RAK : An emerging icon After having established itself as a favourite investment destination, Ras Al Khaimah is now attracting attention as a venue for high-profile events. When the emirate first held a World Bank sponsored investment meet in 2005, it was generally considered as a most unlikely venue for an event of such profile. But as the emirate developed its hospitality infrastructure and tourism assets, the events calendar has got busy, with some major conferences, some at the global level, thrown in. The Al Hamra development has some of the best venues that RAK offers for meetings and conferences. The Al Hamra Fort Hotel probably matches the best in its category and has been a favourite with incentive travelers, particularly from Europe. With the Palace Hotel in the final lap of getting ready for opening, RAK will have a fabulous addition to its hospitality assets. The luxury hotel development has all it takes to become an icon of the new and emerging Ras Al Khaimah, both in terms of grandeur and modernity. And that is well complemented by a slew of tourism development plans currently under way, all of which point to RAK becoming a hot MICE destination in its own right.
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Contents
Page 10
Cover Story
Ensnaring MICE
How RAK is enticing a new market Page 6
It is in the Vision...
RAK Ruler’s master-plan for the emirate
Page 20
Reaching new heights
An interview with HH Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman RAKFTZ
Page 26
Destination of choice 2
An interview with Prof. Hassan Hamdan Alkim, Director General of Department of Economic Development, Govt of Ras Al Khaimah
Page 46
Destination RAK
What brings entrepreneurs across the world to Ras Al Khaimah
Page 49
Education
Students throng RAK
Page 56
Swishing Abayas
Fashion forward
In Memory
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Enshrined in Hearts
RAK bids a tearful adieu to its loving father and former ruler, the late HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi
Still
in his twenties when he took over as the ruler of Ras Al Khaimah in 1944, the late HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi who departed for his heavenly abode on October 21, 2010, led an eventful life. Till his demise, Sheikh Saqr held the position of the longest reigning ruler in the Middle East and the 2nd longest reigning ruler in the world – the first being King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, and the third being Queen Elizabeth of England. In 2009, Sheikh Saqr completed 60 years of rule, an event that was celebrated with much fanfare and panache by his loyal supporters, family members and people of the emirate. Above all, Sheikh Saqr had been the last of the founding fathers of the UAE. Born in 1920, Sheikh Saqr accomplished what was considered impossible at his time – the ardous task of unifying the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah into one entity. It was ruled by several different tribes inhabiting its mountains, seashores as well as deserts, and Sheikh Saqr brought them all under one umbrella and unified the emirate. His grandson H H Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi recollects having accompanied him to a majlis to settle a dispute between two warring mountainous tribes. “Both sides had rifles and were armed to the teeth and were willing to attack each other, when my grandfather very calmly presided over them and offered them a peaceful solution – that they agreed to instantly,” he recollects. Another incident of his benevolence often cited is when he held a venomous scorpion under his foot to let a majlis go uninterrupted. Or decline
firmly any monetary transaction with Iran that had occupied two islands of Ras Al Khaimah. “He said, No! I will not sign any document that says Saqr has sold off part of an Arab land to Iran,” recalls his former legal advisor Khalid Saffarini, who was translating for him when the British came to negotiate the deal. HH Sheikh Saud, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, narrates how his beloved father would never give up on anyone. “He was always angry with you, not angry at you. He was angry if he felt that you were not striving hard enough to achieve your goal,” He states. Education has been Sheikh Saqr’s biggest achievement, not only for Ras Al Khaimah, but for the entire UAE. Way back in the 1950s, Sheikh Saqr insisted on educating all his people and there were schools right from Al Minai to Masafi, from Sham to Bin Daher, Aden and Al Nakheel. His own bodyguards, who were christened the ‘school police’, got children to attend school and reported on parents hesitant to enrol their children in schools. “He would tell the parents that if they desisted from sending their children to school, they would have to face imprisonment and for children, a story of the dark dungeon in the palace was enough to set them running to school,” observes Sheikh Salem. Today, a large sector of people from Ras Al Khaimah are employed in various top positions in the federal government and are counted amongst the most educated people in the UAE. This is because Sheikh Saqr made sure that when the federation was formed, the people in the mountains and villages of his
emirate, got the same educational facilities as those in the cities. A practical foresighted ruler, since Sheikh Saqr knew that oil wasn’t his emirate’s strong point, he explored its natural resources, mountains, ports and fertile soil. He envisioned that people would come from the world over to RAK, establish industries, settle there, and create employment for his people and profit in business as well. Today, Ras Al Khaimah has three free trade zones, two represented by RAKIA (Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority at Al Hamra and Al Ghail) and one RAKFTZ ( RAK Free Trade Zone at Al Nakheel), both of which are responsible for getting investment into the emirate. Before the free zone era, Sheikh Saqr established the first agricultural research station in the UAE, the region’s first pharmaceutical company, Julphar (1960), and the Union Cement industry, after it was discovered that the Hajjar Mountains had rich deposits of limestone. Also several industries in RAK are located near its ports, and Ras Al Khaimah’s several waterways allow freight to be shipped to different parts of the world that became a natural advantage to its industry. Sheikh Saqr developed several ports that include Saqr Port, RAK port and Mina Saqr port. A strict disciplinarian, Sheikh Saqr was an early riser and often toured the emirate in the wee hours of the morning unaccompanied by bodyguards, observing how his people lived and worked. A people’s ruler, Sheikh Saqr is truly enshrined in the hearts of the people of Ras Al Khaimah. He is largely respected for his simplicity and modesty.
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Ascent
It’s in the vision… 6
Dynamic, enterprising, entrepreneurial and foresighted, HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has rebranded the emirate as an investment destination by creating various avenues for investment and facilitating a range of industries that are the backbone of its economy
RAK
has been modest as well as quiet about its achievements. It houses the world’s largest ceramic tiles manufacturer -- RAK Ceramics -- and owns the world’s largest kiln with Union Cement. It has the region’s first agricultural school at Digdaga, the UAE’s largest pharma company Julphar, and the world’s largest rock mining area with Stevin Rock. Most of these achievements accelerated after Sheikh Saud took over as Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler seven years ago. To streamline the development of
Ras Al Khaimah, Sheikh Saud envisaged a masterplan for a variety of projects – industrial, residential, agricultural, retail, leisure and tourism. The aim of the plan was to ensure the orderly growth of the emirate for the next two decades. The first phase of the plan covers 540sqm, 10 per cent of which is earmarked for industrial ventures. A Technology and Industrial Development Fund of Dh1 billion has been set up by Sheikh Saud to establish RAK as a regional R&D centre in a variety of fields. The World
Bank too has been roped in to conduct a comprehensive survey on the avenues for foreign direct investment in the emirate. The result of all these efforts have been highly encouraging as seen in the enormous growth in manufacturing, service and tourism industries, leading to a significant improvement in living standards of the citizens. Along with industrial and tourism development, Sheikh Saud has taken care to see that infrastructure does not fall behind. The six-lane Emirates Road has
cut travel time to Dubai to just 45 minutes, making the emirate a convenient weekend destination from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It has also made life in the emirate much easier than in the past, besides providing a sought-after lifestyle that is the envy of many. RAK’s freehold sector too received a shot in the arm because of the picturesque beauty of the northern emirate which has Arabian Gulf on the west and Hajjar Mountains on the east. Another major infrastructure project planned is a 350km sewerage pipeline involving an investment of Dh360 million in two phases, along with a waste water treatment plant for Dh60m. The three-stage project, with a completion time-frame of four years, is expected to drastically cut down pollution levels in the emirate. In the transportation sector, Saqr Port has undertaken an ambitious expansion programme over the past four years with a total investment of Dh221 million to facilitate efficient handling of containers, bulk and general cargo. The result: an impressive annual growth of above 30 per cent consistently over the past five years. The ultra-modern Logistics Park -- in the heart of RAK’s fast-growing industrial zone -- has a warehousing capacity of 2,500 square metres, capable of storing and distributing 10,000 cubic metres of cargo. Further, the establishment of the RAK Gas Commission has energised the emirate’s energy sector with several tieups for gas extraction and processing. As Sheikh Saud put it succinctly: “We are an emirate that doesn’t have oil, so the question for us has been how to create sustainable economic development without oil revenues? How to create wealth, how to create new landscapes when funds are limited? In our minds, the number one issue that needs to be addressed by any country is that of governance. No country can be successful without an active and successful government. It is like a roof under which the business community and people live, providing shelter and stability to them from the storms of life and the world at large. It is important, therefore, to create a financial
structure in the government whereby it becomes a model for the private sector.” In terms of increasing revenues, the government can always be lured by taxation, which makes the population poorer, but doesn’t ensure that the government is richer, as all the revenues can be easily wasted. “I believe that the government must act and perform like a business unit, as it is in many ways the most important company in the country, and one that cannot afford to fail. I believe governments should generate revenue, but it should come from legitimate and sensible investments, like any other
business. The government should invest and be rewarded with profits, which can be spent on the citizens. In this way, the image of a government changes from being a burden on the lives of people to becoming an asset for them, a source of revenue. It becomes a magnet for the entrepreneur. They know they can trust it to help them.” Education is a tradition established by the late HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, former ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and nurtured by Sheikh Saud. At the GABM, Sheikh Saud stressed on the dire need for high quality education and research in the Arab world.
‘Intellectual Property is the Real Wealth’ In his speech titled ‘Connecting the World’ at the Global Arab Business Meeting, Sheikh Saud said: “New scientific innovations have bought the world closer than ever before. To be relevant in the increasingly interconnected and globalised world of today, the Arab world should invest more in education and research. There is a huge correlation between education and economic growth, and we need to understand that education is the key to empowering our young generation and helping them reach their true potential.” Sheikh Saud pointed out that the successes of many countries testify that nations can make a real turnaround within 10 to 20 years through proper development of their human capital. “Over 65 per cent of Arab population is under 24 years of age, and this could be a good thing if we can make sure that the young citizens of this region -- who are inheritors of a great civilisation which gave supreme value to education -- are well-educated and ready to work. Another thing the Arab world should focus on is research. Research is the only tool through which many developed countries have prospered. The real wealth in this world is intellectual property, and we in the Arab world should be creators of knowledge through research.” Sheikh Saud said that the Arab world can create its roadmap for success through good investment strategies, infrastructure, education system and work ethics. He said Ras Al Khaimah had benefited much during the past seven years by implementing innovative business reforms aimed at enhancing competitiveness and creating a business-friendly environment. “We believe the government’s role is to create an optimum environment for business and remove hassles that impede entrepreneurship. Here in RAK, we have simplified procedures for setting up businesses and created one-stop investment avenues. The results have been phenomenal, as during the past seven years, the emirate has achieved double-digit growth,” Sheikh Saud added. “The infrastructure upgrades have created a fantastic logistic network, with the main Saqr Port increasing its capacity ten-fold from 300 to 3,000 tonnes per hour. The cost of shipping from here to Europe is actually cheaper than from places within Europe.”
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Ascent
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HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah
Excellence in Action Groomed to take over higher responsibility in RAK as Crown Prince is HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi’s eldest son, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi
A
student of the Ras Al Khaimah English Speaking School and then the UCLA at Los Angeles, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi was named Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah by Emiri decree No 23 of 2010 issued by his father and ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi.Sheikh Mohammed has majored in Political Science and is the Chairman of the Al Hamra group. He is also on the on the Board of Directors of several companies like RAK Ceramics and Arc International. Sheikh Mohammed takes keen interest in the Mohammed bin Saud Programme that helps local people from RAK rebuild their homes. Passionate about this social upliftment activity, he states that the programme funds several people across the emirate on a 50:50 basis. “We pay half the cost of rehabilitation and the owner of the property raises the rest of the money. We want to help our people but want them to help themselves too. We want them to exhibit a sense of responsibility and self-reliance because that will benefit them in the long term. Of course, for those who cannot afford to rebuild at all, we forward solutions,” he states. He has helped rebuild close to 1,000 homes. What initially started out with homes near the industrial areas area has now spread to the northern part of RAK as well as to the southern part like Huwailat. Attributing the last seven years of development in the emirate to his dear father’s vision and perseverance, he admits he has been learning more now by observing Sheikh Saud. “My father is a great school to graduate from and I am still learning from that school. His knowledge is much more valuable than an actual school. It is a great advantage for me and I am privileged to gain experience from him,” he states. He adds that he has learnt a lot by sitting in his father’s majlis and watch him solve problems or by accompanying him to various events, programmes and visits. What strikes him about his father is his
Sheikh Mohammed inaugurates the Banyan Tree Al Wadi
loyalty to his country, his people, and his determination and relentless efforts to create a better future for his emirate and his country. All of which only comes with hard work and principles. “One might not recognise the importance of discipline and rigour at a young age, but with time, it becomes apparent and its reasons unfold. RAK is going up. But we have to give credit to not just one emirate but to the leadership of the whole country. Without its able leadership, it would be hard to achieve any goals the country has achieved over the years,” he adds. “Education wise, we have always been strong. Many universities have come up in the free zones and they are doing well. We have names like the American University of RAK (AURAK), as well as developing local universities,” he states. In terms of
tourism, he states it is a solid sector that has benefited from its proximity to Dubai. “Europe is just five hours away and tourists from Europe have a lot of choices in RAK. At the moment, we are concentrating on our desert and beaches. The much-awaited 7-star Palace Hotel shall complement the Al Hamra development that is already so beautiful. Like the Dubai Marina, Al Hamra holds much prospects for the emirate. We have added more coastline through the Al Marjan Islands,” he adds. But he states that it is not as if only one part of RAK is seeing development. “At a macro-level, it is there throughout the emirate. While we have luxury properties, we also have city hotels that cater to a different group of people. We try to integrate businesses so that they help each other,” he adds.
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Cover Story
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Ensnaring MICE With meetings, incentives, conferences and events at regular intervals, RAK is working its way up as a future MICE market
The
Global Arab Business Meet, held under the auspices of the Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA); the 10th World Free Zone Convention hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone Authority (RAK FTZA); and the ‘Industrial Investment in the GCC’
conference organised by the Department of Economic Development, Government of Ras Al Khaimah; have been three major events in the past month in Ras Al Khaimah. While this obviously points towards the emirate’s preference as an investment
destination, does it also mean that RAK is gearing up to attract the MICE market? With renewed infrastructure, upcoming hotels that address the business-leisure sector, renewal of its airline, is it slowly getting ready to host events on a bigger and a more regular scale?
The Global Arab Business Meet organised by Horasis and hosted by RAKIA, held at the Al Hamra Convention Centre had three days of intensive meetings, well attended by delegates from the world, showcasing the business possibilities in the UAE as well as RAK in particular. The GABM was designed not only to discuss the impact of the crisis on the Arab world, but also to consider how the region’s robust economies can contribute to a global recovery. The impact of the global economic crisis naturally varies across the region – important variables include reliance on oil revenues, infrastructure projects, and tourism. Still, the Arab world might be better placed than most to weather the global downturn. The Global Arab
Business Meeting provided an exceptional platform to address challenges and opportunities for the Arab world. It also provided an occasion to explore the perspectives of future of economic cooperation between the Middle East and the world. The illustrious group of attendees at the Global Arab Business Meet were Abdulla Al Awar, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai International Financial Centre, UAE; Sheikh Saif bin Hashil Al Maskery, Chairperson, Nawras, Oman; Saad Al Shuwaib, Chief Executive Officer, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, Kuwait; Akil Beshir, Chairman, Telecom Egypt, Egypt; Rajan Bharti Mittal, Vice-Chairman & Managing Director, Bharti Enterprises, India; highly placed officials from UPS
International, USA, Nawras, Oman; Meditel, Morocco; STX Energy, Korea; Qatar Science & Technology Park, Qatar; Munir Majid, Chairman, Malaysia Airlines, Malaysia; Nahas Enterprises Group, Syria; R Seshasayee, Chief Executive Officer, Ashok Leyland, India etc.
Free Zone Convention The World Free Zone Convention is an attempt by the RAKFTZ to coordinate with other free zones in the world and work together for mutually beneficial business relationships. Held at the at Al Hamra Convention Centre and Hamra Hotels & Resorts -- under the theme ‘Gathering Global Support For Free Zones’ -- the convention follows the slogan, ‘Harnessing economic zones worldwide to the cause
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of economic recovery, dynamic growth and strengthened world trade.” The year 2010 sees two celebrations – it is the 10th Anniversary of the World Free Zone Convention (WFZC 2010), as well as the 10th anniversary of the RAK FTZ. Over 200 delegates from various free zones across the globe took part in the event, which aimed to highlight the benefits free zone communities have to offer investors. The Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone Authority (RAK FTZ) as the Platinum Sponsor hosted of the two-day conference and exhibition, and rounded it off with a very special event planned to mark the 10th anniversaries of the WFZC and RAK FTZ.
Industrial Investment Conference
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The Industrial Investment in the GCC Conference, on the other hand, also saw a string of high-profile participants from the World Bank, IMF, Arab Fund and similar dignitaries from 30 countries. Some of the prestigious guests included the Secretary-General of the GCC as well as top delegates from the UAE Ministry of Economy. All these three events were held in Ras Al Khaimah in a space of less than a month. Not to mention other similar events like the re-launch of RAK Airways and the opening of the Ice Land Water Park. From August onwards, it has been common to see the press from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah frequent Ras Al Khaimah. So, what is it that the emirate has up its sleeve? “We are working towards creating world-class infrastructure at RAK, so that it will, in the future, become a MICE destination. Events such as these help RAK in its visibility to the world outside, and it brings in varied kinds of tourists to the emirate – investors, leisure-seekers and businessmen,” states Prof Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, Director-General of the Department of Economic Development,
‘Truly Remarkable Journey’ It has been a truly remarkable journey over the years in our pursuit of a strong economy and a premium quality of life for all the people of Ras Al Khaimah. The experience has been richly inspiring and greatly satisfying, especially as we begin to see the fruits of our efforts with the transformation of the emirate into one of the most exciting business and lifestyle destinations in the region. The past few years have been of particular significance because it was during this period that Ras Al Khaimah’s development initiatives witnessed an accelerated growth in line with the changing dynamics of an increasingly inter-connected global economy. In addition to being an excellent tourist haven, Ras Al Khaimah has evolved into a magnet of business and industrial investments from all corners of the world, while opening new gateways for people from different countries and cultures, to experience the unique and exciting lifestyle of the emirate. HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE
Government of Ras Al Khaimah. Neighbouring Dubai has already set a precedent for being a much soughtafter MICE destination in the region. Dubai used its strategic location to its advantage, refined its sea and airport facilities, modern communication systems, comprehensive business support capabilities and stable financial sector, while marketing its multi-faceted attractions as a tourist destination, all of which have contributed to making Dubai a popular destination for the MICE industry. The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) recently participated in the IMEX 2010 worldwide exhibition for MICE in Frankfurt, Germany, and received an overwhelming response from potential exhibitors and event organisers who were keen to visit Dubai and explore the opportunities it offers as a destination for events. Dubai’s MICE sector performed impressively in 2009, with the Dubai World Trade Centre receiving 1.24 million exhibition and conference visitors to post a 12 per cent increase over
2008. The Dubai delegates included 46 representatives from the tourism sector, representing Emirates airline, the Dubai World Trade Centre, and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs. They participated in IMEX 2010 via DTCM’s 350-square meter stand. The group was able to confirm over 80 appointments and generate six leads during the event. Moreover, a 2014 regional congress was also confirmed for Dubai. RAK’s tourism sector expects to welcome 2.5 million tourists by 2015 and the emirate is already a preferred destination for tourists from Europe, Russia and the GCC. According to Mohab Ghali, General Manager, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah, RAK will become a major player in the market for leisure as well as corporate tourism. “By outperforming on service and product levels of our hotels, the emirate will continue to establish itself as a valued destination. Promotions, activities and strong PR efforts will support the growth of awareness for the destination, which will be supported by our national and international sales offices, as well as our corporate offices in Dubai,” he states.
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Banyan Tree Al Wadi Al Mazaraa, P.O. Box 35288, Ras Al Khaimah, U.A.E Tel: +971 7 206 7777 Fax: +971 7 243 5000
Gearing up for MICE 16
The Al Hamra development is readying itself to welcome MICE. Toufiq Elhajj, Director of Sales & Marketing, Al Hamra Fort Hotel, explains how. How does the Al Hamra development address the needs of the MICE market? Hamra Hotels and Resorts development is committed to integrating and optimising local and international resources, and has formed strategic partnerships with professional MICE and PR companies globally. We have successfully undertaken major conferences like the Global Arab Business Meeting and the 10th World Free Zone Conference. The quality of our hotels, service and the transport costs are all factors that have been taken into consideration when selling it to the MICE
market. In the past few years, we have expanded our client portfolio and have set high standards of excellence for corporate event management, by providing a timely, cost-effective professional service. The hotels and resorts group delivers extraordinary services and events that are designed to deliver the creative and budgetary needs of any meeting in addition to supporting facilities of all the member hotels. With regards to large-scale events, we engage in complete communication with the client in advance to know the client’s needs clearly. As one of the most
technologically advanced, architecturally pleasing, and functionally superb venues in UAE, our dedicated MICE team at all times manage the client’s event requirements and ensure that all requests are carefully planned and executed on the day of the event. The strategic location of each of the Hamra Hotels & Resorts are seeped in rich natural beauty and offer great tourism potential that can help to encourage MICE groups. When it comes to the Hamra Convention Centre, it is one of the key contributors to the economic and cultural vitality of Ras Al Khaimah.
What are your MICE events planned for the weeks to come? Even at this period and in the early phase of next year, we have 160 conferences on the books, which is 15 per cent more than what we were budgeting for. Much of that business has come in the past months following the completion of the hotel’s facilities and an active marketing campaign for the brand in the local and international meetings market. With regard to our destination there are still more details that need to be reviewed, before we propose an exceptionally perfect venue. We shall be arranging more comprehensive property inspection with the organiser for better understanding of the properties, utilise our best marketing tool through strategic local/international partners for MICE Planning and Event Marketing, engage with a team of MICE professional partners with the high-end MICE industry clients we are targeting etc. We shall innovate and customise all events by offering new itineraries and team-building activities, tailor-made sightseeing activities and venues selection in order to deliver a culturally enriching travel experience, to execute events flawlessly, and to design the most creative space planning and event communication plan for our client’s event. Last but not the least, to make sure that they enjoy all our destinations, we will provide a tool for achieving our marketing and communication objectives, monitor that the event is executed, in order to provide and create a long-lasting partnership with our MICE organisers and DMCs. How does the upcoming Palace, Al Hamra, contribute to the MICE sector? And are you planning any major events for its inaugural? First of all, this project is the result of the inspired vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, who decided to set new standards in luxury hospitality for his Emirate, which justifiably
all suites, exclusively designed in an Arabic style reminiscent and evocative of an age where royalty enjoyed the finest comfort and quality. It has an unrivalled range of facilities and services. The Palace is expected to become a favourite destination of event planners and organisers as well as the golfers from around the world with its stunning Peter Harradine designed 18-hole championship golf course. The inauguration is still in the planning stage and it has not been finalised yet.
Toufiq Elhajj
claims more than 5,000 years of history in trading with the rest of the world. With the personal involvement of Dr Khater Massaad, Special Advisor to His Highness, and the expertise of Roman architect Maurizio Papiri, this vision is about to become a reality. The Palace, Ras Al Khaimah, is located on the pristine shores of the Arabian Gulf just south of the city of Ras Al Khaimah and within the Al Hamra Village development. It is merely a 45-minute car journey from Dubai International Airport, along the Emirates Road highway. With a design style meticulously researched from Arab architectural heritage and art, The Palace, Ras Al Khaimah, is the pinnacle of Arabian hospitality in the region. This will contribute enormously to the MICE sector due to its location set along the southern coast of the emirate, overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf and the magnificent Al Marjan Islands. The resort is a unique and special experience that is brought to life with quiet efficiency and the warmth, kindness and generosity of spirit of its people. Discover true Arabia in the resort. The place features
How do you see RAK emerging as a strong contender for the MICE market in the future? And how? Based on our research, Ras Al Khaimah is among the UAE’s strongest emerging tourism destinations. The emirate is historically rich, has many ecologically important areas, has diverse topography and allows the MICE market to get close to the heritage and culture of the local community. RAK is positioning itself as an alternative MICE destination to the hustle and bustle of its neighboring emirates. In order to be a strong contender in the market, we need to promote a wide range of services for MICE groups, planners, and local DMCs. We need to promote Ras Al Khaimah as an ideal MICE destination in all media channels and top global tourism and traveltrade fairs. Hence, differentiating the type of business services offered from that of the competition, will assist not only in building the destination as a whole, but will also attract the MICE market, which requires a higher level of personal service and recognition than they can receive at competitive properties in the entire UAE. The emirate provides us an opportunity to leverage its core competencies as regards servicing the business and leisure travellers in a well-appointed environment.
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Canopy of Bliss 18
The picturesque Banyan Tree Al Wadi that now boasts of a falcon training school, apart from its world class Spa and nature reserve, is an ideal setting for RAK’s burgeoning MICE industry. Pascal Eppink, General Manager, Banyan Tree Al Wadi, elaborates. How do you see the Banyan Tree Al Wadi contribute to MICE? We have a great setting for MICE potentials. We have the conference centre with our high-tech facilities to accommodate business meetings and presentations. We also have several boardrooms for more intimate meetings. Having hosted high profile ministers, governmental meetings, etc, we also possess top-notch executive seating arrangements. We
have on site a large variety of options to organise leisure components, teambuilding and other group activities in unique settings. What are the resort’s advantages? The combination of a desert and beach experience is unique to Banyan Tree Al Wadi. Because of the fact that we handle lots of activities in-house, we can be very flexible in the timings, duration and size. That helps us prepare tailor-
made programmes for groups. All guests staying in-house have a private villa with a private pool. We have the only hydrotherapy facility available in the UAE on site. We are located within a nature reserve full of animals and birds native to the region, which creates a very special ambience and setting. We are only 45 minutes from Dubai airport and only 20 minutes from RAK city, and yet our guests feel as if they are in a different world.
What are the events you have currently planned and how do you plan to develop this sector? We already had several car launches at the resort. We also have very frequent business/board meetings from companies based in other emirates, mainly Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A big portion of them also add leisure components to their stay. Especially in our destination, dining in the desert goes very well with groups. We also had several banks, pharmaceuticals and other companies organise incentive trips to our resort, including complete buyouts. How do you combine leisure tourism with business tourism in the resort? Our layout and logistics make it quite easy to tailor to both categories of leisure and business. Our teams are also set up in such a way that we can easily accommodate both segments. We have an extensive recreation team to look after all the leisure activities, combined with a team of people in events who look after all the business arrangements. Our site is quite spread out as well, so that both segments do not interfere with each other at all.
“We have the only hydrotherapy facility available in the UAE on site. We are located within a nature reserve full of animals and birds native to the region, which creates a very special ambience and setting� 19
Business of Leisure 20
Mohab Ghali, GM, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah, explains how three Hilton properties in RAK cater to the MICE segment Tell us about your plan to develop both the Hilton properties in RAK in the MICE market? Both Hilton hotels in RAK have great facilities to offer the MICE market, with extensive banquet facilities, small meeting rooms and multi-purpose rooms with a seating capacity from 20-150, with first class audio-visual equipment, modern and state-of-the-art meeting facilities -all under the experienced service of our dedicated banquet teams. The recreational facilities
make it an ideal getaway destination for corporations, both for domestic companies and those based abroad. With spacious facilities, including a 1.5km white sandy beach, the resort and the hotel can suitably cater to all forms of team-building activities. Furthermore, having the most number of properties in RAK, the Hilton properties have a capacity to accommodate bigger groups for MICE. The newly built and soon to be opened
Doubletree by Hilton RAK is located very near the Hilton, both of them very close to the newly, purpose-built convention centre, and within walking distance of the commercial hub of RAK, the RAK Free Trade Zone. All three properties have a unique character, distinct from each other. Does the Double Tree contribute itself to this sector? As mentioned, the location of the Double
market have to capitalise on the existing infrastructure and facilities, continue to develop MICE-specific features in our respective products. Already, RAK has a number of offers as a destination, complete with water parks, museums, exhibition venues, and team-building adventure activities that make s RAK stand out from other emirates. We can pitch this and appeal to those companies that at present host their MICE events in better known destinations. As such, we can provide a new, equally high standard destination for those that wish to venture into a new area, away from the regular bookings.
Tree by Hilton RAK is ideal for MICE guests, and the accommodations are the latest additions to the RAK hotel portfolio, as well as the Hilton portfolio. As such they represent the most modern standards, with spacious accommodations. What are the advantages RAK has, in order to be developed as an emerging MICE market? In order for the RAK MICE market to be developed, Hilton and other players in the
What are the future business events planned to address this sector? The recently implemented National Sales Offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will provide a great platform for the destinations outside these two cities, reaching directly into the source of MICE markets. Additional to the use of direct Sales efforts through these offices, Hilton RAK is dedicated to attend trade fairs and professional meetings, promoting the MICE venue of RAK to the national as well
Mohab Ghali
as international markets. Next stop will be the World Travel Market, where once again Hilton RAK will present all its properties as the ultimate destination, not only for tourism but also for corporate and MICE visitors.
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Events
HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi opening the World Free Zone Convention. Also in the photo are HE Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, UAE Minister for Foreign Trade and HE Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi, RAK FTZ Chairman
Synergy Central 22
The 10th World Free Zone Convention held in RAK focussed on the increased synergy between free zones across the world
For
an astute businessman like HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, there couldn’t have been a better first official event than the 10th World Free Zone summit. An enterprising ruler who supports entrepreneurship, Sheikh Saud has a very clear approach to business in the emirate – and under his leadership, RAK has created several templates to attract investments – the
emirate has three free zones – the RAK FTZ, that celebrated 10 years in 2010; the RAKIA free zone that started in the year 2003; and the newly formed Maritime City of 2010. The WFZC that was held at the Al Hamra Convention Centre from November 1-3, 2010, marked two anniversaries at the same time. It was the 10th anniversary of the World Free Zone Convention, as well as the 10th anniversary of the RAK Free
Trade Zone – the first free zone of Ras Al Khaimah, established in the year 2000 by an Emiri decree issued by the former ruler the late HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. The WFZC 2010 is also the first of its kind held in the Middle East which hosted over 200 international and regional delegates reviewing opportunities ahead for free zones worldwide in the current economic climate. The well attended
event saw a host of dignitaries, ministers as well as foreign delegates pour into Ras Al Khaimah. HE Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade who delivered the keynote address spoke on ‘Contributions of Zones to the Economy.’ She lauded RAK being a host to the prestigious event since its industrial zones were recently named among the top 10 most promising free zones in the world by the FDI magazine. Tracing the history of free zones, she stated that they have been around since the early years of the 20th century and the global development of such zones surged between 1960s and the 1970s upto the 1990s. Today, there are more than 5,000 free zones operating in more than 120 countries, employing 50 million people. The volume of trade going through these zones has so far exceeded $400 billion. She elaborated that free zones play a very important role in the UAE in terms of international trade and reexport activities. Its open and flexible economy, coupled with its free zones and advanced infrastructure, offer an attractive destination for businessmen and investors. This is evident in the fact that today, the UAE is a hub of 25 per cent of the world’s top 500 companies. The total value of FDI that have flowed into the UAE has reached approximately $73 Billion, making it the second most FDI attractive country in the Arab world, according to the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which also revealed that the UAE is ranked 14th globally in the number of new foreign direct investment projects in 2009, accounting for 230 projects or 1.7 per cent of the overall global share of new FDIs. “We have been able to successfully grow our projects by 123 per cent in just a span of five years,” she states. “According to the UAE National Statistics Centre, private investments increased by 360 per cent in 2009 in comparison to 2005 to reach $67 billion and comprise 27 per cent of
the national GDP. Our country was eighth among the most attractive investment destinations in the emerging markets identified in a recent survey conducted by the British Trade and Investment Agency, in cooperation with the Economist Intelligence Unit.” Emphasising the role of free zones in growing the UAE’s non-oil business, Sheikha Lubna stated that “last year, the share of non-oil sectors in our national GDP reached 71 per cent, to pass the 70 per cent mark for the first time in our history.” Graham Mather, Chairman of the World Free Zone Convention, stated that the world has learned no end of a lesson from the financial crisis, and believes that “we can now turn our attention from the necessary fire-fighting to a more strategic approach focussed on the search for safe and sustainable growth. Most forecasters are looking to a continuing world economic recovery, and the
Sudhir Kumar, Partner and Head, Corporate Communications, Morison Menon, Chartered Accountants
world economic growth is encouraging. Governments have followed monetary and fiscal policies which are designed to avoid a further contraction. Companies, after a period of retrenchment, are typically leaner, have cash and are looking for investment of acquisition opportunities.” But he believes there is a sharp distinction about where the growth is happening – newly industrialised countries will display the greatest growth. Asia is the hotspot birth in its own economic performance and in the demand it creates around the world. The United States is much less certain. The recovery prompted by fiscal stimulation will probably be followed by a year of very moderate growth. In the European Union, we expect countries to emerge from the crisis very slowly. As for his expectations following the 2010 WFZC, he seeks to provide an opportunity for the world’s free zones to come together to examine a range of issues, examine the state of the world’s economy, learn lessons on maximising free zone success and focus on best practices ahead. “We will be looking at means to minimise negative governmental responses to the economic crisis and maximise continuing foreign direct investment, especially the opportunities for multinational businesses to make still greater use of zones. We will be focussing on the development of new kinds of zones picking up that element highlighted by the World Bank that zones are constantly changing and innovating.” Another important aspect is strategies to combat misconceptions about zones. “We work very closely with the World Customs Organisation, the Financial Action Taskforce and against counterfeiting and money laundering.” For the first time, he adds “We will be creating a network of goodwill ambassadors for free zones to spread the word about their economic contribution to national and international business organisations, government officials and parliamentarians, regulatory bodies and the media.”
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Highlight
Reaching New Heights The economic downturn became a rallying point for many free zone companies to re-look and re-engineer business strategies
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The
pioneer of the RAK FTZ, HE Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the RAK Free Trade Zone and Chairman, Finance Department , Government of Ras Al Khaimah, is a man of few words. But his achievements speak for themselves – what better example than the RAK FTZ that recently celebrated 10 years. Sheikh Faisal started his speech at the WFZC after commemorating his father, the late HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, former ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. Sheikh Saqr, through an Emiri decree, started the RAK FTZ and encouraged Sheikh Faisal in his venture, started 10 years ago. ” Words cannot express his vision and dedication that has transformed the emirate into a modern gateway for economic openness and laid the groundwork for a solid business infrastructure in Ras Al Khaimah,” he states. HE Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi He also stated that the While he agreed that 2008 was a convention was being held at an difficult year for the free zone industry important phase during which RAK’s as the global recession brought about a economic policies were beginning to radical shake-up in business strategies, it deliver success, leading to strategic also taught us a very important lesson – it international partnerships that helped it forced many free zones worldwide to to access global markets as well as build explore markets and technologies beyond a global profile as a leading free zone their traditional domains. It meant we innovator. “I am happy to note that after could no longer operate in the comfort the global downturn in 2008, the economy of our own regions, but had to turn our is now showing signs of recovery. sights towards markets that offer promise Nevertheless, though market dynamics and potential. “The economic downturn continue to be unpredictable the world became a rallying point for many free over, we remain committed towards zone companies to re-look and reimplementing our innovation-led-business engineer business strategies. One of the strategy, which we believe will enable us key trends that emerged out of all this was to build a strong competitive edge for the the need to innovate our processes,” He foreseeable future.”
states. “Innovation empowers us with the ability to develop market leadership thought proprietary solutions and processes that can counter the threat of sudden economic upheavals effectively. We firmly believe that innovation holds the key to leadership and profitability,” he adds. Sheikh Faisal believes in a holistic development of the emirate. He is keen that investment and the quality of life should be at a par with each other. Tourism is another key point close to his heart – the desert festival of Awafi is one such event under his purview. “Awafi, which celebrates the great outdoors, is an event growing in stature. People of this region love desert biking, sand biking, dune bashing, camping, games etc, all of which are part of Awafi, which has been attracting lot of people from the emirates and outside,” he states. While the sun, sea and sand have unfailingly attracted tourists to the shores of RAK every season, so do its host of hotels and resorts like The Banyan Tree Al Wadi and The New Hilton Hotel and Spa. “The Double Tree hotel apartment is coming up near the old Hilton hotel. It will have 112 residences,” he adds. So are budget hotels coming up near the corniche, malls and popular hotspots of the emirate to cater to the weekend tourist population. “RAK now has a number of budget hotels that are new and good to visit. These hotels usually have 30-50 rooms which are clean, well-maintained, cost-effective and fit for families. They don’t require big investments, as their capital costs are less and so are the costs of running them,” He adds.
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Industriousness
Call for Closer GCC Cooperation The International Conference on ‘Perspectives of Industrial Investment in the GCC Countries’ called for stimulating inter-GCC industrial investment and strengthening the process of economic integration in the Gulf region
The 26
Department of Economic Development, Government of Ras Al Khaimah, in cooperation with the School of Business and Management of the American University of Sharjah, and the UAE Ministry of Economy, organised an international conference on ‘Perspectives of Industrial Investment in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries’ in RAK in the month of November 2010. HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, attended the opening session of the conference. Well attended by dignitaries from across the world, senior government officials, economists and development planners from across the GCC, the conference discussed various pertinent issues relating to industrial investment in the GCC countries. Addressing the
conference, HE Abdul Rahman bin Hamad Al Attiyah, Secretary-General of the GCC, said the implementation of the Customs Union will hasten industrial development in the GCC countries. “The Customs Union will be a vital step that would contribute to greater economic integration among GCC countries and hasten the development of the industrial sector by facilitating easier movement of goods and commodities,” He stated. Among the various steps taken by the GCC to facilitate economic integration were the adoption of the Unified Commercial Policy -- which aims at unifying the external trade policy of the GCC countries and dealing with the outside world as a single economic block -- and the launch of the GCC Common Market policy at the Doha Summit in 2007. Al Attiyah also called for fostering scientific research and cooperation among GCC countries and
increased involvement by the private sector to achieve the industrial vision of the member-states. Mohammed Ahmed Al Shehhi, Director-General of the UAE Ministry of Economy, in a speech delivered on behalf of HE Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, UAE Minister of Economy, said that the GCC countries should address the issue of higher costs of production and upgrade their industrial infrastructure to optimise the competitive advantages of the region in the industrial sector. Sheikh Mohammed bin Kayed Al Qasimi, Vice-Chairman of RAK Department of Economic Development, Dr Peter Heath, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah, and Hall Delano Roosevelt, President and CEO of Roosevelt Consulting Inc. and grandson of former US President Franklin Roosevelt, spoke at the inaugural session of the conference.
Industriousness
Destination of Choice RAK is on it way to become a world-renowned destination in terms of investment, tourism and infrastructure – on the lines of a MICE destination. Prof Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, Director-General, Department of Economic Development, explains
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Al Khaimah’s tourism that is now under the purview of the Department of Economic Development, Government of Ras Al Khaimah, is working hard to ensure that the emirate becomes a world-class destination of choice – be it in terms of investment, education, tourism or real estate. Something on the lines of a MICE destination. So, government departments as well as semi-government departments of the emirate coordinate with each other. Recently, we published the Ras Al Khaimah tourist guide for people wanting to learn more about the emirate. It is a good work of research about the historical as well as dynamic emirate, and will benefit both local as well as foreign travellers and tourists. We also shot a movie about the emirate, and in the second week of October, when we had a tourism workshop at Al Hamra, we worked on ways to upgrade the film. The workshop saw a good attendance of tour operators as well as officials. We are also working on an electronic map of the emirate and branding Ras Al Khaimah in the world market. As a result, we are participating in several international expos, travel shows and conventions. At the London expo recently, I presented a paper on how to develop Ras Al Khaimah as an economic development hub. The agenda was to increase the number of foreign direct investments into the
Prof Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim
emirate. I also participated in the World Tourist Expo in London from November 8-11 to market the emirate. And now, we are hosting quite a number of seminars and conventions too. Just after the World Free Trade Zone conference commenced we hosted an international conference between November 6-8 at the Al Hamra Convention Centre, called the ‘Industrial Investment in the GCC,’ the conference had high profile participants from the World Bank, IMF, Arab Fund and similar dignitaries from 30 countries. The Secretary-General of the GCC attended the inaugural, so did high
profile delegates from the UAE Ministry of Economy. In the year 2010, Ras Al Khaimah has mainly worked in honouring its commitments of 2009 and completing all the announced projects of the previous year. We saw the opening of the Ice Land Water Park and re-launching of RAK Airways and several seminars and conferences. In the near future, we shall also see one of the emirate’s most spectacular landmarks, the Palace at Al Hamra open its doors. It will be managed by a very high-end, American hotel chain. The emirate continues its policy of working towards attracting FDI. It has an established base of industries from all over the world. The industrial sector of Ras Al Khaimah contributed 26 per cent of the GDP of the emirate. The industrial parks at Al Hamra are attracting different kinds of investments towards itself. The economy of the emirate is healthy. We were the least affected during the global economic crisis. The government debts in Ras Al Khaimah are minimal. In terms of real estate market, things slowed down a bit, but were never stopped or stalled. I strongly believe that if the real estate sector doesn’t serve other sectors such as the industrial sector, there could have been problems. In RAK, HH Sheikh Saud’s policy of diversification of the economy into industries proved beneficial.
Development
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The Third Free Zone RAK Maritime City (RAKMC), the new free zone, opens for business
Created
by an Emiri decree in December 2009, RAKMC, the emirate’s third free zone is equipped to issue both FZE and FZCo licences, work permits and residence visas. After the completion of its first phase, from July 1, 2010, the harbour and jetties were opened for marine activities. Now, the zone has a fully operational marine access to all the berths, and all the real estate
areas have been levelled and graded. Naser Bustami, General Manager of Stevin Rock LLC, is also in charge of the RAKMC. Located approximately 25km north of Ras Al Khaimah City, the new RAK Maritime City (RAKMC) has approximately 5km of new quay wall, and a new harbour with an entrance approach depth of nine metres, and a depth of seven metres at all the new berths. The total area of this new maritime
free zone is approximately eight million sq metres (800 hectares),” he states. The second phase of RAKMC will involve a budgeted expenditure of Dh150 million to provide the infrastructure development – roads, lighting, drainage, electricity and water services, telecoms, security fencing and a gate system, together with office accommodation for Customs, Immigration, and the RAKMC
Administration. Electricity and water will be provided to all clients within six to eight months. RAKMC is building its own desalination and power plants, which will be located on a 75,000 sqm site, centrally located within the maritime park. “The security fencing and gate system to ISPS standards are being completed, and RAKMC will then be a secure and bonded port area,” states Bustami. RAKMC has three major anchor clients -- Knauf, Shin Yang and Archirodon, who are already building their facilities. Shin Yang will start operations in the next two months. Archirodon is now constructing their facilities and will move their total
operations from Ajman to RAKMC. They will be fully operational by November. Knauf has already started its production of gypsum board, and plan to be at full capacity by June 2011. All three companies are also building their own staff accommodation within RAKMC and adjacent to the beach. These facilities will house approximately 1,500 to 2,000 blue collar staff. RAKMC Free Zone is divided into two types of plots – (i) plots with a linear quay length as part of its boundary, with exclusive use of that quay, and (ii) plots with no direct access to the water and located away from the harbour area. The free zone is also zoned into areas for specified uses – retail, warehousing, general cargo handling, industrial production and manufacturing, and ship building and repairs. Plots are available with a minimum size of 20,000 sqm. However, plots with an exclusive berth/ jetty of 100 linear metres will necessitate a minimum leased area of approximately 40,000 sqm. Lease agreements are being offered for 25 years, renewable for a further 25 years. Longer leases will be considered for periods of up to 99 years. What about the major achievements of RAK’s cement and rock sector for the years 2009-2010? Bustami states that RAK boasts of having the largest quarrying companies in the world with the association of Stevin Rock and RAK Rock, and continues to be a part in all major projects in the UAE and GCC countries. “For the local UAE markets, in 2010, Stevin Rock has signed major rock supply contracts for Masdar Green City, Abu Dhabi Airport Expansion, Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai World Central), Upper Zakkum Oil Field Development, DAS Island IGD, and Dubai LNG (DUSUP) project.” As for the regional GCC markets this year, Stevin Rock is supplying rock to Qatar for the Ras Laffan Port Expansion Phase 2. “We have managed to sign a long-term
Naser Bustami
contract with a reputed contractor in Kuwait to increase Stevin Rock’s aggregate supply to Kuwait’s market share at satisfactory levels. In the export market and mainly to India and Madagascar, we were successful in achieving direct contracts with the main government and private sector steel plants in India for the supply of limestone material for steel production. In addition, we will be the lead suppliers of rock to Madagascar for the new nickel plant.” Furthermore in 2010, Stevin Rock is in serious discussion to finalise the supply of rocks/aggregates to the nuclear power plant project in the UAE. In terms of cement production, RAK still continues to be the largest in the country and was relatively well insulated from the global financial crisis. The large high quality limestone resources supplied feed from RAK Rock and Stevin Rock to the large cement industry. The limestone feed to cement companies from RRC/ SR is stable at an average of eight to nine million tonnes per year, which proves the strength of the cement industry. And what has been HH Sheikh Saud’s directive to the rock and cement industry to combat recession? “HH Sheikh Saud’s directions were always clear -- cut costs, increase efficiency, and maximise production.”
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Business
Planning to Integrate Growth roadmap to boost economic integration
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HH Sheikh Saud said: “The goal of the Al Khaimah Government emirate is to create an atmosphere that is recently announced that it has conducive to work and to live. The guiding achieved significant success in its efforts principle has always been to enhance to launch socio-economic programmes the quality of life here both on the social that promote economic sustainability, and economic fronts, and we are certainly enhance the quality of life, and preserve making excellent progress towards the emirate’s abundant natural and establishing the emirate as a place where archaeological attractions. Dr. Khater business and lifestyle converge.” Massaad, CEO, RAKIA, outlined a growth roadmap to boost the economic integration and lifestyle offerings of RAKIA, RAK Ceramics and Al Hamra Village in order to achieve the longterm socio-economic goals within the emirate. HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE, has been widely recognised as the architect of the emirate’s new direction towards a more diversified economy. Under his leadership, the emirate’s GDP, which now stands at $4.30 billion, achieved a remarkable average growth of 14 per cent per year from 2004 to 2008, and nine per cent in 2009. One of the key initiatives undertaken by HH Sheikh Saud was to invite the World Bank to make a series of studies on how to make Ras Al Dr. Khater Massaad Khaimah a business-friendly and efficient investment destination, which resulted in the establishment of manufacturing, The emirate’s commitment to realise tourism, real estate, construction and its long-term objectives of becoming a services as key growth sectors of the haven for business and home living is local economy. In the past two years, RAK manifested by the success of key initiatives has also achieved ‘A’ ratings from S&P that have been launched by the emirate. and Fitch, primarily through HH Sheikh In particular, three such success stories Saud’s efforts to consolidate the RAK stand out: RAKIA, RAK Ceramics and Al Government’s balance sheet. Hamra Village.
RAKIA Established by an Emiri decree in 2005, RAKIA’s mandate is to be the main vehicle that oversees the socio-economic development of the emirate. Specifically, it is responsible for the industrial, commercial, trade, health and educational development initiatives in Ras Al Khaimah. It also manages the emirate’s three investment zones – the Industrial Zone and the Free Zone in Al Hamra, and the Industrial Park in Al Ghail, which have been developed to attract local and international investors. To date, it has generated investments close to $3 billion from all over the world. Under RAKIA, infrastructure facilities were developed to cater to several high-potential investment sectors, including industrial and manufacturing; warehousing, cold stores, transport and distribution; tourism; real estate and construction; mining, minerals exploration, extraction and quarrying; food processing and dairy products; international maritime-related industries and services, including maintenance and fabrication works; and trade and commerce. To maximise the business potential of investors, RAKIA also developed a full range of business incentives that include 100 per cent income and corporate tax exemptions; 100 per cent capital and profit repatriation; 100 per cent ownership in free zones; no foreign exchange control; avoidance of double taxation with many countries; and absence of restrictions on hiring of expatriates. All goods produced
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in Ras Al Khaimah also enjoy a duty exemption in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Highlighting the authority’s continuing success story, a recent report revealed a 75 per cent growth in the total number of businesses registered in the emirate – comprising local and international investors – during the first quarter of 2010. In the month of March, 115 new businesses registered with RAKIA, setting an all-time record with the most number of businesses registered with the investment authority in a single month. Overall, there are more than 6,500 companies registered, representing investors from diverse non-oil sectors including industrial, commercial, trading, services/consulting, and media companies. There are 3,030 on-shore companies and a total of 3,500 companies registered through RAKIA’s off-shore facility, which recorded a 90 per cent growth during the first quarter of 2010 over the same period in 2009. In addition, negotiations are underway with several more companies from countries including Belgium, UAE, USA, Kuwait, Egypt, Turkey, Italy, India, Germany, France, Pakistan and Canada to set up business ventures and investment activities in the emirate. Up to 66 per cent of businesses registered in RAKIA are from international destinations like Europe, India, USA, Russia, CIS and several Asian countries, while 19 per cent are from the rest of the Middle East. Domestic investors account for the remaining 15 per cent of business registered in the emirate. RAKIA is also the master developer of Bab Al Bahr, which is one of the premier development projects on Al Marjan Island. Bab Al Bahr offers six residential buildings with 992 apartments (studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms), a 4-star hotel and a commercial complex, all offering a 180-degree sea view. Another major development under RAKIA’s portfolio is the prestigious Banyan Tree project, which was completed and handed over in 2009.
Banyan Tree features 31 luxurious tented villas and 70 block villas equipped with conference facilities, restaurants and bars, making it a unique desert resort.
RAK Ceramics RAK Ceramics is a $1 billion global conglomerate that has been officially recognised as the world’s largest ceramic tile manufacturer by the Ceramic World Review, the best known and most widely circulated international magazine devoted to ceramic tile and sanitary ware production technologies. With exports to over 150 countries, the company achieved a 16.5 per cent business growth in 2009 and a 20 per cent increase in profits despite the global recession. In dominating the rankings of the world’s top 25 ceramic tile manufacturers in 2009, the company achieved a total
across six countries which collectively employ a workforce of 15,000 people. The state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Ras Al Khaimah alone produce more than 225,000 square metres of tiles per day and over 8,500 pieces of sanitaryware. Global production exceeds 360,000 square metres of tiles and 12,000 pieces of sanitaryware per day. The company continues to expand its businesses through joint ventures and diversification of its product range. It has joined hands with Laticrete International Inc. of USA to form LaticreteRAK, a joint-venture that offers highly effective, strong and durable tile adhesives, grouts and epoxy-based products having tiling applications. It has also partnered with Kludi of Germany to establish KludiRAK, which offers world-class bathroom and kitchen fittings that contribute
RAK Ceramics showroom
production output of 115 million square metres from 15 manufacturing facilities located in six countries. It remains in a strong position to boost its current production capacity of 117 million square metres as expansion programmes are underway to cater to new markets in different parts of the world. RAK Ceramics produces ceramic tiles, sanitaryware and tableware through 15 factories situated
significantly to ecological balance with its water-saving systems. New business ventures initiated by the company include RAK Porcelain, which produces high-quality porcelain tableware for professional application in the hospitality industry and consumer usage; and RAK Paints, which manufactures eco-friendly, water-based and epoxybased high-quality paints with a variety of
colours for industrial and residential usage. A recipient of the Company of the Year award during the 2004 Arabian Business Achievement Awards and the Excellence in Industry Award during the 2005 Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award, RAK Ceramics continues to reap various industry accolades and was recently named by the SuperBrand Council as one of the UAE SuperBrands in 2010, a distinction it has earned for the second consecutive year. The company was also recently conferred the Best Brand while Dr. Khater Massaad, RAK Ceramics was awarded the Visionary CEO 2010 award during the Middle East Business Leaders Summit and Awards.
trips, catamaran rides, scuba diving and snorkelling and various other water sports like kayaks, paddle boats, parasailing, speedboats and water skiing. The Al Hamra Mall was opened in early 2009 with retail space for at least 186 shops. The mall now features a total of 125 major retail outlets and leading brands, including Spinneys, Adidas, Starbucks and Esprit among others. Al Hamra Village also offers a novel investment concept wherein property owners at Al Hamra Residences have
the option to generate additional income through a special management agreement with Hamra Hotels and Resorts. “RAKIA, RAK Ceramics and Al Hamra Village help perpetuate the success that Ras Al Khaimah has achieved over the years through the long-term social and economic benefits that these initiatives deliver. Ras Al Khaimah will build on these success stories to develop more innovative programmes and development projects that are in line with our ultimate goal for the emirate,� concluded Dr Massaad.
Al Hamra Village Al Hamra Village is a five million square metre coastal development built around its own yacht club and marina with water views and an 18-hole championship golf course, the longest golf course on a sea site. Offering 100 per cent freehold properties that redefine the meaning of luxury living, Al Hamra Village will feature more than 1,000 villas, town houses and 2,500 apartments on completion. A 200-berth marina and a Palace Luxury Hotel to be built in the UAE, known as Al Hamra Palace, are among the key attractions of the coastal community. Strategically located between the Musandam mountains and the Arabian Gulf, the mixed-use project will also feature a diverse range of leisure and commercial facilities, including fine dining, refreshing spa experiences, a premium selection of shopping outlets, boutique hotels and restaurants, private beaches, water sports, the latest telecommunication facilities, and stateof-the-art on-site security to ensure safety and privacy. There is also a dedicated Business Suite and a fully equipped Business Centre, while the Al Hamra Convention Centre is located just nearby. The offerings of the Marina at Al Hamra Village include deep-sea fishing
Al Hamra Village
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Real Estate
It’s a breeze Phase 3 of Royal Breeze building and town house development now in final stages of construction work
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Al Khaimah-based Al Hamra Real Estate Development has announced that Phase 3 of the Royal Breeze freehold residential development. Type A townhouses will be the first units to be delivered to investors, while Type C townhouses, which have been fully constructed and are now undergoing the Royal Breeze finishing works, will be delivered by March 2011. The Royal Breeze buildings RB1, RB2 Hamra Real Estate Dev. LLC. and RB3 are expected to be completed Royal Breeze is a seaside and golf by the first quarter of 2011 and will start course freehold property development handover by April 2011. that offers excellent seaviews/golf and “The Royal Breeze project has lagoon views. Approximately 45 minutes progressed right on schedule and a lot from Dubai airport, this exclusive getaway of investors and property owners are setting is nestled at the beachfront lagoon now eagerly awaiting the handover of Al Hamra Village and is designed and of the properties. The company has built based on Mediterranean style theme, likewise been gaining momentum with combined with world-class interiors and its marketing initiatives for this project top-of-the-line amenities. with investor interest steadily growing as Hamra Hotels and Resorts has this groundbreaking project finally takes announced the opening of Al Hamra shape. Our commitment Al Hamra Residences to adhere strictly to the construction schedule has certainly been greatly reassuring for the stakeholders of this project and has been a key factor in boosting investor interest, both in this development and in Ras Al Khaimah as a whole,” said, Ayoob Al Faraj, General Manager, Al
Residences in Ras Al Khaimah, offering 218 fully furnished apartments. The company has also introduced an investment concept in Ras Al Khaimah wherein investors owning or seeking to buy any of the residential units here have the option to lease them back to Hamra Hotels and Resorts, which will manage and lease the property on the investors’ behalf. All the apartments are equipped with plasma screen TVs, cable television channels, kitchen appliances and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi internet access. The residential units also feature a distinct modern Arabic design and are available in a variety of choices, including studios, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom and four unique 5-bed duplex apartments. Also, these residences are available for rental on a nightly basis or for longer periods
spanning months and years. Residents and guests will enjoy exciting views of ecological reserves, beaches, the Arabian Gulf and the towering Hajjar Mountains, while the apartments are also equipped with a private entrance and reception. They also have access to a luxurious spa, offering saunas, jacuzzis, fully-equipped gymnasium, tennis courts, men’s and ladies salons, two swimming pools, a 1.2-kilometre private beach, and waterfronted 18-hole championship golf course. Rakeen has announced that structural work and block work of the Bab Al Bahr project, the centrepiece development of Al Marjan Island, the first man-made island in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, are 100 per cent complete, while craftsmen have already started working on the external plaster work. Rakeen further revealed that the project remains firmly on schedule with the first wave of six residential buildings to be delivered within the year and various infrastructure facilities expected to be completed in time for the handover. Bab Al Bahr serves as a gateway to Al Marjan Island, a fully integrated island community that is destined to be a major landmark in Ras Al Khaimah. Yahia Kambris, Technical Director, Rakeen, said: “Bab Al Bahr is set to be Ras Al Khaimah’s most exquisite, tranquil and naturally breathtaking beachfront address, bringing alive our vision to create the finest in island living. With the excellent pace of construction work, excitement has certainly been building up among
all stakeholders of the project, particularly the future home owners of Bab Al Bahr, as the entire community gradually and steadily takes shape by the day.” “Rakeen remains firmly committed to adhere to the project schedule and we are thrilled to announce that we are nearing handover of six residential buildings. In line with this, key infrastructure facilities are being constructed ahead of schedule and will be ready in time for the handover,” added Kambris. Bab Al Bahr offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a 180-degree sea view, 560-metre private beach, gym facilities, underground car parking, ample children’s play areas, and hotel and club privileges. Rakeen also announced that it has completed 80 per cent of infrastructure work on Al Marjan Island, and is on track for its targeted completion date in 2012. Infrastructure services such as potable water system, irrigation system, storm water system, rising main system and vacuum system will be ready by the time the first development projects on the island are completed. Phase 1 of the infrastructure work, consisting of Peninsula Island No. 1 and 2, was awarded to Kumho Industrial from South Korea, which started construction work in September 2008. Phase 2, consisting of Peninsula Island 3 and 4, was awarded to Italian contractor Rizzani
Al Marjan Island
De Eccher, and work commenced in November 2009. Yahia Kambris, Technical Director, Rakeen, said: “Construction work has progressed according to schedule and we are on track to complete all infrastructure work in 18 months. The first development projects to be completed on the island will then be able to hook up to the infrastructure services and enjoy various amenities on the island. In line with Rakeen’s core values of sustainability, responsibility and prosperity, this island is being developed to be one of the most attractive communities in the region with a serene and optimised living environment that provides a perfect balance between life and work.” The $1.8 billion (Dh6.6 billion) Al Marjan Island, one of the major projects of Rakeen, consists of five man-made coralshaped islands, covering over 2.7 million square metres and extending up to four kilometres into the Arabian Gulf. Bab Al Bahr
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Snippets
RAK Ceramics named UAE SuperBrand 2010 Powerful global brand image complements efforts to boost reputation of Ras Al Khaimah as an ideal manufacturing base
RAK
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Ceramics, the world’s largest ceramic tiles and sanitaryware manufacturing company, has been named as one of the UAE’s SuperBrands in 2010, a distinction it has earned for the second consecutive year. The award ceremony was held on 20th of July at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City when the company was presented the award by the SuperBrand Council, the world’s largest independent brand arbiter. RAK Ceramics has been credited for helping enhance the reputation of Ras Al Khaimah, and the rest of the UAE, as an ideal manufacturing base through its powerful global brand image and its sustained efforts to set new industry benchmarks and expand its presence in all international markets. Available in more than 150 countries, the brand is also renowned worldwide for offering the industry’s widest selection of colours, textures and finishes as well as an extensive array of coordinating trim and angle pieces. Dr. Khater Massaad, CEO, RAK Ceramics said: “The UAE SuperBrand award reaffirms the continued success of our brand awareness campaign, which focuses on product quality and service excellence. Moreover, the distinction serves as a powerful endorsement of the company’s ability to deliver on its brand promise, which is to be a trend setter and a benchmark for quality in the global ceramic tile industry. RAK Ceramics will continue to pursue its aggressive brand
identity programmes parallel with our efforts to maintain the highest quality standards in all our products and services, in line with our mission to enhance customer loyalty and further strengthen our brand image across global markets.” In addition to the UAE SuperBrand label, the manufacturer has also consistently won several other industry distinctions, including being rated as among the top four brands in the UAE by Brand Finance Middle East of the UK, Company of the Year by Arabian Business Awards, and the MRM Business Award for manufacturing, the topmost manufacturing award in the UAE. Earlier, in April 2010, it was awarded the Best Brand at Middle East Business Leaders Summit and Awards held in Dubai. Moreover, in the latest issue of Ceramic World Review, RAK Ceramics was officially recognised as the world’s largest manufacturer of ceramic tiles. The Ras Al Khaimah-based company was established in 1991 by HH Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and RAK Ceramics’ Chairman, and Dr. Khater Massaad, CEO, who directed the company towards global competitiveness, technological advancement and highquality production. Within just a decade of operations it has quickly established itself as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of ceramic tiles and, ultimately, the largest producer in the global market. The products include world-
Abdallah Massaad receiving UAE Superbrand 2010 award
class ceramic wall and floor tiles, Gres Porcellanato, and sanitary ware, which are distributed in Europe, Asia, Australia, USA and Canada. The company uses more than 8,000 production models, with new designs added almost every week to its product portfolio. Renowned as an industry pioneer, RAK Ceramics is the world’s first company to launch Luminous, Golden or Silver Glazed tiles and the Antimicrobial, a super speciality tile for the hospital industry. Latest creations include the high-valued brand ‘Elegance Ceramics’; and ‘RAKSLIM’, an eco-friendly 4.5-millimetre thick tile that sets new industry benchmarks in thickness, strength, cost and ease of use. The SuperBrand Council consists of eminent personalities in the world of branding. and seeks to pay tribute to established brands all over the world. It also produces various publications featuring the world’s SuperBrands. Being voted a SuperBrand serves as a powerful endorsement and evidence for existing and potential customers, media, suppliers, investors and employees of a brand’s exceptional status. The public-listed RAK Ceramics is currently the world’s largest manufacturer of ceramic and porcelain tiles accounting for more than $1 billion global sales annually. The company’s global production of tiles exceeds 360,000 square metres and 12,000 pieces of sanitary ware per day from its local and global state-of-the-art manufacturing plants.
Snippets
India beckons tourists The
undulating red sands of Ras Al Khaimah played host to a travel and tourism event recently. The Dubai office of India’s Tourism organised the Travel Agents Association Meet at the Acacia Hotel in Ras Al Khaimah in the month of November. The event was supported by Al Safeena Holidays and saw a good number of participants who consisted of an eclectic mix of the travel and tourism industry professionals, government
officials as well as other members from the associated industry. The event that saw various presentations on India, both mesmerised and educated the motley group on the heritage, art, culture, tourist spots, travel packages and other paraphernalia about India. Sudhir Kumar, Assistant Director, India Tourism, Dubai, who made presentations, promoted and publicised the various aspects of India under the Incredible India campaign.
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Snippets
Grey water for agriculture RAK’s water recycling plant now open
The
new water recycling and treatment plant in the Al Ghail Industrial Park in RAK will help promote agriculture in addition to solving the water problems in the area. The Dh7.3 million facility is able to process up to 2,000 cubic metres of water per day which is filtered for use in irrigation in the farms for at least three years as per its design. The highly advanced project will also process up to 1,000 cubic metres of the purified water using the reverse osmosis (ro) wastewater recycling and treatment plant to recycle waste water for industrial usage. The facility was opened by Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, son of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah during April. “The main objective of the project is to provide the emirate with the best sustainable, environmental and economical wastewater recycling and treatment solution,” said Essa Al Ghurair, Vice Chairman, Al Ghurair. The water recycling plant has been set up by the government of Ras Al Khaimah represented by Rakia, Al Ghurair and Hitachi plant technologies, Japan. The project was funded by the Japanese government research and development organisation NEDO (new energy and industrial technology development
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organisation) as a research project for wastewater recycling and treatment in the emirate. Tadahisa Okabe, Director General, Environment Technology Development Department, NEDO, explained, “The project at Al Ghail Industrial Park is NEDO’s first demonstration project in the UAE using Japan’s advanced water treatment technology. The systems installed under this project are expected to reduce energy requirement for water treatment by more than 30 per cent while providing secure water supply.” Manabu Shimokawa, Vice President and Executive Officer, Hitachi Plant Technologies, said, “Designed to achieve the stringent quality standards laid down internationally for unrestricted public access irrigation, the wastewater recycling and treatment process will consistently produce a treated effluent suitable for industrial and irrigation purposes.” Takeshi Yoshida, Chief Representative of NEDO, said $4.5 million has been invested in the plant’s design, construction and operation for the first three years. He noted that the plant was designed and built in four months at a cost of Dh7.3million ($2million).
Snippets
RAKBANK branch in Abu Dhabi New branch in the Corniche area RAKBANK recently expanded its branch network in the nation’s capital with the launch of its latest outlet located in the bustling Corniche area in Abu Dhabi which is home to a sizeable residential community of both UAE nationals and expatriates. “The economic boom and the resilience exhibited by the UAE’s capital during the past difficult two years have confirmed Abu Dhabi as a very fertile and promising market,” said Graham Honeybill, RAKBANK General Manager. “Even with the success of the bank’s newer facilities like telephone banking and online banking, branches continue to be a key service channel, handling a substantial portion of overall transactions,” said Ian Hodges, Rakbank Head of Personal Banking. “For that, we are constantly looking at opportunities to extend our distribution reach in key locations across the UAE.”
RAK Petroleum Announces Third Quarter Profit RAK Petroleum Public Company Limited, the oil and gas exploration and production company has announced a net profit of AED 20 million for the quarter ended, 30 September 2010 (unaudited), its sixth consecutively profitable quarter. For the first nine months of 2010, the Company posted a net profit of AED 60 million compared with a profit of AED 29.5 million for the full year 2009.” We are pleased to report the Company’s sixth consecutively profitable quarter as we continue to build a strong platform for future growth,” said Bijan Mossavar-Rahmani, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of RAK Petroleum. Turning to other blocks in which RAK Petroleum has an interest, Mossavar-Rahmani noted that the Company had recently acquired an additional 60 percent interest in the Saleh gas field in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and would commence redevelopment operations in the fourth quarter. The Company also announced that the Zad 2 exploration well in Block 47, Sultanate of Oman, had spudded on 9 October and would take three months to drill to the target depth of 4200 meters. Repsol Exploracion, S.A. is a 50 percent non-operating partner in Block 47. At an Extraordinary Meeting of Shareholders held on 4 October, Dr Zalmay Khalilzad was confirmed as a Director of the Board by shareholder vote. Shareholders also voted to give the Board at its discretion the right to raise capital through issuance and private placement(s) of the 2 billion additional authorized but unissued shares. RAK Petroleum Public Company Limited is registered in the RAK FTZ and is operator of seven blocks in the Sultanate of Oman and in the United Arab Emirates, of which one is in the production phase, three are in the exploration phase, and three are undergoing appraisal for possible development/ redevelopment. RAK Petroleum also has a non-operating 30 percent interest in the Hammamet Offshore license in the Republic of Tunisia and a 30 percent shareholding in the publiclytraded Norwegian oil and gas company DNO International ASA (www.dno.no), whose principal producing properties are located in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and the Republic of Yemen.
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Aviation
Eye on the Sky Omar Jahameh, CEO of RAK Airways, the emirate’s carrier airline, espouses its motto ‘Small Fares, Big Deals’
Established
under Emiri decree No: 3/2006 issued by the late HH Sheikh Saqr bin Muhammad Al Qassimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, in January 2006, RAK Airways is a private joint stock company incorporated with an authorised capital of Dh1.5 billion. Recently, RAK Airways, Ras Al Khaimah’s carrier airline was relaunched on October 10, 2010 with a Dh10 introductory fare. Its first flight to Jeddah, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was received with a water cannon salute. The other route that RAK Airways currently flies to, is the city of Calicut in Kerala, India. RAK Airways currently has two aircrafts that fly four times a week to Calcut and Jeddah. Since the Calicut route has been received well, we plan to increase its frequency to 5 times a week.
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The relaunch of RAK Airways is set to play a key role in the promotion of Ras Al Khaimah as a favoured destination. Since 2003, H H Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has implemented wideranging organisational and economic reforms to promote local businesses, while attracting a steady flow of foreign investment. Committed to realising the latent potential of Ras Al Khaimah, he has focused on improving the sectors in which the emirate has a comparative advantage: tourism, real estate, and manufacturing. Ras Al Khaimah is blessed with a natural coastline, the majestic Hajar Mountain range and lush stretches of date palms that lead into the rolling sand dunes and an abundance of wildlife. The
Sheikh Omar Bin Saqr Al Qassimi Chairman of RAK Airways
emirate is aiming to quadruple tourist numbers by 2012, and plans to push the number of five-star hotel rooms up from 1,400 to 7,500 in addition to having at least 30 hotels. In terms of revenue, hotels are performing extremely well, with high occupancy rates. As the emirates’ popularity has risen, hotels have seen a marked increase in both business and leisure travellers. A vibrant economy and stable political environment means Ras Al Khaimah presents a compelling business opportunity for investors too. The cost of living and doing business in Ras Al Khaimah are markedly lower than other emirates and far less than traditional business centres such as New York, London or Mumbai, yet it is perfectly positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. As a testament to this fact, the emirate recently
received the Financial Times Group’s award for ‘Most Attractive Place in the Middle East for Foreign Direct Investment’. The Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is equipped to handle more aircraft and passengers, with plans for a parallel runway to be built to allow more planes to taxi at any one time. Located about 18kms from the city centre, the airport is not only modern, with stateof-the-art equipment and facilities, but also boasts a 3,760 metres long runway, capable of handling the biggest aircraft currently in service, including the new A 380. RAK Airways offers transportation facilities for its travellers from the other emirates. It has newly launched RAK Holidays that offers a round trip ticket at competitive rates to promote the emirate as well as its favoured destinations.
Omar Jahameh, CEO RAK Airways
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Envisioning RAK
Glamourising Work The RAK Business Centre, a unique boutique service provider, peps up the style of doing business in RAK
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When
Shahab Izadpanah TEP, CEO, RAK Company Administration FZ LLC, came to RAK four years ago, he was RAK offshore’s first registered agent. As his association with RAKIA grew over the years, in November 2009, he opened the RAK Business Square, a high-end service provider, located at the RAK Amenity Centre. The plush aesthetically designed RAK Business Centre, caters to a host of financial institutions, legal consultancy firms, large general trading corporations, corporate service providers and offers onshore and offshore RAKIA licences to them. It provides executive suites, fully staffed office spaces, flexi-desks, virtual offices, conference rooms and VIP lounges to all RAKIA companies, and has brought to RAK the concept of luxury at work. What’s more, with another office in Switzerland, the two offices, between them provide clients with prestigious corporate addresses, experienced professional staff and state-of-the-art office Shahab Izadpanah TEP technology. “Despite the recession, we have made plus a competitive package, and we offer profits,” states Shahab, who believes that all that being in the UAE,” he states. “In the the trend of investors coming to his facility recession, people are looking towards hasn’t abated since people are looking for value for money. Since RAKIA offers value for money. Right from 2007, when attractive rates, offshore companies could we were part of RAK offshore, we have set up in one day and incorporate in the enjoyed steady growth that continued free zone in 2-3 days,” he adds. even during the crash. RAKCA annual The RAK Business Centre provides growth rate for revenue from 2008 till investors a one stop destination to open 2010 has been 81per cent, 117per cent their company within RAKIA precincts. and 186per cent respectively. This is A significant aspect to the facility is because, of the quality of our products. that companies with licences from the Investors were looking for a niche high Department of Economic Development, quality service and we offered that. Our Government of Ras Al Khaimah, can foreign investors were looking at a place lease offices at the Amenity Centre. The with friendly jurisdiction, 100 per cent tax neighbouring areas will soon have a police repatriation, foreign ownership – all this
station for fingerprints, a hospital for medical tests, which aims to make the visa procedures easier for the investors. The Business Centre also offers businessmen the concept of virtual offices wherein clients can avail the services of a prestigious address and full services without paying the cost of a rented space. Flexidesks are usually preferred by companies wishing to test the market at a cost of Dh4,990 per year which gives clients two hours of access per day along with a PO Box, a shared workstation, a telephone number, access to copy centre, a private email ID, fax plus electricity, water, AC, cleaning services as well as parking facilities. For clients looking for a permanent yet cost-effective work space, the RAK Business Centre offers a private desk space for a period of a day or three months or more. Other facilities include, a well –equipped conference room, a VIP Business Lounge that also serves refreshments. The centre has been attracting clientele from across the world. “We had an exhibition in Geneva last month and it was heartening to know that people are very familiar with the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in the western world. In fact, at on one of our conferences, I met a scientist from Geneva who was planning to move his laboratory to Canada but a chance meeting with HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE, convinced him to shift his laboratory from Lausanne to RAK instead of Canada. There are other such stories too – because RAK has all the ingredients to pull people towards it – its natural resources and the business-friendly environment to start with…
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Interview
Heading Northwards Michel Henriquet, who runs RAK’s first ever French law firm Henriquet Leclercq & Partners, moved his business from France to RAK in a month. He states why several large French companies are considering investing in RAK
“I
belong to the North of France and I am proud to be in Ras Al Khaimah, that belongs to the Northern Emirates,” states Michel Henriquet, Founding Partner of the law firm HL & Partners (Henriquet Leclercq & Partners) based in Paris and Ancien Secrétaire de la Conference at the Paris Bar. Michel Henriquet has an office in the RAK Business Square premises at the Amenity Centre in the Al Hamra area. What brought him to Ras Al Khaimah and not the other emirates? “I met the right persons at the right time,” he states mentioning how his meeting with Shahab Izadpanah, CEO, RAKCA (RAK Company Administration FZ-LLC), convinced him that he was in safe hands. “Within a
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Michel Henriquet seated first from left at an event
month, I opened our secondary office in RAK. This also involved settling my family that comprises my wife, three children and my personal Arabic associate to the UAE. I am a lawyer and if I made the move, it obviously involved a lot of adjustments...” he states, adding that RAK is quite wellknown in Europe, more as a place where limestone is extracted… to begin with. Michel’s firm acts a bridge to businesses between Africa and the GCC countries and what better than a friendly emirate like RAK to set up his Arab headquarters? “In RAK, I am close to the most important protagonist – the Arab world,” he states. He analyses the emirate’s numerous positive points and finds that its
best quality is being understated about its achievements. “RAK has clever and quiet people-who are not agitated, and they are all extremely dedicated to the growth of the emirate,” He states. All praise for RAK’s foray into being an industrial hub, he states that industries are the best way to increase wealth. “The people of the emirate are its biggest asset. They are friendly and helpful. I am sure that if I am in RAK, I will be assisted by professionals. It doesn’t matter then, if my problem is as minute as fixing a flat tyre or bigger decisions such as company mergers and acquisitions. For me, personally, this quality is very important. It is a good feeling to work in this atmosphere.” HL & Partners also has several clients that consist of large French companies, who are considering RAK as a probable investment destination. “Many of our clients and friends from French companies have asked us to find out about RAK and the way it conducts business and they seem to be keen to move here”, he adds. “You cannot find such serenity in many places in the world. Its serenity is its biggest advantage – and that will make it much sought after in the near future.” As a parting shot, he adds, “If the place you are working offers you the time to think and be creative, it is perfect, for any kind of sustainable business.”
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Interview
From Chance to Choice Why the Canadian - Algerian scientist Dr Mustapha Merabet chose to set up the Electromagnetic Process Research & Development Laboratory in RAK instead of Canada
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magnetic Process Research & Development Laboratory (EMP-R&D Lab) will be established in RAK to focus on research and development in industrial electromagnetic processing of materials. In EMP-R&D Lab, we thoroughly investigate the physical properties of materials, and design the electromagnetic process parameters in order to achieve specific properties for the final products and thus help make them successful in the world marketplace. From Dr Mustapha Merabet previous R&D assignments, such electromagnetic technologies proved to from the National Institute of Scientific be very effective and successful on a wide Research (INRS) in Quebec-Canada. He range of materials, such as hard materials spent more than 13 years with Nestle’s (cement, ceramics, glass), soft materials main Research Centre in Lausanne(pharmaceuticals, foods) and technical Switzerland, where he set up and ran the materials (high and low voltage electrical Biological Materials – Electromagnetic insulation cables). In addition, EMP-R&D Interactions Laboratory. He manages the Lab is involved in the development of a EMP-R&D. brand new non-thermal electromagnetic As her his earlier plan, EMP-R&D Lab technology for seawater desalination was to be located in Canada where without the recourse to membranes. Dr Merabet had maintained very “For more than 25 years, I have been an strong relations with universities and active scientist and promoter of industrial research centers involved in Industrial electromagnetic technologies and related Electromagnetic Processes research domains such as microwave and radioactivities. However, in February 2010, Dr frequency technologies, and material Merabet attended a scientific symposium dielectric research,” states Dr Mustapha on Advanced Materials organised by Merabet, a PhD in Energy Sciences
RAK-CAM in Ras Al Khaimah and his plans changed. “I was really impressed by the scientific level and the relevance of communications during the symposium, and by the involvement of the RAK authorities in ensuring the success of the symposium, and mostly in conveying the message that RAK is heading towards a truly knowledgedriven economy. The message of HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah was striking and convincing. He stated clearly that the development of RAK will be driven to a large extent by technological development and innovation,” states Dr Merabet. Considering the development of stateof-the-art facilities in RAK, the forthcoming opening of the RAK CAM laboratory, the involvement of the RAK authorities in helping and facilitating the development of technological companies, he decided to set up EMP-R&D Laboratory in Ras Al Khaimah. “During the development of our project, we contacted RAKCA and received very strong support and specific and personalised advice from very dedicated and professional RAKCA managers and representatives,” He adds.
Education
Education is Key to Progress In primary education, Sheikh Saqr’s insistence on compulsory schooling of all children has ensured the presence of an educated workforce manning several federal government departments
One
of the biggest initiatives in RAK has been the expansion of education and research. HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah has greatly encouraged education by carrying forward the glorious and enlightened tradition of his father, the late HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. This can be seen from the establishment of major universities in RAK. Institutions like the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) and India’s prestigious University of Pune have uplifted the profile of the emirate significantly. Moreover, the RAK Health and Medical Sciences University (RAKHMSU), the College of Dental Sciences, and Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi (India) – all have catered to the youth’s thirst for an adventure in ideas and the quest for knowledge. In primary education, Sheikh Saqr’s insistence on compulsory schooling of all children – no matter what their circumstances – has ensured the presence of an educated workforce that is now manning several federal government departments. Last year, RAK saw the establishment of the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University that offers a Master’s degree in Nutrition. Sheikh Saud also laid the foundation stone for the Swissbased Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Laussane (EPFL) -- one of Europe’s leading institutions of science and technology. In the region, the focus of EPLF will be on energy, environment, construction and IT. Sheikh Saud has also announced other measures, like the expansion of the Sheikh Saqr Al Qasimi Fellowship programme to encourage
scientific research in UAE’s universities, and to position the emirate as a global centre of excellence in materials science research. The RAK Centre for Advanced Materials (RAKCAM) provides half a dozen new research grants to those involved in materials sciences research in UAE’s universities and other countries in the Gulf region. In a recent speech at the Global Arab Business Meeting (GABM) in the emirate, Sheikh Saud stressed on creating a scientific temper in the UAE with a strong focus on advanced research. He emphasised, in no uncertain terms, that education was the only path towards progress in an increasingly globalised world, and intellectual property was the real wealth of a country. “Education is the key to empowering our young generation and helping them reach their
“We recognise that we in RAK are only as good as the schools we have, and without good schools, we cannot realise our dreams or take hold of our future” HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah
true potential,” he remarked. He also pointed out how nations can make a turnaround within 10 to 20 years through proper development of their human capital. “Over 65 per cent of Arab population is under 24 years of age and this could be a good thing if we can make sure that the young citizens of this region are well-educated and ready to work,” He added. Sheikh Saud was of the view that the Arab world must create its roadmap for success through good investment strategies, infrastructure, education system and work ethics. He said Ras Al Khaimah had benefited much during the past seven years by implementing innovative business reforms aimed at enhancing competitiveness and creating a businessfriendly environment.
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Education
Academy of Excellence Education can be best developed through public- private partnership. Shaukat Mirza, President, American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), explains how
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education is an important element in the development of society and it is an important indication of prosperity. One of the reasons this country has become the fastest growing economy in the world is due to its growing number of educational institutions and the availability of talented human resources. The task of developing education in the information society falls not just on the government but on responsible people in society and we have to ensure that the future graduates are able to move around the globe and are competitive in the international arena. Education does not exist in a vacuum; it has to be nurtured and developed with a lot of effort from all sections of society,
Shaukat Mirza, President, AURAK
and the best way to develop and impart education to all is through public and private partnership. Today, Ras Al Khaimah is on the way to becoming an educational hub for students not just from the region, but from the entire world, and this is due to the long-term vision of HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, and the continued innovative support from Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and member of Supreme Council who is also the Chancellor of AURAK. Under the guidance of these visionary leaders today AURAK is growing exponentially in numbers developing a culture of lifelong learning. AURAK is an American style educational institution offering diversified programmes such as;
BS in Biotechnology BS in Business, with specialisation in International Business, Finance, Marketing
BS in Electronics & Communication Engineering, and BS in Computer Engineering Apart from these programmes AURAK also offers an English Language Program for those students who are academically qualified but have deficiency in English language proficiency. All the programmes are designed to meet market demands. Students from around the world, speak about diversity at the AURAK campus, which enables the students to co-exist in a diversified culture. High quality sophisticated labs support the relevant courses in the respective programmes. On the campus, you will discover; • A safe and student-friendly environment. • Curricular activities co-exist with
social, cultural and sports activities. • Career Services to prepare the student for job opportunities and also orient them with avenues for higher education. • Separate male and female residence halls with round-the-clock-security, with state-of-the-art infrastructure. A mini mart, food court, book store, gymnasium, indoor & outdoor sports facilities, local and inter-emirate transportation and weekend trips are just
some of the facilities at AURAK. AURAK is an affordable university dedicated to the academic success of its students. Hence, it offers a variety of scholarships to all categories of students in order to provide a hassle-free academic atmosphere. The Admission Office which opens on all working days from 8.30am to 5pm, will be more than happy to provide detailed information and offer direct counselling to all inquiries for successful enrolment in AURAK.
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Contact us at: American University of Ras Al Khaimah PO Box: 10021, Ras Al Khaimah United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 7 2210500 Fax: +971 7 2210-300/638 Email: admissions@aurak.ae url: www.aurak.ae
Entertainment
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Bollywood Calling
R
AK’s natural advantage of being closer to its beaches, deserts and mountains has benefits more than tourism. In fact, it is the perfect location for film shoots that Bollywood (the Hindi film industry) and Lollywood, (Pakistani film industry) prefers. “You can call RAK a studio city. It has its natural advantages, plus its malls, the city, the countryside, world class developments, amusement park, etc – all that are being used effectively and well for film shoots,” states Junaid Shaikh, CEO of Media Investment Administration, RAK Media City or RMC, a Dh700 million project which aims to cater to the film world. It is
Ras Al Khaimah is slowly becoming a favoured destination for Bollywood film shoots
positioning itself as a unique platform for the film fraternity in India and Pakistan. But the most important reason why film crews descend on RAK is because it is cost-effective, well-organised and within easy flying distance from India and Pakistan. The recent addition to its landmarks: the Hamra Palace Hotel, has been a venue for an Indo-Pakistani venture, a film called Sultanate. Some Pakistani television serials have also been shot there. The most recent shoot, which happened in August, was a Hindi film called Will you Marry Me that has actor Shreyas Talpade in the lead role as well as stars like Celina Jaitley. In the past, the Manar Mall has been the venue of a well-known Bollywood number, You’re my Love from the Salman Khan-Govinda film Partner. “Most places in RAK can be reached within 15 minutes. So, film crews have easy access to a variety of locations-be it the sea, mountains, deserts, malls or
the city. Also, it is very cost-effective,” Shaikh states. “For instance, the cost of hiring a helicopter for an aerial shot is Dh5,000 per hour, but a microlite hired for the whole day costs Dh500-700 per hour. It is technically convenient to place the camera inside a microlite rather than a helicopter, and there are no jerks too. Also, it can be landed nearly anywhere and an entire day’s shoot works out rather cheap,” he adds. Hotels in RAK too are well equipped to handle film crews. Rentals are low, so is the cost of shifting from one location to another. “ If it snows in Jebel Jais regularly, like it did last year, that too will be one of the star attractions for film shoots,” he adds. About 300 firms are already registered with RMC and many more approvals are in the pipeline. Among the registered companies are media and marketing companies, film production houses and IT companies. The RAK Media City itself is being built in the Al Hamra area, is spread over two million square feet, and is
divided into three phases. The first phase will be completed over the next two years. RMC will cater to every aspect of film-making. Some of the Bollywood dignitaries on the board of RMC are Ramesh Sippy, Boney Kapoor, Pahlaj Nehalani and Manmohan Shetty. Talent from Pakistan on the RMC board includes Javed Shaikh, director and actor, and Qavi Khan. Apart from infrastructure, the RMC is in the process of forming a Film Producers’ Association, a Directors Association, a Film Federation and National Film Development Corporation and a RAK Film Council. Its main focus is to encourage talent from all three nations - India, Pakistan and the UAE - under one platform. For instance, a producer from Pakistan can come and sign an Indian director, and vice-versa. RMC will step in from the inception of the movie till it is in the market.
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Health
Advantage RAK No longer does the West hold its monopoly over the healthcare industry. In this new era, where the developed world is travelling to the developing world for premium healthcare reasons, what are RAK Hospital’s advantages to pull medical tourist traffic towards itself? RAK Today speaks to Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital
The
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global healthcare tourism industry is estimated to be about $60 billion according to Mckinsey, and the 2010 projection of the same is estimated to be $100 billion. Millions of people travel around the world for healthcare reasons and this movement is induced by three major reasons: 1. Non-availability of quality healthcare in their countries of residence 2. Availability of quality healthcare but at a higher price 3. Availability of high quality healthcare, at prices that people can afford but with long queues. “For many years, the two major healthcare destinations preferred were the US and UK and some areas of Switzerland. Prior to September 11, 2001, $10 billion was spent in the US in this sector alone, but after the event, things slackened down. Most of the business that the US received at that point, had been from the Middle East and African countries. After September 11, this traffic moved to other regions of the world,” states Siddiqui. Today, the West no longer holds the monopoly of the healthcare industry. The era of the developing world going to the developed world for healthcare has taken a complete U-turn with the developed world preferring to go to the developing world for their healthcare needs. “In 2005, as per the statistics, half a million Americans travelled to Mexico and Latin America, and the same year Singapore received 250,000 medical tourists. Today, India receives half a million patients while Thailand receives 1 million
Raza Siddiqui
medical tourists,” He adds. In the midst of this decentralisation of the healthcare industry, the Middle East becomes an ideal medical tourism market. In the past, the Middle East had been a fishing pond for the European and the US healthcare industry and many consultants and hospitals managed to successfully convince people from this region to travel there for treatment. But now, with the standards of healthcare in the Middle East going up, with JCI accredited hospitals, top notch facilities, hiring doctors with the right credentials, this sector is fast emerging and has all the potential for pulling medical tourists here. One of the Middle East’s biggest advantage is that it has a thriving hospitality industry which complements the medical tourism industry. Its disadvantages are its not being known as a healthcare hub, an idea that is fast changing, since several hospitals in the
region are courting US accreditations to increase their credibility and tell the world that they too are world-class. “Accreditation is coming into vogue now since the international traveller is familiar with UK and US names,” adds Siddiqui. The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is unique in the UAE. Its biggest advantage is its uncorrupted landscape – it has a great combination of mountains, seas and deserts, and is peppered with date plantations and other green patches, since it receives regular rainfall. Beneath this canopy is the aesthetically designed RAK Hospital, that is part of Arabian Healthcare, a 50:50 joint venture company between the Government of Ras Al Khaimah - under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qassimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and ETA Star Healthcare of Dubai. RAK Hospital aims to provide international quality healthcare with highly qualified medical staff and skilled nursing care by redefining the standards of excellence in patient care with premium hospitality. Sonnenhof Swiss Health, a well-known, leading healthcare group from Switzerland were the partner of choice for Arabian Healthcare to manage the operations of RAK Hospital. Drawing upon the rich Swiss heritage of healthcare and hospitality, Sonnenhof Swiss Health carries a distinct brand and abides by stringent norms in global medical practice. Swiss Health has received top ranking from WHO for the quality and reliability of its services. It also ranks at the top in measures like life expectancy, access and
responsiveness and fairness in financial contribution. “We have had 2 accreditation within 11 months of operation – from Swiss leading hospitals which is based on European EFQM and top of the line hospitality standards and American standards of accreditation (JCI). We offer rates at par with India and are located in the Arab world. Can it get any better?” asks Siddiqui. RAK’s strategic location makes it ideal for tourists from the Middle East, Yemen, Oman, East and West Africa. “ We are promoting RAK Hospital in the African countries and the CIS countries. We are talking to local embassies to meet up with the Ministry of Health and are engaged with insurance companies, local hospitals and general practitioners. We have realised that RAK has all the potential to pull tourists from all over the world. “ What would medical tourists look for? Their visas organised, marhaba services , a good hotel with great F & B options, hospital pick-up and drop services, providing for the patient’s family , taking care of the patient’s needs and his medical requirements putting him on a plane safely and keeping him connected to the hospital.” What about the costs? With South East Asia and India being strong contenders for medical tourism? What are the advantages of RAK as a medical tourist destination? “Our rates are quite affordable. We offer nearly the same price as India,” he sums up.
The Cost of Medical Procedures in Selected Countries (in USD) US Procedures Retail Price
US Insurer’s Cost
India
Thailand
Angioplasty
$98,618
$44,268
$11,000
$13,000
$ 13,000
$ 10,656
Heart-valve Replacement (Single)
$274,395
$122,969
$ 9,500
$10,500
$ 13,000
$ 11,000
Hip $ 75,399 Replacement
$ 31,485
$ 9,000
$ 12,000
$12,000
$11,475
Knee Replacement
$ 69,991
$30,358
$8,500
$10,000
$13,000
$ 12,000
Gastric Bypass
$82,646
$47,735
$11,000
$15,000
$15,000
$ 11,885
Singapore RAK Hospital
• Retail price and insurer’s costs represent the mid-point between low and high ranges. • U.S rates include at least one day of hospitalisation. International rates include airfare, hospital and hotel Sources: Subimo ( US Rates): Planet Hospital ( International rates), cited in Unmesh Kher, “ Outsourcing Your Heart,” Time, May21, 2006 ( Data compiled from Medical Tourism: Global Competition in Health Care, Page 11)
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Fashion
Swishing Abayas… Emirati designers take the traditional abaya to its prettiest best
One
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of the most beautiful local attires for women, the abaya saw a great deal of creativity in the recently concluded Dubai Fashion Week. In the series titled Nabrman,, or ‘White Flower’ - the brainchild of two Emirati women, who showcased their Spring/Summer collection of abayas, the classic loosefitting and flowing abayas retained their shape and form, while being embellished with subtle prints and satin sashes. Three of the outfits incorporated light digital printing of green
and blue bands in varying intensities on their sleeve ends as well as along the edges of the skirts. The 16-piece collection inserted hints of glamour while preserving their essence of minimalism. The abayas presented were modest but high on the elegance quotient, representing the personality of the UAE-based brand. While the daywear abayas were accompanied by satin sashes in baby pink, violet, brown and ivory, the sashes were draped over the abayas in
innovative ways, resulting in a variety of silhouettes that transformed the traditional abaya into works of art. The evening wear abayas factored in more glamour as they were complemented by brightly coloured satin gowns that were overlaid with the sheer black fabric, touched up with a shimmering finish. The collection was clearly aimed at the modern Emirati woman who wishes to keep up with the latest trends, while holding steadfast to her values of modesty and simplicity.
Abeer Al Suwaidi, the Emirati designer - also called the pioneer of the skinny abaya and the illustrated abaya - had a great show. Both styles made appearances on the runway in various materials, shades and patterns. The tempo of the show was a gradual buildup, climaxing in the models bursting out onto the stage. The collection was demonstrative of the abaya’s fusion with pop culture without compromising its classic appeal. The show was a joyful tribute to the glorious yesteryears, by
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and for, the Emirati woman. Drummers in Rastafarian caps set the stage for an energetic and pulsating show. The highly theatrical show, with feeding bottles, Rasta braids, Thai headdresses, cupcakes and large glasses on the models, that made for a fun collection, reflected the designer’s personality. The collection paid tribute to Bob Marley and David Bowie by boldly emblazoning their faces onto the black abayas. Innovative designs
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included knotted coloured cloth that held the abayas in place, as well as the two-piece abaya and patterned sleeve endings in a myriad of colours. The ever popular butterfly sleeve took a whole new meaning as models in black abayas strutted to reveal brightly coloured patterns on the underside of the abaya. The collection was divided into four themes, - taking one through the 70s, 80s, and the 90s’ with one theme focussing on Moroccan and Thai
culture. The abayas reflected the Emirati woman as one with multiple interests and passions. The material of choice was primarily cotton, in a bid to make comfortable, weather-friendly abayas. German-Arab designer Mona Faris’ show Electri-city presented more than 50 outfits for men, women and children, all in bright colours, emphasising the vibrancy that marks the advent of spring. Faris’s collection showcased all aspects of urban citywear - including fashion
for the street, flowing Grecian gowns, neon wear for children, modern abayas, as well as resort wear, all with a futuristic undertone. The UV lighting set off the neon to its fullest impact as models walked the runways with cushions and clutches, all with the stamp of an artist in their element. Metallic shoes were a fixture, serving as the perfect balance to the other elements of the radical ensemble. Conventionally cut shirts, jackets and
pants in monochrome were made exciting with a dash of neon piping, and colourful collars – all addressing the laidback man with a keen sense of fashion. ‘Electri-city’ was a portrait of how the designer, Mona Faris saw Dubai, the city she grew up in. The collection works in a contemporary twist on traditional Arab outfits – inspired by the city with colourful abayas and shortened dishdashas for the ladies. Vibrant
colours in jersey silk were interspersed with patterned cloth as well as warm tones in cotton and velveteen. The season’s hot favourites – leggings were complimented with flowing tunics in neon green, fuchsia and bright orange. Flowing gowns, kaftans, harem pants as well as short dresses were adorned with subtle touches of feminine grace using gemstones, buttons and bows, as exquisitely beaded necklines on solid-coloured dresses.
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Tourism
Come Home to RAK
With as many as 20 new hotels proposed over the next five years, RAK’s tourism industry will see an upswing
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Department of Economic Development handles tourism through its Tourism Promotional /Administration Department that liaises with hotels, awards licences to them after inspecting their plans and layouts, and promotes tourism through various activities, fairs and international participations. Prof. Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, Director-General of the Economic Department, Government of Ras Al Khaimah, states that RAK has a diverse strategy to lure tourists, be it in the areas of leisure, business, investment, real estate, academics or health. “We are blessed with a diversity of natural resources – mountains
and the sea come together in the northern part, we have sand dunes, cultivated land as well as long stretches of the seashore – all of which work to our advantage.” As a result, the RAK government under HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has considered tourism as an important industry to the emirate - to nourish and revitalise it in areas of leisure, business, investment, real estate,
academics or health. What is interesting is that RAK caters to all segments of tourists – from those travelling on a shoestring budget to those looking for luxury holidays. “For all these activities, we have a branch at Al Hamra, and soon, we will have a facility at the Manar Mall too,” states Alkim. “Tourism is one of the emirate’s top non-oil revenue resources, and we are currently expanding our tourism infrastructure as we expect the footfall in RAK to increase from 500,000 to around 2.5 million by 2013. Up to $10 billion in investment is allocated to various theme parks, resorts, hill stations plus five and seven-star hotels – all to be implemented in the
next few years. At the moment, our total hotel capacity is around 1,800 hotel rooms, with an average occupancy rate of 90 per cent which will be significantly increased by up to 3,700 new rooms in the next few years,” states Dr Khater Massaad, Advisor to the Crown Prince, and CEO of RAKIA. One of the major tourist events held in RAK is the Awafi Festival that will celebrate its eighth year in 2011. A great crowdpuller, and a hotspot for investment, there is a high demand on liasoning businesses to the festival. “The roads are full of cars, and every year, the number of people frequenting the festival is increasing,” he adds. Every other year, the Economic Department of RAK holds an International conference. While the last conference, which was held two years ago, was on statistics and information, the next one shall concentrate on Industrial Investment. “In the pipeline, is a tourism conference too. In terms of medical tourism that RAK has been promoting, state-of-the-art RAK Hospital has been quite active. The hospital now even has a cardio-vascular surgeon to address the high rate of heart diseases in this region. Everyone benefits out of tourism, it is a win-win situation for all sectors. The hotels do well, restaurants, car and taxi services, malls, resorts etc – all of them get active,” states Alkim. In line with the expected increase in the number of tourists and residents, the emirate is also building a wide array of apartments, commercial complexes, marinas, and golf courses and other sports facilities, world-class restaurants and shopping malls, to cater to the expanding needs of society. Another key growth area we are focusing on is ongoing infrastructure and real estate projects being undertaken - part of a longterm plan to establish RAK as a popular destination for tourists and business visitors alike. The RAK Government is also planning to build a hill resort that will be located 1,800 metres above sea level on the mount called Jebel Jais. Infrastructure
Jazeera Al Hamra village
works are under progress and almost 80 per cent of the access road has been completed. Some of the most important sights of RAK are :
Al Jazeera Al Hamra village This abandoned village situated in the Al Hamra Port area reflects the architecture of the region in the 1950s. Though most parts of it are in ruins, the village square, the tower and parts of homes with old-fashioned bolts look alluring. Various myths surround the place and it reminds you of the life and times of days gone by.
Equine Trails You can try out Al Awadi Stables at the Al Ghayl area where you can pitch your Horses at Al Awadi Stables
tent and hear the sounds of the desert or go on a safari tracking down nocturnal animals and reptiles in the Arabian sands. People keen on horse-riding and related activities can enjoy themselves at the Al Halifi Equestrian Club, open between 6am -11am & 3pm -8pm each day, except Fridays.
Camel Racing Festival The Ras Al Khaimah Annual Festival of Camel Racing is held at the Al Suwan camel race track. Two golden cups have been allotted for the competition - the first from HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, allotted for camels of (Yatha’a) age and the second cup allotted for the camels of Lagaya age. Tourists can revel at the stalls selling
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it lies in the migratory path between Asia and Africa. During spring and autumn, thousands of birds pass through RAK. The emirate, hence, has a wealth of birdlife during this season and offers an exciting opportunity to see many birds that are not usually seen in Europe or other parts of the Middle East. The numerous lagoons and wetland areas in Ras Al Khaimah offer very interesting viewing points. Some of these species include Black-Crowned Finch Lark, Hoopoe, Crab Plover and the Greater Flamingo. Other prime bird watching areas are the mangroves along the creek and the mangrove wetlands and mudflats north of Al Rams, Al Jazirah Khor, Dhayah, Hamraniyah, Digdaga and Wadi Bih.
Camel racing
Water Sports While private tour operators offer several opportunities at scuba diving, water skiing as well as sailing is available in RAK. The RAK Water Skiing Club is located in a lagoon behind the RAK Hotel & Resort and Start sign for Wadi Bih Run
sticks, muzzles, rugs, harnesses and other paraphernalia. The races usually start from mid-September to end of April and last for about six days.
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Held every year since 1993, the Wadi Bih Run is the oldest regular expatriate sporting event in the UAE. It crosses the Hajjar Mountains from RAK to Dibba climbing over 1,000 metres and covering a distance of 70 kilometres. The run is for teams of five runners, with each runner completing about 15 kilometres to give a total distance of about 72 kilometres. Each team of five must include one female or a veteran male over 50 years of age. Hardy individuals can run the entire distance alone.
Bird Watching RAK offers a great diversity of birdlife since
Greater flamingo
offers instruction for all levels, including slalom and jumping, while the RAK Sailing Association in Al Maarid has a private beach set within a harbour with boats and windsurfers for use by members and guests.
Aviation Geared for micro-lite, ultra light and paragliding, the Al Jazeera Aviation Club is located at the Saqr Field aerodrome, close to the coast and is an official member of
Sailing
Desert camping
Emirates Aviation Association, equipped with modern facilities and a spacious hangar. The club is accredited by the Civil Aviation General Assembly in the UAE and it is a member of USA Aviation Assemblies.
Camping
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Though there are no official camp sites in RAK, the Hajjar Mountains and its numerous wadis offer great arenas for camping, mountain biking, hiking and trekking.
RAK Shooting Club Located in Al Dehaisah area, at 20 minutes driving distance from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, the RAK Shooting Club has over 1,500 members of different nationalities frequenting its modern and highly sophisticated world class ranges. The club offers an impressive array of weapons from the conventional to a
Shooting
collection of M-16 Assault Rifles. A branch has been established in Shouka too.
Hot water springs The Khat Village at RAK is well known for its warm mineral water (4045 degrees) known to cure illnesses such as rheumatism and muscle stiffness. Now, the place has its own Khatt Springs Hotel and Spa for guests willing to enjoy the hot water springs.
Dhayah Fort Khatt Springs Hotel and Spa
A significant fort that has colonial history as a backdrop, the Al Dhayah Fort at RAK, situated on a hilltop witnessed the last battle between the locals and British troops in 1819. When you drive towards the cement factories near Saqr Port, you are sure to see the fort on the right side of the road.
Kuwaiti Souq The souq takes its name from the Kuwait hospital and has more than 50 shops. Open from 8 am to 11 pm, it has different kinds of shops selling clothes, perfumes, jewellery and roastery items. It also has sewing shops and salons as well as traditional goods, such as clothes, herbs and crockery.
Shimal
Al Dhayah Fort
The largest pre-Islamic site in the region of Ras Al Khaimah, it has in store many tombs and a settlement that dates back from 2000 to 3000 BC. Pottery, soft stone vessels, bronze or copper Shimal watchtower weapons and beads have been uncovered in Shimal which comprises a number of proto-historic settlement remains and a medieval fortress locally known as the ‘Palace of the Queen of Sheba’.
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Private Museums Do visit the Zayed Heritage Village located in the Gilailah area and the Bin Majid Centre for Traditional Crafts, on the way to the new Hilton Hotel – both are private museums that offer a good glimpse of RAK by the mountains and RAK by the sea.
Picturesque RAK You can drive around RAK and treat yourself to natural sights - farm animals such as cows and goats grazing on the mountains and in villages near the mountains, camels in the wild, date farms, agricultural farms, fishing boats, traditional dhow building areas, old mosques etc. A souq