traditional Youla Dance which captivated the audience. The Scouts troop performed their National Day routine followed by a massive painting for HH
“43 years and going strong. We are indeed proud to be a part of this 43 year old journey. We are truly happy and look forward to each and every day with great happiness and hope and
(AMSI), a leading academic solutions provider which manages both ISAS and Al Mawakeb Schools, celebrated the nation’s 43rd
Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,
Sheikh Mohammed’s 3fingered salute “Win, Victory a n d Love”. Inside t h e school premise s, the visitors w e r e able to experien ce authentic UAE hospitality. There were tents filled with traditional items from the UAE culture, a traditional Emirati food corner, falcons, henna and face painting for students and parents, horse riding and an Emirati Musical Band.Commenting on the celebrations, Alissar NasrSoubra, AMSI CAO stated,
pride. Our heartiest felicitations to the UAE, and everyone who believes in t h e u n d e n i a b l e determination and courage
M
National Day in a day-long celebration with numerous activities initiated by the schools. In the days leading up to the National Day celebrations, several PreNational Day activities took place across the schools in preparation for the festivities. Al Mawakeb Schools and ISAS were embellished with UAE flags to portray the spirit of
Crown Prince of Dubai and chairman of the Dubai Executive Council which took place on November 29 and 30 near Jumeirah Beach Park. The festivities kicked off with the National Anthem followed by a parade and dance by the KG students. The crowd was enthralled by the various dances performed by students across all the
of this country and its people.”
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
Edition 71 Pg2
DUBAI CORPORATION FOR AMBULANCE SERVICES (DCAS) AND PRIME HOSPITAL SIGN A COOPERATION AGREEMENT TO TRANSPORT SICK AND INJURED By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: halifa Al Darrai, Executive Director of t h e D u b a i Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), has signed a cooperation agreement with Mr. Essa Al Ghurair, Chairman of Prime Healthcare Group, earlier this month.This agreement aims the cooperation between the two institutions by transporting DCAS patients to Prime Hospital facilities and by enable the Hospital to access to the Patient Information System. This way, the medical center will be able to determine in advance, the doctors and paramedics available and required in each case. The main objectives of the accord are to reduce the time it takes transferring patients to the nearest hospital as well as, provide superior and appropriate services to the patients, along with the best available methods of treatments. According to this, Prime Hospital is committed to facilitate an ambulance station for a quick patient’s assistance, all the necessary equipment, devices and doctors and/or
K
specialists; in addition to a hotline number for the injured and their families.Dr. Jamil Ahmed, Managing Director of the Group stated: "This agreement is another step towards cooperation
to the consolidation of medical and ambulance work to achieve both parties’ common interest: to preserve UAE citizens’ lives, by providing the best services in the shortest time
between public and private sector that definitely, will lead in to a better healthcare service to Dubai and UAE citizens”. This is the fourth agreement hold between DCAS and a private hospital. Mr. Khalifa Al Daraai praised Prime Hospital management team for its fruitful cooperation and expressed his hope for the agreement to contribute
possible.The signing took p l a c e i n D C A S Headquarters. The event was attended by Isa alGhafari, director of institutional support management; Neil Kirby, director of operations management; Omar Saqqaf, Director of Medical and Technical Affairs; Meshaal Julfar, head of emergency operations
department; and Ali Musa, Head of Events Section and the transfer of patients at DCAS. From Prime Hospital, also attend the event: Dr. Jamil Ahmed, Managing Director of the Group; Mr. Tanweer Alam, Dy. Manager Marketing; and Dr. Osman E l B a k r y, B u s i n e s s Development Manager who coordinated the tie-up.Dr. Jamil made a presentation about facilities and services of the hospital. They also watched a documentary film about the history of the organization and the services it provides to the community.The agreement is within the framework of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai vision; and the keenness of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, to follow-up and activate the partnership between the public and private sectors as well as,promoting the cooperation and coordination between them.
GALAXY OF SPARKLING STARS ACCLAIMED AT REGION’S BIGGEST SME GALA Star of Business Awards – the iconic awards brand attracted a staggering record of 3000 entries from over 910 companies across 23 awards categories. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: resented by the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), in collaboration SME Advisor Middle East, CPI Media Group’s flagship publication, the ‘Stars of Business Awards’ celebrated and honoured top-notch performers from across the wide spectrum of the SME i n d u s t r y. H e l d a t t h e luxurious setting of Madinat Arena, Dubai, on the evening of November 30, the iconic awards brand attracted a staggering record of 3000 entries from
P
over 910 companies across 23 awards categories, making it the biggest SME event in the region.Hosts Gina O’hara, COO, CPI Media Group and Randa Al Hemeiri, Co-Ambassador, Achieve magazine kicked off the evening with a lively welcome to all 800 guests of this sparkling occasion. They then introduced His Excellency Abdulla Al Otaiba, Senior Managing Director & Group Head of Global Retail and Commercial Banking, NBAD, who has set the scene of the evening with a very powerful keynote speech.The glittering agenda carried on to the moment everyone has been waiting for – the announcement of the winners, starting with one of the key categories of the evening the ‘NBAD Star of Manufacturing’. A Gold and a Silver winner were recognised in this category, which was won by Harmony
Cosmetics FZC and WMS Metal Industries respectively. Other champions of the evening include: •Kcal Healthy Fast Food who bagged the ‘People’s Choice’ award •American Center for Psychiatry and N e u r o l o g y ‘Professional Services’ •Dhofar Global Trading Company LLC ‘Excellence in Trade’ •Himatrix Middle E a s t F Z C O ‘Excellence in Retail’ •WMS Metal Industries
•Bin Touq Fire and Safety SME Toolkit Emirati FirstTime Entrepreneur’ •Alchemist Healthcare LLC Effective Financial Implementation’ • F i n e s s ‘ E ff e c t i v e T e c h n o l o g y Implementation’ •Carousel Solutions FZ LLC ‘Impressive Management Policies’ Individual awards were also given to entrepreneurs who have attained s p e c t a c u l a r achievements in their craft, Fatima Al Shirawi of the The Gracious F, bagged the ‘Admirable Woman Entrepreneur of Year’ award. Obaid Khadim
‘Construction and Real Estate’ •BR Communications FZE ‘Best New Business’ •The Box Self Storage Services LLC. ‘Green Business of the Year’ •Cafetogo ‘Change-master: breaking new markets and products’ •AEserver FZE ‘Technology and Online’ •Diva Modelling & Events ‘ M e d i a , Marketing & Events’ •My Gym UAE ‘Health and Wellness’ • R a j a b T r a d i n g Company ‘Hospitality and Tourism’ •Infotouch Technologies Corporate Governance’
Ahmed bin Touq Almarri of Bin Touq Fire and Safety, and Rasha Al Dhanhani of PappaRoti Café won the ‘Emirati Entrepreneur of the Ye a r ’ a n d ‘ A r a b Entrepreneur of the Year’ respectively. Two young entrepreneurs were also recognised for the great potential that they have demonstrated – sisters Rawan and Suzan Al-Sadi founders of R o z a n Designs were named as ‘Tomorrow’s Entrepreneur’ .Etisalat also recognised two of their most-valued partners with s p e c i a l awards – Emerging Technologies
LLC was given the ‘Top Channel Partner 2014’ award and Skylines World Commercial Brokers LLC received the ‘Most Promising Channel Partner’ award.The evening’s most awaited award and the title everyone was vying for was awarded to Bene AG Middle East who was named the ‘Star of Business’ for 2014.Earlier that day, during the ‘SME Beyond Borders’ conference, the ‘CPI Lifetime Achievement Award’ was also granted to Mohan Valrani, Co-founder, Senior Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Al
Shirawi Group, for all the wonderful accomplishments that he has attained and for serving as an inspiration to t h e b u s i n e s s community.The ‘Stars of Business Awards’ was supported by some of the leading players in the SME community including Presenting Partner, NBAD; Strategic SME Partner, Etisalat; and Official Government Partner, Dubai Economic Council. Other sponsors include Microsoft, S A P, G r a n t T h o r n t o n , Finesse, Regus, Souqalmal.com, SPF Realty, Media Rotana, Al Futtaim Logistics, Coface, Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone, Sohar Port and Freezone, OBS Group, Khalifa Fund, Dubai SME, Morison Menon, and Moody’s Analytics.Finally, the awards ceremony was followed by a gourmet dinner and an electrifying entertainment which was enjoyed by all the champions and guests of the
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg2 )
GEMS COMMEMORATES 43RD NATIONAL DAY AND CLAIMS A NEW GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR THE UAE -Students from 119 nations sing the UAE national anthem in unison -Crowds of 100,000 students, staff and parents gather to raise their voice in celebration of the Union 22-31 December 2014,Safar1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71 Pg3
DUBAI AIRPORTS HIRING TAKES OFF WITH NEW RECRUITMENT PLATFORM One of the world’s busiest airport sharpens up hiring with new online & mobile strategy By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ubai Airports (DA), operator of one of the world’s busiest airports, Dubai International and Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central, has teamed up with Cazar, the leading recruitment solution provider & employer branding firm in the Middle East, to launch their new career website to power their online candidate journey.Dubai Airports recently announced a US$32 billion expansion to build the world’s biggest airport that will serve as a global gateway for an expected 200 million passengers annually by the end of the next decade. These plans, in which recruitment is a strategic part, have fuelled the launch of DA’s new bespoke mobileresponsive career p o r t a l (http://careers.dubaiair ports.ae). Designed to attract top talent, it is the central hub for all hiring needs.Dubai International is a major contributor to the local economy. According to a study conducted by Oxford Economics in 2013-14, Dubai’s aviation sector supports 416,500 jobs, contributing US$26.7 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP) - around 21 per cent of total employment in Dubai, and 27 per cent of Dubai’s GDP. With the expansion plans underway, by 2020 aviation supported employment numbers will grow to more than 750,000 jobs & the sector will contribute US$53.1 billion or 37.5 per cent of the Emirate's G D P. F u r t h e r m o r e , w i t h passenger traffic increasing by 15 per cent year-on-year at Dubai International, a scalable talent solution that can handle both current and future talent requirements was vital. Meshari Al Bannai, VP of Human Resources at Dubai Airports explains, “You can only build the best if you work with the best. Our focus is clear - attract top Emirati and global talent. Our growth and success cannot be
Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: oday the UAE claimed yet another Guinness World Record. In celebration of the Emirates’ 43rd National Day, GEMS students, staff
T
D
achieved without the right people. DA’s career website and platform is instrumental in achieving this.”Prior to the recruitment platform, DA’s hiring was done traditionally. Now the entire process is
O
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he Movement is a recently established bicycle shop whose ambition is to promote sustainability and cycling by offering a range of stylish, affordable and practical urban bicycles for adults and children. For those who appreciate style over speed, they also offer a range of accessories such as
T
seamless, online and mobile from the application, to scheduling interviews and onboarding new hires. Mr Al Bannai explains the reasons behind this, “Today smart phones, tablets and social media are a way of life for candidates. They are always connected and mobile. As an innovative employer of choice, we felt it was essential to have a fully mobile responsive career site so anyone, anywhere can apply from any platform or device and have a great user experience.”Theresa Carew, Head of Recruitment, adds, “Top candidates are like passengers. They expect a smooth journey. This is why we have put so much thought and resources into the design and technology behind our talent acquisition process.”
Father of the Nation, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Sultan Al Nahyan, and Dubai UAE: demonstrates that his ew World Education, values and principles of an education diversity and progress are services company, alive and well in the UAE today announced the today. By encouraging
N
students, parents, and staff to take part in our celebrations, GEMS is conveying a message to the world that diversity and tolerance is evidence of a nation’s vitality and proof of its ability to achieve wonders.” In claiming today’s world record, each school from across GEMS’ UAE network sent a group of students to GEMS Wellington Academy Dubai Silicon Oasis.The students had been eagerly practicing the national anthem for the last two weeks. A live broadcast of the recordbreaking event was simultaneously broadcast to 40 GEMS schools across the UAE. Following the official acknowledgment of the new record by the Guinness World Records team, certificates were distributed to participating GEMS schools.
MEACL - 2015. Following successful culmination last year in Abu Dhabi, MEACL is once again organised by Arabian Reach FZ LLC is the
possibilities with the Garden Centre we meshed right away” says Founder Julie Audette, “We also wanted an intimate space, conveniently located in a family friendly environment. It really was a perfect fit for us.”The Movement encourages everyone to cycle, not just for fun and sport but also as a utilitarian
launch of Kipina Kids nursery in Abu Dhabi’s Al Bateen area. The first of its kind in the UAE, Kipina is a new innovation in nursery education inspired by Finland’s highly acclaimed early childhood program. Meaning ‘the spark’ in Finnish, Kipina aims to ignite the spark and create a lifetime love for learning in
children from four months to four years of a g e . T h e curriculum is taught by experienced early childhood educators through direct e x p l i c i t instruction, an interactive teaching methodology that focuses on six core curricular domains to address the emotional, s o c i a l , c o g n i ti v e a n d physical development of each child. Setting trajectories in early learning to enable a confident and easy transition into mainstream schooling, the program engages parents as partners in their child’s l e a r n i n g j o u r n e y. Ly n n Brucker, Director of Kipina and one of four partners who created the Kipina concept, said: “Kipina is the result of collaborative effort by a group of social entrepreneurs who wish to effect social change in the world. Innovation in education is absolutely essential to help ensure the next generation’s mindset is limitless, creative and entrepreneurial.“We chose the UAE to launch Kipina as the country’s aspirations are very much in alignment
with Finland’s and ours. The UAE is on the path toward creating a nation of innovation, which is what Finland was able to achieve in just over a decade. It is
also the mindset we are working to create for Kipina Kids. Our hope is to grow and scale Kipina across the UAE and the world in the next few years.”Nina Patari, a veteran educationist from Finland with more than 14 years of experience teaching the early years, has been appointed as Principal of Kipina’s first nursery in Abu Dhabi. Global Academic Director, Cathy McCauley, a 25 year career educator, and developer of the Kipina Curriculum, will focus on providing continued training and mentorship to Kipina’s specialized s t a ff . K i p i n a ’s n u r s e r y environment has also been designed to provide children with an inspirational soothing and eco-friendly setting. Natural light, w o o d furniture and textures are featured throughout the nursery. Smart boards, computers and tablets, as well as wellequipped resource rooms have been incorporated to support Kipina’s 21st century learning
philosophy of inspiring innovation and igniting c h i l d r e n ’ s imagination.Open from 7:00am through to 6.30pm, five days a week, Kipina offers a transparent fee structure and live CCTV coverage of the classrooms to parents.The nursery is currently accepting admissions for session starting January 2015.
NATIONAL ARCHIVES OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES ‘WATHEQ’ INITIATIVE A national initiative dedicated to archiving the UAE’s cultural heritage A vital milestone in archiving the history of the UAE
T
ideal event to know more about the latest trends in logistics worldwide. Hosted and endorsed by Bahrain Airports Company, the event will focus on Middle East’s key role in the global freight industry. The conferences held as a part of the event will feature senior executives in the logistics industry. The two day event will bring together major players in air cargo industry including airlines, airports, shipping, land transport, freight & logistics service providers, project forwarders, warehousing & distribution and the support services providers to the global freight industry.
moved to Dubai from cycling friendly cities. The interest they received in their own Linus bikes, a Californian brand they are selling and distributing exclusively in the UAE, was overwhelming so they put their minds to it and the Movement was born.The Dubai Garden Centre was an obvious choice to launch. “From the moment we discussed the
city bike for short little journeys. Bicycles are environmentally friendly, and a great form of exercise. To encourage more people to cycle and to help and reduce the amount of unused bicycles, The Movement is offering a bicycle-recycling initiative where discarded or unwanted bicycles can be serviced and donated within the local community. Organic evolution is an important part of what they are doing. The immediate focus is to build The Movement and see bicycles become the fabric of the UAE landscape and people’s day-to-day lives.
baskets, bells, and lights for those wanting to add a touch of personality to their bicycle. Love your bike and cycling life! Founded by 2 bicycle enthusiasts that
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he National Archives held a press c o n f e r e n c e yesterday at Emirates Palace to officially launch the Watheq initiative. Presiding over the launch was HE Dr Abdullah Al Rayes, Director General of the National Archives. Also present was HE Ibrahim Bin Karam CEO of Emirates Post;and Abdulraheem Al Bateeh Executive Director of
specialised in sea, air and land transport will be will be showcasing its solutions at the Middle East Air Cargo & Logistics Exhibition and Conference - 2015 (MEACL 2015). Co- located with Bahrain International Airport Development Forum, the event is hosted by Bahrain Airports Company and will be held on 20th and 21st April 2015 at Gulf Convention Centre (Gulf Hotel), Manama, Bahrain.ORG Logistics, with over decade of experience in providing tailor made multimodal logistics, will showcase its services including sea transport, intra GCC land transport, door to door delivery, air Charter and projects cargo handling etc at
President of our country; H i s Highness Sheikh Mohamm ed bin Rash id Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and their Highnesses the Supreme Council members and Rulers of the Emirates. “Our world record-breaking rendition of the UAE National Anthem is a celebration of unity through diversity – represented by 119 of the 200 nationa lities w h o call the U A E home, a n d w h o a r e eager to give thanks and acknowledge the opportunities they have been given by our nation.”Dino Varkey, Group Executive Director and Board Member, GEMS Education, said: “GEMS’ celebration of the 43rd National Day of the UAE aligns with the vision of the
INDEPENDENT URBAN BICYCLE SHOP OPENS IN DUBAI GARDEN CENTRE, JOIN THE MOVEMENT!
ORG LOGISTICS TO EXHIBIT AT MIDDLE EAST AIR CARGO & LOGISTICS EXHIBITION 2015 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: RG Logistics, an integrated logistics service provider
and parents sang their way into the record books, setting a new Guinness World Record for the most nationalities singing a National Anthem at any one time. More than 100,000 GEMS students, teachers, parents and staff r e p r e s e n t i n g 11 9 nationalities sang ‘Ishy Baladi’ (Long Live My Nation) the national Anthem of the UAE - in unison. Gathered together on the playing fields of GEMS Wellington Academy Dubai Silicon Oasis, the students raised their voices proudly to proclaim their love for the nation, with thousands of parents taking time to attend and celebrate the strength of the Union alongside their children and GEMS staff. Officials from the Guinness World Records team were also on hand, as were adjudicators
f r o m E&Y, to m a k e sure that t h e passport s of the student sing e r s were checked and double-checked, and that the new world record was officially verified. Amal Al Bayari, Director of Government Relations at GEMS Education and a proud UAE National, said: “Today is a celebration of the coming together of the seven emirates and 43 years of achievements thank s to t h e visio n and wisd om of t h e UAE leade rship. O n this d a y we remember the founders of the modern UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and their brothers. We also salute and congratulate His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan,
NEW WORLD EDUCATION LAUNCHES KIPINA KIDS NURSERY IN UAE •Curriculum Inspired by Finland’s Innovative Early Childhood Education Program •Flagship School Opens in Abu Dhabi’s Al Bateen Area
Communication & Government Relations at Abu Dhabi Media.HE Al Rayes explained: “Watheq is a national initiative launched under the generous guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan D e p u t y P r i m e M i n i s t e r, M i n i s t e r o f
Presidential Affairs and Chairman of the National Archives. It is aimed primarily at Emirati families, as the cornerstone of preserving the heritage of UAE society.”He added:“The campaign empowers people to create their personal archives and preserve historical documents, records, artifacts and other precious possessions that are a pivotal reservoir of information about life within UAE society. Therefore w e m u s t safeguard these valuables to make them accessible to the public, while educating people a b o u t t h e n u m e r o u s intellectual, cultural and historical benefits of our archives. All this is rooted in a deep, accurate and reliable source of knowledge about the old Emirati and Gulf society.”HE Al Rayes went on to point out that Watheq represents a national collaboration in which the entire society takes
collective responsibility for preserving the memories of its homeland. The National Archives collects, archives and preserves these valuables in accordance with the highest international scientific standards, under the supervision of renowned experts who oversee the initiative’s progress for the benefit of the nation. According to Al Rayes: “Maintaining historical records is the overr i d i n g
responsibility of national archives authorities all over the world. In the UAE, our nation’s wise leadership has established and protected national archives services under Federal Law No. 7 of 2008. The government sends valuable historical documents to the National Archi ves, and a l l citize n s a r e dutyboun d to safe guar
d any historical material of national significance to the National Archives repository.” Elaborating on this process, Al Rayes explained that anyone who presents copies of historically significant material to the National Archives will be compensated in accordance with the law, adding: “The N a t i o n a l Archives has provided the public with several options to preserve material, such as a USB device. Our t e a m o f experienced specialists will help the public in the restoration and maintenance of documents to protect them from damage.”Al Rayes stressed that the national significance of this material makes it imperative to preserve it from damage or loss which would constitute historical extinction. The National Archives will distribute special preservation boxes which
are free to families in cooperation with its strategic partner, the Emirates Post Group. The group will provide these b o x e s t h r o u g h 11 9 distribution centers nationwide.250,000 boxes will be distributed in successive phases. The boxes are designed according to the highest
international standards in archiving. They are easy to open and close, storagefriendly and resistant to moisture and other external factors. Historical letters, photos, videos, memoranda, newspapers, books, marriage certificates, birth certificates and any other historical documentation can be stored in these boxes.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg3)
WELDING SECTOR – A CUT ABOVE THE REST IN ARABIA Rising manufacturing boosts demand for welding & cutting equipment Expo Centre Sharjah is all set to host the 11th edition of SteelFab 2015
22-31 December 2014,Safar 1435 Mob:00971 56 118 6007
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: r a m a t i c a n d evocative works of one of the most acclaimed artists in Greece have gone on show in Abu Dhabi’s Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) Stopover Destination Village on the city’s C o r n i c h e
D
Breakwater.Original,nautica l-themed compositions of Dimitris Kretsis, which combine to make up his ‘The Seas Within Me’ exhibition which debuted in Rhodes last year, have been brought to the UAE capital by Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Modern Art Gallery.“This is part of our campaign to constantly stimulate the emerging art scene in Abu Dhabi while opening a dialogue with the public and introducing new art concepts to it,” said gallery owner, HE Khalid Seddiq Al Mutawaa. “We are also delighted to take part in the VOR Destination Village, or any initiative by TCA” he added.The works on display, a mix of acrylic paintings and pencil sketches, have been handpicked by Dimitris to portray his feelings of yachtsmen at sea honed from personal experience.“I choose the pieces in an attempt to evoke nostalgia that will impact on the audience and increase interest in art as well as marine life,” said Dimitris during a short trip to Abu Dhabi to curate his works.The 32-year-old Greek, a graduate of the Athens School of Fine Arts,
T
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
ACCLAIMED ‘THE SEAS WITHIN ME’ ART EXHIBITION SAILS INTO ABU DHABI’S VOR STOPOVER VILLAGE WORK OF ACCLAIMED GREEK ARTIST DIMITRIS KRETIS MAKES UAE DEBUT studied under some of the country’s most celebrated artists including Dimitris Sakellion, Dimitris Mytaras and Zacharias Arvanitis before continuing his studies at Madrid University’s Faculty of Fine Arts. Dimitris has won honours in art exhibitions throughout Greece and his
wall paintings and other art works are found in private collections and major hotels a t h o m e a n d abroad.“Dimitris is a distinguished artist acclaimed both within his home country and on an international level,” said Al Mutawaa. “He possesses impressive abilities in i c o n o g r a p h y, r e a l i s t i c rendering of vignettes and portraitures.The VOR Destination Village, presented by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, is open, free-to-enter, to the public daily from 10am–9pm-SundayWe d n e s d a y a n d 10am–10pm ThursdaySaturday until January 3rd. Opening times on December 25th differ with the village accepting visitors from 4pm until 10pm.The village celebrates Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the hardy VOR fleet which is contesting the grueling, round-the-world endurance challenge. The contesting yachts arrived recently from the race’s Leg 2 from Cape Town to Abu Dhabi and leave on January 3 on the third leg to China in Sanya.
ARIJIT SINGH LIVE IN DUBAI WITH THE GRAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA FROM LONDON Thursday, January 15, 2015 Venue: Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre Doors open: 7: 30 pm - Concert: 9:30 sharp
Edition 71Pg4
KING KHALED EYE SPECIALIST HOSPITAL ACHIEVES HIMSS EMR ADOPTION MODEL STAGE 6 USING INTERSYSTEMS TRAKCARE By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ing Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (KKESH) was recognised for achieving
K
Stage 6 on the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society’s (HIMSS) Electronic Medical Record A d o p t i o n M o d e l (EMRAM).HIMSS’ independent validation recognised that the hospital met all of the criteria for a Stage 6 hospital in the deployment and use of clinical information technology and advanced safety features to further enhance the quality of patient care.The Stage 6 Award Ceremony took place at the HIMSS Middle East
Integrated Health Innovations Conference & Exhibition on December, 2014 at the Ritz Carlton (DIFC) Hotel in Dubai. King Khaled Eye Specialist
Hospital is the first Saudi Ministry of Health hospital to achieve this global recognition, which reflects the vision and drive of the Ministry of Health to adopt the latest technology to provide world-class healthcare to the patients in the Kingdom. Achieving HIMSS EMRAM Stage 6 places KKESH among the elite hospitals that have successfully deployed this level of healthcare information technology, among more than 7,500 hospitals tracked by HIMSS Analytics globally.
SONY MARKS BEGINNING OF NEW AUTOFOCUS ERA •a6000, a77 II and Soon-to-be Launched a5100 Feature Advanced 4D Focus System By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ony sets a new benchmark in photography with the unveiling of its latest ‘4D
S
recorded by the camera. The 4D Focus system makes a prediction of the next move of the object and then adjusts the focus appropriately. The results
Focus’ system that enables the camera to detect not only depth (3D) but also time (4D). The new 4D Focus system leverages rapid autofocus (AF), and a unique AF system that achieves high predictive precision, all of which are incorporated in the latest
are clear and crisp photos regardless of the speed of the object.Providing an insight into 4D Focus and the value it will bring to digital imaging, Kenta Akiyama, Head of the Digital Imaging Division at Sony, said: “Sony has continuously invested in
Sony á cameras. Sony showcased the technology at a media workshop held
products and technology to provide a unique user experience.The unveiling of the revolutionary 4D Focus technology has taken photography to a completely new level and is certain to find high resonance among p h o t o g r a p h y enthusiasts and professionals.”
today at Capital Studio, Dubai, displaying a selection of its cameras currently featuring 4D Focus, including the á6000, á77 II and the soon-to-be-launched á5100. When using these cameras, the shooting object’s position and speed are
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he formidable manufacturing and industrial sector of the region is driving up demand for welding and cutting equipment in the UAE and the rest of Arabia.According to Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting, the contribution of the industrial sector in GCC countries’ GDP ranged between 9.5 per cent and 10.5 per cent from 2001 to 2012, except for 2008 when it was reduced to 8.5 percent because of the global financial crisis.And, with the current fall in oil prices being seen as a wake-up call for Arabia to adopt better economic diversification strategies, the manufacturing sector is set to continue its robust growth.The welding sector will thus be an essential
component of the regional steel fabrication, metal working and metal manufacturing industry, highlighting the importance of the premier regional trade fair –SteelFab.“SteelFab has been an important event for the region’s steel
fabrication and metal working industry since the past decade. Now, with the introduction of a special segment for welding and cutting a couple of years ago, SteelFab has become a reliable sourcing platform for not just welding machines but a complete range of welding & cutting equipment and devices,” said Mr. Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah.Mr. Midfa was speaking ahead of the 11th SteelFab 2015, the region’s premier metal working, metal manufacturing and steel fabrication trade fair which will be held at Expo Centre Sharjah from January 26to 29. “In Arabia, it is important to note that the regional industry consists of fabrication yards and engineering workshops and not ‘welding shops’ hence a complete show like SteelFab is the precise answer to the complete procurement needs of regional industry,” added Mr. Midfa.SteelFab has also been a market-entry vehicle for numerous welding
brands,” said Mr. Naveen Fernandes, Group Exhibition Manager, Expo Centre Sharjah.“Leading brands such as Miller, Lincoln Electric, Esab, Fronius, Kemppi, Lorch, Jackle & several others have chosen SteelFab as the exhibition of choice, which underlines the importance of the show,” he added.The fall in crude prices is set to encourage regional oil producers to focus more on the non-oil sector, with manufacturing and industrial segments primed to receive more attention in order to sustain the prevailing growth momentum.SteelFab’s special focus areas, which now include material handling, machine tools, pipe & tube machinery, besides welding & cutting, and new pavilions like Steel-Tech, Fabricators Pavilion and Steel Showcase, apart from live display, and technical seminars & product presentations, will make it a prominent event that will give a shot in the arm for
diversification efforts.The special section on welding & cutting will showcase machines/power sources conventional, arc, plasma, tig & mig/mag; welding & cutting consumables, electrodes, wire & flux; accessories torches, guns, tips, holders; gas cutting & welding, brazing equipment,spares,consum ables;welding robots, positioners,rotators,manipu lators &tables; weld preparation, heat treatment & weld finishing; stud welding equipment, fasteners, studs & fastening systems; automation, resistance & capacitor
discharge; beam welding systems, seam welding lines & special purpose welding systems; cutting systems CNC plasma, oxyfuel, laser & waterjet; pipe construction, orbital welding, cutting and beveling.The SteelFab 2015 exhibition will be held at Expo Centre Sharjah in United Arab Emirates from 26 to 29 January 2015 with the exhibition timings as 10 am to 7 pm daily. Admission is Free and strictly restricted to Trade and Professional visitors only.
FIVE REAL ESTATE PREDICTIONS FOR 2015 What to expect from emerging market real estate in the new year By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: oreign ownership restrictions relaxed, increasing interest from international investors, property industries go mobile - these are just some of the developments that are on the cards for frontier real estate markets in 2015. As 2014 draws to a close, global property portal Lamudi looks at five key trends to watch out for in emerging market real estate in the new year. Changes to foreign ownership laws:In many emerging markets, foreigners are prohibited from buying property. In the Philippines, for example, the country’s constitution bans non-Filipinos from owning land. However, there are signs this may be about to change. 2015 will see countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) merge to form a single market. The establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community is expected to boost foreign direct investment in the Philippines and also in untapped markets across the region, putting pressure on lawmakers to amend these ownership restrictions. In 2015, foreign ownership laws will also come into focus elsewhere in Asia, with debate set to continue in Indonesia and Myanmar about opening up the countries’ property sectors to international investors. Increasing investor interest:Foreign direct
F
investment (FDI) in emerging countries has recently hit record highs and this trend is expected to continue for 2015. Africa’s share of global FDI projects has also been increasing steadily over the past decade. A recent report from the African Development Bank, the U n i t e d N a t i o n s Development Program and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development forecast that FDI in the continent would hit a record $80 billion in 2014, with real estate a major contributor. In May, Ernst & Young’s Africa attractiveness survey revealed that FDI projects in the real estate, hospitality and construction sector had increased by 63 percent, making the sector the fifth most attractive for foreign investors. Growing middle classes boost demand:Countries such as Indonesia have seen significant growth of their middle class. On the back of strong economic growth in the country, the number of middle class and affluent Indonesians is expected to reach more
than 140 million people by 2020, according to research from the Boston Consulting Group. The impact of this trend cannot be underestimated, as it continues to be felt in 2015. As people become more affluent, they also become better educated, more career-minded and have more purchasing power including within the property market. They buy houses earlier and more often, leading to increasing turnover and demand for property. Mobile internet transforms property industries:Across the emerging markets, more and more people are switching online every year. But the internet revolution in emerging countries has been different to the digital wave that already swept the developed world. For many people in these regions, the first time they access the web they will be using a mobile device or smartphone. This trend has been particularly pronounced in Latin America. Over the past six months, more than 1.1 million sessions on the Lamudi Mexico website were carried out using mobile devices. In Colombia, over half (51.25 percent) of new sessions on the Lamudi.com.co website come from mobile devices. For those working in the real estate industry, this means their focus for 2015 must switch to mobile for marketing their properties and reaching the maximum number of potential customers.
High growth - and optimism - continues:In a recent online survey conducted by Lamudi, real estate agents across the emerging markets predicted high growth for their national property sectors in the coming year. In Saudi Arabia, nearly a quarter (23 percent) of agents believe there will be growth of eight to 10 percent over the next year. Similar results were seen elsewhere in Asia and the Middle East. In Sri Lanka, where the real estate sector has expanded rapidly since the country’s civil war ended, more than half the agents surveyed by Lamudi forecast growth of eight percent or above for the coming year. The survey also recorded high levels of optimism among property agents, with 65 percent brokers in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Indonesia describing their outlook as positive for 2015. Optimism among brokers in the Philippines is particularly high - nearly 93 percent of those surveyed were positive about the coming year.
Pakistani flag being flown at half at Embassy of Pakistan Abu Dhabi AND Consulate General of Pakistan Dubai in connection with the threedays mourning in honour of the victims of the terrorist attack on a School at Peshawar.
P
ursuant to the directives of the Government of Pakistan, the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and
condolence book has been opened at the Embassy and will be available for signature from 1100–1500 hrs on 17–19 December 2014. A condolence meeting of the Pakistani community will be held at the Embassy at 0930 hours on Thursday, 18 December 2014. A Condolence book has also been opened at the Consulate General of Pakistan, Dubai which will be available for signatures from 1400 hrs to 1600 hrs on 18th and 19th December 2014. 'Ghaibana Namaz-eJinaza' prayer is being held at the residence of the Consul General today i.e. 17th December 2014 at 4 pm
followed by condolence meeting and a candle light vigil at 4.30 pm.
victims of the heinous terrorist attack on a Peshawar school on 16 December 2014. The Pakistani flag is being flown Consulate General of P a k i s t a n , D u b a i i s at half mast, and all o b s e r v i n g t h r e e - d a y scheduled festive events mourning in honour of the have been postponed. A azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg4)
22-31 Decemberr 2014, Safar 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
Edition 71 Pg5
AZAD BAZAAR
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg5)
22-31 December 2014, Safar 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
Edition 71 Pg6
AZAD FASHION DAMAS INCREASES SUPPORT FOR AL JALILA FOUNDATION DURING THE UAE NATIONAL DAY 15% of Every Purchase of ‘Key of Hope’ by Damas Collection to be Donated to Medical Research in the UAE By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: amas, the Middle East’s leading jewellery and watch retailer, has announced that in celebration of the 43rd UAE National Day it will donate 15% of the sale value from every purchase of the ‘Key of Hope’ by Damas limitededition collection to the Al Jalila Foundation to support medical research in the UAE. This initiative comes as part of Damas’ partnership with the Al Jalila Foundation, a global, UAE-based philanthropic organization that was founded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to position the nation at the forefront of medical innovation. Under the partnership, Damas and Al Jalila Foundation are fronting joint campaigns throughout the year, such as the creation and sale of a unique collection- the ‘Key of Hope’ by Damas collection - for the Al Jalila Foundation that was launched in September 2014.The Key of Hope by Damas designed for Al Jalila Foundation is a limited collection with only 1,000 pieces available at select Damas stores across the UAE. Available in two designs - one with diamonds and one in pure gold - the pieces embody the Foundation’s pledge to u n l o c k m e d i c a l advancements for a healthier society, and to deliver on His Highness
D
M
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: o’minaat Abayas, an up and coming abaya brand by Huda Yaqub and Lubna Akram, marked it’s one year of collaboration with Brands-Just Pret. The celebration took place in the Ibn Battuta Mall branch of the boutique chain this Thursday. A constant hustle and bustle was present throughout the evening as guests stopped by, enjoying refreshments, a special anniversary sale and Mo’minaat Abayas’ new collection. The Brands-Just Pret and Mo’minaat teams were all present, commemorating the day by cutting a cake and giving free give aways to all guests. Mo’minaat Abayas is also available in the boutique’s Abu Dhabi outlet in World Trade Centre Mall and will be available in Houston, U.S. branch soon too. Designs and collection on www.mominaat.com.
Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to transform the UAE into one of the leading countries in the world. Anan Fakhreddin, CEO of Damas, said: “The Al Jalila Foundation represents a truly inspirational cause and at Damas, we are proud to pledge our ongoing commitment to
such a noble community endeavour. We reiterate our whole-hearted support to this noble cause by increasing our donations from the sale of the ‘Key of Hope’ from the initial five percent announced during the signing of the partnership, to 15% during this year’s National Day celebrations.”Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO, Al Jalila Foundation, said: “As a notfor-profit Foundation, we rely on the goodwill of the community to help fund lifesaving research to improve the nation’s health. 100% of all the donations we receive are used to fund our programmes directly and we thank Damas for its commitment and creativity in supporting our cause.”Damas is inviting the public to join its National Day celebrations by purchasing the ‘Key of Hope’ by Damas and contributing to Al Jalila Foundation’s cause to advance local medical research capabilities.
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he Dubai Festivals a n d R e t a i l Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), and organisers of the 20th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), have announced the Calendar of Events for the much-awaited milestone edition of the festival, which
T
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: t's the tournament with which Rado celebrated its return to the tennis world as a prelude to the 2012 season, and the brand is back as Official Timekeeper for the fourth
I
Official Timekeeper, Rado will be timing every second of every match with corner clocks in the shape of the sporty HyperChrome timepiece. These eyecatching corner clocks can be seen in the corners at opposite ends of centre court. Visitors will also have the opportunity to find out more about the brand at the Rado booth where the tennis inspired Rado HyperChrome Court Collection models will beon display amongst other high-
CITIZEN’S FIRST NORTH AMERICA FLAGSHIP STORE OPENS IN TIMES SQUARE, NEW YORK CITY AS A CATALYST TO EXPAND THE CITIZEN BRAND GLOBALLY
LET'S START THE PARTY SEASON!
Rado begins the new year at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship
consecutive year. The Mubadala World Tennis Championship which takes place from 1st–3rd January 2015 is the first tournament on Rado's 2015 calendar and is sure to set the pace for the year ahead.Located in the International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi this hard court tournament welcomes a line-up of the world's top tennis players every year to compete in this memorable championship.Amongst these is Rado brand ambassador Andy Murray, who is back to compete for the trophy he won in 2009 during the first edition of the tournament. In its role as
MO’MINAAT ABAYAS CELEBRATES IT’S ONE YEAR IN BRANDS-JUST PRET
BURBERRY FESTIVE GIFTS - THERE'S STILL TIME TO SHOP IN STORE
SNEAKERS SPECIAL SPRING SUMMER 2015
will take place from 1 January to 1 February, 2015, under the special theme “A Journey of Celebrations”. DSF, which was launched in 1996 based on the vision of His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to position Dubai as a family tourism destination, has grown to become one of the biggest shopping extravaganzas and the longest running festival of its kind in the world – attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. DSF annually attracts on an average 4 to 4.5 million visitors with a total spending of AED 15 billion (Approx USD 4 bn). From 1996 to 2014, DSF has attracted approximately 56 million visitors with a total
spending of AED 145 billion (Approx. USD 40 bn) – whether it was for shopping, hospitality or on entertainment. On the special occasion of DSF’s 20th anniversary, DFRE has taken the festival’s three pillars of Shopping, Entertainmen t and Winning t o a completely new level – o ff e r i n g residents and visitors from around the world the opportunity to enjoy a series of exciting journeys in Dubai. Unveiling the DSF 2015 Calendar of Events, Her E x c e l l e n c y, L a i l a Mohammed Suhail, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), said: “In announcing this Calendar of Events for the 20th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival, we at DFRE take immense pride in the fact that DSF has reached a pinnacle in its extraordinary journey through the years. Dubai Shopping Festival has truly set a benchmark in the global festivals industry and made a huge contribution to the emirate’s economy by
energizing the retail sector and helping to boost various other sectors. The success of the festival can be measured by the huge increase in visitor numbers
since it was launched in 1996 till 2014. “The festival’s 20th edition is indeed a huge achievement for Dubai and is befitting of the honour bestowed on the emirate this year by the International Festivals and Events Association, the world’s leading trade association for events, that saw Dubai being crowned as the World Festival and Event City for the third time.“The DSF 20th anniversary calendar of events is packed with numerous world-class family entertainment, events and shopping-linked promotions that will further reinforce the city’s reputation as a year-round family tourism destination offering multiple experiences that will
ensure visitors leave our shores with memories of a fantastic holiday shopping. The exciting line-up is also testament to the amazing support extended to DFRE by other Dubai government entities and the private sector, especially our strategic partners and key sponsors, whose commitment and trust in the festival’s ability to deliver year after year, is once again set to make this the best ever DSF”, H.E Laila Suhail added.The DSF 2015 Calendar of Events is a line-up of over 150 events and activities that will be spread far and wide across the city at key DSF destinations. Leading the 20th anniversary line-up of excitement will be a number of family-friendly events, amazing musical concerts and dazzling fashion events. The DSF Orchestra led by 75 members of the world-class Welsh National Opera (WNO) Orchestra will kick off the 20th anniversary celebrations, as the festival’s main opening event in Zabeel Park on 1 Jan.In addition, a series of rewarding raffles, promotions and shopping discounts will ensure countless life-changing moments for both visitors and residents.
tech ceramic marvels. azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg6)
22-31 December 2014, Safar 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
Edition 71 Pg7
AZAD FASHION Celebrity fashion designers wow Dubai at Royal India Luxury Show By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui
I
Dubai UAE: t was a show of classic royalty when style and luxury came together. Celebrated Indian fashion designers Rocky S, Archana Kochhar, Neeta Lulla, Monapali, Khushali Kumar, Rohit Verma and Satya Paul's creations created a stir in Dubai when they unveiled their classic royal collections at the second edition of the Royal Indian Luxury Show 2014, at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai on December 4 and 5. Guests at the event were treated to a wide spectrum of exquisite collections by the designers, and they showed their appreciation
DISCOVER THE SPRING SUMMER 2015 COLLECTION
by applauding for each designer who showcased their creation at Royal India Luxury show. The guest list included members of Indian royalty, HNIs, dignitaries, business leaders, affluent Emiratis, Arabs and other important members of UAE society.The two-day Royal India Show was organised b y l u xu ry co n su l ta n ts Globuzz and spearheaded by Gayathri Bhardwaj, founder of the Dubai-based company. The event has been designed with a resultoriented approach and engages unique group of wealthy and luxury-loving individuals in a people-topeople format to meet their needs and expectations on exclusivity, luxury and style
out of India. The event showcased India as a worldclass destination for fashion, luxury tourism, travel, hospitality, weddings, luxury homes, jewellery and other premium sectors. The fashion stalls, in particular, were a major attraction at the event as Dubai's fashionistas turned up at the venue to view the elegant collections by the celebrity designers. Some of the famed designers were at hand to discuss trends and share fashion tips with visitors. Prominent Emirati fashion designer Rabia Z, who was one of the guests of honour and a speaker at the Gala Dinner, was impressed with the collections on display at the
CELEBRATE THIS FESTIVE SEASON WITH STUNNING COLLECTIONS FROM THE DAMAS 22K RANGE
event. The designer who has studied fashion at F.I.T New York and Esmod spoke on how her work is reviving the Arab traditional dress the Mukhawara. “I have taken inspiration from the beautiful Indian embroidery and handwork and incorporated it in my Mukhawara collections. The collections from Indian designers I have seen here only goes to reinstate further how the two great cultures (Indian and Emirati) have come together in history and this amalgamation of ideas come out in the fashion element too," said Rabia whose fashion ideology is 'modesty is always in style'.
OMEGA Dubai Ladies Masters winner to be presented with the luxurious OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Master Co-Axial
By Qadeer Ahmad appreciate the wristwatch is By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai together Indian heritage with a Siddiqui Dubai UAE: elegant mother-ofdistinguished by UAE: touch of the Victorian era o d a y, t h e pearl dial and 12 its excellent or thousands of years gold sophistication and offers you winner of the diamonds indexes. performance. has been associated with all classic style themes with a modern OMEGA Dubai This timepiece is Day 3 began as things unique, exclusive and twist. The Rangoli collection fills the Ladies Masters will presented on a white O M E G A elusive - whether in shaping celebration with life and joy be presented with the leather strap and ambassador's ornaments for royalty, as a capturing the essence of the Seamaster Aqua powered by the Shanshan Feng currency of trade or indeed, as a season through our exclusive Terra 150M Master OMEGA Master Coand Charley Hull standard for exquisite jewellery d e s i g n s . M a h a r a n i , m e a n i n g Co-Axial wristwatch. Axial calibre 8521. A teed off in top creations. This holiday season, be 'Queen', lives up to its name with a This luxurious ladies' defining feature of position as the inspired by our stories of gold luxurious new collection suited to watch features a 34 this watch is its ability tournament j e w e l l e r y, mm 18K Sedna™ to withstand strong heads into the designed as gold case with a magnetic fields, even final round of its f u t u r e Seamaster Aqua glittering diamondthose greater than prolific 2014 edition. heirlooms. Terra 150M Master paved bezel. Watch 15,000 gauss.Just Because Co-Axial, this striking aficionados would like the winner of the w h e n i t comes to jewellery passed down t h r o u g h generations, sentiment becomes a tangible object, held in the hands of t h e recipient.Da m a s celebrates the most discerning of tastes. this festive season with exquisite Finally, Gehna, is a collection of new collections from its beloved insplendid 22K gold jewellery that house collections. From the celebrates the heritage of India. majestic designs of Maharani to the From hand-crafted floral motifs to traditional elegance of Rangoli, delicately placed colourful stones, from the Victorian style of Mira to each piece stands out with its the timeless beauty of Legacy and authentic and traditional design.All Gehna, this year's offerings from of the collections include earrings, Damas represents craftsmanship pendants, necklaces, bracelets, inspired by tradition. Designed to bangles and an assortment of ring outlast contemporary tastes, the designs. The collections are Legacy collection offers timeless available at all Damas stores elegance to be passed on from one throughout the GCC. generation to the next. Mira brings azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg7)
F
T
GIFTS
COLLECTION 2014
TADWEER CLOSES SUBMISSIONS FOR ECO-AWARENESS AWARD FOR SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES IN ABU DHABI By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he Center of Waste Management - Abu D h a b i ( Ta d w e e r ) today closed submissions for Abu Dhabi schools and universities seeking to participate in its EcoAwareness Award. An estimated 556 models, drawings and photographs on the theme of positive behavior in public hygiene and the preservation of the environment have been received from Abu Dhabi schools at the close of submissions. This figure marks a significant increase over the 172 entries received in 2013 for the inaugural edition of the award. In its expanded f o r m a t t h i s y e a r, the competition has for the first time drawn the participation of 20 out of the 26 public and private universities based in Abu Dhabi. Following the close of submissions, the competition has entered the second phase that involves the evaluation of entries by a specialized evaluation committee comprising experts from among Ta d w e e r ’ s s t r a t e g i c partners that have supported the initiative since its inception. These
T
22-31December 2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71Pg8
MASDAR INSTITUTE ENTERS THE YEAR OF INNOVATION WITH A SIGNIFICANT HEAD START Remarkable Research, Invention, and Human Capital-Building for the UAE Prominent Throughout 2014 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he Masdar Institute of Science and Te c h n o l o g y i s entering 2015 with a healthy profile of noteworthy contributions to the development of innovative human and intellectual capital in the UAE, including novel inventions and awards. In this month alone, a Masdar Institute PhD student was selected from over 137,000 UAE Nationals to receive one of 43 Medal of Top Emiratis awards for his novel research in the extraction of high value compounds from algae naturally occurring in the
T
knowledge base. Crucial to our success is the support of the UAE leadership, for which we r e m a i n g r a t e f u l . We believe our growth will
iCenters.Among local collaborations, Masdar Institute signed a two-year research collaboration with Tadweer, the Center of Waste Management
series have included: Her Highness Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister for International Cooperation and Development; His
include Abu Dhabi Education Council, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Ministry of
among 12 winners across four different categories. The winners of this year's award will be announced in mid-January 2015."
C u l t u r e , Yo u t h a n d Community Development, and the Abu Dhabi Media Company represented by Al Ettihad newspaper, as well as stakeholders from the Tadweer team.Commenting on the close of submissions, His Excellency Eissa Saif Al Qubaisi, General Manager, Tadweer, said: “At Tadweer, we seek to use creative and innovative methods to develop a generation that is aware of its responsibilities and of the importance of p r e s e r v i n g t h e environment. The award this year is valued at around AED76,000, to be divided
Tadweer’s Eco-awareness Award for schools and universities aims to raise environmental ownership among the students in the emirate of Abu Dhabi while developing social responsibility in the younger generation. This year’s award has targeted school students across three l e v e l s : e l e m e n t a r y, preparatory and secondary schools, as well as public and private college students. The competition awards winners across four categories: best drawing from waste, best work of art from recycled waste, best
photograph depicting waste management, and best 3D model from waste.Nada Khamees, Senior Public Aw a r e n e s s O ff i c e r a t Tadweer, and Head of the Arbitration Committee, said: “The second phase of the prize is nearing completion, as the arbitration and evaluation process has begun. It is interesting to note the significant increase in the number of applications received and the growing engagement of schools and universities, as well as the huge improvement in the quality of the entries received this year. We hope to see greater advancements and innovation in the coming years that can positively impact the environment and effectively support Abu Dhabi’s sustainable vision for the future."Tadweer seeks to promote integrated waste management practices such as waste reduction at source,waste recycling, encouraging active community engagement and promoting joint work with relevant organizations and stakeholders in its efforts to create a safer and cleaner environment in Abu Dhabi.
LAST CHANCE TO ENTER THE REGION’S LARGEST EVER CASH DRAW WITH AED 5 MILLION GRAND PRIZE •‘Big Ticket’ competition makes new millionaires and changes lives throughout the country and abroad By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai UAE: bu Dhabi residents and visitors have until December 31 to get their ‘Ultimate Big Ticket’ and enter the New Year with an even greater chance of becoming a millionaire.Launched earlier this month by Abu Dhabi Duty Free (ADDF), the ‘Ultimate Big Ticket’ competition, managed by Duty Free Shoppers (DFS), is the largest ever cash draw in the GCC region over a one-month period and already twice as popular as the ‘Sensational Big Ticket’ introduced back in 2012, in celebration of Abu Dhabi Airport’s 20th anniversary.The winner of the ‘Ultimate Big Ticket’ will go home with a small fortune of AED 5 million and an additional 14 people will walk away with prizes totalling AED 500,000. They will join a select list of new millionaires who saw their lives change in the blink of an eye after buying a lucky ticket.“I cannot explain what it feels like to receive a call saying that you are a millionaire. My
A
Abu Dhabi desert. Days earlier, Masdar Institute was ranked among the ‘Best Arab Region Universities’ for research excellence according to the 2015 US News & World Report’s inaugural ‘Best Arab Region Universities’ list.With four approved US patents, 42 patent
applications pending and 69 invention disclosures achieved since inception, Masdar Institute also saw its novel research outcomes reach new highs. Patents and inventions are considered a key measure of innovative performance w i t h i n a u n i v e r s i t y, company or country. These research-focused achievements are the result of Masdar Institute’s dedication to innovation, technology and development in the U A E . D r . F r e d Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute, said: “As we progress steadily, each year has brought tremendous growth in developing intellectual property, building human capital and creating a
multiply manifold in the future, laying the ground for Masdar Institute to increase its role as an i n n o v a t i o n accelerator.”The Institute Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (iInnovation) works to nurture promising research projects across Masdar Institute w i t h guidance, support and funding towards commercial ization, to h e l p accelerate the pace of innovation and entrepreneurship in the UAE. As part of its mission, iInnovation organized several thoughleadership conferences in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and partners including BP. Additionally, the inaugural B P I n n o v a t i o n Scholarships were awarded to two students to work towards creating new technology-based businesses. Four grants were also announced under the Masdar Institute and MIT Innovation Program (MMIP) to fund research projects run jointly by faculty members at both institutions. The MMIP is focused on achieving commercial applications from research performed across various
Abu Dhabi, to improve the process for the production of biodiesel from waste cooking oil. Another partnership with Strata Manufacturing, an advanced composite aerostructures manufacturing facility fully owned by Mubadala Development Compan y , i s focusing o n developi ng novel a n d advance d nondestructi v e testing systems a n d methods f o r a e r o s p a c e structures.Locally, Masdar Institute also won three awards – an R&D Shield and two ‘R&D Research Top Ideas’ at the ADNOC Research & Development Academic Conference (ADRAC) & Exhibition 2014. These awards firmly cement the status of Masdar Institute as a leading academic institution that contributes to the UAE’s advancement in research of importance to key industry sectors in the UAE. The Institute has played host to a number of dignitaries in 2014 through the continuation of the Masdar Institute Distinguished Lecture Series. Illustrious speakers at this year’s
Excellency Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, President of Iceland; Badr Al Olama, Chief Executive of Strata Manufacturing; His Excellency Patrick H e n n e s s e y, I r i s h Ambassador to the UAE; and Dr. L Rafael Reif, President of the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The 2014 year also saw the largest c o m m e n c e m e n t ceremony to date, with 130 students from the Class of 2014 receiving their graduation certificates at Masdar Institute’s fourth annual commencement. A total of 491 students are currently pursuing studies at Masdar Institute, of which nearly half are UAE nationals.Masdar Institute currently offers nine Master’s programs and a d o c t o r a t e i n interdisciplinary engineering that impact areas targeted in the UAE National Innovation S t r a t e g y, i n c l u d i n g r e n e w a b l e e n e r g y, transport, education, health, technology, water and space.
DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY AIMS TO SET GUINNESS WORLD RECORD UNDER DUBAI AGAINST DIABETES PROGRAM ‘Stay Strong’ Campaign encourages a nation-wide movement to ‘light up’ Dubai to show support and raise awareness on Diabetes By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: n partnership with Benchmark Middle East, Dubai Health Authority (DHA) as part of its ‘Stay Strong’ campaign is all set to establish a Guinness World Record in creating the largest formed light bulb circle, while showing support and raising awareness about diabetes which affects approximately 20 per cent of the population in the Emirates.With the support of various companies such as J o h n s o n & Johnson,Merckserono,Astr aZeneca, Novonordisk and Kcal Healthy fast food; DHA will attempt to light 11,000 bulbs at the Burj Park in Downtown Dubai on 25 December with Guinness W o r l d R e c o r d
I
representatives present at the event. The event, titled ‘Celebrating the Moment’, will kick off the Dubai Against Diabetes one-year program.‘Stay Strong’ aims to evoke change in the mindset and lifestyle of the general public, and put Dubai on the map as the forerunner in the fight and p r e v e n t i o n o f Diabetes.Currently approximately 6000 UAE residents are already actively taking part in the ‘Stay Strong’ digital campaign.The second phase of the event will involve managing to get at least 11,000 people against Diabetes through the Stay Strong App and through the event – ‘Celebrating the Moment’. Individuals who have downloaded the app will be automatically lighting
one bulb in the Guinness World Record display at the Burj Park in the early evening. The aim of the event is to unify the nation against Diabetes through the Stay Strong App and campaign.Speaking about the campaign, Mohamed Hammad, Founder and Managing Director at Benchmark Middle East, FZ-LLC, said: “As a communications agency committed exclusively to healthcare, Benchmark Middle East has the highest regard for the work and achievements of the DHA, and shares its goals. We are delighted to work with the DHA in managing strategies required to spread the message of this initiative, and, ultimately, change lives. “Dubai Against Diabetes is such a
worthwhile cause and we hope to target as many people as possible through our campaign. It will definitely be a great achievement if we receive the Guinness World Record title here in Dubai, but our primary focus is to spread word about this disease, to inform as many people as possible about the steps that can be taken to prevent this disease, and to let diabetics know that they are not alone.”Diabetics need know that they are not alone and that action is being taken from various organisations and individuals to prevent diabetes in the UAE. ‘Stay Strong’ will host a range of exciting activities in Burj Park on 25 December alongside the Guinness World Record attempt.
heart was beating 200 per cent more than normal. I was speechless”, said M.D., winner of a previous competition, who prefers to remain anonymous for obvious reasons. “It was a very easy, smooth and friendly process and within days the money was in my account. I now have a new lifestyle here in the UAE and I was able to build a house and help other people back in Pakistan, my home country.”Duty Free Shoppers (DFS), the world’s leading luxury travel retailer, whose network consists of duty free stores located in 18 major global airports, 14 downtown Galleria stores, as well as affiliate and resort
locations, totalling 420 locations on three continents, is very pleased to manage the ‘Big Ticket’ competition and make a difference in people’s lives.Abu Dhabi residents and visitors spend a considerable amount of time in the Abu Dhabi Airport terminals during their travels throughout the y e a r. B e s i d e s t h e
continuous investment in infrastructure projects to better welcome them, including exclusive shopping options with a vast array of exceptional products from the most desired brands, initiatives such as the ‘Ultimate Big Ticket’ show our commitment in offering lifetime opportunities to UAE residents and visitors”, said Alistair Johnson, Assistant General Manager, Sales, at DFS. Tickets can be purchased online at www.bigticket.ae and at key Abu Dhabi Airport Company locations, including the Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Ain Duty Free, Ghweifat Duty Free, Abu Dhabi City Terminal, and ADNEC Expo Check-in. Tickets are sold at AED 500 to the general public aged 18 and above, with an offer of `Buy Two Get One Free’ running t h r o u g h o u t t h e competition.Tickets for ‘The Ultimate Draw’ are available until December 31, 2014. The draw will be held at Abu Dhabi Airport Arrivals Hall on January 5, 2015.
LONDON GATWICK AIRPORT INCREASES RUNWAY CAPACITY TO 55 FLIGHTS PER HOUR AND ESTIMATES AN ADDITIONAL 2 MILLION PASSENGERS ON A SINGLE RUNWAY ASSISTED BY AMADEUS A-CDM PORTAL •London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is the first to implement Amadeus’ cloud-based A-CDM portal to improve communication and operational efficiency at the airport •Airports, airlines and ground handlers all benefit from Amadeus’ cloud-based common situational awareness solution •LGW rolls out Amadeus’ A-CDM Portal to 300 users in just 8 weeks thanks to a quick implementation process By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: madeus, a leading technology partner for the global travel industry, today announces that London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is the first to implement Amadeus’ cloud-based AirportCollaborative Decision Making Portal (A-CDM) to improve collaborative decision-making processes. Gatwick is now one of a forward-thinking group of airports to join the European-wide A-CDM standard, with airports such as Munich, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Madrid and Zurich. Gatwick has followed an innovative approach opting for Amadeus’ cost effective cloud technology to speed up the implementation time of A-CDM, rolling out the Amadeus portal to 300 users in just 8 weeks. Assisted by the Amadeus portal, LGW will handle 55 flights per hour from the world’s busiest runway and estimates up to 2 million additional passengers. The aim of the A-CDM standard is to bring the entire airport
A
ecosystem (airport operators, airlines, g r o u n d handlers and air t r a f f i c manageme nt) together to operate m o r e e ff i c i e n t l y a n d transparent ly, sharing accurate information in a timely manner. This results in better air traffic management with fewer delays and increased capacity, as well as an improved passenger experience thanks to an integrated approach to operations. The Amadeus A-CDM Portal provides aggregated views of the status of airport operational activities based on realtime flight, passenger and other operational data. It can predict future flight problems over a three-tofour hour period, identifying which flights might be
delayed and how they c a n b e t u r n e d a r o u n d faster to make sure they leave Gatwick on time, even if they arrived late. With accurate data at their disposal, a i r p o r t stakeholder s can make cooperative decisions to rapidly deal with operational issues.Michael Ibbitson, CIO, London Gatwick Airport commented: “We have received extremely positive feedback from our Amadeus A-CDM Portal stakeholders. It is easy to use and enables them to make better decisions that contribute to smoother and more efficient operations. The portal supports all partners at the airport involved in activities from refuelling and de-icing to ground handling and
cargo. Those employees have access to real-time data about what’s happening across London Gatwick – it’s a game changer.” He continued: “We constantly strive to embrace new technologies at London Gatwick that will improve the travel experience and operating environment. We estimate that thanks to Amadeus’ ACDM Portal, we will be able to increase capacity to more than 40 million passengers on a single runway following wider adoption of the portal in the next year or so.” John Jarrell, Head of Airport IT, Amadeus added: “Communication gaps still prevail in the airport e c o s y s t e m – a collaborative approach is key to align on aspects such as disruptions, flight information, number of bags on board and passengers in transit. We hope to see other airports follow Gatwick’s innovative use of the Amadeus ACDM Portal to facilitate improved communications and operational efficiency.”
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg8)
22-31December 2014, Safar 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
INITIATIVE MENA SCOOPS FIVE AWARDS AT TWO MAJOR INDUSTRY EVENTS Media communications network honoured for its highly effective and creative campaigns By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: nitiative MENA's creative marketing talent has been recognised with five wins at two prestigious industry award ceremonies. The regional media communications network scooped a brace of trophies for its campaigns at last month's Effies, following up the success with a further three top places at the Internationalist Awards that took place the next day.“2014 has gone down as one of the greatest years in our agency's history. To have collected five wins for our campaigns at two separate industry awards is an incredible achievement and a testament to the both the creative abilities and the sheer hard of everyone in our team,” said Ramzy Abouchacra, Regional Managing Director, initiative MENA. “Initiative prides itself on producing work that engages with audiences across the region, as well as further afield. I am delighted that our efforts have been acknowledged with a haul of awards at two major industry events,” he added.Initiative's wins at the Effie MENA Awards, which was held on November 19 in Dubai, came in the New Product and Best Use of CSR categories. Under New Product, the agency scooped an award for its campaign for California Garden's Canned Fava Beans in Saudi Arabia. Branded with the tagline 'Happiness starts with a
I
healthy breakfast,' the initiative resulted in a double-digit sales increase for California Garden when compared to the same period last year. Under Best Use of CSR, Initiative impressed the Effie judges with its work for the International Foundation for Electoral Systems in Egypt, which aimed at increasing voter turnout during the country's recent elections. The campaign was shown to have mobilised six per cent more Egyptians to go to the polls than in the country's previous constitutional referendum, which took place i n Decem b e r 2012.I nitiativ e ' s prowe ss in t h e creatio n o f memor a b l e marketing activities was also acknowledged at The Internationalist Awards for Innovative Digital Solutions, which was held at the held at in New York, USA on November 20. Initiative collected a Gold and two Bronze Awards at the event, which was established to reward innovation in digital media. The agency's Gold Award was received for its campaign for Mobily in S a u d i A r a b i a . Ti t l e d 'Marzouq, Rise of a Twitter Star,' the activation used a
genuine customer service rep with a quirky and likeable personality at Mobily, turning him into a Twitter celebrity. The first of its two Bronze Awards was secured for Dubai Media Incorporated and involved ramping up interest in its long-standing Shaabiyat cartoon. The campaign featured a mobile and social application that enabled viewers to 'cartoonize' themselves and apply the result to the bodies of the characters in Shaabiyat. Its second Bronze was won for its 'Smile-o-meter' reality Facebook app for its client KFC Arabia. The tool enabled KFC fans to register their smiles and share them on Facebook, with the ones voted as being the best by fans on the social media's KFC community winning prizes.Initiative's five wins at the Effies and the Internationalist caps an impressive year for trophies for the agency, which has offices throughout the region. February saw the
company collect a Sapphire A w a r d i n t h e 'Beauty/Hygiene/Health Products' category at the MENA Cristal Festival for a campaign it ran for Johnson & Johnson. The following month at Dubai Lynx, they scooped a Silver and Bronze in the 'Social Media' category for their clients Americana Group and Etisalat, as well as a further Bronze for Americana Group under 'Consumer Services.' March also saw the agency's Johnson & Johnson campaign pick up a Gold at the Internationalist Awards for Innovation in Media under 'Local Brand or Service in a Local Market,' while their work for Americana Group won a Bronze in the same category. The Johnson & Johnson campaign was the recipient of a further Gold Award at the Festival of Media Awards for 'Best Targeted Campaign,' while the first ever MENA Digital Awards in May saw their work for Americana Group pick up a Silver and Bronze under 'Social Brand of the Year,' as well as a Silver for 'Best Use of Social Media.' The agency collected a further Bronze at the ceremony under 'Best Use of Video' for their work for Etisalat. Immediately prior to last month's Effies was September's M&M Global Awards, with Initiative adding another Gold Award for their work for Americana Group under 'Best Social Media Campaign.'
THE NEW YORK FILM ACADEMY – ABU DHABI OFFERS FIVE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ASPIRING EMIRATI FILMAKERS By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai UAE: he New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi is supporting Emirati filmmakers by offering five (5) places on their January 2015 intake of NYFA's Filmmaking Program, designed to give students a well-rounded filmmaking experience necessary to make their own films.These five (5) short program scholarships will pay full tuition, worth $31,500, and will enable students to study the art and craft of filmmaking at the prestigious New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi. Students in the
T
program receive over 400 hours of hands-on instruction and production experience following a curriculum that integrates intensive study with practical experience in all the major filmmaking disciplines including directing, screenwriting, editing, and c i n e m a t o g r a p h y. T h e program is for people who have the passion to plunge into full-time HD filmmaking, and to commit themselves to a focused and demanding curriculum. Students complete the program with learned skills on the latest equipment, using the latest industry standard software,
gain an enormous amount of production experience, create films of their own, and gain an expanded awareness of themselves and others. The students' final films are celebrated at a special school screening open to cast, crew, friends, family, and invited guests, where the students receive their Certificates from the dedicated faculty and administration of NYFAAD.DIFF Chairman, Abdulhamid Juma commented: “We are extremely excited and thankful for the incredible opportunity the New York Film Academy – Abu Dhabi is
offering to Emirati filmmakers. With each year that passes the quality increases in DIFF's Muhr Emirati Competition highlighting the talent from our local filmmakers. Training programmes like these significantly help develop the UAE's burgeoning film industry and we look forward to seeing the works from these young new talents at DIFF in the future.” “New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the growing film community and filmmakers here in the UAE”
DFM ANNOUNCE INAUGURAL DUBAI DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMME ACQUISITIONS Dolphins, Abood Kandaishan and Cairo Time among the first titles selected for theatrical release in the region following Dubai Film Market's distribution drive Milestone announcement means cinema enthusiasts from across the Gulf region will be able to watch three Emirati films in the first quarter of 2015 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: h e D u b a i International Film Festival (DIFF) has announced the films who have benefitted from the new Dubai Film Market (DFM) initiative, entitled the Dubai Distribution Programme.The initiative aims to identify and supports the best Arab films featured at this year's DIFF and facilitate their distribution within the region.The distributors include Empire, Gulf Film, VOX Cinemas, Iraqi Cinemas and Front Row F i l m e d Entertainment, w h i c h is participating alongside its business partner Kuwait National Cinema Company (KNCC).Dubai-based exhibitor and distributor VOX, which operates cinemas in the UAE, Oman and Lebanon, has picked up Waleed Al Shehhi's debut feature Dolphins for release in the Gulf. Baghdad-based Iraqi Cinemas has also picked up Dolphins for Iraq and has acquired Egyptian Amir Ramses ensemble work Cairo Time about six interconnected lives. Gulf Films is in final negotiations
T
to take on Emirati Abood Kandaishan, a low-budget comedy shot guerrilla-style by up and coming director Fadel Almheiri.In the first quarter of 2015 it is expected that the three Emirati films will be accessible to cinema goers across the Region; Ali Mostafa's pan-Arab road movie From A to B is due to be distributed in January, Dolphins in February and Abood Kandaishan in March. Shivani Pandya, Managing Director of the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF), said: “Through DFM's extensive network Dubai Distribution Programme aims to help regional filmmakers gain the
exposure for their work that they deserve. Some of the difficult issues our filmmakers previously faced is a lack of finance to complete their projects, a lack of contact with buyers and film agents and the inability to distribute their films far and wide. DIFF addressed these issues head-on by establishing the DFM in 2007; supporting all facets of Arab cinema and this new initiative as helped to bridge the gap between filmmakers and distributors; ensuring distributors are up to date on best films from across the region. This new initiative will boost exposure to our filmmakers' work, which only goes to support the exponential growth of the film market in the UAE and beyond.”We are delighted with the stellar success of the initiative and the engagement of distributors thus far. We are confident that local film enthusiasts will support the initiative by watching these films in their local cinemas and ensuring both success and longevity for the program,” added Pandya. Currently in the first year of initiative, DFM will be exploring growth
opportunities and looking to expand the network of partners both locally and internationally in the coming months. DIFF will also be supporting the filmmakers and distributors through targeted marketing campaign on the lead-up to each films release. The DFM was launched in 2007 to support Arab cinema and regional filmmakers, who previously struggled to find support and finance to complete their work. In addition to the distribution programme, the DFM's Forum organised full day workshops and debates aimed at educating local producers and filmmakers on the challenges of distributing in the Middle East. Further information can be found on the festival's website: www.dubaifilmfest.com.
Edition 71 Pg9
TASHKEEL ANNOUNCES SOUND ART EXHIBITION OPENING IN JANUARY BY FARI BRADLEY AND CHRIS WEAVER New Media Artists-in-Residence Fari Bradley and Chris Weaver Present Systems for a Score An Exhibition of Visual and Aural Compositions Private View: 7 January, 7pm; 8–14 February, 2015 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: id-point in their 11month New Media Artist residency programme at Tashkeel, Fari Bradley and Chris Weaver present Systems for a Score, an exhibition exploring visual language and its relation to sound via installation, sculpture and collaborative action within the space.For their first solo exhibition in the region, new media artists Bradley and Weaver have constructed a possible grammar of sound art, taking it from its physical through to non-apparent principles. Reiterating sound across divergent forms, from the material to the social (such as sculptures and a recording studio), the artists explore the capacity of sound to bridge actual and imagined states. “Sound is used as a semantic tool and structuring device with which to deconstruct and formulate coded images, sculpture and video,” says artist Chris Weaver. Sound is the defining feature of several sculptural works in the exhibition, whilst others silently prompt an aural
M
concept or experience in the mind of the observer. “Sound art works to an unprecedented set of scores, inspiration for form appears everywhere. Yet currently the language of sound, determined by subjective imagination and context, still enjoys a fluid space within the arts. As it is still relatively ‘new’, it is in a period of self (re)definition,” adds Fari Bradley.The central installation, A Model Studio, adds a social aspect to the exhibition, creating a space for cumulative experience. Working from the studio during the exhibition Bradley and Weaver have invited musicians and artists met
while in the UAE to collaborate. The physical form of A Model Studio, and the happenings within it, take as a departure point the Al Sadu (sadoo) weave, a long-standing textile tradition of the Emirates. The weave patterns appear implicitly similar to coded sound in their repetitive, formalised structure, which signify the hand of the maker in the fractionally irregular knots. These forms and methods inspired graphics generated on an 80s Atari game console, which was physically modified by the artists.Whilst on residency at Tashkeel, the artists set out to examine the language of sound art, examining the precepts that hearing is another form of seeing; and that sound is considered to only have meaning when paired with a visual. The results are a series of installation-based and sculptural works that
collectively experiment with the varied patterns and technologies of sound making. The works trigger our innate ability to decode, decipher and extract composition and rhythm from both visual and auditory matter combined. The exhibition challenges and conflates our understanding of listening as a sensory experience conditioned by context, exploring how sound can be used to delineate the i n v i s i b l e o r intangible.Bradley and Weaver, on residency since June 2014, were commissioned with an experimental site-specific installation and performance at ISEA which explores the relationship between architectural spaces and sound. They curated a series of public talks on sound in the gallery space and on film, and gave workshops on the DIY culture of sound art and radio. Signifying the close of their 11 month residency, the artists will present a major work during Dubai’s art season in March, inside the art fair, as part of Art Dubai Commissions.
MenaMarketPlace and PubMatic Launch MENA's (Middle East and North Africa's) First Independent, Global Sell-Side Platform Dubai company forms exclusive partnership with U.S-based PubMatic By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: enaMarketPlace has announced that it has partnered with PubMatic, the leading programmatic advertising platform, in an exclusive relationship that will service demand for premium digital ad inventory within the region. The new agreement brings U.S.-based PubMatic's global sell side platform (SSP) technology and services to MENA (Middle East and North Africa) advertising buyers for the first time.“This strategic partnership with PubMatic will help publishers take advantage of the evolving media landscape, driving clear ROI for their digital ad inventory,” said Vincent Pelillo, M a n a g i n g D i r e c t o r, MenaMarketPlace. “Through integrating with the industry-leading software automation platform that PubMatic provides, we have created the first premium programmatic marketplace for MENA publishers and media buyers.“The catalyst for our expansion to MENA (Middle East and North Africa) has been the tremendous publisher demand for the PubMatic platform across EMEA,” said
M
Rob Jonas, Chief Revenue Officer at PubMatic. “MenaMarketPlace provides significant value to publishers looking to take more control of their digital ad inventory. Local and global ad networks, DSPs, trading desks and agency holding groups will now be able to reach targeted audiences in a premium online environment.” The new partnership between MenaMarketPlace and PubMatic aims to capitalise on the increase in advertising spend predicted in the MENA region, which will rise to $5.7 billion by 2017. Internet advertising is
forecast to grow an average 28 per cent per annum from 2013–2017, according to Pricewaterhouse Coopers. Brands will drive the shift to programmatic advertising by increasing their media spend, allocating greater portions of that budget to real-time, audience-based digital advertising."We are excited to start working with M e n a M a r k e t P l a c e . We believe their entry into MENA market will maximize options and available choices for both publishers and advertisers in the region. The underlying platform, PubMatic, provides deep insights into buying patterns and trends for premium properties, and will accelerate further the adoption of programmatic platforms. Among other things, we are impressed by MenaMarketPlace's dynamic creation and adjustment of programmatic selling strategy and its multiscreen capabilities. We can only be supportive when such a project is deployed," said Omar Tahboub, VP of Product at Bayt.com, the leading online recruitment website in the Middle East and North Africa with more than 17.75 million registered j o b s e e k e r s . “MenaMarketPlace is
changing the way ad networks work with publishers and at the same time helping publishers to monetise their site content. They are providing a great opportunity for publishers to increase sales and for advertisers to reach the right target audience. The most important thing about what they are offering is its transparency and simplicity,” said Didier Burn, Publisher, Sport360. Sport360 is the world's only daily English language sports newspaper in the world. It is based in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The PubMatic One Platform technology includes Yield Optimisation and industry leading Real-Time Biddingbased functionality, offering an automated and transparent solution to publishers and media b u y e r s . A d d i t i o n a l l y, PubMatic's platform innovation includes solutions that are expected to become increasingly relevant as the programmatic advertising market matures in MENA. This includes: audience and data management platform capabilities, as well as Private Marketplace functionalities that are already in place and easily accessible.
THE MINISTRY OF INTERIOR'S CINEMA AWARD Prize Worth $100,000 is awarded for the Best Societal Screenplay By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: h e D u b a i International Film Festival (DIFF) is proud to announce that the winner of the inaugural Ministry of Interior Award for Best Societal Screenplay is Emirati filmmaker Saeed Salmeen Al Murry, for his project 'Going to Heaven'.The inaugural Award comprises a prize of $100,000, won this year by Al Murry for his screenplay that addresses issues regarding child welfare.Saeed Salmeen Al Murry graduated from the New York Film Academy in Abu Dhabi. He has directed a number of acclaimed films including the short 'BINT MARIAM', which has won several regional and international awards.His feature film 'SUNDRESS' was entered into numerous international film festivals
T
and was also released in the UAE. Saeed has participated as a jury member at several regional festivals and was named as a 'Filmmaker to Watch' by Digital Studio Magazine. He won the award for 'Best Emirati Filmmaker' at DIFF 2008. Going to Heaven' is
about the life of Sultan, a 10year-old boy who exists in a world devoid of any meaningful love, tenderness or nurturing. Living with his father, cruel stepmother and stepsister,Fatima, Sultan pines for the warm embrace of his mother. Locked in a world of loneliness, the only respite he gets from his suffering is the joy that is brought to him by his tropical fish, which his stepmother hates, and the childlike love he gets from Fatima. In spite of these short moments of happiness, his heart still y e a r n s f o r h i s m o t h e r. D I F F ' s A r t i s t i c Director, Masoud Amralla Al Ali said: “DIFF welcomes this new initiative with open arms. The choice to establish this Award confirms the power of film, its reach, scope and effectiveness at
communicating with the wider society. Through this Award, filmmakers will be recognized for their valuable efforts to highlight societal issues through their films, which can only stand to benefit the industry and community.”Lt. Col. Faisal Mohammed Al Shimmari, Vice President of the Ministry of Interior's Cinema Awards committee stated: “The Ministry of Interior believes cinema is a powerful platform to communicate and connect with the community in a direct and meaningful way. By establishing this Award we aim to partner with the cinema industry to raise public awareness and address issues related to society's safety and security in a prevention manner, as we endeavor to encourage action that will further improve people's safety and community life in general”.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg9)
AZAD SPORTS 22-31December2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71 Pg10
GHANTOOT RACING & POLO CLUB CELEBRATES UAE 43RD NATIONAL DAY: By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: nder the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Falah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club, the club will hold on Saturday (November 29th) an exhibition polo match to celebrate the 43rd UAE N a t i o n a l D a y occasion.The Club is currently preparing several activities, that will held on
U
the sidelines of the exhibition game, to attract public attendance to join the annual celebration,
with various activites and show support to the wonderful polo.Former exhibition champion Ghantoot Team will play against its opponent UAE polo team as they will both play the game in Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club
grounds offering an exciting game.Ghantoot Polo Team players are Ahmed Al Nuaimi, Yousif
Bin Desmal, Fahad Al Qubaisi, and Ramiro Zavaleta. On the other side
UAE Polo Team includes Faris Al Yabhouni, Mohammed Bin Drai, Saeed Bin Drai, and To m a s I r i a r t e . T h e exhibition polo match is sponsored by several institutions and companies to ensure a successful event, particularly by IPIC
SF, Tadweer – The Center of Waste Management – Abu Dhabi, Ghars Z a y e d Volunteering Group, and Egoist Beauty and Spa. The 43rd National Day celebrations witnessed the dominance of Ghantoot polo team after defeating rivals Abu Dhabi Sports Council team by 3-2, as Nasser Al
Dhaheri snatched the ball after a long 2-2 tie and scored the winning golden
goal in the decisive fifth overtime round.The event has witnessed the display of the largest flag ever made in the UAE, measuring 2500m long and 6m wide, the flag was designed by the Emirati young man Abdullah Al
Hosani with the assistance of Sanid Programme and Zayed Implant Voluntary Group. The flag was nominated to enter the Guinness World Records, and required around 14,700 meters of cloth in the making. It was displayed for nearly 3 hours at the main stadium with the participation of around 500 people, all under the supervision Mr. Ahmed Al Nuaimi, Managing Director of
a n d offered traditional cuisine to the crowds whom enjoyed various events associated with this massive sports festival, as a host of prizes and gifts was distributed to the attendees.
Handball Federation is to bring countries together through the spirit of sport to help strengthen relations and facilitate better communication. We wish the country success for all its future sports endeavours.”Ahmed Al Shaabi, Vice-President, Qatar 2015 Organising
T
Sadd, visitors and handball fans from across the region were treated to a laser light display and a traditional Ardha dance.During the opening ceremony, a video presentation was also screened to the audience taking them through the building process a n d structural marvel of the Ali Bin Hamad Al A t t i y a Arena in Al Sadd which is one of the primary venues for the Q a t a r 2015 24th Men’s Handball World Championship in 2015. Hosting the 17th Asian Club League Championship matches will provide an important test of its world-class facilities.As a tribute to Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiya for his pioneering role in sports in Qatar, the newest handball competition venue has been named after him. It has a 4 star GSAS rating and can accommodate upto 7700 visitors, also it has been designed to host i n t e r n a t i o n a l championships for other
AZZAM BATTLES ROUGH WEATHER ON WAY TO ABU DHABI FINISH LINE FLEET EXPECTED BETWEEN 14 AND 15 DECEMBER By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: bu Dhabi Ocean Racing (ADOR), the emirate’s 20142015 Volvo Ocean Race ( V O R ) e n t r y, r e c e n tl y crossed the halfway point of the second leg from Cape Town, South Africa – engaged in an all-out battle for the lead, as the fleet races toward the finish line at ADOR’s home port of Abu Dhabi.The recent gains for ADOR in the VOR – the
A
impressive two hours. Azzam also had its steering system pulled from its
Cargados Carajos Shoals forcing the crew to abandon ship. Luckily no-one
mountings, rendering the right hand wheel inoperative and causing it to lose control, spin around towards the wind and heel over precariously. The crew got Azzam back under control
onboard was injured, but as ADOR had passed the same spot only hours earlier, skipper Ian Walker and the rest of the crew realised the potential catastrophe they had only
by using the left hand wheel to get back on a steady course.Other teams facing similar challenges, have not been so lucky. Earlier this week, Team Vestas Wind ran aground in the
just avoided."When we passed the shoal, we realised how easy it would be to not notice it, especially at night,” said Walker. “It must have been a terrifying experience for all involved
and we wish them a speedy recovery. We all hope the boat can be recovered allowing the team to rejoin the race as soon as possible. Our team remains at their disposal if we can help in any way.”Walker said that despite the challenges encountered in the 12 days since leaving Cape Town, ADOR has managed to shrug off issues and was the first to make the longawaited north turn on day
Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club.The ceremony witnessed a military folk art
17TH ASIAN CLUB LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP BEGINS IN QATAR Spectacular Lightshow and Traditional Cultural Display Mark Beginning of another Major Handball Event By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE he 17th Asian Club L e a g u e Championship was inaugurated in Doha, Qatar, with a spectacular lightshow and display of traditional Qatari culture that marked the opening
ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING AMONGST LEADERS AT HALF WAY STAGE OF LEG 2
epic, round-the-world sailing challenge came after fending off overpowering winds of a tropical depression and vast swells in the Indian Ocean, as its yacht Azzam, which means determination, came safely out of the Agulhas Current one of the most dangerous race sections.Expected to arrive in the UAE capital on the 14th or 15th of December, ADOR was the first among the fleet to transition into the challenging trade winds close to the equator.The lead has not come without its own set of challenges, however, as ADOR has dealt with a large tear in a vital headsail as a result of tumultuous seas. Quick wits and reactions helped the crew wrestle the sail to the deck to prevent it from ripping beyond repair, and it was back in use within an
RADICAL MIDDLE EAST CUP SERIES OPENING ROUND THIS WEEKEND AT THE DUBAI AUTODROME. Qatar driver Amro Al Hamad returns to defend his title but lots of new drivers out to spoil his day. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ith 30 drivers from 12 different countries in 16 cars, this weekend’s (4th and 5th December) opening round of the Radical Middle East Cup is set to provide some exciting and close racing on track at the Dubai Autodrome.The Radical Middle East Cup is fast becoming one of the largest single make race series in the Middle East with 12 races held over 6 rounds at Dubai Yas Marina and Losail International circuit in Qatar.The Series attracts drivers from throughout the Middle East with European drivers starting to make appearances.Some established Radical drivers will be returning to the Series this season including last year ’s Radical Middle East Champion Amro Al Hamad who will be eager to defend his title. This year he will be driving with the formidable Ollie Smith. Expect this pairing in the Alpha Shell Qatar Racing team car to be at or near the front from the outset.Also returning for the season is the newly formed Emirates Global Aluminium team who last year ran under the EMAL banner. Ahmed Al Hammadi is their leading driver and is one of the best up and coming young Emirati drivers having won,in his first s e a s o n , l a s t year’sChristophe Hissette trophy for the most number of fastest laps.Graeme Hannah, the EGA Radical Racing Team manager said, “ We are really grateful to the management of Emirates Global Aluminium
W
for continuing to support our racing activity in this our 4th season competing in UAE Motorsport. It is a testament to their vision and willingness to support Emirati youth that we are able to introduce our young UAE National employees into a relatively new sporting activity, and see them developing their skills and being successful both on and off the track”Several new teams and drivers have joined the Series with Jan Bijsterbosch and David Bright running in the Freshly Foods racing car and Sameh Al Qubaisi (brother of GT racer Khalid) pairing up with experienced driver Tarek Elgammal in the Al Qubaisi/Abu Dhabi Racing team. Sergey Shalunov in his Arloid race car represents the Russian contingent with Jani Hjerppe representing Finland. John Ferguson and this year’s Walter Hayes Trophy winner Wayne Boyd, both from Northern Ireland, are also making an appearance in the Series for the first time.Craig Thompson, AUH Motorsports Technical manager observed, ”it is good to see the Radical Series in the Middle East growing from year to year. T h e c a r s o ff e r g r e a t performance and great racing at an affordable cost and the Series offers an ideal stepping stone for drivers wishing to develop a future in sportscar racing.”With lots of off track activity to add to two days of great racing, the Autodrome is the place to be for an adrenaline packed weekend.
five and achieve a lead as it m a d e i t s w a y northeastwards against strong winds, intense rain and huge seas. The Skipper added that a probable split in the fleet and a potential week of light winds meant that ADOR would have to fight much harder to remain within the leading pack.ADOR fans have been tracking the latest movements and progress of the team’s yacht through the ‘Race Tracker’ tab on the official Volvo Ocean Race w e b s i t e : (www.volvooceanraceabud habi.com/…/follow-ther…/race-tracker/) .The feature offers easily accessible information including the speed of the racing fleets, leg completion percentages, wind speed and the distance sailed within 24 hours.
BRM WATCHES TO BECOME AN OFFICIAL PARTNER OF THE 24H SERIES POWERED BY HANKOOK By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: r e n c h w a t c h manufacturer BRM will become an official partner of the 24H SERIES powered by Hankook. Starting with the opener of the 2015 season, the Hankook 24H DUBAI (8-10 January, 2015), BRM will provide exclusive watches
F
the 24H SERIES powered by Hankook in co-operation with the Dutch National Racing Team (DNRT). "People who like motorsport usually also like nice watches, and
sports such as volleyball, badminton, gymnastics and ice hockey. Mohamad Jabor Al Mulla, Assistant Director General of Qatar 2015 Organising Committee and Director General of the 17th Asian C l u b L e a g u e for all class winners in the Champio Hankook 24H DUBAI. From n s h i p the second round of the ceremony on the first day of said: “We season onwards, the the tournament.The a r e Committee, said: “We are H a n k o o k 1 2 H I TA LYtherefore, the link with BRM ceremony was launched by extremel grateful for the support MUGELLO (13-14 March, fits perfectly.We are looking H.E. Salah bin Ghanem Al y pleased provided by H.H. Sheikh 2015), BRM will also be forward to a long and Ali, Minister of Youth and to open Tamim bin Hamad bin providing the official trophies s u c c e s s f u l Sports who was joined by the Ali Bin Khalifa Al Thani that has partnership."Watch making Sheikh Saud Bin Hamad Al helped to raise the profile of manufacture BRM was Abdulrahman Al Thani, A t t i y a handball internationally founded over 10 years ago Secretary General, Qatar S p o r t and also demonstrate that by Bernard Richards, who Olympic Committee, Arena as Q a t a r i s r e a d y a n d also gave his name to the Ahmed Al Shaabi, Vicea t e s t confident to host sports company as the abbreviation President, Qatar 2015 venue for e v e n t s o f a l a r g e stands for 'Bernard Richards Organising Committee, the 24th scale.”Visitors at the Ali Bin Manufacture'. BRM is the Dr.Thani Abdulrahman Al Men’s Handball World Hamad Al Attiya Arena only French watch making Kuwari, Director General, C h a m p i o n s h i p . T h e were delighted by the manufacture and runs a Qatar 2015 Organising building of this venue along a t m o s p h e r e a n d Committee, Mohamad w i t h t h e L u s a i l impressive surroundings of for the first three teams in the limited production of only Jabor Al Mulla, Assistant Multipurpose Hall and the the new stadium and overall classification and the 2,000 watches every year in Director General of Qatar witnessed four exciting Duhail Handball Sports top three in the classes. The its headquarters in Vexin 2015 Organising matches on the first day of Hall are milestone champions in the 2015 24H n e a r P a r i s . S i n c e h i s Committee and Director achievements in Qatar’s t h e t o u r n a m e n t . S E R I E S p o w e r e d b y childhood, company founder General of the 17th Asian sports legacy and will help Spectators got a chance to Hankook team per class, Bernard Richards has had a C l u b L e a g u e the country become a see Ahli Sedab Club (OMA) drivers per class and ladies p a s s i o n f o r p r e c i s i o n Championship, Bader Al p i o n e e r t o h o s t take on Manyaziumm standings can also look engineering that is also Theyab, Vice-President of i n t e r n a t i o n a l Ferdows Club (IRI), Al forward to a beautiful BRM mirrored by his keen interest International Handball championships.”Bader Al Khalij Club (KSA) vs. watch. "We are delighted to in motorsport. Therefore, it is Federation on behalf of Theyab, Vice-President of Eljaish Sports Club (QAT), welcome a high-quality only logical that BRM Asia and Treasurer of the International Handball Al Qurain Sporting Club brand like BRM on board as watches are acclaimed Asian Handball Federation on behalf of (KUW) vs. Samenalhojaj an official series' partner," among afficionados of Federation.To celebrate Asia and Treasurer of the (IRI) and Al-Salt Club says Gerrie Willems on mechanical sports and that the start of the contest and Asian Handball Federation (JOR) vs. Lekhwiya Sports behalf of CREVENTIC. The these sports are playing a the opening of the Ali Bin said: “One of the main Club (QAT). D u t c h a g e n c y i s t h e great role in the BRM brand Hamad Al Attiya Arena in Al missions of the Asian promoter and organiser of image. azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg10)
22-31December 2014, Moharram 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
Edition 71 Pg11
AZAD SPORTS AL BATAL SEASON 2 CHAMPIONS CROWNED & NEXT SEASON'S CATEGORY ANNOUNCED Walid Akrouh (84KG) And Walid Seghir (70KG) Are New Champions Of Arab MMA Reality Show & Season 3 Weight Category announced at 66KG. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: We were a family. I made sure everything was ok for my brothers so they could focus on winning.„Mehdi Baghdad, Walid & Walid's Coach Season 2 of Al Batal ended on an appropriately dramatic note for both the 84KG and 70KG finalists. Walid Akrouh was the youngest fighter on the show and took out his opponent Sofiane Seghir in the eliminations with a brilliantly executed Armbar. On reaching the 84KG finals he suddenly found himself
“
with no opponent when his challenger Youness Mikiss broke his wrist in the semifinals. Sofiane stepped back up to take on Walid again. Even though Sofiane put up a brave fight, with an injured shoulder, Walid once again had him in an Armbar for the finish and was awarded the Middleweight Al Batal title. “When I selected Walid I knew he would win because
but I was sure I won the 1st and 3rd rounds. Tariq was maybe my best friend at the Al Batal camp, and I didn't want to fight him, but that's the game.„Walid Seghir, Al Batal Lightweight Champion “Tariq was an excellent striker, but I think he lost because he was in the
ABU DHABI’S UNIQUE VOLVO OCEAN RACE VILLAGE MURAL TO GO ON SALE JANUARY 3 50% OF PROCEEDS GO TO CHARITY By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: unique wall mural measuring 20 metres by 3 metres and covering two walls at Abu Dhabi’s Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) Destination Village on the Corniche Breakwater - is to go on sale on January 3, the final day of the UAE capital’s hosting of the hardy VOR fleet with 50% of the proceeds going to charity.The mural is being painted by acclaimed French artist Rémi Bertoche of Biarritz who h a s c r e a t e d advertisements for some of the world’s biggest brands, commissioned work for Middle Eastern and European royalty and holds awards of honour from the French Government.Rémi – an expert in oil painting canvas and mural and who has created exceptional
A
rich maritime history. The village is open daily to visitors from 12 noon until 9pm on weekdays and on weekends from 11am to midnight until January 3. Opening times on December 25th and 31st differ with the village accepting visitors from 4pm until 10pm and from 10am 8pm respectively.He will be painting a major m u r a l o f t h e championship’s winners over the past decade and some of the golfing giants that have competed in the annual PGA European Tour event.“Spectators will be able to watch the painting come to life at the championship,” said Rémi. “And once again, I will put it on sale at the end of the event with half the proceeds going to a local charity.”The Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship runs at Abu Dhabi Golf Club from January 15-18.
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE:
T
eam Vestas Wind's stranded Volvo Ocean 65 boat has been retrieved from a remote reef in the Indian Ocean and on Monday was heading on a round-trip via Mauritius and Malaysia back to Europe.After three days' planning, the Volvo Ocean Race boat was gingerly floated clear of the reef in St Brandon on Sunday evening, where it had laid since November 29, and on to a nearby lagoon.From there it was lifted on to a waiting Maersk Line ship to complete the delicate first stage of an operation, which could yet
the island who assisted with the retrieval. “We have been in contact with the shore manager of Team Vestas Wind, Neil Cox, throughout and were so relieved to hear that the operation to lift the boat intact on to the ship was a complete success thanks to great teamwork involving Maersk, our team, Volvo Ocean Race and the local people. “For us, the environmental side of this project was a key objective. I t ' s m i s s i o n accomplished."We'll make an announcement on the outlook regarding a potential return to the 2014-15 race before the start of Leg 3 (January 3).”
DUBAi Open at The Els Club lauded as “100 per cent a success”
Option exists in 2015 for return of DUBAi Open as well as the possibility of a MENA Golf Tour eventm award By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he Els Club General Manager Chris Brown: “The feedback from the players has been outstanding… I could not be more proud of the team for what they have achieved at this first event for The Els Club”.Golf in DUBAi Vice-Chairman and CEO Mohamed Juma Buamaim: “I am very proud… All the players are very happy with the golf course, it is in a fantastic condition, and with the hospitality they have received”Dubai Sports City President Khalid AlZarooni: “2014 really has been an amazing year of growth and achievement for all of us at Dubai Sports City and the success of the DUBAi Open is a reflection of that fact”Broadcast quality audio interviews with Chris Brown and Mohamed Juma Buamaim, along with audio recorded throughout the DUBAi Open available for editorial u s e a t http://bit.ly/10sNzBF.The inaugural DUBAi Open at The Els Club, the first professional event at the course designed by multiple major winner Ernie Els, has been hailed as “100 per cent a success” by the club’s General Manager Chris Brown.The tournament reached a thrilling conclusion on Sunday afternoon when India’s Arjun Atwal secured a one shot victory over S o u t h K o r e a ’s Wa n g Jeung-hun in what was the finale to the 2014 Asian Tour season.And reflecting on the event, Brown was unequivocal in his view of how things went during the week.“It was 100 per cent a success,” he said. “The feedback from the players regarding the course condition has been outstanding and I feel satisfaction and pride.“I am satisfied that the event went extremely well and proud of the team, the golf club and Troon Golf for producing such a great and spectacular event.“To have Arjun Atwal as our DUBAi Open champion this year, having been a very successful PGA Tour player in the past, and to have players like Darren Clarke, as well as some of the best players on the Asian Tour and a few young superstars
T
wrong weight division. He should fight in a more suitable weight category.„Mehd i Baghdad, Walid & Walid's coach Both Walid Akrouh and Walid Seghir have high aspirations after their respective wins and they have already b e e n approached by leading MMA promotions to represent Al Batal and Arab fighters around the world.“It felt like a dream being selected to be part of the show and walking into the Al Batal camp. T h e opportunity and the win have given m e t h e confidence to pursue my dream to one day fight for the likes of ONE FC or t h e UFC.„Walid Akrouh, Al B a t a l Middleweight Champion With the airing of Season 2 complete and the new Al Batal Champions crowned, the Al Batal team have begun preparing for the next
artworks and exhibitions in luxury resorts and galleries worldwide – was commissioned by the village organisers, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) to create the mural seascape which depicts t h e e m i r a t e ’s s t r o n g maritime heritage links.The passionate, 37-year-old artist has now completed the outline sketch of his mural and will begin painting it onsite in full view of visitors to the free-toentry village from
December 27th when he returns to the UAE capital after a short festive break home.“I have tried to include and create h a r m o n y b e t w e e n aspects of the Volvo Ocean Race, Abu Dhabi’s centuries old maritime heritage and Azzam – the yacht in which Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing is competing in the roundthe-world challenge,” said Rémi. “It will be a unique piece and one which will appeal to anyone who is invested in this emirate’s maritime sector.”The VOR Destination Village is packed with family fun activities as Abu Dhabi marks its hosting of the hardy VOR fleet and celebrates the emirate’s
Set free at last
coming through from the European Tour players like Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick has helped make this a fantastic event.“We have always had plans to do something
Tour (event), I will do one next year, no problem. I will be very happy,” he added “This is one of the best run Asian Tour events I have ever been to,” said Atwal. “Right from organising
teams and the Football Academy has welcomed English Premier League side West Ham United for a training camp and now has well over 1000 children training at our Spanish Soccer Schools programme, overseen by former Real Madrid and Spain star Michel Salgado.The Butch Harmon School of Golf continues to provide outstanding tuition to everyone from top professionals to beginners and juniors, and earlier this month it scooped three awards at the Middle East Golf Awards.“With more international cricket on the horizon, the swimming academy and fitness suite set to open early next month, The Els Club now established as a top international venue for tournament golf, real estate development continuing at a rapid pace and a host of superb educational establishments all flourishing, Dubai Sports City really is a great place to live, work and play,” added Mr Al Zarooni. Mr Falaknaz said: “The Els Club, with its state-of-theart Clubhouse including multiple dining options, its outstanding course and superb customer service, is a continuation of what we always strive for here at Dubai Sports City – to be world-class in everything we do.“We look forward to the DUBAi Open being the first of many professional events staged at The Els Club as it, and Dubai Sports City as a whole, continues to go from strength to strength.”Chris Brown added an extra word of praise for his staff, who pulled out all the stops to make the DUBAi Open the success it was.“There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into hosting an event,” he said.“Greenkeeping staff getting into work at four o’clock in the morning for five, six, seven days in a row takes its toll, then there is the operations team and the food and beverage staff who have kept the players happy as they have said the food has been the best they have had all year.“I could not be more proud of the team for what they have achieved at this first event for The Els Club, the DUBAi Open.”
see the boat being reconstructed.The shore manager of Team Vestas Wind, Neil Cox, and the b o a t ' s s k i p p e r, C h r i s Nicholson (AUS), oversaw the complicated process of extracting it from the rock w h e r e i t w a s trapped.Nicholson had led his crew to safety just over three weeks ago after the boat ran aground on the reef, 430 kilometres from Mauritius, at around 19 knots (35 kph), in the middle of Leg 2 of the Volvo Ocean Race.Volvo Ocean Race COO Tom Touber explained that the retrieval was achieved thanks to meticulous planning beforehand in which several scenarios were explored with a detailed plan of action for each.
' V E RY C A R E F U L ' C o x added: “We had to bounce slightly and re-invent the wheel, we just needed to be very careful and just make sure that we finished the job swiftly.”It was a job which was always going to be fraught with difficulty – but even more so after three days of working around the clock to clear the area and ensure the structural integrity of the boat. “We've been really lucky that from the minute the incident happened, we've developed a relationship with the guys who actually live on the island here,” he said. “We've employed the workforce that already exists out here, and without it we couldn't have done the job, full stop. There's probably a work force of 10 guys. “They've been standing knee deep in water with waves hitting them all day, they've been carrying oxygen bottles for us to be able to cut the keel off, they've been helping us reanchor the boat otherwise things would start moving across the reef.”Cox was cautious about overpromising on next steps – the boat will be checked out more fully in Malaysia before
p r o f e s s i o n a l g o l f player transport to player tournament-wise, so to dining to the practice finally have one under our facility, it is fantastic. The belt is extremely satisfying golf course is in great for the whole club and for shape, and everybody is so he was the 'hungriest' Dubai Sports City.”And nice in The Clubhouse. It fighter. 'PREFERRED PLAN“Our Brown said the success of gets my vote for number Mehdi Baghdad, Walid's preferred plan – to rescue the the event meant the one,” he added.Kapur said: Coach“I believe he'll have to boat as intact as possible – prospect of a repeat in 2015 “I have played here a few drop a weight class to worked out,” he said. He paid was very much on the times and I really am a big compete at tribute to the race's shipping cards, pending agreement fan of the course and The 77KG in the partners, Maersk Line, and from all the relevant Clubhouse.“It is a fantastic internation their retrieval company, parties.“There is an option setting and from an Asian al scene, Svitzer, which had played a in there for us to host this Tour perspective this is one but he's large role in the operation. (tournament next year),” he of the finest events we r e a l “We have had awesome cosaid.“I think we need to take have. It would be nice to capable of operation,” he said. “They stock of where we are from see this tournament grow growing were a dream to work all the stakeholders, from and become the tour into a real golf in DUBAi and the Asian championship in years to star in the Tour, from our ownership come.”The success of the Arab MMA group and from ourselves, DUBAi Open is just the community. The Els Club management, latest example of the way „Ray Elbe, and just see where we go Dubai Sports City is going opposing for next year.But I would from strength to strength team coach like to think the DUBAi according to its President W a l i d Open will be back at The Khalid Al Zarooni.Mr Al S e g h i r Els Club,” he added. Zarooni, who featured in joined Al Batal as the only Mohamed Juma Buamaim, Sunday’s presentation of black belt Brazilian Jiu Jitsu the Vice-Chairman and the trophy alongside Dubai fighter and became a 70KG CEO of golf in DUBAi, S p o r t s C i t y P a r t n e r finalist when he hastily e c h o e d B r o w n ’ s Abdulrahman Falaknaz, choked out his opponent in assessment of the success said: “2014 really has been less than 30 seconds. His of the tournament.“I am an amazing year of growth final fight did not end nearly very proud,” he said. “They and achievement for all of as quickly though. After 3 (Dubai Sports City and The us at Dubai Sports City and gruelling rounds against Els Club) have done a great the success of the DUBAi the charismatic Tariq job.“All the players are very Open is a reflection of that Ismail, the referee happy with the golf course, f a c t . “ T h e D u b a i mistakenly raised Tariq's it is in a fantastic condition, International Stadium has arm for the win even with.”Touber continued: “For heading to Europe, possibly and all the players are staged sell-out matches in though the judges had both ourselves and the Italy, for a rebuild. “A week happy with the hospitality the Pepsi Indian Premier unanimously scored Walid sponsors of the boat – Vestas ago the light at the end of the they have received.“They League and the ICC Underthe winner. The drama that a n d ( s u b - s p o n s o r s ) tunnel was getting smaller have made Dubai very 19 Cricket World Cup, ensued until Walid was Powerhouse – it was also and smaller, but what we've proud with all the services including the final, as well officially announced the completely key that we made been able to retrieve off the t h e y p r o v i d e d . ” A n d as hosting Pakistan, Sri Lightweight Al Batal sure that the environment in reef is substantial.” He Mohamed Juma Buamaim Lanka, Australia and New champion was indicative of this beautiful part of the world added: “I'm not going to say added he would also like to Zealand for international the importance of sport to was looked after too.”Team it's great by any means, but consider the possibility of m a t c h e s . “ T h e I C C the fighters, and the Vestas Wind CEO and it's the first stepping stone, adding The Els Club to the Academy has also hosted a support and brotherhood Vestas Chief Marketing and it's enough to shine a list of courses to stage a high volume of international afforded by their coaches. Officer, Morten Albæk, added light and to work hard to put MENA Golf Tour event in matches and practice “The ref made a mistake his voice to the praise for things back into place. “ 2015.“If they give me the sessions involving some of and Tariq thought he won, Maersk and the residents of course for a MENA (Golf) the world’s best cricket azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg11)
22-31December 2014, Safar 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
SOFITEL ABU DHABI CORNICHE WINS WORLD LUXURY HOTEL AWARD By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: or the second consecutive year, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche wins prestigious World Luxury Hotel Award in the category Luxury Hotel & Conference Centre. Awards gala dinner ceremony was hosted at the Bay Hotel's Majestic Rotunda in Camps Bay Cape Town.In tradition on the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards, the World Luxury Hotel Awards
F
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
KHALAF AHMAD AL HABTOOR URGES INVESTORS TO USE A LEVEL HEAD Advices against knee-jerk reaction By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: AE businessman and philanthropist Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor urges investors in the United Arab Emirates to tread with caution but not to over react to current volatility/panic in the market. The Al Habtoor Group Chairman, who is also Chairman of Dubai National Insurance & Reinsurance (DNIR) says that our markets don't need speculators. “Speculators are unwelcome here,”he said. “We are seeing a kneejerk reaction to the sudden drop in oil prices last week, and some investors are unnerved. But there is no need for panic. Just because some investors sell
U
recognizing dedication, enthusiasm and leadership
Edition 71Pg12
shares at lower prices for whatever reason, others shouldn't necessarily follow this path. The majority of the investors, who have the holding power, and those
who are not short term speculators, don't get affected. The problem is; investors who have highly leveraged positions are under pressure to repay their loans and hence start selling.”Al Habtoor added, “Investors panic when prices drop. They take their money, make losses and run. This is wrong. Our economy is strong and climbing. Investors should look at the market with a level head and at the fundamentals of a company before making hasty decisions and not just rely solely on market rumours.“On a daily average, the trading volume is less than 0.25 per cent of the total volume of the listed
shares in the last 10 days on the Dubai Financial Market. This shows that the vast majority of the investors are not affected or panicking,” he said. Al Habtoor used the example of DNIR. “For instance, on 14th December, DNIR was named one of the 'biggest losers' of the day on the DFM. This a misleading statement based on a small, single transaction of 10,000 shares on that day. The fact is, 10,000 shares equate to only 0.008 per cent of the total shares of the Company. This insignificant transaction should not be used as a yard stick for bringing down the market capitalisation of a strong, well performing company.”
RESOUNDING SUCCESS AS 11th DIFF CLOSES ITS CURTAINS Region's Leading Film Festival once Again Attracted Top Talent from the UAE, Region and the Rest of the World
is the world's most prestigious & exclusive Awards recognizing the best facilities and service excellence the hotel industry has to offer.“We are proud that Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche was recognized over 1000 luxury hotels from 145 countries. During three years of operation we received 14 local & international trophies! It was a truly Magnifique journey for us,” said Nael ElWaary, General Manager for Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche.Since 2006 World Luxury Hotel Awards is
in the high demand luxury hotel industry. The Awards celebrates achievements among over 1,000 luxury hotels, lodges, resorts & private islands. Winners are purely judges on service delivery and effective management voted for by International tour operators, travel agents and hotel guests who get the opportunity to cast their valuable votes annually, making the process fair and unbiased. The 2014 World Luxury Hotel Awards voting was based on a country, continent and global basis.
SPG MEMBERS STAY CONNECTED IN 2015 WITH FREE INTERNET ACCESS FROM STARWOOD Complimentary Internet is Latest Benefit for Members Who Book Through Starwood Channels Online or Via the SPG App Booking Via SPG.com Allows Travel Pros to Extend Access to SPG Clients By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: taying reliably connected to the world while on the road – whether for business or pleasure is vital to today's modern traveler. In recognition of that, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) is announcing that all Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG®) members who book through Starwood's digital channels will be offered free standard in-room Internet access during their stay at all participating hotels worldwide. “With the seismic shift towards digital, particularly when guests are on the road and literally mobile, our SPG members believe high quality Internet access is a basic necessity right up there with a great bed,” said Chris Holdren, Senior Vice President, SPG and Digital at Starwood. “Offering free in-room Internet access just relieves one more pain point in the travel experience and recognizes our loyalty to SPG members who travel with us.” Beginning February 2, 2015, free Internet access will be available to SPG members who book their hotel stays through Starwood's many digital channels including the company's corporate and brand websites and mobile sites as well as the SPG app. Starwood's digital channels have seen increased popularity among guests and SPG members. The SPG app has seen the fastest growth in bookings across SPG's digital platforms experiencing nearly 60% growth in the last year. In total, all of Starwood's digital channels have seen
S
more than 10% growth, and now, Starwood is rewarding guests who book through its platforms with the services they want. “This year we've been laserfocused on empowering our guests with tools to control their stay and personalize their experiences,” said Holdren. “SPG Members can now share their core preferences through SPG Preferences or bypass the front desk and open their door with their smart phone with SPG Keyless. Free Internet access is another milestone as we put ever greater control in the hands of our loyal guests, with more to come.”In addition to members, SPG is dedicated to championing travel professionals who play an integral role in helping travelers book their stays. Following the launch of SPG Pro, a new comprehensive loyalty program designed to r e w a r d t r a v e l professionals, SPG is offering all travel professionals the opportunity to extend free Internet access to their client base of SPG members when travel is booked on spg.com. This advantage is in addition to all other SPG Pro benefits they're already receiving if they are enrolled in the program. Chris Austin, Vice President, Global Leisure & Luxury Sales added: “This move underscores Starwood's commitment to sup p o r t i n g t h e t r a v e l professional community, including the growing number of home-based professionals, and to providing these important partners with the same opportunities as their clients.”
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: h e D u b a i International Film Festival (DIFF) wrapped on the 11th edition last night, after an actionpacked, spectacular 8-day event. From the international celebrities who walked the red carpet and the world's best directors and producers, to the incredible filmmakers from the UAE and across the region: the 11 t h DIFF attracted the industry's brightest and best. The 11th DIFF drew to a close with a Red Carpet Gala Screening of Rob Marshall's humorous musical 'Into the Woods', starring Emily Blunt, Meryl Streep, Johnny Depp, Anna Kendrick and Chris Pine. The film blends classic stories from Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and Rapunzel into a tale that delighted and enthralled the VIP audience.Abduhamid Juma, Chairman, DIFF, said: “DIFF has put Dubai, the UAE and the region on the world's film map. We are delighted to see so many key works being written, shot, directed and produced by our own filmmakers, who push the boundaries of their
T
industry. These past 8 days have shown just how enthusiastic, dedicated, and worthy all of our participants are. We are proud to say that we have been able to support these filmmakers on their journey to success and will continue do to so steadfastly in the future, especially given the success of the inaugural Dubai Distribution Programme. I wish all working in the regional cinematic industry the very best of luck for their upcoming projects, and hope to see their work at next year's 12th edition of DIFF.”During the closing ceremony, a number of winners were presented with coveted prizes. The Young Journalist Award, supported by Gulf News, was presented by Mohammed Al Mezel, Managing Editor of the UAE's largest English daily newspaper to Mais Al Amouri from the American University of Sharjah for her outstanding skills during coverage of DIFF. The People's Choice Award was presented by Abulhamid Juma to Samba, directed by Oliver Nakache and Eric Toledano, - in an honour chosen by DIFF audiences.
Masoud Amralla Al Ali, DIFF Artistic Director, said: “The caliber of entries we have seen at this year's DIFF is outstanding – these writers, directors, producers and filmmakers are a real credit to their industry. I have seen first-hand over the past editions of the Festival how the productions being put forward have gained artistic merit, cinematic credibility and continued to win worldwide acclaim; and I'm proud to have been part of this journey.”The hotlycontested Muhr Awards winners were announced at a glittering reception at the iconic Burj Al Arab; receiving their prizes from His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Emirati filmmaker Saeed Salmeen Al Murry won the inaugural Ministry of Interior Award for Best Societal Screenplay, taking home $100,000 for his work 'Going to Heaven', which focusses on child welfare. Muhr Emirati winners included Mohammad Swaidan for 'The Confession', winning Best Jury Prize; and Aisha Alzaabi for 'The Other Dimension', winning Best Film. Best Jury Prize in the Muhr Shorts category went
to Sahim Omar Kalifa for 'The Deebad Hunter', while Best Film went to Hinde Boujemaa for '…and Romeo Married Juliette'. Best Jury Prize in the Muhr Feature category was awarded to Salim Abu Jabal for 'Roshmia'; while Best Non-Fiction Film went to Nujoom Al Ghanem for 'Nearby Sky'; and Best Fiction Film was won by Khadija AL Salami for 'I am Nojoom Aged 10 and Divorced'.The Awards were established in 2006, to foster and reward artistic excellence from within the Arab world and beyond. The coveted prize award funds that have been used to create some of the globe's most unique films.DIFF was established in 2004 mandated to propel the burgeoning film industry in the UAE and wider region, bringing together international film experts and giving homegrown filmmakers the chance to gain exposure for their work. The Dubai Film Market (DFM) launched in 2007, to support local and regional Arab filmmakers; providing all-important funding for their work, networking opportunities, distribution and support.
CELEBRATE NEW YEAR'S EVE AT DUBAI'S MOST BEAUTIFUL CREEKSIDE LOCATION, SHERATON DUBAI CREEK HOTEL & TOWERS Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo, Ashiana by Vineet and Creekside Japanese Restaurant Offer Unparalleled Dining Options to Ring in the New Year By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: heraton Dubai Creek H o t e l & To w e r s , located on the beautiful Dubai Creek, is offering unparalleled dining options at its three unique restaurants.Ringing in the New Year in style at Vivaldi by Alfred Russo, the hotel's signature restaurant located just a hair's breadth from the stunning Dubai Creek, diners will be offered a family-style dinner at AED 650 per person for a menu set exclusively by Chef Alfredo Russo, including the full beverage package. Children between six and 12 years old have a special set price of AED 325, while children under six can dine on a
S
c o m p l i m e n t a r y basis.R evellers can bid farewell to 2014 a n d welcom e 2015 with a memora b l e experie nce at Ashiana by Vineet, with a specially created menu overseen Chef Vineet Bhatia. Chef Vineet and his team will take diners on a culinary journey, enlightening taste b u d s w i t h carefully selected dishes for the unique evening. At AED 550 per person (food
only), or AED 450 for vegetarians, Ashiana will live up to its name and provide a truly 'happy home' for guests.Finally, at the hotel's unique Creekside Japanese Restaurant which continues to shoot up the TripAdvisor 'Best Restaurants in Dubai' list, guests will be whisked away to the Far East with the delicious fare carefully created by
Chef de Cuisine, David Main. Chef David, who spent time in Southeast Asia, is offering up a buffet style menu with full beverage package for AED 650, or AED 325 for children between the ages of six and 12 years old. Children under six will dine on a complimentary basis.“No matter the desired experience or cuisine, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel's offerings will certainly make this New Ye a r ' s E v e a t r u l y
memorable one. Our first since we reopened, we're delighted to be able to again provide the authentic hospitality we've long been known for,” Said S t e p h a n V a n d e n A u w e e l e , G e n e r a l Manager of the hotel.
SWEDISH WINS HOTELANDREST PRIZE FOR FREE STAY IN JANNAH HOTEL By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: Swedish man has won a prize for a free night stay at Eastern Mangroves Suites by Jannah in Abu Dhabi in a contest organized by www.hotelandrest.co m website.Kathrin W e i s s - R e i n t h a l e r, worldwide marketing director of Jannah Hotels and Resorts, handed the prize to Mr Hani Ghassan, who said he is very pleased to spend his weekend holiday with his family at this luxurious hotel.She congratulated Mr Ghassan and wished him a pleasant stay at the hotel.The website's manager Haneen Al Dawoud said Mr Ghassan has won the prize
A
from among more than 5,000 contesters and wished good luck to the participants in the
upcoming competition.She noted that the contest is intended to promote the UAE as a tourist site and to encourage the guests and visitors to explore tourist, cultural and historical sites in the country.
EASY TAXI REDUCES TAXI ROAMING TIME BY 20% IN THE KINGDOM New laws force taxis to stop roaming the streets and install tracking systems By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE:
T
he Ministry of Transport in Saudi Arabia has issued a new law that forces taxi firms to install
communication and tracking systems in their vehicles in order to reduce and eventually stop the roaming of cabs in the streets. Easy Taxi, the global taxi e-hailing service, has found that it increases efficiency of taxi drivers by 20% by reducing taxi roaming time in the streets when customers order taxis using the application.“Easy Taxi prides itself on connecting passengers and drivers in a convenient, easy and safe m a n n e r. T h e u s e r experience is paramount for us. Using the Easy Taxi App ensures that a
customer avails the services in a timely manner, eliminating the roaming time of taxis on the roads. This ensures better working conditions for our drivers as they will not make losses in case of searching for customers or heavy traffic while trying to secure customer.” said Dr Mahmoud Fouz, CEO of Easy Ta x i M i d d l e East.The app allows customers to order a taxi to their location and track its progress, taking out the standingaround-and-waiting process usual to looking for a taxi. This in turn helps drivers find fares more efficiently, cutting out their need to hunt down a potential customer. Lesser unnecessary taxis on the road then leads to fewer traffic problems.The law gives drivers 45 days to install the systems, after which taxi cabs will only be available by on-call. “If all taxis and companies followed suit and enforced tracking systems, we would cater to demand in a very efficient manner and 20% less taxis would be needed to fulfill this demand. ” Dr Fouz added.
JANNAH PLACE WELCOMES THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH SPECIAL PACKAGES By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai UAE: elebrating Christmas and New Year's Eve, Jannah Place Dubai Marina has put together a special set of promotions to highlight the f e s t i v e season.The package includes a night's stay in the modern Jannah Place Suite, a Dhow cruise around Dubai Marina with exclusive Christmas dinner for two, Free high-speed
C
Christmas night and new year's eve which will be hosted in a wonderful atmosphere under the big
Christmas tree.“In the Eastern Mangroves Suites we will invite our first class guest on the 22nd for a performance of the Jannah talents band and a reception at the panoramic pool,” he said.Little ones are invited to participate and take a memorable picture with Santa who will be visiting both properties the days before Christmas night.
Wi-Fi services, Exclusive Karim service and Free access to the panoramic pool and health club, all for just 1200Dhs!Nehme Imad Darwiche, CEO of Jannah Hotels & Resorts, welcomes all guests and visitors to join his group to celebrate the festive
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg12)
EXCELLENCE IN INTERNATIONAL SERVICE STANDARDS ? In house best-in-class specialists available 24/7 to assist medical and surgical emergencies. ? The hospital features a state-of-the-art Cardiac Cath Lab, Cardiac Care Unit, ICUs for all ages: adult, paediatric and neonatal. It also has a dedicated Maternity and Paediatric Floor and a Day Surgery Unit.
22-31 December 2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71 Pg13
Sharjah Children's Biennial Workshops at DUCTAC
6TH GCC SMART GOVERNMENT AND CITIES PORTALS CONFERENCE CONCLUDES SUCCESSFULLY By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE:
T
he '6th GCC S m a r t Government and Cities Portals Conference organized b y Datamatix,concludes successfully at the Burj Al Arab Hotel. The 2 days conference focused on the strategies to simplify the government organizations service patterns via smart portals and top organizations and minds from across the GCC put forth their observations and experiences in the same. The conference also celebrated the significance of Arabic language in lieu with the World Arabic language day and emphasized on the n e c e s s i t y o f introducing new and more Arabic portals t h r o u g h o u t government and business organizations in the GCC.The event is sponsored by Digital Flow, Communication L e g a l Tr a n s l a t i o n , Naseej, Almarai, Carlsbad Mineral Water, Glenda,New A g e Beverages,andNoor. Day 2 began with the presentation of Dr. A h m e d Ta h l a k , President and C h a i r m a n o f LEVENBERT on shared services in the e r a o f s m a r t government and smart city via portals. Based on his years of experience and s u c c e s s , h e enlightened the audience on how to create a winning business strategy for augmenting the shared service pattern in an organization. He also discussed the pros and cons of having government call centres while he world has already moved into smart portals. Dr. Ashraf Kanjo, Head of Corporate Digital Marketing from RLG communications put forth his observations
and experiences in smart portals framework in the nation. He touched upon various crucial topics like business process optimizations and management transformation strategy, developing smart services knowledge perspective of citizens and businesses, the forecast of using government smart services by citizens and businesses, pushed smart services vs. pulled smart services and new and innovative smart services delivery tools and technologies.It was followed by a presentation on GCC p o r t a l s competitiveness c r i t e r i a a n d standardization by Mr. Khaled Al Mubarak, President of Mawj Training and Consuting wherein the discussed t h e m o d e r n parameters in governing the portals of government and business organization and monitoring the ROI. The coffee break and networking session was followed by the presentation of Mr. Ahmed Al Madani, Executive Director IT Sector of the General Pension and Social Security Authority on P o r t a l s I C T development he elaborated his views on a wide range of topics covering the likes of global technological changes "challenges a n d opportunities",applicati on and infrastructure development, connectivity & i n t e g r a t i o n , government green ICT strategy latest in web for today's government and corporate environment and smart services at your fingertips. Assem Hijazi, Localization Program Manager of Microsoft Middle East and North Africa, spoke on Innovation in GCC smart government and city portals. His
presentation was a detailed study based on his qualitative experience in the field of Arabic language localization and portals management. He talked about the benchmarks in Global KPI measurement and various strategies in driving innovation and promoting result-based government with smarter analytics. Mr. Saleh Al Zein, General M a n a g e r o f Communication Legal Tr a n s l a t i o n , U A E presented a case study on 'Communication L e g a l Tr a n s l a t i o n Establishment'. His case study focused on the successful journey of the organization and elaborated its various smart portal initiatives that are at par with the global ICT benchmarks and models. The conference ended with the 'Middle East Portals a n d We b C o n t e n t Arabization Excellence Award. The winners of 2014 are as follows: 1.Web Content Arabization in Media Excellence Award: Al Riyadh Newspaper Received by Mr. Ali Al Kowhais, Regional D i r e c t o r, A l R i ya d h N e w s p a p e r, U A E 2.Web Content Arabization in Health Care Excellence Award:United Doctors H o s p i t a l 3.Outstanding Translation Services Excellence Award: Communication Legal Translation -Received by Mr. Salah Al Zein, G e n e r a l Manager,Communicati on Legal Translation, UAE. Datamatix has been a leading knowledge and service provider in the GCC for 25 years, w e l c o m i n g businessmen, intellectuals, leaders and professionals and providing valuable business and leadership advice for change by promoting development and e c o n o m i c empowerment.
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai UAE: rime Hospital is among the few hospitals in the UAE where its specialists are available round the clock to tend
P
to medical and surgical emergencies, ensuring patients a 24/7 access to immediate care and treatment. It also recently, unveiled a floor dedicated to mothers and children that cater to all services, including Gynaecologist and Paediatric Consultation, De-liveries and all kinds of investigation facilities.Nestled on Airport Road Dubai, Prime Hospital serves UAE residents with effective treatment and b e s t - i n - c l a s s professionals. The multispeciality hospital, with 100-bed capacity, offers personalised care and facilities, as well as a variety of medical expertise to guarantee better recovery time.A division of the ISOcertified Prime HealthCare Group, the centre specialises in adult, paediatric and neonatal care; featuring a state-of-the-art Cardiac Cath Lab, Cardiac Care Unit, ICUs for adult, paediatric and neonatal. It also has a dedicated Maternity and Paediatric Floor and a Day Surgery Unit.Prime HealthCare Group core
values centre on t r a n s p a r e n c y, customer focus, cost effectiveness and speed of care. These p ri n ci p l e s a n d procedures have played an integral part for the group, in achieving the 'Dubai Quality Appreciati on Award' in 2012, for the second time.“The opening of Prime Hospital is part of our vision to be among the most respected healthcare providers in the region. It is a major mile-stone considering we have been offering Healthcare services through our network of medical centres, pharmacies and diagnostic centres for over a decade. Prime Hospital will provide the most effective treatment from our specialists who come from established healthcare markets like the UK, India, GCC and the UAE,” said Dr. Jamil Ahmed, Managing Director of Prime H e a l t h C a r e Group.Prime Hospital is also commended by the Dubai Government's Department of Economic Development for excellence in the areas of high service quality, appreciable level of customer satisfaction, strategic branding, employee care, frequent free health check-ups and health awareness programmes under its community out-reach programme.The centre has been designed and built as per JCI standards with guidelines from the
American Institute of Architects – Hospital Architecture (AIA). The state-of-the-art facility uses the latest equipment and technology sourced from some of the best suppliers in the i n d u s t r y. S p e c i a l Services offered at prime Hospital: 24/7 Emergency care by specialists Dedicated mother and child floor Acute and intensive care Cardiology Knee, hip a n d s h o u l d e r replacement Sports medicine unit and joint arthroscopy Lithotripsy Dialysis - Endoscopy and laparoscopy Virtual bronchoscopy Flythrough endoscopy CT angiogram O T H E R DEPARTMENTS:Gener a l s u r g e r y N e u r o s u r g e r y Orthopaedics Internal m e d i c i n e Endocrinology Gastroenterology P u l m o n o l o g y Neurology Nephrology Neonatology Dental Ophthalmology Dermatology Lab Services Radiology and Imaging Dietetics and Nutrition Podiatry Physiotherapy Unit
INTERNATIONAL WATER SUMMIT: PREMIER GLOBAL FORUM TO DRIVE ACTIONABLE WATER SECURITY SOLUTIONS Policy makers, industry leaders and innovators to gather in Abu Dhabi to share latest technologies, proposals for action By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubi UAE: lobal water leaders representing private industry, the public sector and nong o v e r n m e n t a l organizations (NGOs) will convene in Abu Dhabi next month to attend the I n t e r n a t i o n a l Wa t e r Summit (IWS). The global platform enables key industry players to exchange ideas, share the latest innovations in water management and to learn about the growing commercial opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).“IWS is a meeting of the minds,” said Hassan A. Arafat, a professor at the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, the world's first graduate-level, research-driven university dedicated to advancing real-world solutions to issues of sustainability. “No other conference unites the full spectrum of stakeholders – from researchers and economists to end users – required to seriously solve the world's pressing water issues. Water security is a common problem and IWS enables the exchange of ideas that enables effective, viable action.”Entitled 'Promoting Water Sustainability in Arid Regions,' IWS will examine the water-energy nexus and its long-term implications on regional and global food security and energy savings. The exhibition and conference, January 19-22, takes place during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi's renewable energy company. IWS is also supported by Abu Dhabi Wa t e r & E l e c t r i c i t y Authority, the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi, the Regulation and Supervision Bureau and Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company. IWS comes at an important
G
time as MENA governments are ramping up desalination capacity in order to meet rising demands a result of the r e g i o n ' s e c o n o m i c growth and expanding populations. Experts say part of the solution to addressing water security is through the deployment of innovative, new technologies that increase desalination capacity, while reducing the energy needed to process seawater into potable water.H.E. Dr. Abdurrahman M. AlIbrahim, governor of the Saline Water Conversion Corporation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is sending a delegation of senior energy ministers and officials, observed that IWS is “an opportunity to bring together – at one platform – engineers, researchers, scientists, developers, technologists, manufacturers, public utilities, companies and more to discuss emerging opportunities to tackle regional and global water challenges. The platform, which encourages publicprivate cooperation, results in meaningful research and joint actions that accelerate projects into the field.Leading NGOs view IWS as a premier event to facilitate the dynamic commercial partnerships needed to implement to goals set by policy makers. Najib Saab, secretary general of the Arab Forum for Environment and Development, said: “IWS plays a crucial role to bring together policy makers and experts from the corporate sector to exchange ideas and to propose actions. It's also a perfect platform to disseminate public
awareness on the issues of water management and security.”Adrian Sym, executive director for the Alliance for Water Stewardship, agreed: “IWS provides space for frank and open discussions and the sharing of lessons – positive and negative – on engagement at a variety of levels. This has helped to build more trusting relationships over time, leading to better cooperation between all the players required to support sustainable water solutions.”Industry leaders familiar with IWS appreciate the commercial opportunities t h e e v e n t c a n generate.“As an important international water summit with high-level participants, IWS plays a vital role in putting water security issues on the global agenda, while demonstrating that a broad spectrum of technical solutions exist,” Soeren Hvilshoej, the director of International Water for Ramboll E n g i n e e r i n g Company.IWS is a key element of ADSW, which also includes the eighth World Future Energy Summit and the second EcoWaste, in association with Tadweer, Abu Dhabi's Centre of Waste Management. The fifth assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency and the seventh Zayed Future Energy Prize Awards ceremony will also take place during ADSW.
QATAR 2015 CELEBRATES NATIONAL DAY AND PREPARES FOR CHAMPIONSHIP Hosts Celebrations for Ambassadors, Committee Members, Workforce and Volunteers at the Lusail Multipurpose Hall – 30 Days to Go Before Qatar Hosts International Championship By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he Qatar 2015 Organising Committee, ambassadors from participating nations and employees along with the volunteers all gathered together to celebrate Qatar National Day, as they look forward to making the nation proud with the major international sports event next year. A traditional celebration was organised at the newly-opened Lusail Multipurpose Hall, as the Organising Committee also marked the milestone of reaching the last 30 days before the 24th Men's Handball
24 t h Men's Handball World Championship, which begins on 15th
World Championship begins. Thousands of sports fans and national teams will travel to Doha for the
January 2015 and which is taking place in Qatar for the first time.H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani,
T
Presiden t of the Qatar 2 0 1 5 Organisi n g Committ ee met with the ambass adors of t h e countrie s that are taking part and assured t h e m t h a t visitors will enjoy a warm welcome and a spectator experience at the matches.Speaking at the event, H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, said: “The success of this major international sporting event will require unity between the different sponsors and global coordination. We thank the ambassadors for their efforts to mobilise their communities to support the 24th Men's Handball World Championship. We look forward to hosting the best edition of this event in history with their collaboration.“As we gather to celebrate Qatar National Day this glorious occasion on which we convey our d e e p e s t expressions of affection and gratitude towards Qatar. This country has been built on a strong foundation and we are proud to be able to
contribute t o i t s success and to the Q a t a r National V i s i o n 2030. We recognise t h e importance of major contests like the Champions h i p i n promoting sporting spirit and building a legacy of excellence we can leave for the next generation,” he added.Dr. Thani Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, Director General, Qatar 2015 Organising Committee said: “With 30 days to go before the opening stages of the Championship, we are confident that we are well-placed to fulfil our duties as host nation. Since this journey began, we have built three competition venues, each to the highest standards required by the sport. We have successfully hosted two international
test events that have received great feedback
from visiting teams. Our workforce and
volunteers have shown they are ready to meet the challenge. Working together, we will achieve greatness for Qatar through this event.”The Lusail Multipurpose Hall is one of Qatar's biggest handball competition venues that can accommodate up to 15,300 spectators. The original plans have been updated to offer more comfort for spectators with spacious seating arrangements.The stadium has one main and two training halls that comply with standards set by the International Handball Federation (IHF) and can be used for
volleyball and basketball tournaments in addition to handball.The 24 t h Men's Handball World Championship will be the first event of its kind to be hosted in a single city and the first to be held in the GCC. Tickets are now available, so everyone can be a part of the live handball action that begins with the Opening Ceremony and the opening match between Qatar and Brazil. The event will run until the Grand Final on 1 February 2015.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg13)
ABU DHABI E-GOVERNMENT PORTAL WINS HH SHEIKH SALEM AL-ALI ALSABAH INFORMATICS AWARD 2014
H
22-31December 2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71 Pg14
AL WATHBA REBRANDS TO MASSAR Vehicle management business begins next stage of fifteen year history By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: l Wathba Services, the v e h i c l e management business headquartered in Abu D h a b i , t o d a y announces that it has changed its name to Massar with immediate effect. The change of name is being accompanied with a f r e s h n e w brand.Massar is a long e s t a b l i s h e d , commercially successful and market leading business which c o m m e n c e d operations in 1999, managing the vehicles of Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority (ADWEA). Since then, i t h a s g r o w n e x p o n e n ti a l l y, operating throughout the UAE, with annual sales of almost AED500 million, more than 400 customers and more than 15,000 vehicles under leasing and fleet management. Massar intends to become the leading provider of vehicle mobility solutions in the UAE and to expand its regional footprint to o t h e r G C C countries.Massar also operates a B2B and B2C vehicle rental business under the Payless franchise of Avis Budget Group.
A
Most recently, Massar has developed a Supply Chain Management solutions division, which effectively takes control
of customers' entire supply chain. Services include driver hiring, routing and scheduling, dispatching, fleet sizing, delivery management and documentation control.Khalaf Aldaheri, Chairman of Massar, commented: “This is a highly significant day in the history of our company. The timing of our rebrand is even more appropriate, with the UAE having just celebrated National Day. The country has gone from strength to strength driving economic development and prosperity through innovation. “Our company has played its part on this journey, and boasts a rich heritage of serving businesses in the UAE for more
Championship is challenging visitors to chip 50 feet from the shore onto a 'floating' green to sink a 'hole in one.' Everyone who has a go gets tickets to January's 10th anniversary Abu Dhabi H S B C G o l f Championship and anyone who does chip a hole in one will lift two Etihad Airways flights to New York and four
m o u n t e d t h e challenges which range from sail lift grinding, to golf chipping and archery with a twist.At the official VOR clothing store Musto, the official outfitter – is challenging visitors to raise a sail by a winch grinder with the fastest scorer winning a trip to Gothenburg, Sweden, were the race will finish next June, to sail a Volvo Ocean 65 yacht – the very model which forms the hardy VOR fleet.It's not as easy as it looks with the grinder becoming steadily more resistant. The score board so far puts grinder Bertie in with a chance with a time of 8.99 minutes.On the breakwater edge, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf
nights in a Newport Rhode Island hotel with airport-hotel transfers to join the Big Apple's own VOR Stopover n e x t M a y. A t t h e Noukhada booth there's a SAFE archery challenge where visitors must hit floating
V
balls with 'safe' arrows to claim a prize of a kayaking tour for two of Abu Dhabi's mangrove reserve. A stop at the Abu Dhabi Ports Company pavilion means visitors will get to see a model of the planned Abu Dhabi permanent cruise terminal, due for completion in 2016 when it will host the magnificent Celebrity Constellation cruise liner which will home port in the UAE capital. Entering a simple
skills and innovations, developing and highlighting the Arabic digital content and preparing Arab youth to establish an advanced IT culture while upholding spirit of competition, excellence and
REVENUE GROWTH IN 2014 Dubai-based exhibition organiser's six events welcome nearly 100,000 trade buyers, 5,103 exhibitors for the year By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ubai-based exhibition and conference organiser Epoc Messe Frankfurt recorded double-digit growth across its event portfolio
D
than fifteen years. We believe that as our customers evolve we need to keep up with their needs and objectives. We have
grown our product offering to suit a more discerning customer, and our new brand embodies this.”Mr. Paul Greenwood, Chief Executive Officer of Massar, commented: “We believe this is the ideal time to refresh our brand and commence the next stage of the company's growth. Massar means “path” in Arabic, which resonates with the fundamentals of our business, managing our customers' mobile assets and setting them on the right path. Everything we do is geared towards keeping cargo, cars and companies moving forward through our commitment to innovation and excellence.”
FUN CHALLENGES AND PRIZES GALORE AT ABU DHABI'S VOR DESTINATION VILLAGE By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: isitors to the Volvo Ocean Race ( V O R ) Destination Village on Abu Dhabi's Corniche Breakwater can try their hand at a myriad of challenges and could walk away with superb prizes including trips to Sweden and the USA!A host of village stakeholders have
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: H Sheikh Sabah AlAhmad Al-Jaber AlSabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait, welcomed HE Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General Abu
EPOC MESSE FRANKFURT RECORDS 22 PER CENT YEAR-ON-YEAR SALES
competition at the pavilion will see one lucky visitor winning a US $1,000 voucher for a Royal Caribbean In te rn a ti o n a l cruise.Meanwhile, Facebook fans of Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing (ADOR) – the emirate's own VOR contender – have the chance to enter two fantastic and highly unusual competitions. The first sees fans submitting captions for one of the Top Ten photos taken by ADOR onboard reporter Matt Knighton. The wittiest caption wins an enlarged photo of the one-off image, signed by the team, and to be presented in a VIP gathering at the Azzam Lounge in the Destination Village on January 1.In the second competition, fans have to submit photos and videos of themselves 'jumping' to be in with a chance to secure the once-in-alifetime 'Jump From Azzam' experience as ADOR sail their yacht Azzam out of Abu Dhabi for the start of Leg 3 of
the VOR to Sanya in China on January 3.Abu Dhabi's VOR Destination Village is open free-of-charge to the public daily from 12 noon until 9pm on weekdays and on weekends from 11am until midnight until January 3. Opening times on December 25th differ with the village accepting visitors from 4pm until 10pm, and between 10am to 8pm on 31st December.
Dhabi Systems and Information Centre (ADSIC) to the HH Sheik Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Informatics Award 2014 c e r e m o n y a n d congratulated him on the Abu Dhabi e-Government Portal, winner in the Arab World's Most Browsed Category. “We are very proud to see the Abu Dhabi e-Government Portal take home this prestigious Award. This is a major recognition of the commitment and effort of all those involved in this initiative since its launch and illustrates ADSIC's contribution to making Abu Dhabi Government one of the best in the world,” said Al Mansoori. HH Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Informatics Award was introduced in 2001 with the aim of making the Arab World an integrated, advanced informatics community, building human capabilities in IT development, promoting the role of social institutions to keep pace with technological advancement, boosting IT
creativity.“I am positive that this Award will further motivate ADSIC to achieve more progress and launch more innovative initiatives in the field of Information Technology to better serve our public and consolidate the UAE's leading global position,” added Al Mansoori.Abu Dhabi e-Government P o r t a l (www.abudhabi.ae) was commissioned and launched by ADSIC, the government entity in charge of Abu Dhabi's ICT agenda, back in 2007, to support the government's continued initiatives to upgrade its online services. The Abu Dhabi e-Government Portal has the leading-edge design, technological and artistic features to offer unmatched levels regarding ease of use. Providing customers with 1114 online services, Abu Dhabi e-Government Portal received 3.64 million visitors and more than 6,259,140 hits this year alone.
ECOWASTE 2015 TO SHOWCASE NEXTGENERATION WASTE HANDLING TECHNOLOGY FROM GERMANY Terex® Fuchs Material Handlers to Exhibit Powerful Material Handlers By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: e r m a n manufacturing g i a n t Te r e x ® Fuchs will take centrestage at EcoWaste 2015, showcasing material handlers that incorporate powerful and reliable hydraulics capable of handling heavy waste loads.With a variety of machine variants capable of working in the radii of 8.2 meters to 23 meters and supporting operating weights of 19 to 90 tons, each Terex® F u c h s h a n d l i n g machine is optimally designed to efficiently p r o v i d e reliable day-today performance and outstanding quality and durability.Terex® Fuchs' participation at EcoWaste 2015 comes at a time when the GCC region annually accounts for more than 120 million tons of solid waste a figure that is set to increase in the short term. Abu Dhabi alone is responsible for six million tons of all waste, a figure that could eventually reach 30 million tons given current growth projections.Waste by-products, such as discarded metal, electrical and plastic goods, can leave behind substances that drip-feed into the environment causing irreversible harm. Given the urgent need for innovative solutions to this growing problem, the EcoWaste exhibition will cover the entire spectrum of solid waste management services in the context of the dramatic increase in per capita waste production in the GCC region.Max Loire, Business Manager at TEREX FUCHS, said: "We are delighted to be
G
participating in EcoWASTE 2015, which offers us an ideal opportunity to network with leading global and regional experts in waste management and discuss with them the challenges of sustainability and recycling. We also look forward to offering to new markets our latest technologies and solutions that help tackle the problem of increasing waste generation
resulting from the continued population growth."Organized by Reed Exhibitions as part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), EcoWaste 2015 will be co-hosted by Tadweer (Center of Waste Management -Abu Dhabi) and Masdar at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Running from January 1922, the exhibition is expected to draw 50 leading companies, key industry experts and more than 2,000 buyers from around the world. EcoWaste 2015 will be staged alongside the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) and the I n t e r n a t i o n a l Wa t e r summit (IWS) as part of ADSW, a government initiative that positions Abu Dhabi as a leading innovator in global sustainability. These parallel platforms will facilitate debate and offer potential solutions stressing the inter connectivity between energy, water and waste.
in 2014, as overseas markets made major contributions to parent company Messe Frankfurt's record €550 million in global sales for the year.Sales revenue in 2014 for the UAE's third largest trade fair organiser grew by 22 per cent year-on-year, while exhibitor numbers across its six events in 2014 was 5,103 – 19 per cent up on the previous year.Visitor numbers to Epoc Messe Frankfurt's Dubai shows also grew significantly; Intersec, Paperworld Middle East, Beautyworld M i d d l e E a s t , Automechanika Dubai, Hardware+Tools Middle East, and Light Middle East, attracted a combined 98,075 visitors from over 130 countries in 2014, 15 per cent more than in 2013.Epoc Messe
Frankfurt is one of 28 global subsidiaries of German-based Messe Frankfurt, the world's fourth largest exhibition organiser. Foreign business contributed 36 percent (€196 million) of the group's total sales revenue in 2014, making it the largest contribution ever by events outside the Frankfurt hub.“We are extremely pleased with the outstanding results in 2014, which is largely due to the efforts of our sales, marketing and support teams”, said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt. “We look forward to another big year in 2015 as we
continue to explore fresh business opportunities in
the dynamic Middle East region as part of the group's long-term master plan 'Messe Frankfurt 2020'.”Epoc Messe Frankfurt crossed several milestones on the way to another standout year in 2014, which included the launch of Leatherworld Middle East, taking place for the first time in May 2015 in Dubai. As part of its long-term master plan ' M e s s e Frankfurt 2020, the parent group achieved important milestones in a n e c o n o m i c environment that was not always favourable and set its sights on new milestones for the years ahead. On presenting the Group's preliminary key figures for 2014 in Frankfurt this month (December 2014), Wolfgang Marzin, President and CEO of Messe Frankfurt, s tr e s s e d : “ Wi th o u r
sustainable profitability, we create the scope we need for developing our company and, in turn, strengthen our excellent market position in global growth markets”. Messe Frankfurt's strong operating business
activities are reflected in the key figures for its events. Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt GmbH, said: “Messe Frankfurt events worldwide played host to over 84,900 exhibitors more than ever before and over three million visitors. Of the 120 trade fairs and exhibitions that took place around the globe, 76 events were held outside Germany.”
HEALTH EXPERTS SADDLE UP TO LAUNCH 5,000 CALORIE CHALLENGE WITH ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING'S ADIL KHALID Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Healthpoint and Imperial College London Diabetes Centre team up CCAD is Volvo Ocean Race Stopover Official Port Sponsor By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: trio of leading h e a l t h organisations is harnessing pedal power at Abu Dhabi's Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) Stopover Destination Village in a challenge to match the efforts of Emirati sailing Olympian Adil Khalid and to promote community wellness. Mubadala's Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Healthpoint and Imperial College London Diabetes Centre have teamed up to hold a public stationary cycling challenge at the Destination Village on Abu Dhabi's Corniche Breakwater, using the huge daily, at-sea calorie burn of Khalid, the trimmer for Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing (ADOR), the emirate's entry into the VOR 2014-15, as the target for participants. ADOR's Khalid burns an incredible 5,000 calories on a typical day sailing Azzam, ADOR's 65-foot racing yacht, during the epic, round-the-world VOR. The complimentary daily spinning class will allow up to 15 cyclists per
A
class to pedal away whilst being linked to Polar Beat Heart Rate Monitors, provided by Healthpoint, trying to collectively hit the same target n u m b e r. F i t n e s s a n d lifestyle club THE ROOM Abu Dhabi is running the free classes every day at 6pm during the Stopover which runs until January 3, with the added incentive of the stunning location close to the VOR racing yachts on the Corniche Breakwater.Dr. Marc Harrison, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi CEO, said: “Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is proud to be an Official Port Sponsor of the Volvo Ocean Race. We're also excited to be teaming up with our sister companies, Healthpoint and Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, to provide healthy and fun workout classes for the A b u D h a b i community.”Challenge participants must be 16 years of age or older and may register for a class by e m a i l i n g burn5000@theroom.ae . Wednesday night courses will be dedicated for ladies only, and Dr. Saf Naqvi, Medical Director,
Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, is keen to stress the preventative benefits of the classes.“These cycling classes encourage our community to engage in a healthy, active lifestyle. We are proud to help show how daily exercise can be a fun, family event, while also helping to manage or even prevent diabetes and other illnesses,” he said. Participants can stay updated on the Challenge by following the #Burn5000 hashtag on social media channels. “Together, Healthpoint and our sister companies are committed to enhancing the health and well-being of the communities we serve, and the Volvo Ocean
Race demonstrates the amazing things people can accomplish when they are at their healthiest,”stated Dr. Marc Ruemmler,Chief Operating Officer of Healthpoint Hospital.Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) is once again behind Abu Dhabi's hosting of the Volvo Ocean Race.The Destination Village on the Corniche Breakwater is open daily to the public until January 3, when the race fleet departs for its next endurance sailing leg to Sanya, China.The stopover features sailing a c t i o n , l i v e concerts,watersports and family entertainment and village entry is free.
NEW YEAR'S EVE TO DELIGHT AT THE ST. REGIS SAADIYAT ISLAND RESORT Magical Moments at the UAE's Most Luxurious Beachside Address By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: AE residents will be celebrating New Year's Eve in style at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi.While the original St. Regis in New York was renowned for the lavish parties hosted by Mrs. Astor, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort will uphold this legacy with its own New Year's Eve celebrations that will rise above expectations. The Gala
U
Dinner in The Regal Ballroom will create memorable moments in a grand setting, where an international buffet will entice while an eight piece band entertain,
ringing in the New Year with fireworks on the sea view terrace.Stilt walkers, dancers and performers are sure to delight in the spirit of the legacy of Mrs. Astor, while a children's area will provide a safe space to the littlest of revellers.The resort's signature restaurant, 55&5th, The Grill will host
a fine evening with predinner drinks and ca n a p é s b e fo re a n indulgent 7-course set menu and live music, while an alternative New Year's Eve awaits guests at the South East Asian cuisine venue, Sontaya. On the beach at Turquoiz the atmosphere will come alive when a twoDJ live music show turns up the heat after the sun sets, with a tantalizing 4course set menu with beverages.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg14)
22-31December 2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71 Pg15
REGION'S USD 7 BILLION SECURITY AND SAFETY SERVICES MARKET ON THE RISE, SAYS G4S Latest Advanced Technology Security Solutions to be launched at UAE's Intersec 2015 Event Taking Place in January By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: egional demand for security and safety services is growing rapidly, and the world's leading security technology companies are keeping pace to meet the new demand levels in an everchanging threat landscape, according to the Middle East's largest multi-solution s e c u r i t y p r o v i d e r, G4S.G4S expects the total regional security market to be worth more than USD 7 billion in 2015, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10% across Egypt and t h e G u l f states.“Companies operating across the Middle East are looking for security partners who are capable of providing total security solutions, a holistic approach that combines technology and expertise,” said Chris Fergus, Regional Managing Director, G4S, Middle East, in advance of Intersec 2015, taking place in Dubai for three days from 18 January.The last edition of Intersec in the UAE in January 2014 featured 1,213 exhibitors and welcomed 24,766 visitors from 131 countries which made it the largest and most international trade fair for security and safety in the world.G4S Te c h n o l o g y , t h e technology arm of G4S based in the UK, will be showcasing its newly launched Symmetry V8 Access Control software, the newly updated Symmetry video management
R
system, and the significant EN-2DBC Door Controller, which takes installation of access control up to a new level of efficiency. This solution will provide customers a single platform solution encomp assing access control, v i d e o manage m e n t a n d alarm manage ment.Ulti m a t e UAV, based in the UAE, will showcase the Storm X8 advanced drone platform, as well as launch its next generation heavy lift drone. Storm X8 drones are unique vertical take-off and landing drone solutions that can be deployed across a wide number of critical national infrastructure, military, oil and gas, public safety, security, and search and rescue applications. As a solutions provider, G4S integrates Storm X8 drone solutions with third party video m a n a g e m e n t platforms to provide customers located in complex threat environments with enhanced situational awareness where onsite surveillance is a critical component of their success. Innovative Signal Analysis, based in the US, will be joining G4S at Intersec 2015 to launch and showcase the innovative WAVcam platform for the first time in the Middle East. WAVcam is a wide-area domain
awareness video solution that can cover over 100 square miles with a single, 90 d e g r e e v i e w, 8 0 megapixel camera. This solution is ideal for: airports, border monitoring, military
installations, oil and gas, seaports, and other critical national infrastructure applications. “G4S b integrates our manned security services, cash solutions and facilities m a n a g e m e n t capability with the latest technology and security systems to create a formidable combination of protection, capable of delivering the optimum business enhancing solution for our customers. The region's largest organisations are prime drivers of this unique demand for smarter, more comprehensive solutions. And we will continue to invest in these integrated services, so that we can best serve our customers,” added Fergus.G4S has said that its largest regional contracts are related to the provision of security solutions to critical national infrastructure, government, financial institutions, education and healthcare providers.
ADCB ISLAMIC BANKING BRINGS INTERNATIONAL AWARDS COLLECTION TO 13 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: bu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) Islamic Banking has been awarded as the 2014 “Best Islamic Banking Window in U A E ” b y t h e International Finance Magazine (IFM). The annual awards show took place at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London, in order to recognize and honor financial organizations that made a significant difference on global finance in 2014. Firstrate products and services, combined with one of the largest Islamic Bank offerings in the UAE, made ADCB Islamic Banking an ideal recipient of IFM's prestigious award in 2014. ADCB Islamic Banking hosts a comprehensive suite of Shari'ah compliant retail products and services including wealth management, investment products, home, auto and personal finance, feature-packed credit cards and the flagship Emirati Millionaire Savings Account ( E M S A ) a n d Millionaire Destiny Savings Account (MDSA).In its efforts to i n c l u d e a l l encompassing services, ADCB Islamic Banking offers Shari'ah compliant financial products and services to business banking sector
A
ranging from working capital finance requirement, assets based finance, trade finance to liability products and cash management services rendered through variety of convenient and progressive banking channels.Mr.
Sunil Bhat, IFM Director said: “I congratulate ADCB Islamic Banking on winning the award for Best Islamic Window in the UAE. The award is a testament to ADCB's commitment to providing innovative and valuable Shari'ah compliant financial solutions to its customers and clients. I wish the bank all the very best for its future endeavors and hope it continues its good w o r k i n t h i s field.”ADCB Islamic Banking's proactive and responsible approach to banking has earned it 13 international accolades that reinforce its position as a leader in i n t e l l i g e n t ,
responsible, and client focused Islamic banking. Adding to their extensive list of accomplishments, EVP & Head of ADCB Islamic Banking Amr Al Menhali, also received the “ U p c o m i n g Personality in Islamic Finance” award from the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA), organized by Edbiz Consulting, UK. The winners of GIFA award also included Dato' Sri Haji Mohammad Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, and Mr. N u r s u l t a n Nazarbayev, the President of Kazakhstan. On winning the two internationally recognized awards, Amr Al Menhali said “This award by IFM is a testament to ADCB Islamic Banking's u n r e l e n t i n g commitment to providing the community with wideranging banking solutions.He added: I am honored to receive the GIFA award and am humbled by the l o n g l i n e o f e x c e p t i o n a l individuals that came before me. This is a win I share with all of A D C B IslamicBanking, and urge us to continue to push the banking further into more ambitious endeavors.”
LONDON GATWICK AIRPORT INCREASES RUNWAY CAPACITY TO 55 FLIGHTS PER HOUR AND ESTIMATES AN ADDITIONAL 2 MILLION PASSENGERS ON A SINGLE RUNWAY ASSISTED BY AMADEUS A-CDM PORTAL ? London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is the first to implement Amadeus' cloud-based A-CDM portal to improve communication and operational efficiency at the airport ? Airports, airlines and ground handlers all benefit from Amadeus' cloud-based common situational awareness solution ? LGW rolls out Amadeus' A-CDM Portal to 300 users in just 8 weeks thanks to a quick implementation process By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: madeus, a l e a d i n g technology partner for the global travel industry, today announces that London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is the first to implement Amadeus' cloud-based Airport-Collaborative Decision Making Portal (A-CDM) to improve collaborative decisionmaking processes. Gatwick is now one of a forward-thinking group of airports to join the European-wide A-CDM standard, with airports such as Munich, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Madrid and Zurich.Gatwick has followed an innovative approach opting for Amadeus' cost effective cloud technology to speed up the implementation time of A-CDM, rolling out the Amadeus portal to 300 users in just 8 weeks. Assisted by the Amadeus portal, LGW will handle 55 flights per hour from the world's busiest runway and estimates up to 2 million additional passengers.The aim of
A
the A-CDM standard is to bring the e n t i r e airport ecosystem (airport operators, airlines, g r o u n d handlers and air t r a f f i c manageme nt) together to operate m o r e efficiently and transparently, sharing accurate information in a t i m e l y m a n n e r. T h i s results in better air traffic management with fewer delays and increased capacity, as well as an improved passenger experience thanks to an integrated approach to operations. Michael Ibbitson, CIO, London Gatwick Airport commented: “We have received extremely positive feedback from our Amadeus A-CDM Portal stakeholders. It is easy to use and enables them to make better decisions that contribute
t o smoother and more e ff i c i e n t operation s. The portal supports a l l partners at the airport involved i n activities f r o m refuelling and de-icing to ground handling and cargo. Those employees have access to real-time data about what's happening across London Gatwick it's a game changer.” He continued: “We constantly strive to embrace new technologies at London Gatwick that will improve the travel experience and operating environment. We estimate that thanks to Amadeus' A-CDM Portal, we will be able to increase capacity to more than 40 million passengers on a single runway following wider adoption of the portal in the next year or so.” John
Jarrell, Head of Airport IT, Amadeus added: “Communication gaps still prevail in the airport ecosystem a collaborative approach is key to align on aspects such as disruptions, flight information, number of bags on board and passengers in transit. We hope to see other airports follow Gatwick's innov ative use of the Amadeus A-CDM Portal to facilitate improved communications and o p e r a t i o n a l efficiency.”The Amadeus P o r t a l a n d i t s customisation for London Gatwick is part of Amadeus' broader commitment to work with airports to improve the passenger experience. Earlier this year, Amadeus published a whitepaper focused on attitudes to cloud computing in the airport industry. This included the viewpoints of over 20 senior IT leaders from the airport industry to investigate the business case for adopting cloud based Common Use systems at airports.
WIN A NISSAN EVERY DAY IN DSF “JOURNEY OF CELEBRATIONS” 32-day DSF offers 35 Nissan cars in Nissan Grand Raffle run in cooperation with ENOC and EPPCO, Arabian Automobiles By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: hoppers from around the world will not only be spoilt for choice with an array of shopping and entertainment options during the forthcoming 20th anniversary celebrations of Dubai Shopping Festival but also have the opportunity to usher in a fantastic new year with the Nissan Grand Raffle. As a part of the DSF Mega Raffle, the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE)), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), and the organisers of DSF, will run a daily Nissan Grand Raffle during the 20th edition of DSF in cooperation with DFRE Strategic Partners, ENOC and EPPCO and Arabian Automobiles, the flagship company of AW Rostamani Group. The raffle, which has grown to become one of the much-awaited attractions of the annual festival, will offer shoppers the opportunity to win a Nissan car every day and a Nisan Patrol every week and go on a true “Journey of Celebrations” during the 20th edition of DSF, which runs from 1 January to 1 February.Customers are entitled to a raffle coupon for every AED20 spent at the convenience store ZOOM or at Pronto, AED 30 spent for a car wash at ENOC/EPPCO or AED 100 spent for an Oil Change or any AutoPro service. The raffle coupons will be entered into a daily draw
S
for a Nissan car and a weekly draw for a Nissan Patrol, which is being given away as a DSF 20th
Infiniti Mega Draw, we are giving our customers the opportunity to win big, underlining our
A n n i v e r s a r y Special.Lucky customers can win one of 10 Nissan models in the daily draw M i c r a , S u n n y, Sentra,Tiida, Altima, XTrail, Murano, Z370, Pathfinder and Armada. Buy a ZOOM DSF promo pack to triple your chances of winning a Nissan car a day or a Nissan Patrol weekly in the Nissan Grand Draw plus discount coupons from Pronto, Tasjeel and major retailers. The name of the winners will be announced every day during a one-hour show at the Global Village from 10 pm to 11 pm. Burhan Al Hashemi, M a n a g i n g D i r e c t o r, E N O C R e t a i l , said:“ENOC is privileged to join hands with Dubai Festivals & Retail Establishment in celebrating the Dubai Shopping Festival's 20th Anniversary. Through our exclusive partnership for both the daily Nissan Grand Raffle and the
commitment to rewarding our loyal customers. This D S F, w e a r e a g a i n offering our ZOOM promo packs that triple our customers' chances of
Emirates said: “We are delighted to partner with DFRE again for the Nissan Grand Raffle, a cornerstone of the Dubai Shopping Festival's exciting line-up of attractions and promotions. Shoppers will have the opportunity to participate in daily and weekly draws to win a total of 35 Nissan automobiles. Arabian A u t o m o b i l e s continuously strives to exceed the expectations of DSF visitors by always offering something new and amazing each year, and this year will be no different with the Nissan Grand Raffle during the spectacular DSF “ J o u r n e y o f Celebrations”.Abdalla Hassan Al Ameeri, Senior Manager Raffles & Promotions, and Head of
UFI MIDDLE EAST/AFRICA CHAPTER MEETS IN SHARJAH Industry leaders take part in UFI meeting held at Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ith the region's meeting, incentive, conference and event (MICE) industry forecast to experience robust growth, a high-
W
the past decade. I believe the UFI Chapter will have a big role to play in the future growth of the industry here,” said Mr. Waleed Abdul Rahman Bukhatir, Second ViceChairman, Sharjah
profile meeting of industry stakeholders in Sharjah took stock of opportunities and challenges facing the industry.The high-profile leadership coordination meeting of the Middle East/African Chapter of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), Paris, held at Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry on Thursday (Dec 18) discussed activities and initiatives required to be developed by UFI for the benefit of its regional members.The meeting was attended by Mr. Humaid Mohamed Bin Salem, Secretary General of the Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry; UFI MEA C h a p t e r C h a i r M r. Abdullah Al Omran, CEO, RICEC, Riyadh; First Vice-Chairman Mr. Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah; Second ViceChairmen Mr. Amer N. Ta b b a h , M a n a g i n g Director, Sofex, Jordan; and Mr. Hossien Esfahbodi, Managing Director & Chairman, IIEC, Iran.It was also attended by UFI Board M e m b e r s M r. A b d u l Rahman Al Nassar, CEO, KIF, Kuwait; and Mr. Albert Aoun, CEO, IFP, Riyadh, and UFI office bearers Mr. Paul Woodward, Managing Director, Paris, and Mr. Ibrahim Alkhaldi, MEA Regional Manager, Sharjah.“The meetings and exhibitions industry has seen tremendous growth, which has contributed to the country's economic development. Today, the UAE is one of the biggest MICE markets, and the number of events taking place in the country has gone up phenomenally in
Chamber of Commerce and Industry, when he received the UFI members at SCCI.The Middle East/African Chapter of UFI is located at Expo Centre Sharjah. The UFI is the prestigious association of the world's leading tradeshow organisers and fairground owners, as well as major national and international exhibition associations, and selected partners of t h e e x h i b i t i o n i n d u s t r y. “ F r e q u e n t l y changing economic and geopolitical events unexpectedly throw up opportunities and challenges in equal measures. At the meeting, we discussed ways to take benefit of the prevailing market conditions and how the UFI MEA Chapter could help realize them,” said Mr. Midfa.“We realised that there could be several challenges as well... here again the UFI MEA Chapter could help its members ride out the problems,” Mr. Midfa added.The meeting also reviewed the outcome of the 81 s t Congress in Bogota, where more than 300 attendees from 46 nations gathered from October 29 to November 1, 2014.“The Bogota congress had made it clear that the very nature of exhibitions must evolve to reflect changing industry needs, blurring the distinctions between event categories, and the need for UFI to continue adjusting its focus and services to reflect this,” added Mr. Midfa.The meeting also discussed the preparations for the Open Seminar in Marrakech (Morocco) scheduled from March 23 to 25, 2015.
DNA CENTER OFFERS AMERICAN PAIN CLINIC WITH REGENERATION THERAPHY
winning a Nissan Car daily and are full of d i s c o u n t vouchers.”Michel Ayat, CEO of Arabian Automobiles, the flagship company of AW Rostamani Group and the exclusive dealer of Nissan, Infiniti & Renault in Dubai and the Northern
Raffles Committee, DFRE, said: “The Nissan Grand Raffle, which offers DSF shoppers the chance to take home 35 Nissan cars during the festival period, is an apt reflection of the festival theme “Journey of Celebrations”, as it offers shoppers and visitors a daily chance to drive away with a dream car. It's a great way to bring the festival's winning element to life and present a thoroughly rewarding shopping experience for everyone visiting Dubai during the DSF.”DSF 2015 will kick-off Dubai's events calendar in the New year under the theme “20th Anniversary A Journey of Celebrations” with a range of events, activities and promotions that will once again bring to the forefront the festival's charm of offering an enriching shopping experience, combined with entertainment and winnings.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg15)
CELEBRATE THIS FESTIVE SEASON WITH EMAAR HOSPITALITY GROUP SHOWCASING OVER 100 EXPERIENCES ACROSS 42 OUTLETS
22-31December 2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71 Pg16
LEADING INSURANCE BROKER IN THE GCC EXPECTS INCREASING SAVINGS AND PROTECTION PENETRATION IN 2015 Industry to Witness Rapid Growth as Employee Benefits become Determining Factor for Successful Recruitment in Region's Competitive Business Environment By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: nsurance and savings penetration will continue to r i s e i n 2 0 1 5 d u e to developing regulations and increased awareness about the importance of financial security, according to Nexus Group, the region's leading insurance broker.Community education and government enforced regulations are making savings and protection plans a priority for residents of the GCC, and a determining factor for job candidates when considering new career opportunities.“Residents now have a better understanding of the protection that they need and that should be offered to them. Does my employer have a global health plan? Are they going to reward my loyalty to their company with an effective savings scheme? These are all questions that employees are beginning to ask,” said Ta r u n K h a n n a , C h i e f Executive Officer of Nexus Group.“When looking to recruit qualified talent, employers are now competing on benefits, and medical insurance is a key benefit.”Khanna said he expects other countries in the region, including Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, to soon follow suit in mandating medical insurance because of the benefits it offers not only the employee, but also the government.“By making c o v e r a g e m a n d a t o r y, i t ensures that companies address the issue, and it reduces government liabilities when people fall sick, they need to be treated regardless of cost, and now that responsibility is placed on employers,” said Khanna.The existing levels of insurance penetration in the region presents great opportunities for industry growth, Khanna said. General insurance penetration currently stands at 2 per cent in the UAE, 2.3 per cent in Bahrain, 0.7 per cent in Qatar and 0.8 per cent in Saudi Arabia, according to the 2013 GCC Insurance Industry Report by Alpen Capital. The figures are far lower than the We s t , w h e r e i n s u r a n c e penetration stands at 8.1 per cent in the US and 12.8 per cent in the UK.However these rates are rising steadily, and
I
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: s Dubai readies for another festive season, Emaar Hospitality Group is lifting the game with an unprecedented showcase of 100 'festive
A
progressing regulations coupled with increasing awareness and education will continue to push them forward, says Khanna.According to the Alpen Capital report, the insurance industry in the GCC is projected to expand at a compounded annual growth
rate of 18.1 per cent between 2012 and 2017 to reach a size of USD 37.5 billion.The life insurance segment is expected to grow at an annual average rate of around 2 per cent during this period. Similarly, the group estimates its life and savings business will grow by 25 per cent in the coming year.“The region's affluent population is more educated about the importance of saving and the potential rewards a carefully selected savings plan can offer,”said Khanna.“Their disposable income and the GCC's tax-free market creates a favourable environment for saving, and I only expect the numbers to continue increasing.”The region will also witness growth in corporate savings schemes and pension plans, as more companies look to retain their employees by rewarding their commitment and dedication to the business.“Overall costs of living are increasing healthcare costs are rising and university tuitions are reaching an almost astronomical level,” said Khanna. “Residents are beginning to realize that to live sustainably,they must invest in a methodological savings plan, and companies are recognizing that to stay competitive in the market, they must offer their employees a compelling package of benefits. All of this further bolsters the growth of the industry.”
GMG SELECTS SAP FOR AED 150 MILLION BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION PROJECT
experiences' that are truly unmatched.Through the holiday season to New Year's Eve, over 42 outlets across different hotels and leisure assets of Emaar Hospitality Group will present festive lifestyle experiences that will appeal to all from families seeking a hearty gettogether time to friends on a celebratory evening out or for memorable corporate events. All the diverse experiences offered by Emaar Hospitality Group are now available at one online portal, a dedicated website for festive events a t www.myfestivedubai.com . Simply browse to make an informed decision on where to spend time with friends and families or party with colleagues. The amazing repertoire of festive lifestyle experiences is showcased at Emaar Hospitality Group's portfolio that includes The Address Downtown Dubai, The Address Dubai Mall, The Address Montgomerie Dubai, The Address Dubai Marina, The Palace Downtown Dubai, Vida Downtown Dubai, Manzil Downtown Dubai, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai Marina Yacht Club and Arabian Ranches Golf Club, in addition to several Lifestyle Dining venues in central locations across Dubai, each
assuring guests with a timeless escapade. Whether looking to kick off the festivities in Dubai's ultracosmopolitan lifestyle districts or planning to dine in one of Dubai's most elite restaurants, Emaar Hospitality Group provides fantastic experiences with each of the 42 plus destination offering unique festive treats.What's more, from turkey takeaways, personalised hampers and special celebratory gifts, each destination provides a choice that is exquisitely created just for you. At Emaar Hospitality Group's properties in Downtown Dubai, revel in the unparalleled views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa in addition to a range of exhilarating family-friendly activities. At Dubai Marina, spectacular waterfront views will add to the joy of the get-togethers. Other properties also offer a golf course lifestyle as well as equestrian-centred activities. Go on breathtaking culinary journeys at any one of our magnificent destinations and
savour flavours from around the world or opt for a specific dining experience to satisfy your festive palate. Whatever you fancy, this festive season Emaar Hospitality Group will meet your discerning taste. Date: From December 1, 2014 to January 1, 2015 For more information or reservations, please call 04 423 8884 or visit: www.myfestivedubai.com*
OOREDOO, GSMA AND SOUKTEL PROMOTE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS IN MENA REGION First-Ever Middle East Summit on Mobile Tech and Crisis Response Tackles Key Issue as 33.3 Million People Internally Displaced across the World By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: oredoo is working with the GSMA and Souktel Mobile Solutions to develop new partnerships and enhance current strategies to manage disaster preparedness, following the first-ever Middle East Summit on Mobile
O
Technology and Crisis Response.As countries across the Middle East f a c e g r o w i n g humanitarian crises, mobiles are playing a key part in regional aid efforts. When Iraqi refugees were asked about their urgent needs in a recent poll, mobile charging stations were the main form of help they requested after food and water. As a result, aid agencies rushed to include solar-powered mobile chargers in emergency relief packages. According to the GSMA mobile e co n o m y 2014 Arab States report, at the end of 2013, the Arab States of the Middle East and North Africa region accounted for 195 million of the 3.4 billion unique mobile subscriptions worldwide a 53% penetration rate.At the same time, it is estimated that global conflict had forced 33.3 million people to become internally displaced people (IDPs) and a further 17 people million people to become
refugees at the start of 2013.This crisis puts pressures not only on the displaced populations themselves, but on the host communities, local infrastructure and service providers. These were the issues that the Middle East Summit on Mobile Technology and Crisis Response sought to examine. Held in Amman, Jordan, the event brought together more than 30 leaders in the aid and telecoms sectors to build partnerships that will enable quicker, more effective service delivery in emergencies.Ooredoo Group has a long history of providing emergency aid via technology such as a recent Gaza SMS donation campaign by Wa t a n i y a P a l e s t i n e . During the month-long drive, customers across Palestine could donate directly to relief efforts by pledging funds via text messa g e , throug h their mobile accou n t s . These rapid donati o n s helped get real-time assistance to families across the Gaza Strip. Dr. Nasser Marafih, Group CEO, Ooredoo, said: “Disaster relief and preparedness are becoming increasingly important elements of our
strategy for serving the c o m m u n i t y, particularly as m o b i l e technology opens new opportunities to help people and provide support. Being t h e r e t o connect and care for people during emergency situations is one of Ooredoo's core values – and one we are striving to support in every market that we operate in.”In addition, Ooredoo Group made a significant donation to the relief fund and provided tonnes of water bottles airlifted to the Maldives by Qatar Airways.Over the s u m m e r, A s i a c e l l , Ooredoo's company in Iraq, pledged to help keep communication alive within conflict areas by distributing 10,000 free SIM cards equipped with a free SMS notification service offering vital information for Internally Displaced Persons and refugees. It also established a call centre in Sulaimanyah, aiming to connect people with the dedicated organisations and programmes that p r o v i d e support, as w e l l a s donated handsets to refugee c a m p representati v e s t o e n a b l e families to contact each other across war zones. “Access to mobile network services can be a lifeline for those affected by crisis,” said Kyla Reid, Head of Disaster Response, GSMA. “Innovative partnerships between mobile network
o p e r a t o r s a n d h u m a n i t a r i a n organisations is critical in ensuring that those displaced or impacted by h u m a n i t a r i a n emergencies are able to connect, seek and receive critical information and are able to support response activities in their communities.”Jacob Korenblum, CEO, Souktel Mobile Solutions, added: “Partnerships are essential for achieving impact in humanitarian response work. In this sense, it is encouraging that mobile network operators like Ooredoo Group are presenting themselves as pro-active partners who are keen to make a difference by working jointly with other public and nongovernmental aid
providers.”With millions of mobile customers now facing another year as refugees including growing numbers in Ooredoo Group markets like Iraq and Tunisia the need for strong cooperation between humanitarian aid providers and mobile networks is only likely to grow further. The Middle East Summit on Mobile Technology & Crisis Response provided a crucial first step, paving the way for new partnerships between agencies like the UN and mobile networks across the region.
PAK TEHREEK E INSAF U.A.E CONDOLENCE MEETING FOR PESHAWAR VICTIMS
ASUS LAUNCHES THE NEW MEMO PAD 7 Stylish 7-inch Full HD tablet with super quad-core power By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai UAE: he new MeMO Pad 7 (ME572CL), a 7-inch Android 4.4 (KitKat) tablet featuring a Full HD IPS display, 64-bit quad-core Intel Atom Z3560 processor (up to 1.83GHz), and LTE connectivity in a thin, lightweight and stylish design. Inspired by clutch
T
PixelMaster technology for capturing great-looking photos and videos.Inside MeMO Pad 7 is a 64-bit quadcore Intel Atom Z3560 processor that delivers powerful, energy-efficient performance for the latest apps and games. MeMO Pad 7 is available with LTE functionality for ultra-fast mobile data speeds. MeMO
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui operational costs across the Dubai UAE: Group, which comprises a ulf Marketing Group diverse portfolio of the region's (GMG), one of the leading retail outlets, brands Middle East's leading and services including Sun & holding companies, today Sand Sports, Super-Care announced an AED 150 million Pharmacy, Farm Fresh and deal with SAP, the global Trilogi Logistics. Earlier this DP WORLD AND AL KHALEEJ SUGAR CELEBRATE THE WORLD'S LARGEST enterprise software and year, GMG announced its most software-related services ambitious growth plans to date SUGAR CARRIER TO CALL AT JEBEL ALI PORT provider, for a major Ship brings 106,000 tonnes of raw sugar from Sao Paolo, Brazil. long-term business transformation B y Q a d e e r A h m a d East and wider region,” he of cargo, including food customers.”Commenting programme.As part of Siddiqui Dubai UAE: said. HE bin Sulayem staples such as rice, flour on the event, Al Khaleej the significant l Khaleej Sugar attributed this success to and other perishable Sugar Managing Director Enterprise Resource bags and wallets, MeMO Pad Pad 7 comes with ASUS has celebrated the far sighted vision of goods.“Jebel Ali serves a Jamal Al Ghurair said: Planning (ERP) 7 has a unique, elegant look ZenUI, the ASUS-exclusive the arrival of MV His Highness Sheikh wide variety of customers “We are proud to host the project, SAP will that, combined with its m o b i l e u s e r i n t e r f a c e UBC OTTAWA , the Mohammed bin Rashid Al and this event comes on biggest vessel in the world provide GMG with a powerful functionality, makes d e v e l o p e d a r o u n d t h e world's largest sugar Maktoum, UAE Vice the heels of the arrival of at the Al Khaleej Sugar range of its industryit the perfect everyday c o n c e p t s o f f r e e d o m , carrying vessel to call at President, Prime Minister the biggest ever bulk berth in Dubai. In the last leading business companion and fashion expression and connection. DP World's flagship Jebel and Ruler of Dubai, for carrier to visit the port last few years we have seen a management tools, as essential.MeMO Pad 7 is Featuring a new visual Ali Port. Arriving from Sao number of improvements GMG gears up for built to provide incredible design made to be efficient Paolo port in Brazil, and additions to our substantial regional entertainm 106,000 tonnes of sugar refinery as we installed growth.“GMG has e n t was discharged in Dubai new equipment that been expanding at a experience during the whole last helped increase rapid pace over the recent with a target of 43 new store s. Its Full week. Sailing since 2011, production rates and years and adopting the right openings in 2014. So far this HD IPS the 260 meters length placed us as one of the technology is of paramount year, the company has opened d i s p l a y, vessel has a load capacity leading sugar refineries in importance to our continued 42 outlets with more in the enhanced pipeline before the end of of 118,625 tonnes.At a the world. We appreciate long-term growth, commented with ASUS ceremony held at the Al the supportive role of the Mohammad A Baker, Deputy December and in 2015.“All our TruVivid Khaleej Sugar refinery Dubai Government C h a i r m a n a n d C E O , businesses rely on having technology, yard in Jebel Ali, in represented by His GMG.“Working with SAP as a c c e s s t o h i g h q u a l i t y delivers a presence of Al Khaleej establishing Dubai and month, where we handled H i g h n e s s S h e i k h our technology partner over information instantly and our stunningly ability to make timely decisions Sugar Managing Director the wider UAE as a 7 9 , 0 0 0 t o n n e s o f Mohammed bin Rashid Al the next 10 years will transform s h a r p Jamal Al Ghurair, DP leading regional and reinforcing steel. These Maktoum, UAE Vice o u r b u s i n e s s and respond rapidly to market image that World Chairman HE i n t e r n a t i o n a l t r a d e achievements illustrate President, Prime Minister functions,significantly demands,” Mr Baker looks great S u l t a n A h m e d b i n hub.HE bin Sulayem that we are ready to meet and Ruler of Dubai, and increase productivity, and give added.“This ERP project using and inviting, it contains from almost any angle. Sulayem congratulated added: “DP World is f u t u r e d e m a n d s f o r the constructive us the right tools to take our SAP HANA technology is modern 'flat' icons, vivid color t h e c o m p a n y : “ T h i s working closely with Al containerized or nonMeMO Pad 7 comes cooperation from Jebel Ali b u s i n e s s t o t h e n e x t going to revolutionise the way themes, animations, new historic call is another equipped with a 5-megapixel Khaleej Sugar to safely containerized cargo, with Port's management in level.”GMG has selected a we gather, analyse and act on notification sounds, and a achievement for Dubai, offload the raw sugar at our new, state-of-the-art supporting our company's (MP) rear-facing, autofocus total of seven SAP software information in the increasingly clean layout to present reinforcing its gateway their berth, illustrating our Container Terminal 3 at success.” camera and a 2MP fronts o l u t i o n s t o i n c r e a s e digital world in which we information clearly. facing camera, as well as operate.” position for the Middle ability to handle all types Jebel Ali ready to serve e ff i c i e n c i e s a n d r e d u c e azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg16)
G
A
22-31December 2014, Safar 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
Edition 71 Pg17
FOOD AND LEISURE CARLSON REZIDOR FIRST MAJOR INTERNATIONAL HOTEL CHAIN TO SIGN AGREEMENT WITH SAFEHOTELS Hotel group showcases its internationally recognised safety and security programme to benefit guests, staff and owners By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: arlson Rezidor, one of the largest and most dynamic hotel groups worldwide, announces the signing of an agreement with Safehotels a globally recognised security c o n s u l t a n c y. T h e agreement marks a unique achievement for a hotel chain, with Carlson Rezidor being the first to obtain such a credit. “Safety & Security play an increasingly important role for all global businesses. The agreement with Safehotels allows us to further develop our industry leading safety and security programme and to create additional value for our guests, staff and owners”, said Paul Moxness, Vice President, Safety & Security at Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. From January 2015, the first Carlson Rezidor hotels selected across the EMEA region will begin the formal Safehotels certification process. Within this, a number of criteria will be covered including security equipment, staff awareness & training, fire security, and first aid. Safehotels will also evaluate Carlson Rezidor’s existing self-assessment internal hotel security programme through monitoring, reviewing and reporting on the selfassessment hotel database and submittals. The selfassessment programme is freely accessible globally to all hotels in the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group portfolio.To ensure all criteria are met, Carlson Rezidor has worked closely with Safehotels to align the brand expectations and
C
self-assessment programme with the Safehotels standard. “By reaching the level of
Safehotels certification, it shows the hotel focuses on key elements of guest security relating to personal property and has the right response if ever there’s an accident or any kind of emergency. The certificate shows the hotel is sincere in its guest’s personal wellbeing. Being audited and certified yearly by a third party strengthen the value of that communication immensely. The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has taken the already high level of internal precautions one step further by signing with Safehotels for a global certification of its hotels”, Hans Kanold, CEO of Safehotels Alliance AB. This announcement builds on the existing safety and security measures implemented by Carlson Rezidor across all their hotels. The hotel group continues to maintain exceptional standards in its properties, with 24/7 monitoring via a global security operations centre and access to the selfassessment programme, learning tools and templates for incident response and crisis management.
WIENERWALD TO OPEN TWO STORES IN DUBAI Legendary German Rotisserie dining experience finds AED 10 million investment in lucrative Dubai market
HYATT CAPITAL GATE ABU DHABI IS CELEBRATING ITS THIRD ANNIVERSARY By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: yatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi will be celebrating its third a n n i v e r s a r y , commemorating the first time it opened its doors on D e c e m b e r 2 1 , 2 0 11 . “ T h r o u g h o u t t h e
H
years, the hotel has witnessed an exciting growth in occupancy and patronage from both business and leisure guests from across the globe, it is encouraging to experience the warmth and acceptance of the first Hyatt Brand here,” said Stefan Gaessler, General Manager of Hyatt Capital Gate.Since inception Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi has received worldwide recognition from various TV shows and magazines, such as Mega Structures (National Geographic), the Discovery Channel and TV Canada. Closer to home, the property has featured on Abu Dhabi Week TV (Etihad E-BOX), Millions of Poets, Dubai One and Abu Dhabi Al Emarat.Since opening, the hotel has constantly found new ways to exceed guests’ expectations through authentic hospitality. As a result over the years, 18 Degrees’ (18°) has won several accolades, not to mention Rayana Spa winning The Best Luxury Boutique Spa, Rayana Spa - 2014 World Luxury Spa Awards Global Winners. And the coveted The Best Business/City Hotel- Middle
East Hotel Awards 2014.Not only does Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi welcome worldwide guests, the hotel feels it has a responsibility to give back and increase its foot prints in the lives of all. Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi aims to support various organisations, such
the Autism Support Network, as well as Ewa’a, a shelter for women and children which were victims of human trafficking, by raising funds and providing education to help the affected reintegrate into society. The hotel is receipt of the ISO 14001 certification, which identifies the hotel as an environmentally friendly business entity; it has also passed several high level security checks. The hotel is an iconic symbol representing Abu Dhabi, where the Capital Gate tower, has earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for its 18 degree lean - more than four times that of the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.In celebrating the success of the hotel, several interesting competitions with grand prizes will be held across the social media channel of Facebook and the famous Abu Dhabi Week.For additional information on Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, please call +971 2 596 1234 or visit our website a t abudhabi.capitalgate.hyatt. com.
EMIRATES PALACE IS ICON OF LUXURY TOURISM : NEW CHEF SAYS By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: xecutive chef James Norman of Britain who joined the iconic Emirates Palace Hotel Abu Dhabi shuttle between 14 and 18 km a day to check work at the sprawling hotel’s restaurants and kitchens every day. He makes sure to taste the cooked food before it is served to ensure it is delicious and of high q u a l i t y. C h e f N o r m a n appears to be happy in his job which he has started in London since he was only around 16 years old.“I began my career as a chef by working free at a restaurant in London for nearly two years when I was a student to guarantee a job after I graduate from the university…and that’s what happened,”he says.The chef says he is delighted to work at Emirates Palace, rated among the top10 hotels in the world, adding that he was offered that job when he was a chef at Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva nearly six months ago.“I agreed without hesitation because I had always dreamt of working in this hotel which is described as an icon of luxury tourism in t h e r e g i o n , ” h e says.“Working in this hotel is a big challenge to provide the best choices to VIPs and other guests and tourists…I have been here for nearly six months and I keep close to all hotel kitchen workers to make sure the food is of the highest standard.”Chef Norman believes Emirates Palace has its own identity and cannot be compared to any other hotel. “That is what made me quickly agree to work at his hotel.”He says that restaurants in Emirates Palace are among the best in the region as they serve a large variety of cuisine from the UAE, the Middle East and other parts of the world. “Compared to other hotels, Emirates Palace is massive…I move between 14 and 18 km every day to shuttle between its
E
Keep Calm and Karaoke On at The Huddle By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: esi Brunch at C l a y p o t : A n authentic Indian speciality buffet brunch with a live cooking counter, serving up key signature dishes such as Pav Bhaji, Paneer Papdi, Chaat, Tawa Murgh, Murgh Tak-a-Tak, Bhoona Kheema with Pav,
Chinese Green Bento or Shiromi Sakana Bento (pic) with potato and egg salad, fried fish with tong katsu sauce, sticky Rice, stir fried vegetables and fresh fruit or the Vegetable Bento (pic) with Chinese salad, Agedashi tofu, stir fried vegetables, vegetable hakka noodles and fresh fruit. Sunday to Thursday from noon to 3pm. Sporty Saturdays & Sundays at The Huddle:Catch your favourite sport live on HD
DTCM BRIEFS TOURISM INDUSTRY ON KEY ACTIVITIES IN THE UPCOMING QUARTER More than 500 front office representatives of the tourism industry attended the city briefing event By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ore than 500 members of Dubai's front office tourism industry were hosted by Dubai’s Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) at the first city briefing event. Held at JW Marriott Marquis, DTCM invited Destination Management Companies (DMC) operators as well as hotel concierges and front of house staff to join for a briefing on major upcoming events for the next quarter, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Food Festival, Dubai Football Challenge as well as other updates on the Emirates tourism offer. The objective of the event was to provide customer facing teams in the Emirate's travel industry with information necessary to offer knowledgeable service to visitors.Issam Kazim, CEO of DCTCM said: “Concierges, hotel front house staff and tour operators and guides are the primary point of contact for visitors to Dubai. With continual enhancements to our destination offering it is essential to ensure that our partners are kept up to date with developments and that they have all of the information they require to provide a world class service. We are about to enter a new year and what is traditionally one of Dubai’s busy periods; therefore, it is even more important to ensure that our frontline staff always have the latest
M
restaurants and kitchens to ensure the food quality is of the highest standard…I also meet visitors who like to present their views and proposals which encourage us to improve our food quality continuously.”Chef Norman is leading a team of 164 chefs across a staggering 128 kitchens to oversee all of Emirates Palace’s food and beverage needs, including banquet operations and its 14 restaurants.Chef Norman joined the Emirates Palace from the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva in Switzerland, where he held the position of Executive Chef and Regional Executive Chef for Europe. His long career as a chef has seen him working for the Sultan of Brunei at the Empire Hotel & Country Club and for Guy Savoy in Paris. The five star properties under his belt include the Mandarin Oriental in Geneva and Hong Kong, Burj Al Arab in Dubai, the Lanesborough Hotel and The Dorchester Hotel in London. Welcoming the chef when he joined the hotel, Emirates Palace general manager Holger Schroth said:“We are happy to welcome James to Emirates Palace as our new Executive Chef...James is a passionate professional, a true top chef who will inject his unique flair and creativity into the talented culinary team at the Palace. With his incredible experience from around the world, I am excited to see what new directions our food and beverage will take in the coming months.”
information. With this in mind, we are thrilled that so many of our partners we able to join us today.”2015 marks the 20th Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), taking place from 1 January-1 February across Dubai. Attracting visitors from near and far, the 20th edition of this hugely popular festival will feature a wide array of activities, exclusive shopping events and promotions as well as international concerts and musical performances to entertain all the family. w w w. m y d s f . a e . W i t h a packed calendar of events planned in Dubai for 2015, the group received updates covering events falling during the first few months of the year, typically a busy time with visitors to Dubai.Industry partners were also encouraged to use the newly launched Dubai Tourism mobile application and website www.DubaiTourism.ae as a resource to stay up to date on everything happening across the Emirate which might be of interest to visitors. The application and website include over 800 pages of content detailing the full events calendar and a MyTrip feature allowing users to create their own itineraries for trips to Dubai. Industry professionals and visitors alike can also make sure of pre-built itineraries which give a flavour of some of the activities and attractions Dubai has on offer, with deals and offers.
SWEDISH HOUSE PARTY COMES TO ABU DHABI’S VOLVO OCEAN RACE DESTINATION VILLAGE LUNCH BEAT PHENOMENON ARRIVES IN UAE CAPITAL By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: weden which next year will host the end of the 2 0 1 4 / 2 0 1 5 Vo l v o Ocean Race (VOR) when the hardy fleet sails into Gothenburg next June will, on Sunday, December 28th, be pressing home its own celebratory style when it brings a Swedish House Party to Abu Dhabi’s VOR Destination Village on the Corniche Breakwater.Being brought to the free-to-enter village in co-operation with the Swedish Embassy in the UAE the House Party will also host the Emirates’ debut of the Lunch Beat lunch and dance phenomenon which began in Stockholm four years ago and has since been successfully run in 90 cities.At 1pm a Swedish DJ will take to the stage for ‘Lunch Beat’ when Swedish chef Marlin Johannsen will be showing village goers how to make the traditional open ‘Scandinavian’ sandwich.From 1pm-5pm youngsters can learn to play football on the beach with Swedish international Christian ‘Chippen’ Wilhelmsson who has
S
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: nternational casual d i n i n g b r a n d Wienerwald is entering Dubai, with an AED 10 million dirham investment into the emirate. Germanbased Wienerwald is well known for its roasted drink. Every Monday 9pmchicken offerings, with its curries, meat delicacies 1am. Free entry. famous tagline ‘Rotisserie as well as vegetarian Retro Night at The previously played for Al-Hilal Chicken since 1955’ option. Free Wi-Fi is Huddle:A hip and in Saudi Arabia and now epitomising it. The available. This lunch happening evening with live plays for the UAE’s Baniyas franchised outlet of the the myriad eateries in the will not bust your music from the 60s, 70s and Club.Giving visitor-goers fabled food brand will have emirate, but the Dubaibudget or your time. 80s. For any guest dressed food-for-thought will be two stores from the outset, owners expect to enjoy a Dhs 40 per person. Satin a retro outfit, the first drink Sweden’s Masterchef judge with two signed leases in sizeable market share with Thurs from 12-3pm. of the evening is on the Anders Dahlbom, one of the JBR and Dubai Media City unique offerings, priced Sizzling Sunday at house. Food and drinks will most decorated chefs in the to begin with.“Casual dining affordably. “Our secret is Sizzling Wok be served at remarkable country who’ll prepare and is a concept that is ever-so C r i s p y, g o l d e n s k i n , An Asian buffet with a retro prices which means serve up a traditional popular in Dubai. People succulent meat, seasoned wide range of dishes that a bottle of hops, a glass with a unique blend of herbs Swedish starter, main enjoy going out to malls and Moong dal Halwa, Angoori such as Miso Soup, Kung of grape or a branded drink course and dessert for food courts or restaurants. and spices Wienerwald has Rabdi and Kala Jamun. Pao Chicken, Vietnamese is only AED 15. Starters are visitors to sample.The VOR As such, thematic dining is been an expert griller since Claypot being a fully Beef, Tofu with Broccoli and discounted to AED 15-21 D e s t i n a t i o n Vi l l a g e i s highly sought after. We 1955. Our customers love licensed restaurant, the a n e l a b o r a t e d e s s e r t and main courses are up for the unique flavor of the packed with family fun encourage people to come Desi brunch is quite a spread. All you can eat with grabs at only AED 25-45. activities as Abu Dhabi for the food and stay for the world’s most famous roast bargain at AED 65 with soft one regular beverage for Every Wednesday 8pmmarks its hosting of the ambience. Germany has a chicken. It isn‘t without good drinks, AED 95 with soft only AED 69 per person. midnight. Entry free. hardy VOR fleet and lot to offer, and as far as reason that our roast drinks plus 3 regular Every Sunday from 7 pm. For reservations, please celebrates the emirate’s rich legacy food brands go, chicken generates the beverages. Children below 3 for 33 at Sizzling contact Citymax Hotels Bur maritime history. The village Wienerwald embodies the g r e a t e s t p a r t o f o u r the age of 6 eat for free, Dubai, Kuwait Street on is open daily to visitors from true essence of Germany,” r e v e n u e , ” s a i d J u r g e n children aged 6 to 12 is half screens and the massive +971 50 1007065 or visit 12 noon until said JurgenEllenbeck, Ellenbeck.Apart from the one-of-its-kind 165” HD www.facebook.com/Claypo price. Every Friday 12 noon 9 p m o n P r o j e c t D i r e c t o r classic roast chicken, other to 4pm. digital wall.Saturdays offer t D u b a i , weekdays and Wienerwald MENA.Ever items on the menu worth a selected drinks for AED 25 Business Lunch at www.facebook.com/Sizzlin on weekends since, FriedrichJahn’s mention include a mix of the Claypot:The buffet offers a from 5-10pm and Sundays g W o k U A E o r from 11am to grandson Daniel Peitzner is all-time-greats, as well as varying selection of salads, offer happy hour all day plus www.facebook.com/thehud midnight until h e a d o f W i e n e r w a l d t h e i n n o v a t i v e n e w chats, tikkas, classic fish & chips with one dlers January 3. Franchise GmbH. At first, products. A few highlights selected beverage for AED Opening times securing the future of the on the menu: schnitzel, 49 from 12noon till 10pm. on December classic restaurants still in k i k s , c h i c k e n w i n g s , Wok:Bargain Bento Lunch Free entry. 25th differ with existence was Peitzner’s burgers and wraps. A Keep Calm and Karaoke Boxes with one starter, one the village priority. When this was bounteous range of salads O n a t T h e main and one dessert for accepting achieved, the focus shifted c o m p l e t e s t h e m e n u only AED 33 per person. H u d d l e : I n t e r n a t i o n a l visitors from toward the development of m a k i n g a v i s i t t o karaoke with 5 shots of Choose between four 4pm until a n o v e l W i e n e r w a l d Wienerwald an absolute joy, different varieties such as vodka for AED 99 plus 10pm. b u s i n e s s even for the healthspecial food offers. Sing a Chinese Chicken Bento, concept.Wienerwald joins conscious customers. perfect song and get a free azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg17)
I
D
FOOD AND LEISURE
22-31December 2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71Pg18
HYATT CAPITAL GATE MARKS THREE YEARS IN ABU DHABI By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: yatt Capital Gate Hotel celebrated three years on December 21, 2014 since it opened its doors in Abu Dhabi, with the best performance recorded in 2014.The hotel has become an important landmark of Abu Dhabi since it is the world’s most leaning hotel,” said general manager Stefan Gaessler.He expects the hotel to maintain strong performance with competing occupancy rates thanks to the increasing conferences, shows, other events in the capital and the strong economic stability in the UAE in general.He said another factor of the hotel’s success is its proximity to such key sites as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi airport and Yas Island, adding that the hotel has been the scene of interest by major publications and TV stations in the world, including National Geographic, Abu Dhabi TV and Dubai TVs .He states the hotel would continue to participate in key tourism conferences and exhibitions in the UAE and internationally to promote its services and facilities.Stefan adds that “Abu Dhabi is
H
quickly becoming a key tourism destination and will become even more attractive
after the inauguration of the Sheikh Zayed Museum, the Louvre and other sites on Saadiyat Island,”.
DECEMBER LUNCH DATE AT PASCAL TEPPER By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ascal Tepper, the modern dine-in French Bakery located on Dubai Media City's main drag, is going all out to dish up special lunchtime deals in
to Go'.The Pascal Tepper team will roast a plump 7-8kg bird, complete with Chef's own-recipe chestnut stuffing, and deliver it to you with all trimmings including roast potatoes, Brussel sprouts and cranberry sauce, just
December, offering a threecourse Business Lunch, main course with soup or salad inclusive tea or coffee at just AED 85 a head,
AED 650 and good for 10-12 persons.Pascal Tepper is cooking up Festive from 10th December till 31st December, but remember, all 'Turkey-toGo' orders must be made 72-hours in advance.Pascal Tepper French Bakery is on the main TECOM drag and is open daily from 7am to 9pm for dine-in, take-away, catering and deliveries within the TECOM vicinity. To order call 04 454 2408 or log onto www.pascaltepperfren chbakery.com. LE PETIT PASCAL FESTIVE BRUNCH:KIDDIES CAN BAKE CHRISTMAS CO O K I E S AT PA S C A L TEPPER FRENCH BAKERY Make a diary date for Thursday December 25 and head down to Pascal Tepper French Bakery's Festive special menu Brunch, sprinkled with touch of France, at just AED 150 per person and half price for children, who can also join in the Christmas Cookie Baking Class. Pascal Tepper French Bakery is located on the main Media City drag, and is cooking up twice that day, from 11:00 to 13:00 or from
P
weekdays from 11:00 till 14:30.Pascal Tepper French Bakery is open daily from 7am to 9pm for dine-in, takeaway, catering and deliveries within the TECOM vicinity. L o g o n t o
www.pascaltepperfrenchbak ery.com for the full menu or call 04 454 2408. F E S T I V E FAY R E AT PA S C A L : T E P P E R TRADITIONAL FESTIVE F L AV O U R S , W I T H A F R E N C H T W I S T, INCLUDING ' T U R K E Y- T O - G O ' : T h i s fe s t i v e se a s o n Pa s ca l Tepper French Bakery is ready to help you serve up traditional fayre with a French twist, with Chef Pascal's Gold Roast 'Turkey-
“WELCOME TO A DIFFERENT PLACE!” GENERAL MANAGER, VISHAL MEHRA ADDRESSES VISITORS TO HYATT PLACE DUBAI By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: aunched in 2006, Hyatt Place is a unique concept created by Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, with signature touches that provide u n c o m p l i c a t e d experiences for the business and leisure traveler. Speaking to property's General M a n a g e r, M r. Vi s h a l Mehra, he said this brand is specially created for the ebb and flow of busy, blended lives where guests can progress seamlessly from work to play, from business to personal, from frenzied to relaxed. He mentioned that Hyatt Place style is not sacrificed for the simple and quality is important. Friendly hosts check guests in, make their favorite blend of specialty coffee, help with travel plans- whatever is needed from one moment to the next.Hyatt Place's motto is “Welcome to a Different Place” and this mantra runs through the whole property, none more so than the concept of the “Gallery Hosts”, who are specially trained staff members on hand to help guests with all their needs. Gallery Hosts are available 24 hour a day to check guests in, take their 24/7 Gallery Menu order, help plan their meetings, make their coffee and anything else guests may need.Our hotel and brand are something new that has been introduced into the market after being a success in other parts of the world, and our performance till date indicates that they have been well accepted by both the leisure and business travelers, and this make us feel very optimistic about the future. During the Winter has traditionally been a busy season for the tourism industry, and my team is geared to deliver on our promise. We are seeing a lot of interest in our property, which offers affordable luxury, with an ideal mix of product, location, service and price. We now have shuttle bus services to three malls, other than daily trips to the beach. Our Food and Beverage team is ensuring that they prepare food catering to the various nationalities and preferences of our guests,
L
within the festive spirit.Dubai is a great place for the hospitality industry and is home to many d i ff e r e n t b r a n d s a n d concepts. We feel our brand is unique and will fill
distinct gap in the market, but obviously we will be competing with other hotels in the surrounding area. It is our job to offer all
the right services at an attractive price in order to entice customers and keep them coming back time and time again.People from all parts of the world come here!, he said, We have been fortunate to get our fair share of these global travelers. Travel patterns differ around the world, and as we have seen good occupancies over each period, it would be unfair to say that one nationality scores over the other. We have something that everyone has liked, and we are looking forward to seeing their friends and family come stay with us.Dubai is not just the playground of the rich anymore and is visited by millions of people each year from all walks of life and for different reasons. The lunch of Hyatt Place in UAE is in line with the local governments' strategy for the Dubai Expo 2020, to offer an extended variety of hotel options to cater for the influx of travelers expected to journey to Dubai for the event, as well as in the years leading up to it, and for the years which will follow.
ROGER DUBUIS CELEBRATES ART BASEL MIAMI CEO JEAN-MARC PONTROUÉ AND STEPHANIE SEYMOUR WELCOME GUESTS TO AN EVENING OF HAUTE HORLOGERIE By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: oger Dubuis CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué and legendary s u p e r m o d e l Stephanie Seymour recently hosted guests at a private dinner at the brand new Thompson Miami Beach hotel, in partnership with Dom Pérignon and Haute Living. One hundred notable guests convened at the newly opened property to view the Velvet Haute Couture limited edition collection and to toast Ms. Seymour as the Velvet collection’s new muse. The stylish affair featured an intimate crowd of fashionable A-listers such as Russell Simmons, Jonathan Cheban, Geoff Stults and Klaus Biesenbach of MoMA.The 1930’s House and Garden on the Thompson Miami Beach property proved to be the perfect backdrop to the luxurious event, an impactful and stunning setting designed to evoke the spirit of the Roger Dubuis Diva. Guests were treated to a surprise performance from speed painter Franck Bouroullec in the adjacent garden, before mingling late into the tropical night with music provided by style maven and DJ Hannah
R
Bronfman.Th e evening highlighted the brand new Velvet H a u t e C o u t u r e collection, a l i m i t e d edition trio within the iconic Velvet l a d i e s collection from Roger Dubuis. All of the models in t h e Ve l v e t collection have defined audacious horlogerie for glamorous women with their distinguishable design characteristics such as the graphic split-level dials and dynamic numerals tapering toward the center. The Velvet Haute Couture is an
expression o f t h e Ve l v e t family, combining H a u t e Horlogerie and Haute Couture. As the face o f t h e Ve l v e t collection, M s . Seymour was on hand along with her husband Peter Brant to present the striking trilogy to guests. Images from the glamorous campaign shot by renowned fashion photographer Mikael Jansson were on display along with Dom Pérignon Iris van Herpen special
extravagant and alluring
edition bottles, adding to the
haute couture mood of the evening.We are pleased to celebrate Roger Dubuis at Art Basel Miami for the third consecutive year by highlighting the exceptional work of art that is the Velvet Haute Couture collection,” says CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué. “This exclusive trilogy is demonstrative of the unconventional, daring nature of our fine watchmaking brand. It is this bold essence which makes Stephanie the perfect embodiment for this collection.”As guests entered the historic 1930’s revival house, they were greeted by a champagne fountain flowing with Dom Pérignon, which set the festive tone for the lavish cocktail party inside. Guests were immersed in the incredible world of the Roger Dubuis Diva, before being invited by Mr. Pontroué into the lush garden for dinner, where the cuisine was presented artfully under the seagrape trees hung with crystal chandeliers and g l o w i n g w i t h candlelight.After the decadent dinner, guests retreated back into the house to enjoy dessert and vintage-inspired craft cocktails, while DJ Hannah Bronfman kept the crowd going late into the evening.
WHAT'S HAPPENING IN JANUARY AT CITYMAX HOTELS AL BARSHA Loads of good nightlife deals at Citymax Hotels Al Barsha By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: NDUSTRY NIGHTS AT MAXX:Hoteliers, airline crew and Mall of Emirates staff get 50% discount on selected beverages every Sunday from 9pm to 3am at Maxx Music Bar & Grill in Al Barsha. DJ Scott will be spinning dance music all night long. Free entry. LADIES' NIGHT OUT AT MAXX:If you are looking for an affordable ladies' night out at a non-pretentious bar where live music sets a friendly and lively ambiance, then head down to Maxx. Ladies can now enjoy 5 free drinks from a selection of house grapes, drinks and hops. Every Monday 7pmmidnight. Entry Free. D A N C E T O T H E MAXX:Fridays are all about live music and free styling on the dance floor at Maxx. From 10pm-2am the resident cover band Roxx Empire takes over with a
I
Entry is free and all hops, regular drinks and house grapes go for only AED 25 all night long.
AED 25 or a bucket of 6 Carlsberg for AED 130 on Saturdays. Happy hour and free chip butties on Sunday afternoon s. Free entry. Q U I Z NIGHTS AT THE HUDDLE :Every Monday from 8pm to 10pm is Quiz Night at T h e Huddle.
S P O R T Y SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS AT THE HUDDLE:Catch your favourite sport live on HD screens. Along with the sports, The Huddle offers a pint of Carlsberg for only
Entry is free for all with a competitive streak and trivia brain power. 5 rounds of 10 questions in the categories of current affairs, entertainment, sports and a general knowledge “Boffins”
r o u n d with a with a bit of music and mystery thrown in. G r e a t Huddle vouchers are up for grabs; AED150 for the team in third place, AED 350 for the team in second place and AED1,000 for the winning team. No need to register in advance. THE HUDDLE POOL CHALLENGE:Challenge yourself to a game of pool with other friendly Huddlers. AED 100 to register and the winner takes all! 20% off the bar bill for all players. Every Wednesday at 8pm. Plus Doubles Top offer of all house single drinks get doubled for only AED 10.For reservations, please contact Citymax Hotels Al Barsha,
CHRISTMAS & COLOURING AT CENTRO BARSHA Christmas came early to all the kids who had sent in their drawings for the Centro Barsha art competition: Paint your Christmas Wishes. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: Children and parents enjoyed an afternoon among the colourful art work while Santa Claus visited loaded with huge repertoire of funk, soul, presents for everyone. motown, latin, rock, pop and the very latest chart hits. Finally from 2am DJ Scott B will finish off a night of determined dancing to his Open Format music style.
next to Mall of Emirates on +971 5 0100 7046 or visit www.facebook.com/thehud d l e r s o r www.facebook.com/maxxm bg
CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON AT THE BEACH
T
ByQadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he UAE's residents and tourists are enjoying the fantastic festive season at THE BEACH opposite JBR with a host of family attractions and live entertainment.Running until 25 December, the activities on offer at the outdoor destination include 'The Nutcracker' holiday show playing daily at the venue's amphitheater, and the 'Festive Market' retailing favorite seasonal treats and handmade creations.Friends and family can also rejoice among elves, carollers and dancers, snap photos with friends and family against the background of holiday décor, and count down the days to the big day with the Festive Calendar that has daily promotions on offer. Follow www.facebook.com/TheBeachDubai for more information.
13:00 to 15:00. Call 04 454 2408 for reservations.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg18)
22-31December 2014, Safar 1435
Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com
Mob:00971 56 118 6007
Edition 71Pg19
AZAD CAREER An ACCOUNT LOOKING FOR A JOB Jamshaid Rehman Mobile +971055-8607635, +9710557617313 Email:rana_jamshaid1988@yahoo.com
CHIEF ACCOUNTANT LOOKING FOR JOB Muhammad Inam Bukht (CMA, ACMA, MA) Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Mobile +971 55 647 2509 acma.inam@gmail.com
HUMAN RESOURCE & ADMIN PROFESSIONAL LOOKING FOR JOB MUHAMMAD ZAMAN (Human Resource & Admin Professional) Three Year Professional Experience UAE NO. 0552408665 Type of Visa: Visit Visa Available in (Dubai) UAE : From 09-12-2014 to 0701-2015 Mail:zaman.professional@gmail.com
ONE TO ONE HOTELS & RESORTS APPOINTS MYRNA FOUAD SALIBA TO BE ITS GLOBAL WELLNESS CONSULTANT By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ne to One Hotels & Resorts appoints Myrna Fouad Saliba, founder and CEO of ASHE Wellness, to be its Global Wellness Consultant. ASHE Wellness is a powerful multilevel platform focused on Awareness for Sports Health and the Environment and is a sister company to M yr n a S a l i b a Enterprises Ltd.Mrs. Salibaholds a Master degree in physical education; she is a motivational speaker, a fitness freelance writer, an ACSM personal t r a i n e r, a n R R C A running coach; a USAT triathlon coach; a USAT race director; and one of only two Arabs certified AIMS/ IAAF race measurers. Dubbed “Bahrain number one fitness guru” in 2010,Mrs. Saliba leads by example, she is an a c t i v e r u n n e r, a triathlete andan ultra marathoner, who has earned multiple age group awards and covered over 1000 miles, 20 marathons
O
a n d 5 0 endurance races across the world in the last decade. Mrs. Saliba is an “Ironman” finisher, and has been privileged to participate at the “70.3 Ironman World Championship . ” O f h e r successful businesses a c r o s s national borders, her athletic achievements and her professional skills and knowledge, Mrs. Saliba makes a firm statement not only of herself, but of all people "Believe in the power of your mind, know your inner self and discover your physical potential. Then... with a little bit of passion and a w h o l e l o t o f determination everything is within reach.”Mr. Philippe Harb COO at One to One Hotels said of the appointment “In today’s world, wellness programs are imperative in order to balance out people’s
S
frantic and stressful lifestyle. We are happy at One to One to lead such initiative in the Middle East hotelier industry. Our consultant will focus,via an array of activities and publications, on guests’ physical and mental wellbeing during their stay at One to One. I trust once they leave, they will carry with them some of Mrs. Saliba’s teachings and use it as a stepping stone on their own road to a lifetime wellness. Helping our guests lead a better, healthier and balanced life style is the best gift we can offer them in appreciation of their business”.
FOREX.COM 2015 OUTLOOK: CAN AMERICA SAVE THE WORLD? With Europe, China and the UK all slowing down, the US may need to prop up global growth singlehandedly next year. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: OREX.com, the retail division of GAIN Capital Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:GCAP), a global provider of online trading services, today released its 2015 Market Outlook report. FOREX.com analysts predict that the dollar will be the star performer in the G10 next year, reflecting a stronger US economic outlook and the Fed's plan to move towards normalisation of monetary policy in the first half of 2015. With weakness in other parts of the world likely to lead to m o n e ta r y p o l i c y stimulus – potentially including the Eurozone and Japan the US could be the sole beacon of economic hope for 2015. Kathleen Brooks, Research Director at FOREX.com said: “Although there are dangers associated with the weakness in the economies of Europe and Asia to the US, the measures taken by those other nations could actually help the US maintain its strength, especially if we see the ECB embark on QE in 2015. “All in all, the future looks bright for the world's largest economy, and if oil prices continue to decline as they have in the latter half of 2014, the US may keep this momentum going even if
F
the Fed starts to increase rates to a more historically normal level.” Expectations from the FOREX.com 2015 Markets Outlook include: ? The dollar is expected to reign supreme in early 2015, as the d i v e r g e n t monetary policy paths between the Federal Reserve and the other major central banks d r i v e t h e greenback higher ? The outlook for the Euro is negative, with w i d e n i n g s o v e r e i g n spreads resulting from a potential political crisis in Greece, coupled with QE, likely to lead to another leg lower beyond 1.20 against the dollar. ? Continued dovish talk from the Bank of England about interest rate rises, coupled with more difficult economic fundamentals, is likely to weigh on the pound next year. ? As monetary policy in the US heads towards t h e p a t h o f normalization, only moderate further gains in US stocks are envisaged. ? While Germany's
MUHAMMAD WAQAR UZ ZAMAN KAYNI C/O P.O.Box 379, PC 130 Al Azaiba Muscat Sultanate of Oman M +968 95893492, Email: dr.waqarkiani@gmail.com
EMIRATES PALACE, MEZZALUNA “Italian Bites” by Italian artist and designer, Guido Bottazzo By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: wiss Art Gate UAE together with Emirates Palace presents“Italian bites” by Italian artist and designer, Guido Bottazzo. “Italian Bites” shows the newest creations of paintings by acclaimed Italian artist and designer, Guido Bottazzo at Emirates Palace, Mezzaluna restaurant. The opening reception of the art exhibition will be on Tuesday, 13 January 2015 from 5.30 –7.30 pm and the exhibition runs until 31 May 2015, daily open to the public
DAX could outperform in 2015 as the country leads growth in the Eurozone, the commodity-heavy FTSE 100 may struggle again. ? The prospect of a tighter oil market means
between 12.30 –7 pm.Since 2011 under the name of “Bottazzo Artwork” Guido hasbeen creating visionary artworks with a unique style. Bottazzo's style can be described as realistic, contaminated with pop influences and a touch of surrealism. Guido Bottazzo's works are original drawings, hand drawn with traditional media or digitally.Each artwork is printed on high quality media like canvas, and is later customized by the artist. The artist creates every piece with acrylics, graphite, or aerograph, directly applied on the final media. Each artwork is produced in a
limited number of copies,signed and certified by the a u t h o r. “ S i n c e 2 0 0 9 Swiss Art Gate UAE has o r g a n i z e d 1 2 exhibitions, mostly with I t a l i a n artists at the Emirates Palace Abu D h a b i , Mezzaluna. As we serve a palate with r i c h Mediterrane an culinary delights at the award winning “Mezzaluna”, Venetian murals and motifs create the perfect ambianc e for a t r u l y Italian sensatio n, now, we will add a further visual experien ce with the new Italian featured legendary car brand. Guido Bottazzo's art pieces will certainly enhance the experience of all our guests and we are honored to be collaborating with Swiss
Art Gate UAE on this exhibition,” said Mr. Antonio Delojo, F & B manager at Emirates Palace.“The drawing techniques I use are mainly traditional drawing or painting, and digital free hand drawing.I use different techniques separately but sometimes I tend to mix traditional and digital media in order to improve the originality of my work,” Bottazzo said. Mezzaluna diners will enjoy the delicious use of color and texture in the works of art garnishing the walls; a perfect pairing with the vibrant Italian cuisine created in the lively kitchen of
Mezzaluna. The restaurant in the iconic Emirates Palace offers the ideal venue to display such a delectable collection of artwork.
CHIANG MAI & THE NORTH TRAVEL MART 2014 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he Chiang Mai & The North Travel Mart 2014 (CTM 2014) was held successfully during 8-11 D e c e m b e r a t theInternational Convention and Exhibition Centre Commemorating His Majesty's 7th Cycle Birthday Anniversary in Chiang Mai.The CTM 2014 attracted a total of 370 buyers and international media from around the world, and offered opportunities for 120 tourism business operators in Northern Thailand to promote their products and services to the global market.The event attract 87 buyers and 8 media from Europe, Africa and the Middle East. There were 58 buyers and 10 media fromASEAN, South Asia and the
T
crude prices could soon stabilize, and the market will be less volatile than in 2014. ? The generally bearish market sentiment towards gold seen in 2014 is likely to continue into next year. ? Volatility is set to rise as economic data is likely to have a more direct and immediate impact on monetary policy over the next 12 months.
AKRAM ABU ELHUDA APPOINTED GENERAL COUNSEL AND COMPANY SECRETARY FOR AL HABTOOR GROUP
Administration & HR assist LOOKING FOR JOB
South Pacific. From East Asia, there were 101 buyers and 32 media.Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, Governor of the TourismAuthority of Thailand said,, “The CTM 2014 was held with tremendous success thanks to the collaboration from Chiang Mai Province, the Chiang Mai Tourism Business Association, Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organisation,Associatio n of Northern Tourism Federation, Tourism Council of Chiang Mai, the Thai Hotels Association Northern Chapter, and all related stakeholders. We believe that Chiang Mai and the neighbouring provinces will receive more exposure in international tour operators'promotions in the next season, and result in more visitors for
the area.”The CTM show is held every other year in Chiang Mai to provide product updates to international buyers, and offer the opportunity to smalland-medium businesses to be presented in the global scene. The event's key highlight remains the market briefing by heads of the TAT's 27 offices overseas in order to provide the latest market updates and trends.The event's organisers also arranged eight fam trip routes to provide buyers and media with a firsthand experience of the tourism products and services in Northern Thailand, including oneday excursions in Chiang Mai, Lamphun and Lampang, and a two-day trip on the Chiang Mai– Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai – Pai (Mae Hong Son) routes.
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: halaf Ahmad Al H a b t o o r , Chairman of the Al Habtoor Group has appointed Akram Abu Elhuda as General Counsel and Company Secretary of Al Habtoor Group. Abu Elhuda joined the management t e a m o n Tu e s d a y, November 11, 2014, bringing with him a wealth of legal and corporate experience from around the region, primarily in the UAE. He is a legal counselor with 17 years of postqualification experience in the GCC, during which he has held several senior legal positions.Before joining the Al Habtoor Group he was General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Abu Dhabi General Services Company PJSC (“MUSANADA"), Senior Counsel at Hadef & Partners, Executive Director Legal and Company Secretary at
K
Sorouh Real Estate PJSC (prior to its merger with Aldar Properties PJSC), and Vice President Legal at the Majid Al Futtaim Group.Abu Elhuda will lead the Al Habtoor Group’s Legal Department where he will manage the legal aspects of the Group’s business, including key contract negotiation legal outsourcing; policies and procedures as well as legal strategy
and compliance. He will work closely with the Board of Directors, and report directly to the Chairman and Vice Chairman and CEO. He will also serve as C o m p a n y Secretary, a new role within the Group, as it continues to embrace best practice, and c o r p o r a t e governance.Khala f Al Habtoor said, “Akram Abu Elhuda is a great asset to our senior management team. With nearly two decades of regional experience he will help drive our strategy forward. As our motto states we are growing with the UAE; we are growing across all our units, whether it is hospitality, automotive or real estate. I look forward to having Mr Abu Elhuda as part of our future growth.”
VITAMIN D AND ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IT By Dr. Mohammad Ahmad Burney, Consultant - Clinical Pathology By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: . How common is vitamin D deficiency here in the U A E / M i d d l e East/MENA?Accordin g to the Dubai Health Authority, close to 81% of the UAE population suffers from Vitamin D deficiency it is particularly high in Emirati women. Further a Journal of Health Science revealed in 2012 that 70% of adolescent girls in Iran and 80% of girls in Saudi Arabia suffer from Vitamin D deficiency. Further an article published by the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases in 2011 showed that 2080% of supposedly healthy individuals in the Middle East suffers from Vitamin D deficiency. 2. Who is most at r i s k f r o m developing the deficiency?In the Middle East, the risk factors of developing the deficiency are mainly for social, religious and
1
environmental reasons. The Dubai Health Authority points out that veiled women are likely to suffer from a lack of Vitamin D because they do not expose enough skin to the sun which help in vitamin D formation. Dark skinned people also at a risk for developing the deficiency because their skin does not produce enough of the Vitamin compared to those with a fairer skin. Those who follow a strict vegan diet are also at risk of not consuming the recommended levels of the vitamin over time as the natural food sources of the vitamin are animal based like fish, egg yolks and beef l i v e r. S m o k i n g a n d obesity are also linked to the deficiency. 3. How can we spot the symptoms?One of the subtle yet crucial symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency is bone pain and muscle weakness. Also an American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry study in December 2006 found that elderly individuals
with low levels of the Vitamin are more likely to be depressed. 4. What are the best ways to avoid developing a deficiency?Fishes like tuna and salmon are rich in the Vitamin so include large portions in your diet. Sun exposure is a good source of Vitamin D so staying out in the sun will help in vitamin D formation in skin. However do not stay long enough for your skin to turn red or pink and burn. Roughly 30 minutes under the rays when the sun is at its peak in the afternoon twice a week is an ample exposure. 5. Living in a place with such great y e a r - r o u n d sunshine, why is V i t a m i n D deficiency so high?In spite of the UAE enjoying an ample sunlight during the year, the high temperatures mean it is less likely for the residents to enjoy time in the sun leading to a tendency to develop the deficiency.
ICING MAKES ITS DEBUT IN THE UAE Leading retailer of fashionable jewelry and accessories further expands its presence into the UAE By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: cing, the popular US retailer of fashionable jewelry and accessories, is expanding into the UAE following its successful debut in Kuwait. The brand will open two stores in the second largest mall in the UAE, Yas Mall, representing the beginning of the brand's expansion in the region.Curated for stylish women in their twenties and thirties, Icing offers jewelry, accessories and
I
cosmetics suitable for all occasions. Icing's wide selection includes statement necklaces, earrings, handbags and a full range of cosmetics that are all “fashion forward” and affordable. The latest collection has boho influences and dreamy prints with bold, statement jewellery pieces stealing the s h o w , w h i l e maintaining Icing's ultra-feminine character.Joel Herman, Executive Vice President for Icing,said: “Following our successful Middle
East launch this summer in Kuwait, we are pleased to see Icing open in the UAE. At Icing, we want to help our customers express the many dimensions of their personal style. Whatever the occasion, we provide them with trendsetting jewellery and accessories to showcase their personality. We hope our head-turning line of jewellery and accessories will charm our new guests in Abu Dhabi, as it did in Kuwait.''
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg19)
REGION'S STAND-OUT FILMS HONOURED AT AWARDS CEREMONY Hotly-contested Muhr Awards Reward Region's Best Filmmakers
Celebrate the Spirit of the Festive Season with Winter Wonderland at CITY WALK By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ate: Running until 27 D e c e m b e r, 2014Event:Winter Wonderland at C I T Y WALK.Celebrate the spirit of the festive season with friends and family at CITY WALK's
D
22-31December2014, Safar1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71Pg21
GEMS EDUCATION REVEALS UAE'S BEST CHILD SINGER IN THE SIXTH EDITION OF BEST OF THE BEST Over 2000 children between the ages of 9 and 12 across the nation took part in the singing competition By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: EMS Education, the world's leading provider of quality education, announced the winner of its sixth edition of Best of the Best singing competition. Opened to students aged 9 to 12 years old who performed in English, over 2000 young singers came from across the UAE sang everything from country music to jazz, pop, classical and semi-classical, rap and blues. The finalists met for the final audition at GEMS Modern Academy and performed in front of a panel
G
AED 10,000 first place prize. Commenting on the competition Kevin Oliver, Cultural Coordinator for GEMS Education said: “Year
Winter Wonderland one of Dubai's favorite familyfriendly outdoor destinations.Enjoy the seasonal delights in the city with huskies, dog sleds, reindeer, penguins and polar bears, and revel in
T
the décor on display with gift boxes and a
a n d golden lights with sound and light screenings every evening to enthrall the crowds.Come to CITY WALK for Winter Wonderland for the love of the city. Timing: S n o w f i g h t a r e a : We e k d a y s f r o m
f e s t i v e tree.Interactive activities will surely amuse the kids with a snow-fight area and a photo opportunity inside a live igloo!A special 3D projection display with candy canes, snow balls
N
of judges, parents and teachers. It was a very close competition, but in the end it was 11 year old Parvathy Nair from Our Own English High School, Dubai who was declared The Best of the Best Junior Champion. In her last audition alongside 14 other finalists, Parvathy performed spectacularly and won the
on year, we are on the search of young talent who can sing and perform. This is our sixth season of Best of the Best and we have come across some amazing talent. We encourage all children who love and have the talent to sing to come forward and take part in next year's competition.”
“PANERAI ONLY” IN PARIS: PROCEEDS OF OVER ONE MILLION EUROS AND TWO WORLD RECORDS Record prices for the sale of a Radiomir Egiziano of 1956 and a Radiomir PAM00021 of 1997 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he “Panerai Only” auction held in Paris on 8 December at Artcurial ended with proceeds of more than one million euros and it was entirely devoted to the historic watches of Officine Panerai, the Florentine high quality sports watchmaker and historic supplier to the Italian Navy.In the course of the auction two world records were broken b y t w o models of g r e a t importance in the history of Officine Panerai. The first was an extremely r a r e “Radiomir Egiziano”, the diver's watch made in 1956 for the Egyptian Navy. Highly regarded by enthusiasts for its iconic design and its impressive size (the diameter of the case is 60mm), it was sold for 1 2 5 , 8 0 0 e u r o s (US$155,000), beating the previous record price for this model.The other world record was broken by a Radiomir PAM00021, a Special Edition of 1997 in platinum, with a case design extremely faithful to that of the watch created by Officine Panerai for the frogmen of the Royal Italian Navy in 1938. This highly coveted Special Edition, fitted with a vintage Rolex movement, like many historic Panerai models, was sold for 1 0 3 , 5 0 0 e u r o s (US$127,000).Two other vintage models, a Luminor and a Marina Militare, both with Rolex movements, each made over 120,000 euros, well above the initial auction estimates, while a Luminor
T
1950 8 Days (PAM00203), a Special Edition of 2005 with an Angelus eight-day mechanical movement, was sold for about 70,000 euros (more than US$85,000). The single-make watch auction consisted of about 100 models, divided into three sections: Vintage (19301950), "Pre-Vendome" (19931997) and “ Ve n d o m e " (1997 to the present).Vint age Panerai watches are regularly the subject of exciting bidding at auctions w h e r e collectors a n d enthusiastic connoisseurs compete for examples which are often unique, given the rarity of the timepieces produced by the Florentine watchmaker in the course of its history. In fact Panerai watches were never produced for commercial sale until 1993, when the first collection was presented to the civilian public. All the rare Panerai historic pieces were produced to fulfil military orders between 1936, the year in which the first prototype of the Radiomir watch was created for use during the underwater missions of the commando frogmen of the Royal Italian Navy, and the 1950s. This rarity, combined with the timeless design and the still remarkably up-to-date appearance of the watches, is the basis of the continuous rise in the value of Panerai models, not only vintage ones but also many that have been produced more recently in limited editions faithfully inspired by the models of the past.
12:00pm 10:00pm We e k e n d s f r o m 10:00am to 10:00pm Price: Photo ops: from AED60 E v e n t : Complimentary Venue:CITY WALK - at the junction of Al Wasl and Al Safa Road
NISSAN SELLS 1,226 X-TRAIL UNITS IN 40 DAYS OF LAUNCH An X-Trail sold for every 48 minutes By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: i s s a n ' s recently launched compact SUV, the All-New X-Trail has made its mark with an impressive sales result in the Middle East. A total of 1,226 units were sold within the first 40 days of launch. Dealerships across GCC recorded total sales of 441 units within the first 15 days. Additional 785 units were sold by in the following 25 days.In Qatar a total of 22.6% market share has been recorded for the All-New X-Trail, outselling its competitors during the first full month of sales. The XTrail also remained the segment leader in the UAE amongst its competitors, attaining a total of 12% market share.Samir Cherfan, Managing Director, Nissan Middle East commented on the
successful results saying: “With the launch of the All New X-Trail, Nissan set a new benchmark in the fiercely competitive C-SUV segment. Our fundamental ambition is to achieve superiority against our competitors, and these sales results are a clear testament to that. The Nissan X-Trail is currently the leader in its segment and we look forward to maintaining this position.”Muscular, modern and packed with technology, the new Nissan X-Trail originally made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor S h o w. B u i l d i n g
upon Nissan's respected 4x4 heritage and benefiting from the c o m p a n y ' s c r o s s o v e r leadership the new X-Trail re-defines the compact SUV segment.New XTrail is one of the most advanced cars on the road. Fully connected, the X-Trail is equipped with the latest generation NissanConnect incar navigation, information and entertainment
system. Drivers will also benefit from a comprehensive suite of assistance features that make up the X-Trail's Nissan Safety Shield system.The X - Tr a i l a d o p t s Nissan's advanced electronic fourwheel drive system, ALL MODE 4x4i. Controlled via a rotary switch on the center console, it offers a choice between twowheel drive, Auto mode or Lock offering permanent fourw h e e l drive.Engineering innovation allows the new X-Trail to lead its class in terms of engine efficiency thanks to downsizing. By reducing power sapping friction in its drivetrains, new X-Trail provides e x c e l l e n t performance and the pace of a bigger powerplant with the economy and emissions of a smaller one.
FOUR FILMS FROM ADFF COMPETE FOR OSCARS' BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM AWARD
F
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqu Dubai UAE: our out of the nine films announced as nominees for the 2015 Oscars' Best Foreign Language Film Award were selected and screened at Abu Dhabi Film Festival (ADFF). Testament to the quality of ADFF's programme that strives to curate and present exceptional films from around the globe, the list of nominated ADFF films includes: ? IDA (ADFF 2013) ? Leviathan (Winner of Black
Pearl and Best Actor Awards at ADFF 2014) ? Timbuktu
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he hotlycontested annual Muhr Awards have once again rewarded the region's best filmmakers for their dedicated work in the industry at the Dubai International Film Festival's 11th edition. The Muhr Awards were presented to recipients by His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum during a glittering ceremony at the Burj Al Arab. Categories in this year's Awards are the Muhr Feature (for nonfiction and fiction feature films); the Muhr Emirati and Muhr Shorts. An array of competitive entries were
? Corn Island (ADFF 2014)
Our aim at DIFF has always been to foster talent, encourage creativity and build the UAE and the regional film industry. I can proudly say that we have taken huge strides towards constructing this successful industry, which flourishes more and more every year. This is exemplified by the increasing number, and incredible standard, of works that are entered into these Awards.“I am also proud of the number of films and filmmakers who are being nominated for and successfully w i n n i n g international awards and accolades. This shows how the world is recognizing the wealth that Arab cinema has to
offer.”The Awards were established in 2006, to foster and reward artistic excellence from within the Arab world and beyond. The coveted prize award funds that have been used to create some of the globe's most unique films.DIFF Artistic Director Masoud Amralla Al Ali, said: “The breadth and depth of the films being made here continue to astound me. Our filmmakers are not bound by the creative constraints of international markets, meaning their cinematic artistry isn't fenced in. We at DIFF are proud that we have nurtured and supported such amazing works.”
MIDDLE EAST BUSINESSES URGED TO LOOK AT INNOVATION IN STORAGE TO ADDRESS DATA DEMAND EXPLOSION Growth in Third Platform Technologies Forcing Businesses to Take New Approach to Storage Needs, Says Industry Expert By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: rganizations in the Middle East should take innovative approaches to their storage needs in 2015 to cope with an explosion in data generated by e m e r g i n g technologies, according to one of the leading data
O
storage and p r o t e c t i o n companies in the region. With growth in Third Platform technologies including cloud, Big Data, and mobility expected to accelerate in the Middle East this year, companies will need to adapt their storage strategies to keep up with demand, sad Andrew Calthorpe, CEO, Condo Protego. Key trends in the region for 2015 will include more widespread adoption of hybrid public/private cloud models, a greater trend toward software-defined data centers, and an acceleration in flash storage usage, the CEO said.The public cloud services
(Special Jury
Mention at ADFF 2014)
received, making judging the films tougher than ever. The ceremony s t a r t e d b y announcing the winner of the inaugural Ministry of Interior Award for Best Societal Screenplay, which goes to Emirati filmmaker Saeed Salmeen Al Murry for his project “Going to Heaven”. The inaugural Award will bestow a prize of $100,000 for Al Murry's screenplay which this year addressed issues of c h i l d welfare.Abdulhamid Juma, Chairman, DIFF, said: “The past 11 y e a r s h a v e brought out the best in the region's filmmakers, whose work continues to evolve in leaps and bounds every year.
market in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) climbed 23 percent this year to USD 629 million, up f r o m U S D 5 11 million in 2013, according to preliminary estimates from market researcher Gartner. The Middle East and Africa will post the world's highest cloud traffic growth r a t e , increasi ng more t h a n eightfold from 2013 to 2018, accordin g t o Cisco.A hybrid cloud platform allows a n organiz ation to retain control of businesscritical data by building and managing its own virtualized IT platform and services, while using public cloud services for nonbusiness critical data.“Storage buying decisions are taking on i n c r e a s i n g i m p o r t a n c e because you need your storage infrastructure to be more responsive and adaptable to rapidly changing demand,” said C a l t h o r p e . “Enterprises see cloud-based storage models as a good solution and we are seeing increasing demand for the hybrid approach that allows IT managers to keep track of all
their vital data while benefiting from the flexibility that the cloud model brings to their data center needs.”Increasing usage of social media, mobile devices, analytics, and research and development is generating everhigher volumes of increasingly complex data across a range of industries in the region. As a result, the GCC's Big Data market is set to grow almost fivefold, from USD 135.7 million in 2013 to USD 635.5 million by 2020, according to Frost & S u l l i v a n . To handle this increase in d e m a n d , organizations in the Middle East are increasingly a d o p t i n g a software-defined data center approach to their storage needs virtualizing infrastructure elements such as networking, s t o r a g e , processing, and s e c u r i t y, a n d delivering them as a service. This allows different devices to be adapted into a s i n g l e infrastructure and boosts return on a s s e t s . “ I T
organizations will need to learn to cope with ever-greater data volumes just to keep up with demand,” said Calthorpe. “ S t o r a g e architectures need to become more dynamic, able to scale up or down rapidly, in response to business needs. We are seeing a shift away from traditional data center models and t o w a r d t h e software-defined data center approach, which allows you to make much better use of your available resources. “Speed of response to mission-critical applications is essential and the performance gains that flash delivers over hard-disk drives make a compelling case for adoption,” the CEO said. “As flash prices continue to drop, we're seeing increased usage of the technology here in the region. “Regardless of the technology you adopt and the strategic approach that you take, it's the ability to execute and deliver that is essential,” said Calthorpe. “All too often, the people side of the equation is overlooked by organizations which can lead to IT plans failing. We would urge organizations to look beyond the technology and make sure they have the right people in place to deliver on their strategies.”
CISCO'S IT PREDICTIONS FOR THE MIDDLE EAST IN 2015 The Internet of Everything (IoE) era continues to make rapid progress in enhancing daily lives around the world, with the Middle East being no exception. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he IoE era will enable a profound l e v e l o f collaboration that will change the way we think, the speed by which we invent, how we connect and share information, and the extent to which we can sustain our environment. Now is the time to prepare for the upturn, to take the b o l d s t e p s necessary to enable
T
a new economy built on innovation, collaboration, operational excellence and sustainability. If we continue to invest in the future, the implications are transformational we will have a more secure world, with strong economies, job growth, education and healthcare, as well as the ability to deliver on new e n e r g y e ff i c i e n t technologies that will allow our global community to thrive.
Middle East countries, and especially the GCC, are primed to leverage the I n t e r n e t o f Everything to become leaders in b u s i n e s s innovation, thanks to strong broadband n e t w o r k infrastructure, rapid uptake of mobile devices, visionary leadership, and N e t w o r k Readiness.The UAE ranked an impressive No. 24 out of 148 countries, in the World
Economic Forum's N e t w o r k e d Readiness Index 2014, which measures market conditions and the state of connectivity a r o u n d t h e world.Rabih Dabboussi, General Manager of Cisco UAE, discusses some of key the technology trends that will drive technology growth that will impact on and deliver country transformation in 2015.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg21)
FLY AND EUROSTAR GROUP BRING WORLD'S SLIMMEST SMARTPHONE TO THE GCC European Mobile Maker Develops Revolutionary 'Fly Blade', Combining Innovative Design with Cutting-Edge Technology
OOREDOO HITS 200,000 FIBRE CUSTOMERS MILESTONE! Incredible Achievement as Nation Prepares to Celebrate Qatar National Day By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: oredoo today announced that it has reached another historic milestone with more than 200,000 customers in Qatar now connected to its bigger, faster Ooredoo Fibre network. The incredible achievement was reached on 13 December 2014 another important step on Qatar's progress to becoming one of the best-connected nations not just in the region, b u t i n t h e world.Ooredoo's achievement in pr o v i d i ng Oor edoo Fibre combined with Ooredoo's recent launch of 4G Plus (Advanced LTE) means that Ooredoo customers can stay connected to the fastest-available Internet at home and while moving across the country.Already this year, an official report from the UN Broadband Commission stated that, with 96.4 percent penetration, Qatar has the second highest percentage of household broadband of any developing country, after South Korea.Ooredoo's achievement is particularly remarkable given that it has manage to accelerate the pace of people being connected to Fibre in 2014. Around
O
9,000 homes a month are now being linked to Ooredoo Fibre, supporting the spread of the knowledgeb a s e d e c o n o m y. Sheikh Saud Bin Nasser Al Thani, CEO, Ooredoo Qatar, said: “As our community prepares to celebrate Qatar National Day together, I am proud that Ooredoo has lived up to its promise to connect people to the fastest-available Fibre network. Truly, the people of Qatar deserve the very best, which is why we have built this bigger, faster, better network and rolled it out across the c o u n t r y. ” O o r e d o o Fibre has proven to be particularly popular because of Ooredoo's capacity to deliver free and permanent speed u p g r a d e s f o r customers. Earlier in the year, all 1Mbps plan customers enjoyed a ten time speed increase to 10Mbps, while 10Mbps customers were boosted to 25Mbps, with no additional charges.Since its launch in 2011, the Fibre network has not only transformed the broadband internet market but also the digital entertainment i n d u s t r y i n Q a t a r. Ooredoo Fibre customers can watch Next Generation Mozaic TV and the Mozaic GO app, with
high-definition programming and a range of advanced features including the ability to pause, rewind and record TV from t h e i r r e m o t e control.Home users and business customers can access the fastest Internet speeds the 100Mbps plan for just QR650 per month, with basic Fibre packages starting at QR233 for home broadband and voice services.To enable more people to keep track of Qatar's “Fibre revolution”, Ooredoo has a real-time online fibre availability map, enabling customers to track the roll-out progress of the network. The map is live on Ooredoo's website and allows customers to find out whether they qualify to upgrade their service by checking if they are in a fibre-ready “Green” area.Ooredoo's investment in Fibre will continue throughout 2015. In addition to expanding the network across Qatar, Ooredoo is planning a sizeable infrastructure investment and capacity-building programme in the leadup to the FIFA World Cup 2022. Full details of all plans, pricing and offers are available on www.ooredoo.qa/fibre along with the fibre availability map.
FOUR FILMS FROM ABU DHABI FILM FESTIVAL HEAD FOR THE HOLLYWOOD HILLS WITH GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINATIONS “Big Hero 6”, “IDA”, “Leviathan”, and “Whiplash” among 2015 list of nominations By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: s testament to the quality of the Abu Dhabi Film Festival (ADFF) to curate and present exceptional films from around the globe to the local audience in Abu Dhabi, four films that have previously participated at ADFF have been announced as nominees for the 2015 Golden Globe A w a r d s . T h e nominated movies include:
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: h e w o r l d ' s s l i m m e s t smartphone hits shelves in the GCC today as Fly, one of the leading European mobile makers, launches its record-breaking handset at major retail outlets across the region in partnership with Dubaib a s e d d i s t r i b u t o r, E u r o s t a r Group.Measuring at only 5.1mm thin, the Fly Blade is officially the slimmest smartphone in the world available for purchase, weighing a mere 95.5 grams, and combining an ultra-sleek design with advanced technology at a competitive of AED
T
22-31December 2014,Safar 1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71 Pg22
9 9 9 . W i t h i t s breakthrough device, Fly by Eurostar continues to fulfill the hunger for technology and style in the GCC after witnessing remarkable success across the region. Packaging powerful technology in a superslim frame, the Fly Blade combines a powerful octa-core platform with the elegance of a light and polished design.A 1.8mm narrow bezel allows for a large, captivating screen that enhances the user experience when viewing photos or videos, browsing the internet, or reading text. Scratch resistant Gorilla Glass protects both the display and the rear panels of the Fly Blade, with a metal encasing that ensures the device does not bend. Underneath the smartphone's stylish aluminum alloy frame lies cutting-edge technology, offering users a super-
slim design w i t h o u t compromisi ng on quality. Powered by Android 4.4 KitKat OS, the Fly Blade packs an octa-core 1 . 7 G h z p r o c e s s o r, promising reliable, high-speed performance and effortless functionality. A 16GB memory allows users to store every memory and explore the vast multimedia potential of the Fly Blade, complemented with a USB On-the-Go feature, which enables easy connection to peripheral devices, such as external storage USB Devices.Users can capture their precious moments in vibrant photos and videos with the rear 8 M P autofocus camera.The 'Selective Focus' feature highlights certain elements of a frame and blurs the rest, enabling users to take p r o f e s s i o n a l photographs from the convenience of their super-slim smartphone. Focus and Light Separation' guarantees vivid contrast, while 'Face Beauty Mode' allows users to enhance their portraits by amplifying the eyes, evening the skin tone, and reducing the appearance of blemishes.The Fly Blade's 'Flip Alarm' makes it that much easier to get an extra dose of beauty sleep by simply flipping the phone to snooze the alarm.“We are delighted to bring to our customers in the GCC countries the slimmest available smartphone in the world. We continue to lead the way in our markets with the Fly by Eurostar product range and keep
KITE FLYERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD HEAD TO DUBAI FOR WORLD RECORD BID DURING 20TH EDITION OF DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL Family fun focus of Dubai International Kite Fest from 29-31 January By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE:
K
ite flyers from around the world will converge in Dubai next month to participate in the exciting Dubai International Kite Fest (DIKF), as a part of the spectacular 20th providing innovative, high quality and best value for money products,” said Raju T Jethwani, Group Chairman, Eurostar Group.Nitin Sood, Managing Director, Fly MEA, said: “With the Fly Blade, we continue to offer our tech-driven c u s t o m e r s a revolutionary experience by staying ahead of the curve in smartphone technology. This time, it is the world's slimmest smartphone, featuring a polished design and advanced functionality, all at a competitive price.“Today's customer is looking for the allure and convenience of a fa shionable compact phone, but one that is fully-equipped with the latest mobile technology. What users will discover with the Fly Blade is that they do not have to compromise functionality for size. This gamechanging device offers the perfect combination, once again setting new benchmarks for the mobile phone industry,” Sood said.The device will be available in black and white variants.Fly's commitment to style and advanced technology has led to its international success, as the acclaimed European brand continuous to expand worldwide. Fly was the number one selling smartphone in Russia in 2013, a top performer in many European markets, and has been doing exceptionally well this year in the region since it penetrated the GCC market in March 2014 in partnership with Eurostar Group.
anniversary celebrations of Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), which runs from 1 January to 1 February 2015.The 20th edition of DSF, which is organized by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), has a range of world-class events and activities, and the kite-flying extravaganza is one of several DSF attractions that focuses on offering family fun across the city.The three- day DSF kite fest from 29 – 31 January 2015, will be held at the beach in Jumeirah 3 (behind Sunset Mall) featuring some of the world's finest kite flying
? Big Hero 6 (closing night film at ADFF 2014) for Best Animated Feature Film ? IDA (ADFF 2013) and Leviathan (Black Pearl Award winner at ADFF 2014) for Best Foreign Language Film
? J.K. Simmons of
Whiplash (ADFF 2014) for Best Performance by an actor in a supporting role in a motion picture
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: he 8th edition of the Italian Festival Weeks 2014 came to an end and did it in style.The Closing Gala was the last event of the Italian Festival Weeks 2014, festival organized by the Italian Industry and Commerce Office in the UAE, with the support of the
T
A l i t a l i a a n d Sistemaeventi.The evening started at 7.30 with a very elegant Gala Dinner reserved to VIP invitees and, at 10.30, the Viewing Deck was open to the public for the speeches and the awarding. The IICUAE, at the end of the IFWs 2014, with the support of the President of the Italian Republic, had the
Mastrini, which left everyone speechless with his compositions and launched, for the first time worldwide, his new album “Dubai Express”. All its features made the event extremely appreciated by his attendees, who defined it as “the best party of the year 2014”.Among the IFWs events, worth to
BECAUSE PREGNANCY IS A GIFT, NOT AN ILLNESS ? Prime Hospital offers a dedicated mother and child floor which separates pregnant, mothers and children from the rest of patients. ? A unique space divided into two areas: maternity and pediatrics both, handle only by specialists round the clock. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ince its opening in October 2014, Prime hospital has always stated its intention to highlight its maternity, paediatric
S
date, and the following checking and vaccinating consults, shouldn't be considered as an illness that needs to b e t r e a t e d . “Motherhood is one of the most wonderful stages in human life. It is a gift and should be treated accordantly”. The dedicated mother & Child floor consists in two differentiated areas: maternity and pediatrics both, handle only by specialists that work 24/7 to offer the best service standards. The maternity department is leaded by three O&G experts and four junior
specialists, supported by a skilled nursing team as well as, in house anesthetists. The area accounts with three consultation rooms, three pre-labor beds and caesarian section OT, in addition to two labor suites, birthing beds, resuscitation e q u i p m e n t , etc.Pediatrics zone m a n a g e d b y Neonatologists, 3 pediatrics specialists and 4 junior specialists; is equipped with three consultation suites and another two rooms, treatment and vaccination. In total the area has 17 different beds: four Nursery beds, nine NICU and four PICU. All these experienced doctors, specialists and nurses work run the clock to ensure any pregnant, mother and child receive the best service 24/7.
bid will be gifted an indoor sapling along with a certificate imprinted with the participant's name.Organisers of this fun initiative have invited schools to participate in the world record attempt and thereby give their respective students the opportunity to go through a lifetime experience. For further information visit https://www.facebook.co m/DIKFest or write to info@classicconceptsua e.com
KING KOIL OPENS NEW SHOWROOM IN MUSCAT Visit the store and receive 30% discount on purchases for limited period only By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ubai Furniture Manufacturing Company LLC (DFMC), a market leader in premium mattress segment in Middle East, announces the opening of the new King Koil mattress showroom in the bustling area of Qurum, in the heart of M u s c a t c i t y. T h i s
D
THE ITALIAN FESTIVAL WEEKS 2014 ENDED IN STYLE Dubai Viewing Deck, The Palace Hotel, Downtown, 13th of December, 7:30 p.m.
A
teams from 25 countries , governed and approved by the International Kite Flying Association (USA), according to the organisers Classic Concepts, an event m a n a g e m e n t c o m p a n y. A n a c t i o n packed aerial show of sheer magnificence will see international kite flying teams perform synchronized Kite flying, sports Kite flying, Kite surfing, Kite buggying, Kite boarding, fly boarding wake boarding and night Kite flying with illumination. Apart from this there will be several other thrills on the beach like face painting, kite making workshop, balloon benders, portrait artists, spot photography, food courts, music and dance performances to make it a perfect fun day o u t f o r families.Organisers will also attempt to break a Guinness World Record with the help of over 15,000 participants who will be flying kites simultaneously at 15 or more locations across Dubai, offering a golden
opportunity for kite-flying enthusiasts to be a part o f t h i s r e c o r d breaking feat.Dubai International Kite Fest will also see the launch of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative “Green Dubai Clean Dubai”, as part of efforts to raise awareness about environmental conservation. Each participant in the Guinness World Record
showroom will provide one-stop-shop solution to bedding requirements of customers because it will showcase a variety of products from King Koil including mattresses, bed bases, side tables, headboards and bedding accessories.King Koil's popular 3D Gel Collection range of mattresses is available at the new store. The mattress uses the revolutionary 3D gel technology which is only available with King Koil in
Oman. By using this technology customers will have superior mattress with cool conformance and threedirectional support to provide soothing comfort for a good night's sleep. Other popular products include the Star Collection, Spine Support Collection, 5 zone Latex mattress and the Numero Uno 'Electra' adjustable bed.Sundar Rajan, CEO of Dubai Furniture Manufacturing Company LLC said: “We are very pleased to announce the opening of the King Koil showroom in Qurum, in the heart of Muscat city, which is a preferred shopping destination for Muscat residents. Oman is a very important market for us. The country's economy is growing, with new projects coming up
in all spheres particularly in the hospitality and tourism sector. We saw a good potential for our business thus our focus, attention and investment in this market. Though initially the contribution may be small, we expect this market to grow and contribute significantly to our overall business.”He added: “The retail market also appears to be promising with more and more people opting for better lifestyle and luxury products. With this rising demand, plans are in the pipeline to open more showrooms in other cities of Oman.”The new showroom is at par with King Koil Dubai Showrooms in terms of interior décor and ambience and the highlytrained staff are fully equipped to cater to the needs of our customers. Customers who will visit the new showroom in Muscat will receive 30% discount on their purchases for a limited period. For more information, please call +96824665369 or visit the showroom at Al Raid Business Centre Opp. Sabco centre, Qurum.
WELCOME TO MODERN LIVING...WELCOME TO THE BOULEVARD ARJAAN, ROTANA'S FIRST PROPERTY IN AMMAN, JORDAN Offering a special opening rate of JOD 99.00* including breakfast and complimentary internet.
President of the Italian Republic, and under the auspices of Enit Area Asia & Oceania – Dubai a g e n c y, O s p i t a l i t a ' Italiana, Unioncamere and the Italian Embassy to the UAE.The special and remarkable event occurred on the 13th of December at the breathless venue of the Viewing Deck, The Palace Hotel, Downtown, Dubai, from 7.30 p.m. to 2 a.m.The event was fully sponsored by the United Arab Bank.The other sponsors of the Festival were: Generali, Tecnosistemi FZ LLC, Kelmer Group, Intesa SanPaolo, Dolce Antico,
honor to bestow on the two Emirati and Italian companies, respectively Etihad Airways and Intesa SanPaolo Dubai Branch, for their contribution to increase and strengthen the relations between Italy and the UAE. The event continued with the awarding the Italian Restaurants in the UAE certified Ospitalita' Italiana for the year 2014: Alta Badia, Don Alfonso 1890, Lounge Café Italiano, L'Olivo Ristorante, Nais Kitchen and Pax.The Gala was closed by the amazing concert of the well-known Italian pianist Maestro Maurizio
mention is the congress organized with the IIT Institute of Italian CNR; for the second year, the pianist Maestro Maurizio Mastrini has held a brilliant performance on the snow-covered slopes of Ski Dubai. Events organized by Enit, concerts, art exhibitions, theme dinners, workshops and performances have been included in the calendar of the IFWs14, without forgetting the business aspect, through exhibitions and institutional and group and individual incoming missions.
E
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: mbrace new experiences at The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana with its stunning 391 studio apartments, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites and spectacular penthouses offering optimal space, state-of-the-art amenities and dining spaces.Located at The Boulevard, the heart of the Abdali, a prime hub for shopping, dining and entertainment, The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana has it all.Book now to avail of our special opening rate. For more information, please call +962 6 5204444 or email res.boulevard@rotana.com
and neonatal care services. Evidence of this is the hospital's dedicated Mother and Child floor that caters to all services, including Gynaecologist and P a e d i a t r i c Consultation.Accordin g to Dr. Jamil Ahmed, Managing Director of Prime HealthCare Group, all maternity stages, from the moment a woman get pregnant till the birth azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg22)
OMEGA AND THE SWISS FEDERAL INSTITUTE OF METROLOGY ANNOUNCE NEW WATCH CERTIFICATE
DUBAI OFF-PLAN RESIDENTIAL SALES MARKET RETAINS STRENGTH DESPITE DECLINING CAPITAL VALUES ? Investor appetite remains strong with off-plan sales retaining momentum
A
? Improvements to infrastructure set to bolster long term capital
value growth ? Freehold transactions fall by almost one third during Q3 2014 ? House price growth slipped by -0.3%, marking the first decline 22-31December2014, Safar1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71Pg23
KHALAF AHMAD AL HABTOOR BIDS FAREWELL TO MICHAEL CORBIN, US AMBASSADOR TO THE UAE By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: halaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Chairman of the Al Habtoor Group, held talks with His Excellency Michael Corbin, the outgoing US Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates at the Al Habtoor Group head office on Al Wasl Road. The meeting took place o n M o n d a y December 15, 2014, one day before HE Corbin left his post. Corbin has been the US ambassador to the UAE since July 2011, after having served in the US Foreign Service for more than 25 years. HE Corbin thanked Mr. Al Habtoor for his support over the years he has been Ambassador. Al Habtoor said, “I wish His Excellency Michael
K
Corbin for his future endeavors in the private sector in the UAE. I am pleased to see the Ambassador is staying in the
UAE when he leaves office. This is the land of opportunity. The UAE is a safe and stable environment, and many expats have adopted it as their home.”HE Corbin will be replaced by Barbara Leaf who previously was deputy assistant secretary for the Arabian Peninsula at the State Department.
SATCOM DIRECT INTRODUCES DATA CENTER SOLUTIONS PROVIDER TERRACOM DIRECT By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: atcom Direct, the leading provider of s a t e l l i t e communications products, training and support services, has expanded its capabilities by launching a new data center solutions provider, TerraCom Direct.“Information security is a huge issue for businesses and individuals. Our new data center is the key to safeguarding connectivity and communications streams, and better securing the missions of our customers. Satcom Direct and TerraCom Direct customers can have enterprise level security for air, land and sea,” said Jim Jensen, CEO and Founder of Satcom Direct.The facility not only hosts and protects clients' critical business technology systems and information, it secures Satcom Direct aviation, maritime and terrestrial-based services. Whether data traffic is generated in the air, on the ground, or on the water, TerraCom Direct is constantly monitoring in an effort to detect and report potentially malicious activity to customers.TerraCom Direct creates highly-secure solutions designed to meet client specifications and corporate security requirements. All security policies are in accordance with SSAE 16 and FISMA recommendations and the operation is SSAE 16 SOC 1
S
type 2 compliant. TerraCom Direct was built to accommodate a wide array of network requirements whether hosting, power, cooling, or security, all can be scaled to meet changing demands.“The key advantage we have over other data solution providers is flexibility. We offer a wide range of connectivity options, so whether the client simply needs rack space, a private network, or full migration to the cloud, we have the expertise and the capabilities. With our highly-redundant inf r a s t r u c t u r e a n d 2 4 / 7 support, we do everything possible to ensure 100 percent uptime and uninterrupted service,” said Rich Pilock, president of TerraCom Direct.TerraCom Direct brings enterprise-level security capabilities to data transmissions in the air, on the ground and on the water. Headquartered in Viera, FL, TerraCom Direct's 25,000-sqft facility is built to Tier III standards, incorporates stateof-the-art data center construction techniques and is designed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane. Services include co-location of clients' servers and infrastructure, cloud hosting including private and public options, as well as consulting expertise to develop and implement solutions such as migration to the cloud and setting up private networks.
NEW DAMAS COLLECTIONS STORE GLEAMS WITHIN HILTON ALHAMRA HOTEL
D
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: amas, the Middle East's leading jewellery and watch retailer, celebrates the opening of its new Damas Collections store in Hilton Alhamra Hotel in Ras Al Khaimah. The store's design and positioning reflect the brand's new strategy and direction, while offering Damas' in-house jewellery collections and selected international brands. The new outlet in Hilton Alhamra Hotel is the first store with the new interior design, and the sixth among the existing stores located in Ras Al Khaimah.The elegant interiors of the store epitomise luxury and are complemented by an enhanced level of customer service that o ff e r s t h e u l t i m a t e bespoke shopping experience in the northern emirates. The new-look Damas Collections store includes novel designs from well-known and beloved Damas brands such as Hayati and Spring while showcasing some of Damas' finest international brands such as Roberto Coin, Forevermark and Cadaue.Kevin Ryan, Retail Director at Damas, said: “We are delighted to invite guests of the Ras Al Khaimah's Hilton Alhamra Hotel to enjoy the distinctive Damas shopping experience in an exclusive and friendly atmosphere. At once traditional and trendy in its offerings, the Damas legacy promises our valued clientele quality, attention to detail and innovative craftsmanship.”
since Q1 2011 ? Average rents across Dubai's freehold areas drop by -0.4% during
Q3 By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: espite the stagnation in capital value growth and the fall in the overall level of transactions being recorded in Dubai, the off plan sales market has for the most part retained its momentum, with investors taking a longer term view of the market, according to latest research released by international real
D
estate consultancy Cluttons. Cluttons Dubai Winter 2014 Residential Market Outlook report, highlights that with f r e e h o l d transactions falling by almost one third in total during Q3 2014, Dubai's offplan residential sales market is still buoyant and continues to attract regional and international investors.According to Steve Morgan, Chief Executive of Cluttons, Middle East: “Many households that are determined to purchase, now view off-plan properties,
as good value. For instance, at Villa Lantana, just off the Umm Suqeim Road, there has been a high level of appetite from Emirati (43%) and Indian (24%) investors in particular, with the former group primarily comprised of buy-to-let investors.”The report also highlights, that investment appetite continues to remain strong, with investors keen to free up capital to move on to their n e x t purchase.Cluttons' international research and b u s i n e s s development manager, Faisal D u r r a n i commented: “Positively, we are seeing nearly four out of every five transactions being refinanced once buyers have met d e v e l o p e r restrictions, if any, on the transfer of title deeds. While
t h e m a r k e t continues to adjust to the changes in the financing landscape, we expect the gradual softening in values to persist over the next three to six months while the market adjusts to the evolving conditions.“Emaar for example, has reportedly restricted re-sales until handover of its first tower at Dubai C r e e k H a r b o u r, which is expected to come to market in 2018. Units sold for between AED 1,400 psf and AED 1,850 psf, with 30% down payments and Emaar has reported 100% sales. Certainly, Emaar's positive reputation has aided the rapid sales, but the sellout scheme also highlights the maturing attitude of investors who are taking a long term i n v e s t m e n t perspective,” Durrani continued. According to the report, the rental market has also
come full circle as it enters the final phase of the current property cycle, with average rents across Dubai's freehold areas dropping by -0.4% during Q3. Average rental values however remain nearly 5% up on Q3 2013.Despite the cooling of rents, tenant demand r e m a i n s exceptionally strong, underpinned by the rapid e c o n o m i c expansion and the subsequent rise in the level of jobs being created across the city.“In p a r t i c u l a r, t h e leisure, hospitality, aviation, finance, banking and real estate sectors have s e e n r a p i d expansion, as evidenced by the level of housing requirements from these sectors. In the short to medium term, we do not anticipate a slowdown in the rate of job creation, which suggests that the current period of rental stagnation is likely to be short lived. Furthermore, supply is projected to fall well short of demand in the villa segment of the market in the medium to long term.” Durrani concluded.
5% IN THE MIDDLE EAST SUFFER FROM THYROID DISEASE By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: ough estimates revealed at the 10th Annual M i d d l e E a s t Otolaryngology Conference & Exhibition in 2013 showed that about 5% of patients in the Middle East suffer from thyroid disease. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that secretes hormones into the blood stream and is mainly responsible for the body's ability to convert food into energy (metabolism rate) and monitors body temperature.Prof. Dr. I y a d H a s s a n , Consultant Endocrine & Cancer Surgery at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, shed light on t h y r o i d disease,“Swelling in the thyroid gland causes a goiter. The abnormally large size of the gland is rarely due to cancer and is usually an indication of hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid g l a n d ) o r hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland). Problems with the thyroid gland affect the metabolic rate, ability to control body temperature and energy levels.”He further explained that the main symptoms of an overactive thyroid are palpitations, excessive sweating, weight loss, heat intolerance, anxiety, tremors in the hand, excessive hair loss from the scalp, muscle weakness, loose and frequent bowel movements and protrusion of the eyes and in the case of elderly patients, heart failure. If a patient suffers from an underactive thyroid, he
R
or she is likely to through surgery once experience excessive t h e o p e r a t i o n i s tiredness, unexplained complete, the patient weight gain, feeling will be monitored for cold, constipation, and complications. During i n c r e a s e d s l e e p , the surgery, to reduce puffiness under the the risk of vocal cord eyes and aches and nerve Injury, we use a pains. Thyroid diseases neuromonitor device to are caused by various detect the position of factors: in some t h e v o c a l c o r d instances it can be an nerve.”On the recovery autoimmune condition period he said, “For where the body attacks most patients, walking the thyroid gland for and normal routines can u n k n o w n r e a s o n s . resume the day after the Iodine deficiency is the operation, but vigorous major cause of goiter, activity and heavy lifting but this is fast being are not recommended eradicated worldwide for two weeks.”Most b e c a u s e i o d i n e i s patients are concerned readily available in the a b o u t t h e t h y r o i d diet. Some races are surgery affecting vocal more susceptible to the cords and ultimately condition than others speech, but Prof. Dr. according to Dr. Omran Iyad explained that, B e d i r G a t e e , “Some patients may C o n s u l t a n t - notice subtle voice E n d o c r i n o l o g y , changes or the voice D i a b e t e s , a n d may tire by the end of Metabolic Disorders at the day; these voice Burjeel Hospital. “I have alterations generally come across overactive normalize within 2-3 thyroid conditions in m o n t h s . I f v o i c e Asian ladies who live in changes persist, patient the UAE. This is should advise the because they are quite s u r g e o n o r stressed. On the other e n d o c r i n o l o g i s t t o hand, Emirati women evaluate further. And are more likely to suffer some patients may from an underactive require lifetime thyroid thyroid because of their hormone replacement genetic makeup.” Prof. when one or both lobes Dr. Iyad added that in of the thyroid are most cases, the thyroid r e m o v e d . “ C h a n g i n g c o n d i t i o n c a n b e lifestyles of modern c o n t r o l l e d t h r o u g h people have given rise medication: for an to various diseases. o v e r a c t i v e t h y r o i d , Burjeel Hospital has m e d i c a t i o n s t o always been committed s u p p r e s s t h e to provide complete and overproduction of the specialized healthcare h o r m o n e a r e for the residents of the prescribed. For those UAE and the MENA s u f f e r i n g f r o m r e g i o n , ” s a i d M r. hypothyroidism, thyroid Clancey Po, the CEO of hormone replacement Burjeel Hospital, Abu is administered. D h a b i . “ T h i s However in extreme commitment extends to cases, a thyroidectomy providing state-of-the-- a surgery to remove art technology and the thyroid gland will be expert medical care in p e r f o r m e d . the treatment of various “Dysfunctional thyroid medical conditions.” gland is removed
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: t a press conference at Geneva's Cité du Temps on Tu e s d a y, S w i s s watch brand OMEGA and the director of the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) announced their collaboration on a n e w w a t c h certification process that the brand will begin using in 2015 to test each of its Master Co-Axial watches. Swatch Group CEO Nick Hayek was joined by Dr Christian Bock, the Director of METAS, Stephen Urquhart, President of OMEGA and OMEGA Vice Presidents Raynald Aeschlimann and A n d r e a s H o b m e i e r. A f t e r welcoming media and guests, Stephen Urquhart recalled some of the technological milestones in OMEGA's long history, including its launch in 2013 of a m e c h a n i c a l movement resistant to magnetic fields greater than 15,000 g a u s s . H e explained that the increasing number of magnets in our daily lives can affect the performance of watches and showed a short film explaining how OMEGA had overcome one of watchmaking's greatest challenges He added that Swatch Group is committed to retaining its leadership position in the Swiss watch industry and said that the partnership with METAS was the logical next step.
M r . H a y e k suggested that in recent years it has become obvious that the COSC chronometer
extent than has previously been possible. He added that it was important to point out that M E T A S i s
certification, long the industry norm, needs to be strengthened. In the middle of 2015, the first OMEGA watches will be produced with the Master Co-Axial Officially Certified designation. A s i g n i f i c a n t difference between the new certification a n d i t s predecessors is that it will test the finished watch instead of its movement.Dr Christian Bock, the Director of METAS, was introduced and explained the role that his organization plays in the Swiss federal government. The Institute, he said, is the centre of competence for the Swiss government for all matters i n v o l v i n g measurement and m e a s u r i n g procedures.The METAS Director said that the new certification process would give OMEGA and other Swiss watchmakers the opportunity to demonstrate the quality and timekeeping performance of their watches to a greater
c o m p l e t e l y independent with no o bias or prejudice – and only agreed to work on projects when it was convinced that its neutrality was not compromised. The agreement with OMEGA has no suggestion of exclusivity and other clients would have access to the s a m e certification.Raynal d Aeschlimann, OMEGA's Vice President and Head of International Sales, said that the certification of the watches by an independent institution that is part of the Swiss F e d e r a l Government made as bold a statement about OMEGA as its m o n o b r a n d boutiques and the transparent casebacks that r e v e a l t h e movements inside. "All of these define our brand. The boutiques place our watches close to the consumers where they can explore them in detail. The casebacks allow the examination of the movements that are such an important
part of our story. And this new, completely independent 'Swiss Made' certification confirms the quality of each watch that earns it. It's an important milestone for both our brand and the industry."And r e a s H o b m e i e r, OMEGA Vice President of Production a n d Procurement , spoke in detail about the tests each Master CoAxial watch will have to pass in order to earn the "Officially Certified" distinction. Owners of watches that are Master Co-Axial Officially Certified will be able to access online or via a smartphone the results and performance parameters of the tests passed by their watches.In response to a question following the presentations, Mr. Hayek said that the current level of innovation certified with the Master CoAxial calibres is p r e s e n t l y unbeatable and added that the new standard would motivate other brands to move ahead to meet the new criteria. "This," he said, "would benefit the entire industry not only in Switzerland but in China and Japan and in other countries with a history of innovative watchmaking. More importantly, it would also benefit the consumers and that has to be a good thing."
UAE SOUL SENSATION HAMDAN AL ABRI TO PERFORM AT VOLVO OCEAN RACE Free concert to feature Dubai-based Abri & Funk Radius on 23rd December at 8pm. By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: AE-born singersongwriter Hamdan al Abri will take to the stage alongside his band, Funk Radius, on 23rd December for an evening performance of their signature funksoul hits. The concert, for which entrance is free, will take place on the 400 sq m Skyline Stage, built out onto the waters off the Corniche Breakwater in the Volvo Ocean Race Destination Village, with the stunning city s k y l i n e a s a backdrop.Hamdan Al
He has played with Sade, Sting, Quincy Jones, Erykah Badu,
Abri was born in Dubai in 1981 and went on to found the Dubai-based soul band Abri, one of the UAE's most successful acts to date.
Ziggy Marley, Joss Stone, Kanye West, Timbaland, Arrested Development, and Shaggy. Al Abri was nominated for Best
U
Middle East Act at the MTV European Music Awards in 2013, and the Best Arabia Act in 2009.With Al Abri on vocals, he will be accompanied by Lebanese rock artist Jay Wud, who has supported Robert Plant and opened for Guns n Roses, on guitar, and Rony and Elie Afif on drums and bass. The Afif Brothers have played at WOMAD Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Jazz Festival and Dubai Jazz Festival. Other band members include J i n o K i m o n Saxophones, and Joaquin Suza on T r u m p e t a n d Saxophones. The band
will be performing three 45-minute sets of original music and covers."It's great to be back performing at the Volvo Ocean Race,” says Al Abri. “I performed here a few years back with my brother Dozing Duke and it was a great experience. The atmosphere, the people attending and just the energy of the event was a perfect setting for our performance. I can't wait to do it again."The concert is one of a series of live music events in the VOR Destination Village as part of the Abu Dhabi Stopover, which takes place on the Corniche Breakwater from 12 December to 3 January. It is open, free-to-enter, to the public from 12pm till 9pm on weekdays and 11am till midnight on Thursdays and weekends. It will be three weeks packed w i t h s a i l i n g , w a t e r s p o r t s , entertainment and culture highlighting Abu Dhabi's union with the sea and its maritime heritage. Up to 175,000 people are expected to visit.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg23)
LPG LAUNCHES NEW ENDERMOLIFT™ “TOTAL EYE” TREATMENT A natural and complete treatment for sparkling eyes this Festive Season By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: rench beauty brand LPG, skin expert for nearly 30 years, has launched the Endermolift™ “Total Eye”, a new and efficient treatment to illuminate the eyes and smooth out the e y e c o n t o u r. L u d o v i c Loffreda, CEO of LPG Bella Concept said : ''This new treatment for the eyes is very effective wherein from the first session, the eye contour appears well-rested, puffiness and dark circles are reduced, fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed. Perfect for the holidays, to look fresh for parties and gatherings with friends and family, treat yourself and experience rest and relaxation with the LPG “Total Eye” treatments.”They say the eyes are the windows to the soul and sparkling eyes can certainly make you look younger, beautiful and the
substances: collagen for firmness (+23 %*), elastin (+46 %*) for skin suppleness and hyaluronic acid (+80 %) for hydration and its redensifying action.
F
22-31December2014, Safar1435 Email:azadnewsuae@yahoo.com Mob:00971 56 118 6007 Edition 71Pg24
SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC STRENGTHENS FIELD SERVICES ORGANIZATION OFFERING COMPREHENSIVE CUSTOMER SUPPORT Organization Serves Customers' Technical and Infrastructure Life Cycle Needs, Reduces Costs by 30% By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: chneider Electric, a global leader in energy management, has strengthened its Field Services Business Unit (BU) to oversee the technical and infrastructure life cycle needs of enterprises for their
spare parts management as well as retrofit solutions for all legacy customers.Ahmed Sfar, Vice President, Global Field Services Gulf, Schneider Electric, said: “Today's high-pressure and time-sensitive industries face challenges when planning for long-term maintenance of
equipment, software management and building systems.The Global Field Services Business Unit consists of highly qualified field service representatives who provide professional support for customers' electrical distribution infrastructure. The unit offers after-sales support and services across all the business units of Schneider Electric. From low voltage circuit and switch breakers, Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS), datacenters to industrial automation and large oil and gas installations, this unit caters to diverse market segments.Targeted at facilities managers, plant managers and system integrators, Schneider Electric's Field Services unit assists customers and partners through planning and designing, operations, energy auditing and renewal of equipment. Schneider Electric aims to leverage this unit to increase long-term customer loyalty via effective customer relationship management (CRM) strategies. Some of the CRM strategies include service plans, extended warranties, proactive management of upgrades and installations, trainings and
their critical assets. At such a time, Schneider Electric is keen to build awareness for our differentiated expertise and technology management strategies that enable our customers to focus on their core operations and long-term business growth.By enhancing our Global Field Services offerings, we are moving from ad-hoc servicing, to round-the-clock international field servicing to support in the complete lifecycle management of our client's technical ecosystems. Additionally, our tailored services help the cut costs and reduce downtime. As always, we are committed to simplifying daily operations for customers and contributing to their peace of mind.Schneider Electric's global expertise and highly qualified field service representatives provide professional support based on r e l i a b i l i t y, w o r l d w i d e coverage, and 24 x 7 remote and on ground assistance, prompt troubleshooting, spare parts management expertise, and a priority service response. These offerings are contractually guaranteed and also include emergency assistance and escalation management.
S
INVEST IN AKOYA OXYGEN WITH A DEPOSIT FROM AED 344K. MEET US ON 10 DEC
ENDERMOLIFT™ center of the parties. The eye contour with delicate skin containing little collagen, has high moisturizing needs and is a particularly sensitive area of the face. With fatigue, stress and passing years, puffiness, dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles often appear. TO COMBAT THE HANDS OF TIME A N A N T I WRINKLE, ANTIPUFFINESS AND A N T I - D A R K C I R C L E S TREATMENT: For 20 minutes, the patented Ergolift head works on the eye contour to: ? Drain toxins and e x c e s s w a t e r, hence reducing puffiness and dark circles ? Open up and restore well-rested
eyes by lifting the upper eyelid ? Fill in
eye
AND LPG® SOINS TECHNIQUES : +50% ANTI-AGING
contour wrinkles
EFFICIENCY
from within
B o t h f o r professional and at home application, LPG® Soins Techniques skin care range have high active i n g r e d i e n t concentrations and include the exclusive LPG® A n t i - A g i n g Complex specially formulated to o p t i m i z e Endermolift™ stimulation.The Endermolift™ “ To t a l E y e ” treatment takes 25 minutes. With stress preparing for the holidays, take time out for yourself and book your treatment at any of the LPG-accredited beauty salons.
The treatment is completed by an LPG® Soins Te c h n i q u e s application, LPG's expert skin care range which includes the Total Eye Care cream. This creamy textured technical skincare product, offers an antiwrinkle, antipuffiness and antidark circles action. Ideally applied under makeup, it instantly illuminates the eyes. 100% Natural Results:New Endermolift™ n a t u r a l l y reactivates the synthesis of essential youth
OMAN INSURANCE COMPANY WINS UAE'S BEST INSURANCE BRAND AWARD
A
By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: t a ceremony held in Dubai yesterday, Oman Insurance Company (P.S.C.) received the prestigious 'Best Insurance Brand - UAE' award from Global Brand Magazine for its exceptional commitment to product innovation, customer service and claim handling. Based in London, the Global Brands Magazine represents a leading source of information for up-to date news, reviews, opinions, and polls on leading brands across the globe. The award aims to identify and recognize exceptional insurance brand based on external research teams and in-depth analysis from various sources. Patrick Choffel, Chief Executive Officer, said “Established in 1975, Oman Insurance has a long history of servicing individual and corporate customers for all their insurance needs in the UAE and beyond. As a friendly insurance expert, our strong service delivery allowed Oman Insurance to become a reputable name, one that people in this region recognize and trust.” He added “We are honored to be singled out to receive this award and I would like to thank every one of our staff for making it happen.”
SWISS BELRESORT GHANTOOT BRACES FOR NEW TOURISM SEASON By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: Swiss Belresort Ghantoot hotel has started its preparations for the new tourism season with an eye on visitors from the UAE and other Gulf states as well as Europe and other world destination.Its general manager Mustapha Chateela said the preparations include recreation events and other activities to cater for the needs of tourists from various countries, adding that a large part of the hotel's guests are from Germany, Bulgaria and Romania.He emphasized the need for stronger cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority with the aim of promoting Abu Dhabi abroad to lure more visitors to the hotel in particular and the emirate in general.He
BUSINESS AVIATORS LEAVE DUBAI WORLD CENTRAL ON A HIGH MEBAA Show final day sees more visitors, business and ambitious growth plans for MEBAA By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE: s the doors closed on the biggest and most successful edition of MEBAA Show to date, exhibitors are celebrating a week packed
exhibitors to talk to the students who attended Futures day, on the final day of the show.As MEBAA Show goes from strength to strength, we are following a careful, measured growth plan, launching the first
with new business deals and strong leads.At the closing of the three day show, the number of visitors had reached 8,314 and the show hosted 422 exhibitors plus featured 44 aircraft on static display.MEBAA the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation
business aviation show in Morocco next year (MEBAA Show Morocco), and re-naming the next show to avoid confusion, MEBAA Show 2016,” he says. And it's not all corporate business. MEBAA donated US$25,000 to Fly & Feed, the recent initiative
Association is celebrating a week of enormous success for the region's business aviation sector with MEBAA's founding chairman, Ali Al Naqbi, saying: “It has been an incredible show. We have seen so many people exhibiting and attending from all over the world this y e a r. E x h i b i t o r s a r e delighted with the quality of visitors, all of whom come to do business. Highlights from MEBAA's perspective include the amount of time H.H. Sheikh Ahmed spent touring the show and speaking with our exhibitors, the 'Business Aviation Around the World panel session, and the enthusiasm shown by
between World Food Programme and MEBAA, kicking off an annual pledge from MEBAA members to support the vital humanitarian work of the charity. MEBAA's 'Fly & Feed' initiative enables MEBAA operator members to donate US$20 to the United Nations' World Food Programme for every flight. Al Naqbi says: “It gives me great pleasure to donate $25,000 on behalf of the organisation to the WFP, fulfilling its obligation as a partner. With more than 230 members, MEBAA member's potential contribution to the world hunger fighting charity could make a real difference.”
A
Gulf. It was built many years ago as the as the guesthouse to the Palace for the ruler of Abu Dhabi. Later it was converted into a resort so guests can experience local royal tradition, which is prevalent from the lobby to the rooms. The building architecture echoes the
DUBAI HOLDING CONFIRM KENENISA BEKELE FOR STANDARD CHARTERED DUBAI MARATHON By Qadeer Ahmad Siddiqui Dubai UAE:
D
ubai Holding, the investment holding c o m p a n y, h a s announced that three-time Olympic Champion Kenenisa Bekele of Ethiopia will take part in the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon on January 23, 2015 in his capacity as Ambassador of the Dubai Holding Wellness Programme.Kenenisa is looking forward to progressing at the classic 42.195km distance after winning in Paris in April (course record 2:05:04) and finishing fourth in Chicago in October (2:05:51).He holds three current world records for 5,000m outdoor, 5,000m indoor and 10,000m outdoor; has been 18 times World Champion and three times Olympic champion and is the first and only athlete to be world indoor and outdoor, world cross country and Olympic champion.Ahmad Bin Byat, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Holding, said: “Inspiration is essential in all aspects of life, both professional and personal. As part of our Wellness Programme initiatives, we aim to inspire Dubai Holding employees and members of the wider community to adopt an active lifestyle, push themselves and take on a challenge. Kenenisa Bekele is an ideal Ambassador for our Programme as he is constantly pushing his limits further and challenging himself to do better.“As a Dubai Holding Wellness
Programme Ambassador, Kenenisa is helping to promote health and fitness at Dubai Holding, in Dubai and in the wider UAE. The programme, established in 2007 as the first-of–its-kind in the region, raises awareness among nearly 22,000 employees across the Group and the wider community about healthy living and assists them to change and sustain improvements in their lifestyle to reduce health risks and enhance the quality of their life.”Kenenisa, who made a flying visit to Dubai to accept his ambassadorial role, said
he was delighted to be able to compete in the world's richest marathon.“I have been following the race for some time now and I know Dubai has a very flat course that produces fast times,” he said. “Of course, it is not east to step up to the marathon distance and set records but I am looking forward to the challenge of lining up in Dubai next month. Hopefully, I can produce a very quick time
and my appearance encourages people of all ages in the UAE to join me in my role as an ambassador for the Dubai Holding Wellness Programme.Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, the 2015 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon will see runners compete in the full Marathon, the 10km Road Race and the 4km Fun Run. Around 25,000 runners are expected across the three events with athletes of all ages, abilities and nationalities lining up alongside one of the biggest names in world sport. Event Director Peter Connerton believes the appearance of Kenenisa Bekele will fire the crowds in the same manner as fellow Ethiopian great Haile Gebrselassie who competed for three years in Dubai from 2008-2010.“Like Haile, Kenenisa has made the step up to the marathon distance after winning
everything there is to win at both 5,000 and 1 0 , 0 0 0 , i n d o o r, outdoor and cross country,” he said. “So far he has had a better start to his marathon career than both Haile and Paul Tergat. He has followed our race with interest for a few years now and has been keen to come and take his marathon experience to another level. We are proud he believes Dubai is the right venue for the next stage in what has been an outstanding running career.”The 2015 race will mark the ninth consecutive year that Dubai Holding supports the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon as part of its Corporate Wellness Programme. The 2014 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon saw around 2,000 employees from the Corporate Office, Jumeirah G r o u p , T E C O M Investments, Dubai Properties Group and Emirates International Telecommunications take part in the event and the company has ambitions to once again grow that figure by twenty per cent in 2015.In line with the Dubai Government's efforts of supporting healthier living habits, Dubai Holding also sponsors the UAE National prize category, which it introduced in 2010, offering a total of AED86,000 (Euro 18,800) to the three fastest UAE nationals in the men and women's marathon, 10km and push chair races.
said new offers would be available mainly for schools and universities as well as families from the UAE and the other GCC countries and for companies wishing to organize training programmes for their staff.He noted that the hotel is strategically located nearly 40 minutes from D u b a i a i r p o r t a nd 45 minutes from Abu Dhabi airport, making it an ideal place for stay, pleasure and business at all times.“We are recording high growth in business thanks to our services and the steady growth in the number of visitors to Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other emirates…we are now planning to expand further in the UAE,” he said.Swiss-Belresort Ghantoot is a cultural heritage building that rests on the shores of the Arabian
tastes of the rich Arabic lifestyle with its golden walls, dome style high ceilings, balconies, and extremely large living spaces. Just 15 minutes from two large shopping malls in Dubai, this 4-star resort offers a calm and serene environment with its own sandy beach on the blue waters of the Marina. Guests may choose to relax on the sun beds by the beach or try their hand at the varied water activities such as water scooters, banana boats and donut boats. For those who just want to take a break and enjoy the water, there is a large 32-meter swimming pool surrounded with sun beds, umbrellas and wooden cabanas. Children will also have a great time in the kid's pool, outdoor play area or indoor kids club.
azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae .azad news uae azad news uae.azad news uae azad news uae azad news uae. (pg24)