UAE Digest Sep 2010 by Sterling Publications

Septembert 2010

DH 5

Published from Dubai Media City

RAMADAN The five principles of Islam ATMs

Tech savvy customers LABOUR LAWS

Workshops for professionals Delhi, Agra and Jaipur Commonwealth Games, forts and palaces

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2 l UAE Digest, September 2010

HOME NURSING

Qualiﬁed assistance FISH STOCK

Sustainable ﬁsh on a dish

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Contents

38 Ramadan - The five principles of Islam explained

12 ATMs

Despite the trend to focus on mobile and internet banking the ATM remains a critical service within the banking sector.

26 Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World will open its doors to the public in October. Have a pre-look at the rides and entertainment available for families.

UAE Labour Law workshops

A series of workshops for professionals were held this summer on the topic of labour laws in the UAE.

28 20 Home Nursing

Sustainable fish on a dish

UAE residents are being urged to choose wisely when buying fish for their meals – do not eat those in the ‘over-fished’ category.

The country’s first professional home nursing company steps out UAE Digest, September 2010 l 3

IN THE

Preserving Abu Dhabi’s precious filmed history

Rob Beynon

Sheikh Zayed Archive to be preserved for posterity

bu Dhabi Media Company (ADMC) is restoring and digitising a unique video archive, including the Sheikh Zayed Archive and more than 30,000 pieces of film and video, of unseen footage that records the foundation and development of Abu Dhabi. The company has appointed broadcast services company DMA Media to preserve the archive, much of it recorded before the formation of the UAE, for future generations, including historians and students of recent Middle Eastern political history. Some of the footage has degraded to a dangerous level and could be lost forever without urgent intervention now, says DMA Media’s CEO Rob Beynon. “The restoration is coming just in time to save a region’s broadcast heritage. ADMC has been quick to recognise its role as a primary custodian of an important visual record of the UAE’s history and has now stepped in to take action while the bulk of the archive is still in reasonable condition,” Mr Beynon added. Once the archives have been restored and digitized, ADMC plans to use them in the future as material for documenta4 l UAE Digest, September 2010

ries or TV programmes. DMA has started cataloguing, restoring and digitizing the material. The archive is in several formats, each one posing specific challenges. Most of the material is 16mm and 35mm safety film, but there are also 30-year-old items on two-inch Quad video tape. This is difficult to restore as the foam used to protect video reels frequently breaks down and coats the tape. Some of the material can only be played once before it degrades completely. The film will be inspected, cleaned and physically repaired before being scanned and digitally restored. Images will be kept in digital formats while any 35mm films will be kept in HD and will be meta-tagged for easy retrieval.

using gas in other sectors like air-conditioning” said Eng. Tareq Demas, Director of Natural Gas at the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority. “Supply of natural gas pumped to various Sharjah areas rose 32.3 million cubic metres by the end of 2009 from 26.7 million cubic metres. SEWA’s gas pumping stations have large reserve capacities to satisfy any expected demand for gas in the future.” The increase is due in part to a wider availability of mains gas, and a shift away from older, canister-type PLG cookers in homes. The authority can arrange the conversion of such cookers.

Natural gas-powered AC experiments in Sharjah

Fourth major package awarded in last year for Khalifa Port and Industrial Zone In July, Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) awarded a Dh1,028,468,290 contract to a joint venture between ED Zublin AG and Al Jaber Transport & General Contracting for its flagship Khalifa Port & Industrial Zone (KPIZ)

Natural gas connections have soared in Sharjah, as new figures for connections suggest a year-on-year increase of nearly a third, as the emirate tries new ways of using the abundant fuel. “SEWA is exploring the possibility of

Works contract for Khalifa Port

tax rates. These changes will present major challenges for businesses based in the region as the need to monitor and comply with new tax laws, or changes to existing tax laws, will create increased risks due to the penalties for non-compliance. “Many organisations are not aware of the taxes present in the region and penalties can be high when laws are not respected and the correct tax payments are not made on time,” commented Dean Rolfe, Middle East Tax Leader at PwC. “With such sweeping reforms taking place across the region businesses need to monitor changes to laws and where necessary respond to those changes by modifying their business practices.” Tony Douglas, CEO of ADPC

project. The agreement is for the detailed design, construction, fit-out, testing and commissioning of the offshore port’s civil and structural building works, which will provide the infrastructure necessary to support the commencement of port operations in 2012. Work begun immediately and is scheduled for completion in August 2012. Highlights of the scope include: • Construction of 23 buildings and associated structures, including the Terminal Operations Building – a six storey construction which will become the port’s centre of operations. Other significant buildings include an offshore clinic, fire station; harbour master building, worker services building, four 11kV substations and maintenance and repair workshops. • Over 1000metre of quay wall and associated marine fenders and bollards. • A 5.4 kilometre dual carriageway linking the offshore port to the mainland with associated service roads, street lighting and two helipads. • Provision of site-wide utilities including electrical, drainage, sewerage, potable water, and telecoms. • Located midway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the Taweelah industrial district, KPIZ will commence operations in 2012 and over the long term to 6 l UAE Digest, September 2010

2030 will comprise 420 square kilometres of prime industrial land organised into vertically integrated clusters for aluminium, petrochemicals, glass, paper and other major sectors. It will consist of a new, world-class multipurpose offshore port and one of the largest integrated industrial zones in the world. Phase 1 of Khalifa Port will open in 2012, replacing Abu Dhabi’s existing main port of Mina Zayed.

Plethora of GCC tax changes go largely unnoticed PwC’s latest tax publication highlights myriad of changes PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has published its latest biannual Middle East Tax Update highlighting the large number of tax regime changes in the region, many of which have gone largely unnoticed by companies. This latest edition continues to highlight the extent of ongoing change to tax regimes in the region, as well as the impact that these changes will have on businesses. The current fiscal challenges faced by governments across the region will result in fundamental and potentially far reaching tax changes, such as the introduction of new taxes and an increase in existing

Around the region a plethora of tax changes have taken place, including: • New tax legislation in Jordan, Lebanon, Libya and Oman. • The introduction of conditions for withholding tax relief claims in Egypt • KSA taxpayers now required to make advance payments of tax if their total annual liability is in excess of SAR 500,000. • Withholding tax position on services performed for Qatar Financial Centre entities clarified. • Dubai to enforce housing tax for all residents and property owners. • Recent developments in double tax treaties across the region.

Treatment of humanitarian cases The Canadian Specialist Hospital (CSH) in Dubai has established a strategic partnership with Dar Al Ber Society to undertake the treatment of humanitarian cases in which patients are unable to afford treatment costs at hospitals. The agreement will see the Society receiving critical humanitarian cases in need of immediate medical assistance, and moving these to CSH for the necessary treatment. HE Mohammed Ali Al Falasi, Chairman of CSH, says of the agreement: “All economic sectors in the country are

committed to immediate humanitarian cases and not to charity houses only, and it is a well-known fact that the medical sector is the premier supporter of such cases. Therefore, this agreement was made with a respectable charity Society house who has not only made numerous efforts in supporting humanitarian cases in support of the idea of giving and charity work, but who has also activated businessmen to participate in social work in order to make life easier for patients.” HE Mohammed Suhail Al Muhairi, Board Member and head of local affairs section at Dar Al Ber Society, added: “The new agreement is expected to play a pivotal role in the treatment of humanitarian cases. Dar Al Ber Society has, since the start of 2010, already received 169 such cases, with the value of treatment assistance amounting to Dh2 million.”

Dubai Country Club to reopen in Dubailand Memberships now available The Dubai Country Club, the familyoriented, not-for-profit, members club is soon to reopen its doors. Located in Dubailand directly behind the Arabian Ranches the club is offering great value pre-opening memberships to residents new and old. In the years since its closure to make way for a private development, the Dubai Country Club committee have been busy securing a new home for the best value sports, leisure and social club in the UAE. The resort-style club features a 1700m2 pool with real sand beach surrounds leading into lush green parkland, and around it, all the things expected from a top quality members-only recreation club, at a fraction of the price. In addition, the club has a stateof-the-art Health and Fitness facility, 12 tennis courts, 3 squash courts, football field, an indoor sports hall and modern

skate park. The club will also feature an adultonly sanctuary with a 20 metre private pool with swim up bar, an 18 suite boutique hotel and a day spa for total pampering. A dedicated children’s centre with a fully supervised crèche and kids’ club means members will be able to enjoy health and fitness pursuits plus sporting activities knowing that their young ones are happily occupied and safe. Teenagers can also enjoy their own chill-out space, which will include their own café and activity zone with all the latest games and a variety of attractions. The club invites residents to complete a membership reservation application now as numbers are limited.

Sea turtle satellite tagging Burj Al Arab sends expert to Indonesia to advise on satellite tagging project David Robinson, Burj Al Arab Assistant Aquarium Operations David Robinson in Indonesia

Manager and member of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project team, travelled to Indonesia this summer to help Yayasan Pulau Banyak, a local sea turtle conservation project, train staff in satellite tagging protocol and to assist them in the tagging of two sea turtles. Located on the remote island of Pulau Bangkaru, the small community-run project helps to research and protect the local sea turtle population. During last month’s annual sea turtle festival, the project successfully raised funds for two satellite tags and called in the help of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project to assist with tagging and staff training. Both turtles were successfully released bearing the first satellite tags to be deployed in western Indonesia and Sumatra.

Largest vessel ever to enter Khorfakkan Container Terminal Proves terminal’s ability to handle large vessels Gulftainer welcomed the CMA CGM Christophe Colomb at its facility in Khorfakkan this summer. With a capacity of 13800 TEUs and an overall length of 365 metres, she is the largest vessel ever to enter the recently expanded terminal. The CMA CGM Christophe Colomb has been built with a combination of innovative environmental features, including an electronically controlled engine to reduce oil and fuel consumption, double hull protection of fuel tanks, and a fast oil recovery system to recover bunkers should there be an incident at sea. KCT is managed by international port management company Gulftainer on behalf of the Sharjah Ports Authority, and is widely considered to be amongst the most efficient terminals in the world, a crucial factor for companies operating large vessels between Asia and UAE Digest, September 2010 l 7

Europe. Located on the east coast of the UAE emirate of Sharjah, KCT has 1900 metres of quay, 20 world class gantry cranes, and water depths allowing even the largest vessels to enter and operate at the terminal. The convenient location outside the Straits of Hormuz and efficient road links to the industrial areas throughout the UAE makes KCT the prime gateway for numerous shipping lines, as well as importers and exporters.

Secure credit reporting Decree No. 8 of 2010 concerning Emcredit, which was issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, in his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, is now published in the Dubai government’s official gazette No. 348. The decree, which was issued on May 3, 2010, aims to establish a robust and secure credit reporting infrastructure that will help lend stability to the financial services industry and provide lenders with the necessary information to support sound lending decisions. It assigns Emcredit as the official entity responsible for providing credit reporting services by collecting, storing, analysing and disseminating credit information in Dubai. The decree also regulates the operations of Emcredit and information sharing in the Emirate pursuant to the criteria and instructions stipulated by the Dubai Department of 8 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Economic Development (DED) and to the instructions and guidelines issued by the UAE Central Bank. The decree mandates all data providers, including banks, financial institutions, government departments, operating in Dubai, to provide Emcredit with the required credit information. It stipulates the criteria and standards for compliance, as well as set penalties for non-compliance or withholding information from Emcredit. As per the articles of the decree, Emcredit is responsible for determining the list of data elements, methods and frequency of data sharing, as well as setting the membership rules, code of conduct, fees and the list of authorised users. The company currently holds 30 per cent coverage of banking data, nine million consumer identification records and payment behaviour information on consumer and commercial borrowers. It provides a range of comprehensive, accurate and timely information solutions such as credit bureau services, chequehonouring reports, business background reports and other risk assessment tools. It has established data-sharing agreements with several UAE government departments to empower its information solutions. In the World Bank Doing Business Report 2009, Emcredit was instrumental in raising the UAE’s rank from 116 to 68, an increase of 48 places in the ‘Getting Credit’ criteria. This resulted in an

improvement of the UAE’s rank by eight places from 54 to 46 in the overall Ease of Doing Business.

BFX appoints Shari’ah advisor The BFX will benefit from the guidance and expertise of the leading and well respected Shariah scholars The Bahrain Financial Exchange (BFX) has appointed Ratings Intelligence Partners (RI) as its Shari’ah Advisor. RI, one of the world’s leading organisations of its kind, will provide a number of important support services to the BFX leading up to its launch in October; most notably, advisory services to ensure the adherence of the BFX’s Murabaha platform to Islamic principles. RI will also develop a formal structured documentation process for the BFX’s Islamic products. In addition to its role as an advisor, RI will also liaise with the Shari’ah Supervisory Boards (SSB) of BFX members across the region to obtain approval for the BFX’s Islamic finance products. RI’s eminent and experienced scholars will also give the SSBs a clear understanding of the nature of the BFX’s products and provide answers to any issues raised. The Shari’ah Control Committee of RI is comprised of Dr. Muhammad Ali El-Gari, who serves as its Chairman, Dr. Abdul-Sattar Abu Ghuddah, Dr. Nazih Hammad, and Dr. Mohammed Amin Ali Qattan.

EDUCATION

Creative Scientific School at Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi

Discovery Centre

ADEC to integrate 20 government schools he Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) will integrate 20 government schools and open 11 new school buildings in the UAE capital for the academic year 2010-2011. The schools are located in Abu Dhabi, Al-Ain, and Al-Gharbia. HE Mr Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Executive Director of School Operations at ADEC stated that some critical matters have been taken into account such as pupil distribution among schools based on residential areas in order to help good family living. This applies to teachers too. Some of the new schools will be divided up to have one section for males and one section for females allowing them to accommodate to as many students as possible. The school, though separated, will remain under one school management. It is planned that classes will have no more than 30 children, with a total sum of up to 1,000 students in each school.

HH Sheikh Hamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief of the Crown Prince Court and Deputy Chairman to the Board of Trustees of Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research (KUSTAR), recently inaugurated the KUSTAR Discovery Centre at the Abu Dhabi campus, in partnership with Intel Corporation. The Discovery Centre takes visitors through the complex world of silicon technology, from sand to silicon chips. Students and guests will learn about microprocessor history, computer chip design and manufacturing, chip factories, and technology careers in a dynamic and stimulating educational environment. Designed to help the UAE community understand the role of technology in the 21st Century and the way it influences how we live and work, the Centre will play a vital role in encouraging local young people to pursue exciting technical careers.

New Principal for Taaleem’s Greenfield Community School

Middlesex University signs for career channel

In preparation for the first school semester, Taaleem have appointed Angela Hollington as the new Principal of Greenfield Community School. An experienced Principal, Angela has lived and worked overseas for many years as an international educator. Mrs Hollington’s profile is well-suited for Taaleem as she has been responsible for the establishment, marketing and development of start-up schools, and has further led ECIS accreditation and International Baccalaureate (IB) authorisation processes. She is an IB PYP advanced trainer, has carried out ECIS accreditation team training and has published several articles in professional journals. Most recently, Angela has helped shape the IB’s future special needs policies. Mrs. Hollington takes over from Dr. Lesley Stagg who is further evolving her career by taking on the very prestigious position of Chief Accreditation Officer for the Council of International Schools (CIS) for the Middle East and Africa.

Middlesex University Dubai has partnered with the employment portal Bayt.com to create a specialised employment service for students and graduates of the university. Designed to establish a connection between students, graduates and alumni of the university with industry, the Career Channel enables students to create their own workspace to find jobs within their preferred sector.

Angela Hollington at the laying of the first stone ceremony for Greenfield Community School

10 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Dubai to set compulsory education age to 18 The UAE education ministry is working on raising the compulsory education age to 18 from 15 by next year for UAE nationals. “We are working on increasing the compulsory education age and by the beginning of next year it will be announced,” Shaikha Al Shamsi, Chief Executive for Educational Affairs at the ministry, has said. “This is one of the key components of a strategy that will help minimise the dropout rate,” she told local newspapers. Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) placed the dropout rate in the emirate at 22 per cent among boys and 14 per cent among girls.

TECHNO

Process Intelligence How to make sure business opportunities don't just slip away

n today’s dynamic, fast-paced business environment, the ability to make decisions fast is no longer a competitive edge – it is becoming a means to survival. Organisations are increasingly looking to automate decisionmaking where possible to make business processes run smoothly with minimum interruptions. As trends come and go very quickly – a phenomenon seen across the Middle East in the past few years – companies now see the need to react rapidly to business events and circumstances as they happen, making sure that products, services and processes remain relevant and up-to-date. Business intelligence concepts, which were initially introduced as a solution to gather and analyse business data and help make informed business decisions, have accordingly evolved to deal with the changing demands of organisations. Whereas business intelligence systems were in previous years focused on providing analysis of data to monitor past performance and plan for the future, a new solution has emerged that combines technologies for monitoring past and present performance, planning support for the future, and supporting the immediate operational needs of business processes. The new solution is called Process Intelligence (PI), a well-designed and engineered set of tools and techniques for understanding an enterprise from a process perspective, characterising active processes, and knowing what’s happening within and around them. It essentially answers an organisation’s need for timely process information and the ability to make rapid decisions. From a conceptual and technological point of view, however, PI is still in its infancy stage; studies at the Business Application Research Centre (BARC) have shown that several organisations are

Karl-Heinz Streibich

currently not in a position to implement it because they lack the fundamental prerequisites such as defined and measured Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and the corresponding technology. Proponents, nonetheless, have pointed out the importance for businesses in the Middle East to take advantage of the revolutionary new concept as early as possible as a leverage for future growth. Marco Gerazounis, Senior Vice President, Software AG, says: “What we really need to focus on here is not about Process Intelligence being a new concept; it is more important to realise that business dynamics are changing rapidly nowadays. Integrating Process Intelligence into the growth strategies of business organisations will surely become a business imperative in the near future, so it is best to prepare for the transition today. This is evident in the Middle East where we are witnessing a surge in technology adoption as part of efforts to capitalise on

the immense long-term business potential of the region.” To help businesses better prepare themselves ahead of implementing PI, Software AG has partnered with renowned industry specialists and authors Tobias Blickle, Helge Hess, Joerg Klueckmann, Mike Lees and Bruce Williams to publish a special edition of the book Process Intelligence for Dummies. The book states that “Process Intelligence satisfies your hunger for knowledge about your business by feeding you the information you need, anytime you need it, in the way you can digest it and turn it into energy going forward.” Explaining the expansive coverage, it further states that “Process Intelligence assists everyone involved in a process to make better decisions every day — including process engineers, managers, operations folks, and technical staff. PI includes technologies that use intelligent software to enable better and faster reasoning about process data.” Designing, assembling and implementing data and processing systems for PI is the domain of business infrastructure software providers such as Software AG, which is itself widely acclaimed for inventing the first business process analysis platform. Partnering with the right solutions provider is key in harnessing its full potential, as the infrastructure has to be installed in special ways to enable businesses to generate the process information they seek, and to analyse, arrange and present it when they need it, and in just the way they need it. Gerazounis says: “The company has long recognised the importance of Process Intelligence and we have prepared accordingly to accommodate future demands for such a technology solution. We are fully capable of providing support to all our clients in the Middle East to implement the new set of business tools and techniques.” UAE Digest, September 2010 l 11

ATM

Innovation and customer service at the ATM Issa Keshek looks at the role of the ATM in the Middle East and how banks can make the most of this increasingly popular channel

se of the ATM channel in the Middle East is growing fast. Retail banking research predicts that the ATM market in the region will grow by 75 per cent over the next four years, with the total number reaching 70,000 from the current tally of 40,000. There are several drivers for this trend, for example the introduction of the wage protection system in Dubai, which will mean employees will be paid into their bank accounts rather than in cash, and the rise in tourism experienced by countries such as Oman, both of which will impact on demand for ATMs. The growth of ATMs is not limited to the Middle East although the drivers for increased ATM use differ between regions. For example, Ovum recently cited that the number of banknotes in the euro zone is growing by around nine per cent a year while there are over 40 per cent more US dollar bills available than at the beginning of the millennium,. The net result is that banks are likely to expand their ATM networks to accommodate the increasing demand for cash. As the ATM becomes an ever more popular and regular touch point between customers and their banks, institutions need to ensure that costs are kept down whilst also maximising the potential of the channel by 12 l UAE Digest, September 2010

investing in technology to provide high levels of customer service and low levels of fraud. Improving the customer experience is a key focus for the industry at large. In a survey conducted at the ATMIA Europe conference, the top priority for 39 per cent of industry professionals is maximising ATM revenue while 27 per cent of industry players are focusing on improving customer service at the ATM. Interestingly, 25 per cent of respondents believe the opportunity to enhance customer services lies in integrating the ATM channel with other banking channels. The introduction of mobile top up, as recently rolled out in the UK, for example, goes some way towards this. In order to achieve success, future technology investments are critical and 30 per cent of survey participants are actively investing to generate cost savings through improved efficiency. Despite the economic downturn, it is good to see that so many banks are prioritising the ATM and though these technology

investments go against the grain of the trend of cost cutting across the industry, these machines can be a cost efficient way to service customers and build brand reputation. Many in the industry believe that budget cuts elsewhere within banks have resulted in increased budgets for self-service channels such as these. The Community Choice Credit Union in the US is going one step further by installing ATMs fitted with videoconferencing technology so that customers can ‘meet’ with a banker outside of business hours to complete their transactions. This effectively allows the credit union to extend its branch hours. Additional machines with video conferencing abilities are positioned inside the credit union’s seven branches so that customers can use them during normal branch hours for self service. Banks in the Middle East are yet to provide such technology. However perhaps an extreme – and somewhat extravagant – example of prioritising customer service at this channel is the gold bar dispensing ATM which was recently installed in the lobby of Abu Dhabi’s five star, deluxe, Emirates Palace hotel. The terminal dispenses 25-carat one gram, five gram and ten gram pieces of gold. The aesthetics of the terminal are also far more luxurious than the average as the exterior of the machine is fully gold

plated. Whilst it is unlikely that banks will roll this type of innovation out to the high street, it is clear that some banks in the Middle East are beginning to prioritise the ATM and that provision of additional services to cash withdrawal are being rolled out. With a surge in transactions, banks in the region must also protect their customers from fraud as this can significantly damage brand reputation and customer loyalty. One way of increasing security is through EMV Chip and Pin for standard debit cards. EMV was originally founded by Europay, MasterCard and Visa and refers to the use of Chip and Pin technology in payment cards, as a replacement for the traditional magstripe card. Technologically, EMV smart cards are much harder to clone and forge and, consequently, fraudsters are deterred from targeting payment transactions. In the UK, for example, the introduction of the EMV standard reduced card fraud by 25 per cent within its first two years of implementation. EMV is not new to the region, yet adoption, where applied, was limited to credit cards as opposed to the vulnerable debit card. Now, many countries in the region are implementing EMV for standard ATM transactions or are actively upgrading their technology to the standard. While this is good news for financial institutions in terms of reducing card fraud losses, there is a long term benefit that can be exploited to directly benefit card holders. Smart cards can store more information about the holder and also multiple applications on a single card. This means that banks will have much more flexibility in terms of the services they can roll out to their customers. For example, customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bank cards will recognise customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; profiles and preferences when the card is inserted into an ATM machine and also allow for additional services such storing loyalty points for local coffee shops. Innovations such as these improve customer loyalty and help drive a positive brand reputation of a bank. As more and more customers use the ATM, banks must ensure they are fully maximising the potential of this channel in order to generate ROI and drive customer service and loyalty. Issa Keshek is the Regional Director of Asia, the Middle East and Africa at Level Four Software

We are in the era of Generation Y, the tech savvy, mobile, busy, service-demanding customer for whom the smartphone is the gadget of choice. Integrating the ATM with multichannel technology assists banks in attracting a new breed of customer

An NCR Personas 75-Series interior, multi-function ATM in the USA

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 13

LABOUR LAWS

Labour Law workshops The British University of Dubai trained professionals from all industries in UAE Labour Law this summer

he British University in Dubai (BUiD), researchbased postgraduate education in the Gulf, held a series of workshops throughout the month of July which addressed the topic of labour law in the UAE. The workshops provided professionals from all industries with vital 20 hours training on a wide range of topics that are relevant and beneficial for those working in the private and public sectors. “A basic knowledge of UAE labour law is fundamental for all employers and employees, particularly those in the human resources field” said Professor

14 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Ashly Pinnington, Dean of the Faculty of Business, BUiD. “This workshop provided a thorough grounding in all human resource management aspects of labour law relevant to both the private and public sector.” The workshop, entitled HRM in practice workshops on UAE Labour Law: workplace skills for employers and employees, was conducted by Neeta Thakur, a locally based expert and lawyer who has extensive experience in the UAE. Topics that were covered included subjects of UAE labour law, employment of children, health and social care, and

repatriation, along with a number of other labour law modules. Looking through the local newspapers each month it is obvious that there are many readers who do not know the laws and have to resort to asking a lawyer/ writer from the papers for advice. A little hunting around on their behalf has found the following information provided by Al Tamimi & Company which specialises in Company / Commercial law, Litigation, Banking, Insurance, Maritime Law, Intellectual Property, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Arbitration amongst its many legal credits.

UAE Labour Laws - Labour matters in the UAE are governed by Federal Law No. 8 of 1980 Regulating Labour Relations as amended by Federal Laws No. 24 of 1981, No.15 of 1985 and No.12 of 1986 (the “Law”). There are special labour related regulations applicable in some of the free zones in the UAE, such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone. To whom does the Law apply? According to Article 3 of the Law, the Law applies to all staff and employees working in the UAE, whether UAE nationals or expatriates. However, there are certain categories of individuals who are exempted from the Law as listed: 1. Staff and workers employed by the federal government, government departments of the member emirates, the municipalities, public bodies, federal and local public institutions and those staff and workers employed in federal and local governmental projects. 2. Members of the armed forces, police and security units. 3. Domestic servants. 4. Agricultural workers and persons engaged in grazing (this exemption does not include persons who are employed in corporations which process agricultural products and/or those who are permanently engaged in the operation or repair of machines required for agriculture). What aspects of the employer/ employee relationship does the Law deal with? The Law covers all aspects of the employeremployee relationship (Chapter 12), including matters related to employment contracts, restrictions on the employment of juveniles and women, maintenance of records and files, wages, working hours, leave, safety and protection of employees, medical and social care, codes of discipline, termination of employment contracts, end of service benefits, compensation for occupational diseases, labour inspections, penalties and employment related accidents, injuries and death. The UAE does not allow the formation of trade unions.

What are the permitted terms in employment contracts? Two types of employment contracts are allowed in the UAE - limited employment contracts (or fixed term contracts), which are contracts for a specified duration with specific commencement and completion dates; and unlimited contracts where the employee continues to work for the employer from a specific date until such time as the employment contract is terminated by either party after giving prior notice. What information should be stated in an employment contract? The only information required by law to be specified in an employment contract is the following: • Wages/remuneration payable. • Date of the employment contract. • Date of commencement of the employment contract. • Nature of the contract (limited or unlimited). • Nature of the work. • Duration of the contract (for fixed term contracts). • The location of employment. The labour office at the Ministry maintains standard employment contracts in Arabic and English, where the employer and the employee need only fill in the blanks. It is however not compulsory for the parties to use or file these contracts at the Ministry and may instead draft and lodge their own employment contracts at the Ministry providing they do not contain provisions which are contrary to the Law, and are in the Arabic language.

Law, the probation period can be for a maximum period of six months. Is the probation period included for the purposes of calculating gratuity and other terminal benefits? Once completed, the probation period is considered as part of the overall employment term and is taken into account when calculating gratuity and other terminal benefits. Are employers liable to pay repatriation and other benefits for termination of employment during the probation period? All wages and benefits accrued during the probation period must be paid along with repatriation costs. The employer is, however, not required to pay end of service gratuity or compensation in lieu of notice or damages should the employment contract be terminated without notice during the probationary period. If the employee, however, resigns during his probation period without a good cause he is liable to pay his own repatriation cost. What constitutes wages under the Law? Wages according to the Law are defined as follows: “All payments made to the worker on a yearly, monthly, weekly, daily, piece work, or production, or commission basis, in return for the work he performs under the contract of employment, whether such payments are made in cash or in kind. Remuneration shall include the cost of

What are the rules regarding employment for a probationary period? It is common practice in the UAE to employ persons on an initial probationary period. During the probation period, both the employer and the employee may terminate the employment contract with immediate effect without providing a valid reason or notice. In such cases, the employer will not be liable to pay end of service benefits or compensation to the employee. According to Article 37 of the UAE Digest, September 2010 l 15

living allowance. It shall also include any grant given to the worker as a reward for his honesty or efficiency if such amounts are provided for in the contract of employment or in the internal regulations of the establishment or have been granted by custom or common practice to such an extent that the workers of the establishment regard them as part of their remuneration and not as donations.” Does the Law prescribe a minimum wage? No minimum wage has been prescribed by law to date, however, an employee with a monthly salary of less than Dhs.4,000 (plus accommodation allowance), will not be able to sponsor his spouse or children for the purpose of residing in the country. These are immigration regulations and do not form part of the Law. Does the Law require evidence of payment of wages? Where there is a dispute, an employer will be required to prove written evidence that the employee has been paid his wages along with any applicable allowances. However, the employee can prove the nonpayment of wages by any means stated in the UAE Federal Law of Evidence. Therefore, it is necessary for the employer to maintain adequate records and books recording the payment of wages and allowances, failing which there may be an assumption that the wages were not paid. What are the prescribed working hours? The maximum prescribed working hours for an adult employee is eight hours per day or forty-eight hours per week. However, the working hours may be increased to nine hours per day in the case of persons employed in trades, hotels, cafeterias, and as guards. Persons who hold executive/administration positions however are expected to work long hours without overtime pay. What are an employee’s annual leave entitlements? For every year of service, an employee is entitled to annual leave of not less than 16 l UAE Digest, September 2010

the following: 1. Two days leave for every month if his service is more than six months and less than one year. 2. A minimum of thirty days annually, if his service exceeds one year. At the end of his service the employee is entitled to annual leave for the fraction of the last year he spent in service. Annual leave is usually calculated on the basis of a calendar month rather than by working days. If an employee however fails to report back to work after the expiry of his leave period, his remuneration will automatically be forfeited for the days he is absent. When should annual leave wages be paid? The employee should be paid his full wage before taking his annual leave, plus the wage of the leave days he has accrued. Which official holidays are an employee entitled to take? An employee is entitled to an official holiday with full wage on the following occasions: 1. Hijri New Year’s Day - one day 2. Gregorian New Year’s Day - one day 3. Eid Al Fitr (end of Ramadan) - two days 4. Eid Al Adha and Waqf - three days 5. Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday one day 6. Isra and Al Miraj - one day 7. National Day - one day The holidays listed above are applicable to all employees whether they are working in the public or private sectors. However, public sector employees may be granted additional days off to those specified on the above occasions, which are

announced from time to time. It is therefore open to private sector employees to grant their employees a holiday on the above occasions or to pay them instead. The date(s) on which the above official holidays fall depend on the Ministry’s announcements, which are published in the local newspapers shortly before they occur. How much Sick Leave is allowed? After a period of three months continuous service following the probation period, the employee is entitled to sick leave (continous or intermittent) wages as follows: (1) Full wage for the first 15 days. (2) Half wage for the next 30 days. (3) Any following period will be without wage. However, if the employee’s illness is directly caused by his misconduct (for example by excessive drinking), he is not entitled to any wages during the sick leave. It should be noted that the employee should provide evidence of his illness warranting sick leave by an official medical certificate. What maternity leave is a female employee entitled to? A working woman is entitled to 45 days maternity leave with full pay which includes the period before and after the

delivery, provided she has served continuously for not less than one year. The maternity leave is granted with half pay if the woman has not completed one year of service. During the 18 months following delivery, a female employee who nurses

her child has the right to have two daily intervals which do not exceed half an hour each for the purpose of nursing her child. These additional intervals are considered part of her working hours and no deduction in wages can be made. What is the employee entitled to on the termination of his employment contract? On the termination of the employment contract, an employee is entitled to the following: 1. A notice period, or any amount due in lieu of the notice period in the case of an unlimited contract. 2. In the case of an unlimited contract, compensation for unreasonable dismissal if the contract was terminated by the employer for unreasonable cause 3. In the case of a limited contract, compensation equivalent to the period until the end of the contract, or three monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wages, whichever is shorter. 4. Payments equivalent to the balance of unutilised leave or any part thereof. 5. Payments for overtime or any balance of wages due and not yet paid. 6. End of service gratuity calculated on the duration of the employment. 7. Repatriation expenses as per the Law or the employment contact, subject to the employee not being in violation or in breach of either the Law or the employment contract. What does the term end of service gratuity mean in terms of compensation? In the case of an employment agreement for a unilimited term, an employee who completes one year or more in continuous service shall be entitled to gratuity at the end of their service. The gratuity shall be calculated as follows: (1) 21 days wages for each year of the first five years. (2) 30 days wages for each additional year on condition that the total of the gratuity does not exceed the wages of two years.

In case of a dispute between the employee and the employer, how can either of them proceed with a case? Where there is a dispute between the employee and the employer, an application must be made to the Ministry in the emirate in which the employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s establishment is located. The complaint must be submitted in writing to the complaints department at the Ministry, setting out a summary of the facts, calculation of the amount due, and enclosing a copy of the labour contract. The application will be filed with the Ministry upon payment of Dh100 registration fee. The employer or the employee will be summoned to state their respective cases before the labour office at the Ministry who must make a recommendation within two weeks from the date in which the application is filed. Should the party fail to settle the dispute as recommended by the Ministry, the matter will then have to be referred to court to be litigated in the normal manner. In such a case, the Ministry will issue a summary of the facts of the case, and a memorandum

together with its recommendation, and the arguments put forward by both parties. Within three days from the date the application is received, the court will schedule a hearing and summon the other party to hear the matter.

Should the application to the labour office and the court be made within a specified time limit? A complaint by either the employer or the employee must be made to the labour office within one year from the date in which the amount or the entitlement becomes due otherwise it will be time bared. In other words, the one-year time period does not start running from the date of termination, but rather from the date the amount becomes due and unpaid. In calculating time according to the Law, the Gregorian calendar is used. Years are calculated as 365 days and months as 30 days. However, filing an action before the Ministry will suspend the time from running. If the Ministry fails to transfer the case to court within two weeks, the employee may then proceed to court without referral from the Ministry . Are employees in the free zones subject to the same Law? Although the Law stipulates that all employees other than the ones listed above are subject to it, in practice employees in the free zones, such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone and the Dubai Airport Free Zone, are subject to the rules and regulations of the free zone concerned and maintain their own employment contracts. However, as mentioned above, the Law will still apply and the provisions in the employment contract must be in accordance with the Law. Moreover, it should be noted that free zone employees are sponsored by the relevant free zones and not by their employers. UAE Digest, September 2010 l 17

STAFF MATTERS

Talent management The importance and practices of implementing a successful talent management strategy By A.S.F. Karim

n the business world, organisations must have a solid understanding of their bench strength, both in terms of headcount and skills. To incorporate a successful talent management and succession planning strategy requires visibility into the characteristics, potential, and risk factors of one’s workforce. With the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals eliciting so much excitement, football fans the world over were praying for their team’s success. As with most organisations, professional football teams worried about what would happen if one of their key players went down. An unforeseen injury to a star performer can ruin an otherwise winning season. When these unanticipated events occur, coaches need to figure out quickly who can step in and lead the team to victory. Similarly, organisations in the business world must also have a solid understanding of their bench strength, both in terms of headcount and skills. Forward-thinking companies striving to compete and differentiate in today’s dynamic economy are adopting new strategies to help them build and optimise sustainable, relevant workforces. They seek a set of integrated tools that provide better visibility into organisational initiatives and objectives and the ability to align these with the individual. Organisations are also focusing more on individual development and succession planning to ensure that the right people with the right skills are in the right job, and to minimise the loss of critical talent while ultimately saving money. Having the ability to manage talent

18 l UAE Digest, September 2010

effectively through solutions like talent pools allows businesses to perform activities such as talent identification, risk assessment, team building, internal recruiting, and bench strength development. Effective talent planning also requires a dynamic approach that focuses on developing strategies to help grow and retain talent while mitigating the effects of talent loss. To a query about the best way to implement talent planning strategy, the CEO of Edutech, a provider of talent management products and services, responds: “Implementing a talent plan-

ning strategy involves a multi-phased approach. There are four phases involved: ‘planning’, ‘identify talent needs’, ‘talent development’, and ‘talent and succession planning’, which are all crucial to the success of the strategy. Once completed, the individual phases will together help provide a solid framework to formulate and build an organization’s talent planning strategy. Phase 1: Planning • Focus on current and future business needs. • Revisit mission and vision statements to esure that HR’s needs and demands

•

are on target. Ensure support and commitment from corporate leaders.

Phase 2: Identify talent needs • Define, assess and determine the proficiency level gap of critical organisational job roles and competencies to have visibility into areas of increased exposure. Phase 3: Talent development • Employee development is critical to any talent management stategy • Focus on bridging skills gaps through training or professional development activities or mentorship programmes. Phase 4: Talent & Succession Planning • Align succession planning with your overall talent management strategy • Identify crucial roles, determine staffing needs, and then target specific learning and development activities to groom specific employees for specific roles. A successful talent management strategy has the support of top-level leadership who is committed to the process, the resources, and the funding necessary to support such an initiative. All play an important role in allowing your organisation to achieve its business goals, remain competitive, and to win. A.S.F. Karim is the CEO of Edutech

BUSINESSES

Organisational culture The blueprint for business longevity and success in the Middle East

ince the emergence of the financial crisis, the world has witnessed veteran and seemingly invulnerable companies close shop and lesser-known ones not only survive but thrive amidst unpredictable and often hostile business environments. A closer look at these organisations reveals that their resilience is more closely linked to the type of culture they exude rather than to factors such as financial assets, brand identity or the length of their existence. Over the past 25 years, the concept of organisational culture has emerged as an effective way to understand human behaviour and perceptions. From a corporate viewpoint, it is often described as the ‘personality’ of a company. It comprises the beliefs and values, assumptions, psychology and attitudes of its members. Basically, this is a deeper concept that describes what an organisation ‘is’ rather than what it ‘has.’ “There are several harmful types of organisational culture, such as the ‘blame culture,’ which fosters distrust and fear, and the ‘power culture,’ which concentrates power among a few members. Companies should be aware of their existence and pursue internal shifts to more desirable types, such as the ‘leadership-enriched’ and ‘value-based’ cultures. It is best to consult with Organizational Development firms who can easily identify the culture pervading in a company and recommend specific and proven steps to initiate appropriate changes,” said Dr. Hussein El-Kazzaz, Managing Director, Skopos Consulting. A recent study examining managers and

leaders from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Oman shows that positive changes can help enhance organisational outcomes. Among the specific benefits identified were optimal use of professional competencies, higher job satisfaction levels, improved decisionmaking capability, better communication, and enhanced managerial transparency. Businesses that plan to boost their longevity and success are thus advised to assess their particular organisational cultures and exert effort to effect change. Dr. El-Kazzaz, recommends five steps for changing organisation culture: • Fact finding and Assessment, • Objective setting and Design intervention, • Implementation, • Evaluation, and • Institutionalization The consultancy notes that a ‘change agent’, a person responsible for overseeing and managing change across all organisational levels, is crucial to the effective execution of change. “We, as organisation development experts, believe that a combination of coaching, conflict management, team building, leadership development, communication, succession planning, performance management and other proven OD tools are critical in refining this culture. Our success comes from the belief that changing the culture for the better is not just a way to enhance corporate performance but more importantly works as a vital business strategy,” added Dr. El-Kazzaz. Pablo Picasso, the renowned Spanish

painter and sculptor, once remarked that ‘Action is the foundational key to all success.’ It is not enough for organisations to simply determine the kind of culture that drives their members; they should assess the impact of their culture on performance, morale and client relations and take the necessary actions.

Executive coaching in focus as business optimism returns Recent studies show that 86 per cent of executives believe working across different departments in their current leadership role is extremely important Executive coaching can guide new managers rising through the ranks of an organisation that may have a gap in inter-personal skills or basic management skills required in their new roles. Coaching in the past was intended for problematic leaders, whereas today about 90 per cent of coaching is aimed at high achievers to release their further potential. It can help with employee retention. Skopos Consulting has called on businesses in the Middle East to focus on executive coaching to improve the performance of employees and stay competitive in the current environment. It referred to recent studies that have shown that the development of leadership skills, multitasking skills, and particularly soft skills development from managers can have a significant impact in boosting performance across all levels. It also pointed out studies showing that 92 per cent of managers feel that the ability to work across different departments becomes more important as they rise through the ranks.

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 19

HOME NURSING

Nursed in your own home UAE’s first professional home nursing organisation By Linda Benbow

he need for professional home nursing has been evident for quite some time. Hospitals have a significant number of chronic patients who can be hospitalised for two to three years due to a lack of available long term home care. Also, unlike the western world, the UAE does not have nursing home facilities for the aged. The Arab culture looks after elderly family members at home. While this is admirable it also poses a risk because the well-intentioned senior care provided by family members and domestic help is not always the most beneficial to the recipient as the care is not informed. There is a great need to educate the local community that professional aid is required that will

20 l UAE Digest, September 2010

improve the quality of life by enhancing the health of the senior, this could extend the life expectancy. Madge Kruger is the General Manager of Emirates Home Nursing, the UAE’s first professional home nursing organisation, and has more than 35 years experience in nursing, ten of which have been in the UAE.

The company was established earlier this year and provides professional in-house care by fully licensed nurses. The help offered ranges from home help to elderly care, pre and post natal, and post surgery care. Was this your idea to set up a home nursing organisation, or someone else’s? A bit of both actually. I was working here in Dubai at one of the private hospitals where we were going to open up a homecare occupational health division – but it was put on hold. So an idea was born. I had actually run my own business in South Africa for five years, concentrating on maternity and post natal home visiting. What we have done here is gone a little further by making it a comprehensive service, starting from mothers and new-born babies right up to the elderly. We have opened up a skilled nursing service for patients coming out of hospital who may need things done, such as changing their dressings daily, or an injection, or physiotherapy, perhaps. We also have nurses trained in special needs – such as dealing with the disabled, parents who have children with autism, children with downs syndrome, etc

who need a support system until they can get their children accepted into schools. We are also working with schools; the nurses are trained in the various programmes that the children have; and then we take the support a little further by continuing into the afternoon after the child has gone to its own home. We have been to Dubai Autism Centre as well as Rashid Centre, the two schools in Dubai that deal with these kind of children, and have been sending out the message to Emirati families as well as others about the help we offer. We hope to spread out into the whole of the country eventually.

properly trained, certified and able to professionally do the nursing work we undertake. We already cater to some elderly local patients and there have been no problems so far as there is usually someone in the house who is also present and helps out. One or two men have said that they would prefer a male nurse when we have some. What time-spans are involved in some of the home nursing jobs? There are a number of elderly patients in this country, and we can help their fami-

Madge Kruger

lies as they can now go out without being tied to someone who cannot move out of the house. We have also had enquiries from those who want to go abroad on a short holiday while their parent remains at home getting professional medical assistance. When did the company start operating? I started the company in October 2009, building it up so as to be in a position to interview and hire professionals in January 2010, having first got our trade license. We have a multi-national team from UK, Jordan, South Africa and Philippines. The Assistant Nurses are from the Philipines

There are waiting lists for these schools â&#x20AC;&#x201C; do you help those who have not yet been admitted into school, in their own homes? We will be able to in the future, once the nurses have been trained further in the speciality programmes. Then we will be able to send the nurses to homes to help the children and their parents in small things that make life more comfortable for all. When you say nurses, do you mean female nurses, or do you accept, and cater to, men too? We cater to anyone who needs help. We have already started interviewing male nurses and will be hiring whoever is UAE Digest, September 2010 l 21

and are registered in their own countries as well as being licensed here in Dubai. The trained Care Givers are also Filipinas who have had training for 750 hours, and have a pass rate of at least 85 per cent. All the staff are further inducted at an ICT unit in MotorCity where they are tested on various aspects of nursing in a home situation with wheelchairs, crutches, a drip, glucometers for taking blood sugars and that type of thing. It is all very similar to what hospitals do. We have taken hospitals to the home. All the staff look exceptionally smart in their uniforms of white with green epaulettes and matching green trousers. You havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been set up for long, how do people know about the company already? We have carried out a lot of marketing for this business. We have visited doctors in private clinics and given presentations to the Director of Nursing and the Acting Director of Nursing in all the private hospitals. We are now getting phone calls to give the presentations to the doctors of rehabilitation who are showing great in22 l UAE Digest, September 2010

terest. One of the local private hospitals regularly uses our services and recommends our home nursing to patients who will benefit from it. We have also carried out a mail-drop campaign by delivering pamphlets to 700 doctors so that they know how we can assist them. We have done a similar doorto-door leaflet delivery campaign in various local communities, so that the people who need us know that we are here. There has been a very good response from that. It was a case of explaining exactly what we are doing so that they can see how we can be of use to them. But our best advertising is done by word-of-mouth where families and patients recommend the service to their friends after they have seen how well we perform the tasks we undertake. There are eight companies here who mainly work with care-givers. We are the first professional agency that has been put together and set up. If I got a case from a hospital I would send the Case Manager out to meet the family, the nursing staff and the physician. This is all done during the 24 hours

before a patient is sent home, which gives time for a consent from to be signed accepting us as a nursing agency. We have been accredited by a number of hospitals who like the additional help that patients receive. Once we have accepted the contract we look after the patient at home; if the patient needs to be accompanied home we assign a nurse to be with her until she is safely indoors. Then we set up nursing care plans. If the doctor says to change the dressing we do so. If we notice anything abnormal we will contact the doctor and say â&#x20AC;&#x153;the lady is now running a temperature, the wound is inflamed, and we think she needs to come in.â&#x20AC;? We will then book an appointment for her. If the doctor says he needs a blood sample from a patient we will take it while he is at the house and then deliver it to his own doctor saving him the hassle of journeying to the hospital. This venture also helps hospitals where there are waiting lists of patients who require surgery; we can look after those who have already had surgery and are now convalescening in hospital but would rather do so in their own homes, especially when they know that any necessary medical treatment such as injections, physio, etc can be administered in their house by a trained nurse. What about payment? We are working with a number of insurance companies that will pay for home visiting. Companies like Bupa International, etc, have already agreed and we are targeting other big companies to see if they will come onboard with us so that we can assist the patient. The cost for the patient will be less, the cost for the insurance company will be less. But, of course, people can pay us directly too. We prefer to be paid on a cash basis. There are different rates for different qualified staff. A registered nurse will go out and do a home visit on an hourly rate. The Assistants and Care-Givers go out

on anything from a four hour to a twelve hour day rate, or a 24-hour turnaround. We work very much like it works in a hospital with payment depending on how many nurses and care-givers are required for which particular jobs. The amount is calculated by our Finance Department and the proposed amount is given as a written quote to the family who can accept it if they wish. Some families, at first, are not too sure about it all, and say “Let’s just try it out for a week and then we will see if we want to continue”. Most folks then agree to continue. Our rates are very competitive with those being charged by the eight companies already in the market with care-givers. It will soon be the season for grandparents to visit Dubai, do you deal with individuals? We have a lot of self referrals from people who maybe want to go out for a few hours and want someone to take care of their elderly visitor. We have a website with details of prices and services we offer. If physio is required then we need to see the instructions from a doctor on what kind of physio is required. Those are the rules of Dubai and that is what we follow. We take a patient home and follow a doctor’s instructions. Where is your headquarters? The company is based in Dubai Healthcare City. This is also where we train the nurses up to our standards. Do you do home visits to new mothers? We will be launching maternity services this month, along with education for new mothers, ante natal classes, mother craft, breast feeding and support groups for mums. There will soon be a huge launch of mother

and baby care services with Open Days at various locations. There is a young population in Dubai with many new mums. You fall pregnant, your friends are working, you have your baby, your husband is at work, maybe your mother comes out here to visit for a while but then she has to return home – that is an expat’s lot. One of the big things about the education we provide is that it is consistent knowledge. There is so much written about the subject that mothers don’t always know what to do for the best. I already talk to many doctors and ask “what are you saying to your patients?” Our programme is for four lessons at one and a half hours each, over four weeks, covering normal births to anything that may happen, i.e. why is a ceasearian necessary and what does it involve? The advice will continue until you have your baby and take it home, after which a a nurse will come and visit you in your

home to check that everything is alright. What kind of advice do you give – modern or traditional? The advice is standard and current, but the equipment may be different to what was around when you were born, i.e. this breast pump may be different from another, they used to be manual but nowadays they are usually electrical. We have signed up with a supplier who will train our staff in modern equipment usage so that they can forward-explain it to parents. If a mother is going back to work after 45 days, we teach her how to cope with breastfeeding. If she wants to feed her baby with formula milk we will teach her how to make it properly. What are your future plans? The other category we want to look into is Oncology – cancer. We have been to the huge centre in Abu Dhabi where patients that have been newly diagnosed need support, to talk things through. Patients who are having chemotherapy may not feel well for a few days afterwards and they may want someone to help with their daily needs. We will also look at endof-life care where many patients need pain control and a professional to administer it, having first been approved by the various ministries and hospitals – there are strict laws about where, how and by whom these drugs are administered. There is a lot of scope for home nursing in this country, and I am pleased to be involved with it. UAE Digest, September 2010 l 23

LOCAL GETAWAY

Resembling a Bedouin encampment this secluded, internationally-awarded hideaway resort offers great hospitality, privacy and absolute comfort adding to the romance of the desert

Oryx grazing in the garden

Oryx in the garden By Linda Benbow

A booking for a one night stay (i.e. had recently shared the cost of sending a here I was, lazing about in Friday/Saturday) entitles each person particular Dubai couple, who were finally the infinity swimming pool, to a choice of two activities from a list retiring back to their home country, to gazing at the vast desert of containing delights such as falconry, this haven for a short treat. They were scrubland in the foreground desert drive in the sand dunes, wildlife hugely impressed by the friendly, knowland red dunes in the background, when a drive into the flat plains to see herds of edgeable and professional South African tiny noise drew my attention back towards oryx and gazelle, Arabian horse riding for gamekeepers who took them out to show the villa and its surrounding wildlife experienced riders, a camel ride into the and inform about desert matters. garden in the middle of which was desert to have sundowners while another natural wildlife – an oryx. the sun sets. Huh? I knew that I had come There is also an informative to Emirates’ top-notch Al Maha nature walk around one of the Resort & Spa situated in the desert watering holes where the middle of hundreds of acres of a guide shows you things such as conservation area (Dubai Desert which footprints belonged to Conservation Reserve), but I had which animals (sand viper, Ethionot expected to be so up-closepian hedgehog, gerbil, jerboa, and-personal with it all. scorpion, desert foxes, sand cats, But that was part of the hares, sand-fish, lizards, geckos, charm of the relaxing, luxurious, etc), how to find a sand spider’s weekend stay. Other visitors lair and which seeds make good to my garden and pool were a tinder for Bedouins to easily start desert gazelle plus a multitude a fire. of migratory birds such as doves, The price also includes three warblers, a family of grey francomeals, all of which are cooked lin (similar to a desert partridge) by Emirate’s cordon-bleu chefs. and the crested Hoopoe. We Here is a tip for the five course eyed each other and kept our evening meal: read the literature distance pretending that we were on the writing desk in your villa not all sharing the same space. The Arabian oryx is a medium-sized antelope weighing 65 - 75 kg (140 before dinner time – inspect the It was an awesome feeling to be - 170 lb). It eats mainly grasses but also likes herbs, seedpods, fruit, fresh menu and be ready to make difso close to nature. growth of trees, tubers and roots. It can go for weeks without drinking water ficult choices as there are so many As a farewell gift, friends

24 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Oryx are very compatible with one another - the low frequency of aggressive interactions allows animals to share scattered shade trees under which they may spend eight of the daylight hours in the summer heat

tantalising tastes listed. The Amuse Bouche first course (little portions of delights to prepare your tastebuds) is chosen by the chef but all other courses are your personal preferences. Scallops, lobster, foie gras, wagyu beef – and that is just the starter course! There are, of course, Arabian and Asian menus too with plenty of vegetarian choices amongst them all (I can recommend the tempura courgette flowers). One of the other pieces of literature on the writing desk in the villa came from Timeless Spa offering guests special offers which were not listed on the printed spa menu. Yes! this was what I liked. I immediately phoned my ‘indoor’ co-ordinator (as opposed to my allocated ‘outdoor’ one, i.e. a ranger) who arranged for two treatments the next morning which were guaranteed to soften the skin, get rid of toxins, de-stress the muscles and generally help me to look and feel good before going home. This Eid, the resort is offering guests half price on every second night of their stay, valid until 30th September.

Finding the place Al Maha is a 65 kilometre drive from Dubai (approx.40 minutes), along the Dubai/Al Ain Road. Drive past Outlet Mall, past the Rugby 7evens ground and phone the resort when you get to Junction 37 so that they can arrange for a ranger to meet you at the secure car parking area past Exit 50. No private cars are allowed on the reserve.

Arabian oryx Al Maha is Arabic for Oryx. Hunted to the brink of extinction over the 1940’s-1960’s the Arabian Oryx was declared ‘endangered’ by the 1970’s. Saved by the efforts of Dubai’s then Ruler, the late Sheikh Rashid, the last remaining populations were captured and trans-located to the USA, where they were bred under secure conditions. In 1997, with the planning of the resort progressing, the then Crown Prince, now Ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, funded the first reintroduction of this symbolic animal, with the return to the wild of Al Maha’s first oryx herd, bringing back over 100 of the descendents of that group which, decades before, had started the long road back to survival in America. Today nearly 300 Arabian Oryx, the largest free-roaming herds in Arabia, are a testament to the knowledge and care shown by conservation specialists. Large scale habitat rehabilitation programmes are also ongoing, including the propagation of over 6,000 indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses. By staying at the resort guests actively support desert programmes, as a portion of its turnover is put directly into conservation projects.

The last oryx in the wild was shot in 1972. Animals raised in captive populations were re-introduced into the wild in Oman in 1982. Additional re-introduced populations now occur in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, with a total reintroduced population in the wild of approximately 886 in 2003. Poaching of re-introduced wild Arabian oryx has become a serious threat again. At least 200 oryx were taken or killed by poachers from the re-introduced wild Omani herd in three years after poaching began there in February 1996

A gazelle shelters from the sun

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 25

THEME PARK

Roller coaster ride Ferrari World Abu Dhabi unveils its exciting upcoming attractions

errari World Abu Dhabi has come a long way since the laying of the first stone back in November 2007, to become the world’s largest indoor theme park. It will open its doors to the public at noon on October 28 three weeks ahead of the second Formula1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The theme park will pay tribute to the passion, excellence, performance, and technical innovation that Ferrari has established over the years and represents today. Its iconic sleek red roof is directly inspired by the classic double curve side profile of the Ferrari GT body, spanning 200,000 m2 and carrying the largest Ferrari logo ever created. With more than 20 rides and attractions the park will offer families and enthusiasts the time of their lives with a host of attractions that indulge the senses in ways never experienced before. With eyecatching surroundings, authentic aromas, distinctive sounds of Italy, and of course the thrill of some of the world’s most inventive rides; it will have something on offer for everyone. On entering the park, guests will first be struck by the sheer scale of the interior structure spanning 86,000 m2. They will walk into a dream world of colourful landscaped areas representing the Italian

countryside, with dazzling general views of many of Ferrari’s most iconic cars beautifully showcased throughout the park. The enormous crystal-glazed funnel is its centrepiece. There is a spectacular surprise at each corner whether in the creative interiors, sophisticated concepts of the rides, or the mind boggling technology and history showcases. Galleria Ferrari will be the world’s largest Ferrari gallery outside Maranello with an interactive display of cars from 1947 through to the present, while Made in Maranello offers a unique opportunity to go behind the doors of the famous Ferrari factory in Maranello; a privilege previously only enjoyed by Ferrari owners. Adults and children of all ages can enjoy the famous sites and sounds of Italy as they soar above the picturesque Italian countryside through mountains, villages, vineyards and forests on Viaggio in Italia. Families can also escape into the fantasy world of ‘Nello’ at Speed of Magic, as the mischievous racing driver leads them on a fantastic 4-D adventure through deep green jungles to icy caves and ravines; from the bottom of the ocean to the mouth of a fiery volcano; through settings where no Ferrari has ever gone before. Families will be dwarfed by the over-

sized components of the V12, where they will ride through the grill of a Ferrari 599 and marvel at the intricacy of the engine before being fired out of the exhaust. Youngsters will be able to get their first taste behind a wheel at the Ferrari Academy, the two part driving and racing school complete with junior race track and driving circuit. Children will learn their driving skills on the roads of Junior GT before stepping up to race in Ferrari F1™ cars at the Junior Grand Prix. Younger children will love the Junior Training Camp; an interactive soft play area where they will engage with a waterless car wash, become a custom ‘constructor’, climb up the grandstand, pilot remote cars, paddle their own miniature Ferrari and play with an F1 car made entirely of soft, child-friendly foam. This ‘kid’s zone’ is conveniently located in front of the Espresso Rosso cafe, allowing parents to watch their children whilst enjoying the taste and aroma of an authentic Italian macchiato. This is a must-visit for F1 fans and thrill seekers with a range of high octane attractions designed to please even the most ardent adrenaline addicts and speed demons. Those who wish to start their experience in top gear will get their adrenaline fix at GForce blasting through the red roof, before

Piazza Ferrari, the main square of Ferrari World, under its glass dome

26 l UAE Digest, September 2010

being dropped from a hair-raising height of 62 metres. Daredevils can indulge their competitive streak on the Fiorano GT Challenge, where two F430 Spider coasters will battle for dominance on the track. F1 enthusiasts will be able to live out their dreams of riding tandem with racing champions as they skid through tight corners and spin through wet surfaces in one of the planet’s most powerful cars at Driving with Champions. They will also be offered an opportunity to be part of the pit crew and experience first hand the energy, excitement and intensity that goes behind the scenes of the world’s most prominent Grand Prix races at the Paddock. Fans can also dictate race day by choosing the tactics and strategies at the interactive Pit Wall.

When Enzo Ferrari adopted the Prancing Horse emblem in 1923 in honour of Italian war hero Count Francesco Baracca, he would never have imagined that it would grow to be one of the world’s most globally recognizable symbols (left to right) Fernando Alonso, Stefano Domenicali and Felipe Massa sit in the Formula Rossa roller coaster cars

Authentic Italian dining Ferrari is a quintessentially an Italian brand so the experience here would not be complete without great food. The theme park will offer a range of Ferrari inspired restaurants and cafes serving exclusive Italian dishes, including Mamma Rossella; a traditional family style Italian trattoria and Cavallino; an elegant dining a la carte restaurant.

Interactive shopping experience The theme park houses two unique retail outlets, the world’s largest Ferrari store and a unique ‘past and present’ store, complete with a recreation of Enzo Ferrari’s first garage. The products on offer range from custom made remote control cars to exotic gifts handcrafted by Italian artisans. Guests will also enjoy the unique boutique where they can create their personalised souvenirs at innovative interactive zones. There are few leisure destinations in the world that can offer the awe-inspiring attractions that this place has in store for its visitors. Ferrari owners and drivers have enjoyed the distinctiveness of this aspirational brand for decades; now it’s everybody’s turn to experience it!

Formula Rossa roller coaster Strap yourself into the F1 cockpit and hold on, as you blast away on the fastest roller coaster on the planet. You’ll accelerate to 240km/h and see what 1.7 Gs really feels like. You’ll scream over the track and 52 metres into the sky before flying through the chicanes and across the finish line on the Formula Rossa. The Formula Rossa journey will begin in a temperature controlled preride waiting area, where riders will be given protective eyewear, designed to protect passengers from the windforce generated by the coaster’s high speed. Using a hydraulic winch system, similar to those used to launch jet planes, the F1 inspired coaster is then shot out of the launch area using 20,800 horsepower and propelled to a height of 52m in less than 5 seconds. Riders are then taken on a blindingly fast and thrilling experience along a 2.07 km track full of sharp turns and sudden drops.

Paddock

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 27

FISH STOCK

Fish in a dish By Linda Benbow

t was only six months ago that UAE residents were being urged to choose wisely when buying fish for their meals, and a look around the local souq seems to indicate that the message has sunk in with some shoppers. It was good to see buyers from restaurants and eateries asking for Shari Eshkeli (pink ear Emperor), instead of Shaari (spangled Emperor) which is on the overfished list. A quick chat with various market-place sellers indicated that buyers seem to be getting a bit more choosier now and that although there is still demand for Hammour and Kingfish, both of which are on the ‘overfished’ list supplied by EWS-WWF, shoppers look around for the bigger catches trying to avoid the smaller ones which should have been returned to the sea and allowed to grow bigger. Surveys conducted by the Emirates Wildlife Society in association with WWF (EWS-WWF) have shown that 66 per cent of the UAE population eat fish at least once a week. With its increasing popularity, the high demand for seafood is putting an increasing pressure on the fish stock, resulting in a noticeable decline of about 80 per cent over the last few decades. Hammour, a highly favoured fish in the UAE, is being over-fished seven times beyond its sustainable level, with a decline of 87-92 per 28 l UAE Digest, September 2010

cent since 1978, putting it at the top of the overfished species list. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Managing Director of EWS said: “Fish forms an essential part of our marine ecological system, a stable component in our local diet, while fishing constitutes an important part of our cultural heritage. It has only been over the last three decades, with the commercializing of this sector and habitat destruction, that we have started witnessing an alarming decline in our fish stock, calling for our efforts towards protecting this valuable resource. We bring this campaign to the residents of the UAE, aiming to empower them with consumer

information about the status of these local valuable species, hoping to inspire them to Choose Wisely.” Aiming to provide people with the necessary knowledge to make an informed and wise choice, a wallet size consumer guide has been developed with the support of Environment Agency- Abu Dhabi (EAD), classifying 19 popular fish types into three categories, based on stock assessment studies that have been carried out by scientists at EAD. The guide assigns a colour to each of those categories; red distinguishing overfished types that include many of the popularly consumed fish, such as Shaari, Kanaad, Farsh, and Hammour. The guide also marks other options with orange and green, giving UAE residents the opportunity to try different types of fish that are available within sustainable levels. This guide is available in print from EWS –WWF offices, and can be accessed and downloaded on the campaign’s website www.choosewisely.ae. For those who enjoy cooking, a database of recipes based on sustainable fish will be created on the website. And, for the more competitive cooking lovers, the campaign has also launched a ‘Sustainable Fish Dish’ challenge, encouraging people to come up with recipes in order to bring these varieties of fish closer to what we consider familiar and habitual.

The Challenge • Cook a fish dish at home. It should

• • • •

contain one of the sustainably fished UAE species described in the green and orange options in the consumer guide. Note down reactions to the dish from your family and friends. Submit your recipe and attach a nice photo. Your recipe will be featured online, where it will be rated by the public. Recipes with the highest ratings will be featured in the UAE sustainable fish dish cookbook. Prizes will be awarded to submitters at the end of the challenge which is open to all UAE residents until September 25th, 2010.

How you can help • Choose wisely! Consult the EWS•

WWF consumer guide to know which species are overfished and which are good sustainable alternatives. Variety is the spice of life! Try new

'green' fish and increase the variety of fish you eat. Move away from the dependence on one favourite. • Protect what you love! If your favourite fish is listed as 'red,' find out more about how fishing is affecting the stock. If you really cannot go without your craving, enjoy it in moderation by making it a special occasion. By choosing to buy sustainable fish only, we can lower the demand for overfished species. Take action now to protect our resources for the future. The solution is in your hands. Unsustainable fishing is a worldwide problem, with currently over 80 per cent of the world’s main fish stocks considered as fully exploited, overexploited, depleted or recovering from depletion by the Food and Agriculture organisation ( FAO). We live in a world that wants more and more seafood, making overfishing and its associated environmental impact one of the biggest sustainability challenges. This strong market demand, coupled with poor governance, leads to unsustainable fisheries that become rapidly depleted. The people and the landscape of the United Arab Emirates have changed tremendously in the past 40 years. Naturally, this has led to a change in the way we use our resources. Fisheries are no exception. Too many fish are being removed too early

Pertaining to piscatorial perceptions Are you asking me to stop eating fish? Not at all. Fish are full of nutrients and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. They are a delicious and important part of many traditional and modern dishes. UAE residents can safeguard fish for the future by choosing to buy and eat the sustainable ‘green’ fish. These are just as healthy and nutritious, and are not in danger of being depleted. Try these new fish and discover new ways of cooking them. Why is hammour overfished? I see it everywhere! The high demand for Hammour has placed excess pressure on stocks. The ecology of these species makes them particularly susceptible to being overfished: they are long-lived, grow slowly and mature only when they are 2-3 years old. Currently, they are being caught before they reach maturity and are thus not given the opportunity to reproduce. I am just one person. Your choices can make a big difference. As consumers, we are the

in their lifespan, reducing their potential to produce the next generation and consequently future stocks Sustainable Seafood campaigns have been carried out by the WWF in Spain, France, South Africa, Indonesia and Hong Kong among others, and have played an important role in raising consumer awareness of unsustainable fishing. But to succeed there is a need to educate fishermen as well as consumers. Early summer saw the Consumer Protection Department of the UAE Ministry of Economy, in coordination with the Ministry of Environment and Water, discuss with representatives from UAE’s fishermen associations, the various issues and challenges facing the fishing sector and the recent recommendation of the Supreme Committee for Consumer Protection aimed at regulating the fishing business and stabilising market prices. The participants discussed the need to apply best practices in order to enhance the trust of the fishermen on the various associations in the UAE by providing the needed support including logistics and equipment for fishermen. They also emphasised the importance of creating balance in the market between traders and consumers. They discussed the reasons behind the fall in fish prices and the Ministries intention to provide inspectors and monitor fish prices in the UAE markets.

end users of fish resources. Accordingly, we are responsible for how they are used - or abused. We have a chance to significantly shift demand away from overfished species to ones in better shape. What we ask for at fish souqs, supermarkets and restaurants determines demand. Won’t the ‘good’ list become overfished too? The consumer guide lists 11 local fish species in the ‘green’ and ‘orange’ sections because their stocks are not currently being depleted. Their biological and ecological characteristics make them less susceptible to overfishing: they are fast-growing and mature early, which allows the stock to be renewed at a faster rate. Important note: Sharks are not included in the consumer guide but EWS-WWF highly recommends avoiding any type of shark meat. These animals are slow-growing and take a long time to mature. Since 2008, the Ministry of Environment has placed a partial ban on shark fishing in the UAE, as well as a complete ban on shark finning and the hunting of whale sharks.

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 29

Go for it! (stock is not experiencing heavy fishing pressure)

UAE Consumer guide Fish in green section = Go for it! (stock is not experiencing heavy fishing pressure)

Fish in orange section = Good choice but there’s better (stock exploited within sustainable levels)

Red

Green

Naiser – Ehrenberg’s Snapper Yanam – Sordid Sweetlips Shari Eshkeli – Pink ear emperor Anfooz – Yellow bar angelfish Ebzimi – black streaked monocle bream Faskar – Two bar seabream Jesh Um Al Hala – Orange spotted trevally

Orange

Badah - Longtail silver biddy Souli - Small tooth emperor Aqalah - Black spot snapper Kofar - King soldier bream

Easy to cook, fish-elicous recipes

30 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Fish in red section = Think again! (stock is heavily overfished)

Hamour - Orange spotted grouper Shaari - Spangled emperor Fersh - Painted sweetlips Zuraidi - Golden trevally Kanaad - Kingfish Yemah - Snub nose emperor Safi Arabi - White-spotted spinefoot Qabit - Goldlined seabream

Fish cakes

Ingredients: • 450g skinned fish fillet • 2 bay leaves • 150ml milk • 350g non waxy cold mashed potato • ½ teaspoon of finely grated lemons zest • 1 tablespoon fresh white flatleaf parsley, chopped • 1 tablespoon snipped chives • 1 egg • flour, for shaping • 85g fresh white breadcrumbs , preferably a day or two old • 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable or sunflower oil , for shallow frying Method • Lay the fish and bay leaves in a frying pan. Pour over the milk and 150ml/¼ pint water. Cover, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 4 mins. Take off the heat and let stand, covered, for 10 mins to gently finish cooking the fish. • Lift the fish out of the milk with a slotted spoon and put on a plate to cool. • Into the mashed potato mix 1 rounded tablespoon of milk, lemon zest, parsley and chives. Season well with salt and pepper. • Drain off liquid from the fish, grind some pepper over it, then flake it into big chunks into potato. Using your hands, gently lift the fish and mash together so they just mix. • Beat the egg on a large plate and lightly flour a board. Spread the breadcrumbs on a baking sheet. Divide the fish cake mixture into four. On the floured board, and with floured hands, carefully shape into four cakes, about 2.5cm thick. One by one, sit each cake in the egg, and brush over the top and sides so it is completely coated. Sit the cakes on the crumbs, patting the crumbs on the sides and tops so they are lightly covered. Transfer to a plate, cover and chill for 30 mins

Paella

(or up to a day ahead). • Heat the oil in a large frying pan. Fry the fish cakes over a medium heat for about five minutes on each side or until crisp and golden.

Ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 leek or onion, sliced 110g pack chorizo sausage, chopped 1 teaspoon turmeric 300g long grain rice 1 litre hot fish or chicken stock 200g frozen peas 400g frozen seafood mix , defrosted – or chunks of cooked fish Method Heat the oil in a deep frying pan, then soften the leek for five minutes without browning. Add the chorizo and fry until it releases its oils. Stir in the turmeric and rice until coated by the oils, then pour in the stock. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 15 mins, stirring occasionally. Tip in the peas and cook for five minutes, then stir in the seafood to heat through for a final 1-2 mins cooking or until rice is cooked. Check for seasoning and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 31

scatter with spring onions and sesame seeds. Serve with the tuna.

Fish curry

Tuna steaks

Ingredients • 50ml soy sauce • 4 tablespoons soft brown sugar • 1 garlic clove • ½ tsp sesame oil • 4 tuna steaks • 4 bunches of bok choy (pak choi), halved • 2 large limes, halved • oil • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced diagonally • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds , toasted Method Put the soy sauce and brown sugar in a small saucepan over a medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the garlic and sesame oil, remove from the heat and cool. Cover the tuna steaks with the marinade and leave for 1 hour. Barbecue the tuna steaks for 1 minute each side for rare, 2 for medium, basting constantly with the marinade, until 32 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Ingredients • 450g Black streaked monocle bream(Ebzimi), skin removed • For the curry paste: • 175g onions, coarsely chopped • 5 cm ginger, finely chopped • 2 clove garlic, finely chopped • 2 tasblespoons Madras curry paste • 1 teaspoon ground coriander • 1/2 tsp ground fennel seeds • 1/2 tsp turmeric • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 150 ml tinned coconut milk plain boiled or steamed charred and sticky on the outside. Barbeque the bok choy halves cut-side down for 2 minutes. Put in a bowl and squeeze over lime juice and a little oil and

rice, to serve Method 1. Cut the fish into 5cm pieces and set aside.

2. To make the curry paste put the onions, ginger, garlic, curry paste, coriander, fennel, turmeric and lemon juice in the food processor. Add half the coconut milk and blend very well. 3. Pour the remaining coconut milk into a wok or saucepan over a medium heat and add the curry paste. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes. 4. Add the fish pieces and cook for a further 5 minutes. 5. Serve immediately with plain boiled or steamed rice.

Barbequed crispy snapper fillets A simple recipe which uses the heat of the barbecue to create a brilliant, crisp crust for the tender snapper fillets. Ingredients • 6 snapper fillets (Nasser), cut 1/2 inch thick • Juice of one lemon • 1/4 cup melted butter • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1 cup bread crumbs

Method Brush the snapper fillets with lemon juice, and leave to stand for 5 minutes. Now pat dry with paper towels and brush each fillet on both sides with butter. Season with salt and pepper,

then roll the fillets in bread crumbs until both sides are lightly coated. Place fish on the barbecue, flesh side down and grill for 8 minutes or until the fish flakes when tested with a fork.

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 33

HOSPITALITY

Ramadan and Eid celebrations T

his Ramadan, discover the culinary traditions of Arabia with your family and friends at the various Coral Hotels & Resorts around the country. Prepared by top chefs, a delicious selection of the finest Arabic delicacies awaits you across all their properties along with room-rate offers, live cooking stations, games, arabic music and sparkling displays. Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club welcomes you to relax and have Iftar or Suhour at a selection of warm and tranquil dining outlets. At Legends, sample the delights of a specially prepared Arabic menu, whilst taking in the lush surroundings of the Golf Club. Alternatively, head to the ‘Al Sultan Tent’ at QD’s, where you can unwind and take in the beautiful view of the Dubai skyline whilst enjoying a sheesha. For those looking to host an exclusive event, the Golf Function Suite is available for a more personalized experience. Dusit Princess City Centre Dubai has announced Ramadan and Eid promotions in The Chill, the hotel’s Thai influenced restaurant on the first floor. Located next to the Al Etihad Building on the Carrefour entrance side of Deira City Centre, the Dusit Princess is a delightful boutique hotel with 120 rooms and suites. The Chill offers both buffet and a la carte menus. The Iftar buffet will be served until 9.00pm from around 5.00pm (subject to Iftar timings). The al fresco Shisha Zone is an ideal venue for those seeking to enjoy the centuriesold tradition of the shisha pipe with flavoured tobacco. To celebrate eid, The Chill will offer a brunch buffet inclusive of free flow soft drinks from noon until 15.30 hrs on the second and third days of the festival. Take advantage of your Ramadan working hours this year with Emirates Academy Ramadan Special at Emirates Golf Club. Book a 30-minute lesson during the week between 11am and 5pm and choose from an array of heat beating topics: • A 30-minute state of the art SAM Puttlab session

34 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Grand Millenium Atrium Restaurant

• •

A 30-minute video session A 30-minute NLP Mental Game session • A 30-minute dedicated Short Game session Lessons can also be tailored to suit your exact needs. The Grand Millennium Dubai is offering an Iftar buffet, open from 6.00pm to 9.30pm, plus the Suhoor buffet between 11.00pm and 04.00am in the lively Atrium restaurant. In addition, Suhoor will be available on room service either from an a la carte selection or a set menu. And, a final option is the convivial atmosphere of a Ramadan tent on the pool deck where guests can take advantage of either an a la carte menu inclusive of shisha or an Arabic barbecue package with mezzeh, kofta, shishtauk, fish and more. This Ramadan, Hyatt properties across the Middle East, Asia and North Africa have special incentives for Iftar dining, offering their guests a variety of delectable gastronomic experiences, compelling city views and unparalleled arabesque ambience. Offers include a-la-carte Iftar dining in their top restaurants, buffet dining options, as well as private dining in select restaurants for functions. Suhour options are also available throughout these properties, alongside authentic Ramadan tents. New and unique concepts developed by select Hyatt properties this Ramadan

Special Ramadan Offerings at Hyatt hotels

include Iftar food delivery, for intimate home celebrations of Ramadan, as well as charity menus for those looking to spread the spiritual atmosphere of the holy month. During Suhour, Diwan Al Khayal, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, comes alive with an Arabic trio featuring the Oud, Kamaja and Tabla, performing in sets between 10.00pm and 1.15am (Saturday – Wednesday), and 10.00pm and 2.15am on Thursdays and Fridays. Al Majlis, Madinat Jumeirah, accessible for persons above the age of 21 years exclusively, is open for Suhour daily from 8.30pm to 2.30am. This year diners will be able to break fast in an exquisite and large indoor Ramadan tent located in the Town Square and the newly restored Mays El-Reem of JW Marriott Dubai. Mays El-Reem will have an Arabic family style seating accompanied by a lavish Iftar buffet. Various live cooking stations serving falafel, kharouf, sharwarma, foul mesdamas and saj are located at the entrance. A special spice souk, a cart featuring various nuts and preserved fruits including dates will be featured; while enjoying their Iftar buffet, diners will have the opportunity to see Arabic sweets being prepared right in front of their eyes or they can watch the multiple plasma screens TV’s showing their favourite Ramadan season soap operas. The Iftar menu changes daily during Ramadan.

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is inviting guests to celebrate Ramadan by sharing in authentic meals with family and friends, with signature dining experiences created especially for the Holy Month, and a special room package to enjoy the spirit of this special season. Enjoy a lavish spread of traditional sweet and savoury Arabic dishes at Sezzam, KGrill or Aspen, or sit down to a cosy, private meal in the hotel’s Grand Ski Chalet. Guests not observing Ramadan can dine at Aspen and Sezzam within respectfully screened areas. Le Meridien Dubai’s Yalumba is featuring a fabulous Iftar buffet with an unparalleled array of Arabic, Asian and International dishes including hot and cold mezzeh, hearty soups, grilled specialties, Ramadan juices plus sweet treats and pastries. Visitors to the Natural Elements Spa during the Holy month will also get a 50 per cent discount on the popular ‘Total Hydration’ package, which includes a blissful Anti-free Radical Facial and Body Scrub. In addition to this, if guests bring their iftar bill to the spa they will be entitled to a 25 per cent discount on all treatments (excluding packages) until the 30th of September 2010. And there’s an extra treat for the men who can enjoy the ‘Spa Sale’ at Natural Elements, a 25 per cent discount on all treatments excluding packages from 10 pm to midnight during Ramadan. Escape with family and friends to UAE Digest, September 2010 l 35

Ramadan Tent at JW Marriott

Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort in Fujairah. For every two consecutive nights stay, the third night is offered complimentary on room only basis. The East Coast’s premier resort will be hosting its traditional Ramadan Iftar at Views restaurant, where guests can enjoy a delectable buffet every evening. Children between the ages of 13-16 can dine for half price while children under 13 will be served with complimentary dining. Guests at the hotel will also be able to enjoy the resort’s popular traditional Ramadan tents, ‘Layali Al Aqah’. A giant screen will also be showcasing traditional Arabic entertainment for the viewing pleasure of guest in the tents. With a choice of Iftars available in Boulvar, Shabestan, Fish Market and Al Mansour Dhow; the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek offers endless choices to suit everybody’s taste. Indulge into Al Mansour Dhow’s special five-star Iftar Ramadan cruise featuring a sumptuous International and Arabic buffet accompanied with a free flow of soft drinks, Private cabana at The Address Dubai Mall

36 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Le Meridien Al Aqah poolside

available only for private group Iftar bookings. Al Mansour Dhow sails away from Dubai’s creek and out into the open sea in a remarkable way to unwind and relax in a luxurious atmosphere. See the sights, feel the breeze and feast on a full International and Traditional Buffet. The evening begins with entertainment from Oud player, Jemal and as the evening passes by take in the sounds of traditional Arabic chill out tunes. It’s true, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City is giving 50 per cent back. The trick is to hang on to your receipt and present it during the next visit to any of outlets, up to the end of September and get half of the amount previously spent off of the new tab! With Iftar being a time for friends and family to come together to break their fast or simply just to enjoy the convivial atmosphere and generous buffets, the Taj Palace Hotel Dubai will once again be putting together a number of activities. Once Iftar is over shisha fans can relax on the Al Khaimah Terrace with a variety of

shishas from 8pm until 12 midnight. Featuring classic Arabic specialties and a dedicated children’s buffet, relax and enjoy warm hospitality while the young ones are entertained in a designated area at The Address Dubai Mall. An oud player will perform everyday for your entertainment. A selection of shisha is available on the terrace at Cabana which is offering a special Eid barbecue around the poolside. Enjoy a delightfully different Iftar experience in each of THE One Restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. While the Jumeirah Theatre Deli menu features fabulous treats like Moroccan Hummus Soup, Lamb Tagine and Caramel-Pistachio Torte, THE One Restaurant in its Khalidiya Theatre offers a scrumptious spread of traditional Arabic and international dishes. Zuma will be open throughout Ramadan, with an irresistible brunch menu from Saturday to thursday that the whole family can enjoy. Located in Podium 6 at The Gate Village in Dubai International Financial Centre, the restaurant offers its guests Shabestan at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek complimentary parking. The lavish brunch includes starters and sushi from the sushi counter, followed by the à la carte option of a selection of skewers and a main course, prepared fresh and brought to the table. During Ramadan, children can enjoy sweets from Candylicious at Dubai Mall, which has partnered with Zuma to create a fun and friendly children’s playing area. They also offer a selection of Candylicious treats to all the children who come to play.

TASTES

Twenty10 in 2010 Gary Rhodes encourages sharing platters and sociable dining By Linda Benbow

e came, he welcomed, he went back in the kitchen to do the cooking. Well, what else do you expect from a chef? Gary Rhodes, OBE, was in Dubai in August to open his new restaurant – a new generation of culinary grill with a twist - called Rhodes Twenty10 - at Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort + Spa. That ought to remind everyone in which year it was opened. The friendly chef spoke to well-wishing diners and guests at an opening party explaining the concept of this new eatery where customers can choose to eat what they want, the way they want, with whatever accompaniments they want. And, if they are not yet sure of their likes, they can choose an assortment of goodies to be presented on a plate, or platter, big enough for a group of people to share and sample the varying morsels. “I thought it would be good to have a culinary grill with a difference. The idea is to give guests a chance to tailor-make their meal, depending on their tastes, and create a sociable dining experience by introducing sharing platters and offering a variety of flavours all on one plate,” he explained. “There are lots of new ideas on the menu, as well as an old english favourite of bread and butter pudding,” he grinned enchantingly. And everyone else grinned back, as they realised that Gary’s signature pudding was still available to delight the tastebuds. The restaurant offers both classic and

Gary Rhodes

more exotic ‘Open European’ dishes with a variety of grills, from lobster to steak. All dressings, sauces and butters are complimentary, as Gary believes they should naturally go together. Signature dishes include a delicious burger made with fillet steak and topped with fois gras, which melts in the mouth, followed by sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and toffee ice cream. Additional dishes on the menu include: Starters: Sharing plates of fennel, courgette, pink grapefruit, asparagus and hazelnut salad with caramelised honey and apple dressing (vegetarian), potted chicken liver parfait with grape chutney, toasted brioche and raisin breads, warm sesame glazed duck with an orange Main courses: Fish and chips with mushy peas. Desserts: Tiramisu, strawberries with lemon ice cream and homemade shortbread biscuits. The restaurant’s interior is equally

well-considered. Downstairs is a welcome lounge with 1930’s pictures on the wall, retro padded seating, and a well stocked cocktail bar surrounded by bottles of high class tastes, some with floating particles of gold, and quality sparkling glasses with long stems. Upstairs is sleek and chic with a monochrome colour scheme with hints of lilac. The inviting dining area has plush seating, where guests can sit back comfortably and enjoy good food. Add to this sparkling chandeliers, and twinkling candles reflecting in the chrome and mirrors, and you find yourself in a very intimate, relaxing atmosphere. Le Méridien, the French-born hotel brand, was acquired by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) in November 2005. Since then, it has gone through a brand re-launch, which included appointing a full-time Cultural Curator – French arts-provocateur Jérôme Sans – and transforming numerous guest touch points, thus bringing unique and interactive experiences to its guests. In an effort to make a positive impact on the local and global environment, the hotel employs a large eco team to carry out regular environmental audits on the resort. Their job is to ensure compliance regarding the hotel’s strict recycling programme and training in eco friendly cleaning agents. The hotel also has its own water recycle plant to take waste water and re-use it in the irrigation of the hotel gardens and lawn to benefit both their own guests and the larger community. UAE Digest, September 2010 l 37

RAMADAN

Ramadan Mubarak

he Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Departments explains that Islam is based on the following five principles. To be a true muslim you have to believe in these five essential rules and practise them sincerely. 1.Declaring the faith (Shahada) Shadada means to testify and declare that “There is no god worthy of worship except Allah alone and Muhammed is the messenger of Allah.” 2. Performing the prayer (Salah) Salah is the obligatory prayer performed five times a day in order to attain close relationship with Allah and to prevent oneself from all kinds of sin. 3. Almsgiving to the needy (Zakah)

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and it is considered important because the Qur’an was first revealed during this month. The actual night that the Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad is called Lailat ul Qadr, and to stand in prayer on this one night is said to be better than a thousand months of worship. Often called 'month of the Qur'an', Muslims attempt to recite as much of the Qur'an as they can during this time. Most mosques will recite one thirtieth of the Qur'an each night during the Taraweeh prayers. This is a month where believers learn to exercise self-control. A major facet of this is the abstinence from food and drink that is prescribed to all healthy Muslims during the hours of sunrise to sunset. Although the sick are exempt, many continue to fast and therefore abstain not only from eating and drinking water but also from consuming oral medications and intravenous nutritional fluids.

38 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Zakah means Alms Giving. It is a compulsory charity of 2.5 per cent of the total amount of wealth, which is given to the needy and the poor, once in a year. 4. Fasting during the month of Ramadan (Sawm) Sawm means to observe fast during the month of Ramadan. During fasting a muslim keeps himself away from eating, drinking and sex relationship from dawn until sunset. 5. The pilgrimage to city of Makkah (Hajj) Hajj means to perform the pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah. It is obligatory, once in a lifetime, on those who are physically and financially able to perform it.

Hag Al Lailah celebrations

Children celebrating Hag Al Lailah at Municipality headquarters.

Traditionally, people in the UAE prepare for the arrival of Ramadan two weeks in advance in mid-Sha'aban. In July, Dubai Municipality organised a variety of programmes to celebrate ‘Hag Al Lailah’, which falls on the 15th of the month of Shaaban and brings happiness for all people from different age groups, especially children. Visitors and employees were distributed special gifts of the occasion in the Municipality headquarters. Municipality centres in Umm Suqeim, Al Twar and other areas also joined the celebrations with special programmes. However, the special programmes organised at Children's City in Creek Park on the 26th evening attracted a huge crowd of children. The occasion was celebrated with variety entertainment programmes in collaboration with ejunior channel. The activities included distribution bags of gifts for children and taking them on a tour around the city to collect sweets from each section with Mr. Abdullah Bin London playing Hag Al Lailah games. Mini marathon, competitions for the most beautiful traditional uniform and the most beautiful bag were also held on the occasion, in addition to competitions for adults and families with the Children's City mascot, Murshid. Nayla Al Mansoori, Acting Head of Children's City said that the fifteenth of Shaaban is a famous event in all cities of Arabian Gulf and number of other Muslim countries. "Groups of children tour their local area knocking on neighbours' doors and sing a song for this event. They hold in their hand an empty bag and return to their home loaded with all kinds of nuts and candies," she explained.

ART

A history of Islamic art with 99 objects The Holy Month of Ramadan inspires a unique exhibition of 99 art objects that depict the story of Islamic Art

urated in collaboration with Zayed University, The Story of Islamic Art in 99 Objects showcases art from Mr. Farhad Farjam’s extensive private collection. This spectacular and varied group of artworks, being exhibited at The Farjam Collection @ DIFC gallery, displays technical and aesthetic refinement born of exceptional craftsmanship. This exhibition marks the culmination of a full term of educational partnership between the gallery and university, with the gallery holding classes and workshops teaching museum studies to students. “This collaboration has offered students a rare opportunity to work directly with precious artefacts from the past. It is indeed a pleasure to observe the special interest that they have taken in UAE culture and history,” said Dr Sulaiman Al Jassim, Vice President of Zayed University. “It is a privilege to host this exciting exhibition which is the result of a semester of long efforts between the two. I trust this will be the first of many educational joint efforts between our two institutions. ” said Mr. Farhad Farjam. The students, under the supervision of Zayed University’s Islamic art expert and Associate Professor Dr. Ron Hawker, draw from their academic and personal experience to tell the story of Islamic art from its inception to the dawn of industrialisation. “The students have been on a journey of discovery that comes to life through this exhibition. We are privileged to have the opportunity to work with this vast collection. Its depth and variety make it a world-class resource,” stated Dr. Hawker. The 99 objects cover a remarkably broad geographical scope and stretch across time from the 1st century AH to the 14th century AH. The selection

showcases the breadth of media encompassed including manuscripts, Qur’ans, calligraphy, textiles, ceramics, miniatures, metalworks, jewellery, and alms. “These remarkable works capture the rich history of Islamic art in visual and spiritual codes”, explained Emilie Faure, Collection and Exhibitions Manager at The Farjam Collection. “From illuminated manuscripts, elaborate textiles, to splendid ceramics and glass wares, these objects speak of the lives and aspirations of their patrons, artisans, artists, and owners through time.” Art collector and patron Mr. Farhad Farjam was recognised in March this year with the Distinguished Patron of the Arts Award from Dubai Culture & Arts Authority. The Story of Islamic Art is the fifth exhibition to be inaugurated in the non profit space dedicated to his collection. The exhibition follows on from Highlights of Islamic Art and The Holy Qur’an which showcased other works drawn from the rich variety of Islamic art that forms part of his private collection. The Farjam Collection @ DIFC offers

Important Iznik tile, Circa 983 AH / 1575 AD, Turkey, Ottoman Empire

a range of educational programmes, free and open to the public, from its popular First Wednesdays series and School and University Programmes to Art Nights @ Gate Village in collaboration with the Dubai International Financial Centre.

Important curtain from the tomb of the Prophet, PBUH, 1223-1255 AH / 1808-1838 AD, Ottoman Empire

Brass Astrolabe, 1069 AH / 1658-1659 AD, India

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 39

ART

Fashion: The story of a lifetime Photos and ex- fashionable dresses will be on view at an exhibition at The Empty Quarter gallery, DIFC, from September 14 until October 17

he Empty Quarter Gallery opens the exhibition season with a grand photographic show focusing on fashion. Creative gallery director Elie Domit has succeeded in bringing together an exquisite collection of vintage and modern prints by celebrated photographers. Iconic images, many of which are to be seen in Dubai for the first time, are paired with the remarkable story of Parveen Shaath, a true fashionista avant la lettre from Saudi Arabia. Miss Shaath dedicated her life to the very subject of these photographs, haute couture dresses, collecting the best specimens for the inner circles of Saudi society. A number of these dresses, by fashion houses of note, such as Belville Sassoon– known to dress royalty – Victoria Royal, and vintage labels like Paul Louis Orrier and Nettie Vogues – who supplied Princess Diana’s formal engagement dress – will be on display in the gallery. The result is a museum quality exhibition. Photos will include those by:

Norman Parkinson (British, 1913 – 1990), a celebrated English portrait and fashion photographer who pioneered the use of outdoor colour photography and exotic locales in fashion shots. His career lasted over fifty years, creating images for Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar as well as snapping super models, celebrities and royalty. Lilian Bassman (American, 1917) started her career for Harper’s Bazaar in 1941 and is still actively working as an exhibiting photographer today. F.C. Gundlach (German, 1926) is considered the most significant fashion photographer of the young Federal Republic of Germany. Even in location shoots with a strong locale, such as in Egypt in front of the statue of Ramses, or amongst Bedouin driving sheep, our attention is always drawn to the garments. William Klein (American, 1928) was an abstract painter and sculptor who grew up in New York and went to work in Paris. In 1954 his work was seen and, because Klein did not know how to use a studio,

he took the models out onto the streets to photograph. Later he pioneered the use of wide angle and telephoto lenses for fashion work. Frank Horvat was born in 1928 in a previously Italian part of Croatia. He travelled the world in the early 1950s and sent his work back to magazines such as Life, Paris Match, and Realities. He was the first to apply the 35mm camera and reportage techniques to fashion photography. With a touch of humour and an eye for the humane, Elliott Erwitt’s (American, 1928) black and white photographs reveal the most basic and candid human emotions. His photographs are collected and exhibited in museums around the world. At the age of 21, Melvin Sokolsky (American, 1938), was invited to join the photo staff of Harper’s Bazaar by Henry Wolf, the magazine’s visionary art director. He is one of the great pioneers in the creation of visual imagery. Admired, awarded, and relentlessly copied, he remains steadfastly ahead of the curve and thoroughly ignited in his seventies. Sarah Moon (French, 1941) studied drawing in Great Britain. After a career in modelling she turned to photography in 1970. Moon became famous for her advertising campaign for Cacharel. Her career took a turn when she decided to use the negative black and white Polaroid as a medium of expression. Albert Watson’s (British, 1942) striking images have appeared on more than 100 covers of Vogue around the world and were featured in countless other publications, from Rolling Stone to Time to Vibe - many of the photographs iconic portraits of rock stars, rappers, actors and other celebrities.

Albert Watson’s photo of Naomi Campbell, Palm Springs, 1989

40 l UAE Digest, September 2010

CINEMA

Centurion Centurion is a gripping survival thriller set in early AD Britain which finds Quintus, the sole survivor of a savage raid on a Roman frontier fort, joining General Virilusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; legendary Ninth Legion to march north and wipe out the terrifying tribes known

as the Picts. When the Legion is attacked and Virilus seized, Quintus struggles to survive behind enemy lines with a small band of soldiers in a race to save their general and evade capture, torture and certain death.

Showing at UAE cinemas this month The Expendables A team of highly-trained, dangerous mercenaries are sent on a mission to a South American country, with the objective to overturn a cold-blooded dictator in charge. As the mission begins, the mercenaries discover that the situation is not as it appears. The men find themselves trapped in a deadly game of deception, with a traitor amongst their ranks.

This Action / war film was written by Dave Callaham and Sylvester Stallone, and directed by Stallone. The film pays tribute to the blockbuster action films of the 1980s and early â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;90s, and stars an array of action veterans from those decades, including Stallone himself, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, Dolph Lundgren, Mickey Rourke, and Jet Li, as well as more recent stars such as Jason Statham, Terry Crews, Randy Couture, and Stone Cold Steve Austin

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 41

ENVIRONMENT

Green building survey Survey indicates that a green property market in the UAE is viable within 2-3 years By Jan Gulbin

uly saw something different being focused on in the world of UAE property: tall and amazing, but non eco-friendly high-rises which are seen almost everywhere in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Landmark Advisory released the results of its first green building survey and report in which the survey assessed the attitudes of investors and stakeholders in the industry on the feasibility of developing and selling green buildings in the country. The main factor of being environmentally friendly meant saving resources and cutting fuel bills according to most respondents. The majority see the environmentally friendly aspect as the biggest advantage of ‘going green’; as well as lower utility bills. Conducted in conjunction with Cityscape Intelligence, the survey sampled primarily responses from institutional stakeholders in the real estate industry including developers, investors, property managers, and analysts. Respondents included UAE residents as well as investors and other stakeholders currently living abroad. “Through initiatives such as Estidama and Masdar City, it is clear that considerable progress is being made in sustainable real estate, particularly in Abu Dhabi. However, we felt it was important to understand the perspective of various stakeholders including their awareness of the many issues surrounding green buildings as well as their opinions regarding the potential demand drivers for green real estate in the UAE,” said Ms. Jesse Downs, Director of Research and Advisory, Landmark Advisory. The survey findings highlighted that the vast majority of those interviewed have a grasp on the concept of green buildings with approximately 96 per cent of respondents reporting an understanding of what it is. “Of course, this does not test actual understanding, but rather self assessment of

42 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Implementing both green development and retrofitting regulation is critical for improving the long term sustainability of UAE’s real estate market

Jesse Downs

knowledge, which is subjective. While this is a very basic question to ask, it is one potential indication of awareness of sustainability in the real estate market. Fostering awareness through education is the critical first step in building a sustainable property market,” explained Ms.Downs. The candidates who took part in the survey revealed that the factors they most often associate with green buildings include environmental friendliness, lower utility bills and better design. When asked their reasons for wanting to establish an office in a green building, respondents cited similar reasons such as environmental

friendliness and lower utility bills in addition to health benefits for employees. Based on the results, there is a clear distinction between building new green developments and retrofitting existing buildings. When asked about potential implementation of green building regulation that would require new buildings to achieve a minimum green standard, 34 per cent of respondents reported this should be put into practice immediately. However, respondents also stated that developers are likely to find it feasible to build green soon. In contrast, respondents reported that any regulation implementing a minimum green standard for the retrofitting of existing buildings should only be put into operation in 2-3 years. Commenting on this, Ms. Downs said: “Implementing green development regulation locally is less contentious than green retrofitting regulation; this is most likely because of the current state of the UAE real estate market. Essentially any green development regulation will have limited impact in the short to medium term because the development market will be extremely restricted over this period. Regardless, implementing both green development and retrofitting regulation is critical for improving the long term sustainability of UAE’s real estate market.”

ENVIRONMENT

Solar PV at Soneva Fushi

Solar power plant Renewable energy plant is key to zero carbon footprint and carbon zero progress

oneva Fushi, Six Senses’ flagship resort, has installed a 70kW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant system that has achieved eight months of successful operation. It is the largest renewable energy plant currently operating in the Maldives, a country that has brought international attention to the issue of global warming and rising sea levels. “This is a significant first step in achieving our commitment of a net zero carbon footprint for Soneva Fushi by 2012 as well as supporting the carbon reduction goals of the Maldives government,” said Sonu Shivdasani, CEO and Chairman of Six Senses. “We are hoping that our example will lead other resorts in the Maldives and other island grids around the world to also pursue solar PV as a low cost clean energy alternative.”

Made in Germany, built by Maldivians The ‘grid parity’ system, the first in the region to use best of breed thin film PV panels, was fabricated in easy-toassemble kit form by Beck Electric of Germany. The entire system, including tools required for assembly, was shipped to the Maldives in a 40 foot container and installed in two weeks by a team of 10 local workers, none of whom had worked with glass or solar panels before. The panels have been discreetly assembled in the middle of the island’s jungle and are visible only when guests are given guided tours of the resort’s impressive recycling, waste to wealth ‘Eco Centro’. This innovative kit-based approach removed the dependence on experienced

overseas contractors while providing islanders with renewable energy expertise. This approach provides a blueprint for smaller, poorer communities throughout the world to generate much-needed clean energy at a cost below diesel generated electricity. Dr. Lounette Dyer, who leads the Six Senses renewable energy efforts, said, “This project proves that solar PV doesn’t just make good environmental sense, it also makes good economic sense. Solar PV is no longer only a luxury of rich nations with high subsidies. It is now a necessity for poor developing countries that require energy to advance and are tied to global oil prices.” Following a successful trial period the company now plans to quadruple the size of the system in 2010 to provide almost half the resort’s electricity. UAE Digest, September 2010 l 43

ENVIRONMENT

Lateral thinking

fter 130 days on the high seas, the Plastiki sailed triumphantly into the port of Sydney this summer. David de Rothschild and his crew, who had covered around 8,000 nautical miles across the Pacific from San Francisco, were welcomed by an enthusiastic crowd. The CO2-neutral watchmaking company IWC Schaffhausen was, as official partner, also highly delighted by the successful conclusion of the expedition dedicated to environmental protection. Members of the crew wore the Ingenieur Automatic Mission Earth Edition ‘Adventure Ecology’ on their wrists during the voyage. De Rothschild, who, among other things, is breaking completely new ground with the 12-tonne catamaran Plastiki, is a lateral thinker and impassioned environmental pioneer. He put his vision of a society which regards waste as a resource into practice imaginatively by building the hull of the vessel from 12,500 reclaimed plastic bottles, and even specified a hightech fabric, a uniquely recyclable and until now relatively unexplored material, for the

De Rothschild, 31, said the idea for the journey came to him after he read a UN report that said pollution — and particularly plastic waste — was seriously threatening the world’s oceans. He figured a good way to prove that trash can be effectively reused was to use some of it to build a boat hull’s super structure. The avant-garde Plastiki, with its solar panels, wind turbines and bicycle generators for producing electricity is an impressive demonstration of what is possible when you are prepared to think out of the box. With the Plastiki expedition, David de Rothschild, his crew (Jo Royle, David Thomson, Olav Heyerdahl, Vern Moen, Graham Hill, Max Jourdan, Singeli Agnew, Luca Babini and Matthew Grey) and his Adventure Ecology organisation have drawn attention to the traces that mankind thoughtlessly leaves behind in nature. An estimated two billion plastic bottles were disposed of in the USA alone during the crossing from San Francisco to Sydney. According to a survey conducted by the United Nations Environment

Experimental catamaran, The Plastiki, took 128 days to cross the the Pacific Ocean to highlight the dangers of plastic pollution

44 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Programme (UNEP), four of every five bottles, that is to say around 27 million tonnes of plastic, still end up in household waste and cause lasting environmental pollution. The aim of the spectacular Plastiki expedition was to awaken global awareness and encourage the world to beat waste by reducing, reusing, rethinking and ultimately refusing one-way disposable plastics such as styrene foam, plastic bags and plastic bottles. “Seventy-five per cent of plastic waste can be reduced through small changes and intelligent rethinking in our daily life,” says David de Rothschild with conviction. “Refuse, re-use, recycle and rethink are the key words for the future.” To champion this mission, this mastermind with his Adventure Ecology organisation will continue to follow unconventional paths in order to call upon individuals, enterprises and industry to eliminate the problem of waste by rethinking it as a resource. On its voyage across the Pacific, the Plastiki called at the Christmas Island or Kiritimati Atoll after over 40 days at sea, which was its first point of disembarkation. After an exuberant welcome with traditional music and dancing, the crew gave a talk on the subject of waste to a thousand high school graduates. This is a problem that is of special concern to the islanders. In co-operation with the community leaders, the Plastiki crew discussed some of the solutions being used locally to tackle the waste management issues facing these remote island nations.

PRODUCTS

amsung Electronics has introduced the Virus Doctor which uses air-sanitising technology as a precaution against airborne viruses. It has been developed using highly sophisticated methods testing the device on the influenza virus in its life-like, airborne state, proving it 99.99 per cent efficient in eliminating the virus in its natural condition. It has been internationally certified by a number of research and medical departments in the UK, US, Japan and China highlighting how effective it was in eliminating virusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and in particular the H1N1 virus.

olar, a market leader and pioneer in heart rate training technology, is now compatible with Apple Mac computers enabling exercisers to track their performance and gauge the effectiveness of their fitness regime. The range of heart rate monitors includes those on running and multi-sport models as well as fitness and cross-training models. Users can upload their training data onto their online training diary to accurately record training details and study results.

unctionality has moved into the bedroom. Put the space underneath the bed to work with under-bed drawers or beds that can be tilted to reveal a spacious storage compartment, perfect for clothing and bedding. Available at BoConcept in Mall Of The Emirates.

D T

efal has given the kettle a complete makeover to keep up with a fast moving lifestyle and to conserve energy. Its Quick Cup offers quick hot water on demand in just three seconds, the only water heater of its kind to offer instant hot water which does not need any pre-heating. Other benefits are the reduction in lime scale which improves longevity of the product and removes temporary hardness. With the use of the Claris filtration system, the heater also reduces the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copper lead, pesticide and chlorine content which makes for better tasting water.

ewalt has launched their latest range of professional cordless drills, the all new XRP (Extreme Run Time Performance) range in the Middle East. Available in Lithium Ion and NiMH, this range of Drill Driver and Hammer products brings new innovation and design to the professional power tools arena. The XRP Lithium Ion drill features a battery designed with Nano-Phosphate Lithium Ion cells that provide users with increased battery durability and cycle life, offering 2,000 recharges. The battery is compatible with the existing system of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 18V power tools produced since 1996. UAE Digest, September 2010 l 45

HOME & GARDEN

Constant water flow Water-saving system for faucets to complement Abu Dhabi’s water conservation drive

ludi RAK, a joint venture between RAK Ceramics and high-profile German manufacturer of world-class bathroom fittings Kludi, has developed a water-saving system that enables customers to save up to 50 per cent on water consumption. The introduction of the water-efficient aerators in the UAE coincides with The innovative Flow Regulator can be the launch of major water-conservaeasily fitted into a shower head or shower tion efforts in the country, parhand spray to deliver a consistent water flow ticularly the ‘Watersavers’ campaign spearheaded by the Environment Agency conventional aerators, these ones also - Abu Dhabi (EAD) which will see every deliver several other advantages including tap in Abu Dhabi fitted with water-saving superior lime protection, damage-proof devices within three years. design, extended lifespan, perfect stream A key component of this new waterquality even under difficult water pressaving system is the Pressure Compensatsure conditions, and integrated anti-cloging Aerator, which ensures constant flow ging dome screen that filter sediments of water even in cases when water pressure and particles. is increased or fluctuates. Compared with Dr. Khater Massaad, CEO RAK

Ceramics said, “Sub-standard faucets can potentially cause problems as they could be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, and may become rusty after a short period of use. With this latest innovation, home owners and commercial establishments can enjoy clean water and optimum water savings each time they use their faucets.” The importance of EAD’s campaign lies in the fact that Abu Dhabi has one of the highest rates of personal water consumption in the world. Residents consumed an average of up to 550 litres of water per person per day with daily activities such as showering, bathing, using toilet facilities and household appliances, washing cars and watering gardens. This rate is almost three times as high as the United Nations benchmark rate of 180 litres per person per day.

Arty basins and bowls 18th century chinese art lavished on lavatories The Middle East has always been a global in kitchen and bath design and technolcultural juggernaut having recently ogy - has brought art into the homes of its witnessed a busy expansion of Middle East customers with the the art and design scene launch of the new matchAn arty, Chinese with world famous ing Empress Bouquet inspired wash basin international museums pattern bathroom under construction, collection. a constant plethora The company’s of new and existing artists have creart exhibitions and ated an Empress gallery openings, Bouquet pattern plus cutting edge that offers a modern architecture. interpretation of The region’s invigor18th century Chinese ated artistic drive is being print work. Its floral translated across multiple platmotif and brilliant gold and forms, and Kohler Co. - a global leader metallic detailing are featured on 46 l UAE Digest, September 2010

a collection of popular lavatories and toilets. Each fixture showcases a slightly different variation of the pattern, creating a one-of-a-kind piece, with the white base of the pattern allowing for integration into many bathroom décors. Artist Editions products, a popular assortment of creative kitchen and bath products developed by the company over the past 25 years, make it easy to create a distinctive, coordinated look. Patterns include floral, geometric, special-interest themes and architectural detailing embossed in precious metals. Kohler Co. offers several different Artist Editions designs to inspire creativity in the bathroom or kitchen.

HOME & GARDEN

Patterned carpets The interior design trend for 2010

atterns have an ability to enhance the look of any room, and while this trend is not as dominant today as compared to the past, and with the acquired popularity of the minimalistic approach in interior design, this year seems to have opened up a big welcome for pattern on floors. As homeowners try to minimise costs because of the economic condition, laying a carpet on a floor is an easy way to liven up a space without busting their pockets. “Jazzy, funky floor patterns are fast-becoming a hit among interior decorators, who turn to carpets to inject fun and artistry into a built space. Different patterned carpets can create different effects that can do wonders to a room: huge, bold patterns in vibrant colours distract people from the ‘boxiness’ of the space by giving it an illusion of irregularity in shape; while dark carpets can make the ceiling look higher. As far as colour is concerned, the most distinct trends today are art-deco inspired blue-greens; rich and dark plums, shimmery whites, and tones of lilac and metallic,” according to Sayed Habib, Product Manager, Danube Buildmart, which provides home décor and fittings. As a general rule, big patterns are more suitable in large rooms, while small rooms are complemented better by smaller patterns. Many folks mistakenly believe that only big rooms can be carpeted, which is a wrong assumption as there are patterned carpets that can also work in smaller areas and even maximise the appearance of the room by selecting light tones with a subtle pattern to make it appear bigger. Sayed adds, “While plain carpets can showcase a wide variety of textures, patterned ones with culturally-inspired drawings, unique motifs, vivid colours and bold designs bring a different kind of brightness to a room. However, there

are modern carpets which can also make a room look smaller.” Although comparatively more expensive than plain ones, patterned carpets lend to a room a dash of popular trends – from fashionable striped to delicate flower heads that bring charm and romance to a room, to luxurious patterned wool for a truly elegant style. They can also complement curtains and wallpapers. The most important thing to remember to achieve this is to look for colours that work well together. They do not have to

be the same colour, they just have to be in harmony with each other. Mix and match styles, colours, shades and patterns to create a unique look for a room. Manufactured based on stringent quality control standards, a wide range of patterned carpets in various colours and prices carpets are available in all Buildmart stores across the region.

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 47

BEAUTY

Beauty tips from the experts Myth or Truth: You can get rid of dark circles?

nder-eye circles can be the result of heredity, lack of sleep or even sun exposure. Nothing can be done to permanently eliminate them, but you can lessen their appearance with these simple tricks: • Brighten up with eye cream containing optical diffusers such as Luxiva® Brilliant-C Eye Cream by Merle Norman. It provides instant luminosity around the eyes. • Delete darkness with concealer. A peachypink tone neutralizes the bluish tinge. Apply directly over discoloration with the brush. • Prevent future circles from forming by using a daily SPF around the eye area. Available at all Merle Norman studios in the UAE

Electrifying blue The zero defect eyeliner makes its comeback this season and reconciles precision with simplicity. Showcasing eyes Eye Sculpt by Thierry Mugler comes in a first-ever shade: a midnight blue with shimmering glints, a vibrant colour to electrify and make eyes flutter! Scooped out of its attractive faceted jar, it is easily applied with the fine, bevelled brush. In the flash of an eye, it traces a glamorous line, quick to dry and waterproof, to ‘sculpt’ eyes with the intensity of its electric indigo. Beauty tips: • Apply Eye Sculpt along the lash line, over eyeshadow and before mascara, in a single sweep (or in short strokes for more control when applying. • For a perfect smoky eye look: start by tracing a thick line, and immediately blend it outward with the flat side of the brush, or simply smudge it with the fingertip. • It can also dress eyebrows with its sheen for an explosive and enigmatic look, XL version. 48 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Bright Crystal An enthralling and voluptuous fragrance, for the Versace woman who is strong and confident yet feminine, sensual, and always glamorous, who loves to be enveloped in a fragrance that delicately tastes of colorful and juicy pomegranate grains, iced freshness, and shining yuzu. A scent that flows into the beauty of magnolia, peony and lotus flowers delighting you with its subtle sensuality and the enticing presence of plant amber, acajou and musk.

FASHION

UAE’s

summer fashions S

ummer 2010’s fashions are all about mixing the elegant with the outrageous. While still appreciating the trends of the past, it’s important to mention that fashion is taking a big step in a new direction. It is all about smart looks paired with some sporty and delicate styles.

For those cooler times when the AC is turned down low your composure is luxuriously laid-back in this Juicy Couture velour tracksuit with raglan hoodie! Other designs in the range include lace pockets and sequins.

Marks & Spencer Al-Futtaim has announced the return of its Ramadan and Eid occasion wear collection for women and girls. Exclusive to the region, the highly popular collection is now available in all Middle East stores.

Masculinity is very important. Blazers, vests and open shirts are a must-have but they’re worn with shorts and leggings. Big shoulders are peeping back which means that the 80’s are now officially vintage. Look out for the so-called ‘leg of lamb’ sleeves. You should have at least one outfit with a big sleeve. Available at RedTag.

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 49

SPORTS

Take the plunge Whatever sport you are interested in, now is the time to take the plunge, brave the declining heat and get stuck in

he dates have been announced for this year’s four UAE Regional Qualifying Events for The Invitational 2011 hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah. The Invitational has again joined forces with Worldwide Golf to stage three WWG Midweek Opens and one Women’s Golf Abdullah Al Naboodah presents amateur James Collins and Tour professional Richard Green with their 2010 trophies Middle East event. The Qualifiers are open to men, ladies and The golden route to compete in one of juniors in the UAE, who are members of the finest Pro-Am tournaments tees off the Emirates Golf Federation, and to men, at Yas Links GC, Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, ladies and juniors in the Middle East. The 26th October at 1.0pm. It continues top 15 adults and the top 10 juniors from at Arabian Ranches GC, Dubai on each event will qualify, along with the top Monday, 15th November at 8.0am; then 10 ladies from the Women’s Golf Middle at Faldo Course at Emirates GC, Dubai East event, to play in the Grand Final in on Monday, 22nd November at 5.0pm. January 2011. (Floodlit); and at Al Hamra GC, Ras Al

Khaimah on Thursday, 9th December, at 1.0pm. At last year’s competition 10-year-old Amelia McKee qualified to play in The Invitational as the leading junior and James Collins took the leading adult spot. James was runner-up in the pairs section with Australian professional Richard Green, behind the winners Lee Westwood and Abdullah Al Naboodah. All competitors in the Worldwide Golf Midweek Open qualifiers will be guaranteed exclusive free tickets to watch The Invitational on January 31, 2011. Tickets to the general public will be limited. The fame of The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah is spreading. The most prestigious and popular European Tour Pro-Am in the Middle East went international with a UK qualifier taking place at the exclusive Heythrop Park Golf Club in Oxfordshire during the summer. This provided golfers in the UK with the only opportunity outside the Middle East to gain a golden ticket and qualify for The Invitational in January.

A new organisation called the American Football Academy (AFA) was launched in June with many prominent people in attendance including the AFA guest of honour, Justin H. Siberell, US Consul General, who cut the ribbon and officially welcomed the AFA into the world of Arab-American sports. "The idea is to get everyone involved here," Rex Stevenson, the AFA head coach stated. "We want locals, expats, everybody. We want them to learn the game which has earned high reputation all over the world. The game is experienc-

ing phenomenal growth with many countries adopting it. There are over 28,000 football teams in over 60 countries. We have been wanting to come to the UAE for a long time now.” The project is actually the brainchild of two Emiratis, Ahmad Anoohi and Sami Al Hashemi, who became American Football addicts while studying at the University of Arizona back in the 1980s. "They love American Football and since returning they wanted to do something like this. Twenty years later, they finally got me over here and we are making

The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah is one of the finest pro-am golf tournaments in the world. 50 invited guests and 50 European Tour Professionals compete together in a fun yet competitive golf experience unparalleled in the Middle East. Players come from all over the globe to participate in the annual Pro-Am which will be held at one of the stunning golf courses in the UAE on January 31st 2011. The Invitational over the last two years has contributed almost Dh2million to local and international charities.

50 l UAE Digest, September 2010

a dream come true," said Stevenson, who has worked as a coach for 35 years across several cities and states in America. The Academy has already been getting positive responses from the local community. “It will take some time for people to know what American Football really is. We have been going to schools and the nearby parks and talking to kids and parents explaining to them about the game,” the coach added. However, Stevenson has come up with what he believes to be the perfect solution in educating the newcomers. He plans to form a UAE-based team which will take on a USA side comprising former college all-stars in an exhibition game on Thanksgiving Day in Dubai this year. The AFA Fall Semester will begin on October 2. The training will offer classroom instruction and on-the-field training plus physical conditioning. Participants will also be taught the basic fundamentals of American rules football including relevant rules and regulations, blocking, tackling, catching, passing, running, kicking and punting by qualified American coaches. The world’s best swimmers are relishing the prospect of competing in Dubai at the end of this year when the 10th FINA World Swimming Championships

the region. Already we have a programme in place which is tied into the championships, which is teaching 10,000 children to swim. Once these budding swimmers see the world’s best in action, thrilling the crowds and breaking records, I have no doubt this will have a ripple effect, by inspiring the local youngsters to dream of one day achieving similar feats.” The championship certainly does promise to serve up a feast of speed. At the last staging of the competition, held in Manchester two years ago, the enthusiastic sell-out crowds witnessed a massive 18 world records being shattered over the five days of competition. Tickets are on sale this month, with several exciting activities also planned around the event, and opportunities for local swimming fans to get involved. Leigh Nugent, the Australian National Team Swim Coach visited Dubai recently as part of his team’s preparation for the gala. Nugent was the head coach of the Australian swimming team during the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. Under his leadership, Australia tallied seven gold, five silver and three bronze. Leigh’s visit to Dubai was warmly welcomed by Dubai Sports Council which followed a recent visit of Candy MacConaugha the USA Swim team coordinator. Their visits highlight the importance Meet Ehmisa, mascot of the 10th FINA World of the FINA Championships, which Swimming Championships. Ehmisa (pronounced eh-misa) is the traditional Arabic name for turtle. This will be the largest swimming event Green Sea Turtle is one of only two species that are native of its kind in the Middle East. to the UAE Nugent confirmed that Australia is sending a 50 strong swimming team which will include 30 swimmers and 20 staff. "We have 135 countries already confirmed and we are hoping to get even more member nations for this competition," Al Shamsi said. Nugent said “I am very impressed with the venue. Sydney was the best venue in the world but Dubai has surpassed that. The layout is extremely user friendly and well constructed for high performance swimming. I am looking forward to the event.”

(25m) get underway from December 15-19. Preparations are on track for what promises to be a feast of swimming at the Dubai Sports Complex, where construction is already well underway. This spectacular new venue is expected to host around 10,000 spectators who can look forward to some top-class swimming action. “We are very happy with all the preparations so far and are certain that this will be a wonderful event for world swimming – the first of its kind in the Middle East,” said Obaid Salem Al Shamsi, Executive Director of the Championships. “What is even more exciting is the great legacy it will leave in

UAE Digest, September 2010 l 51

AUTOS

Check your tyres Accidents triggered by tyre explosion caused three fatalities in the first four months of 2010

he Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has called on motorists to appreciate the vital importance of continually checking vehicle tyres to ensure their validity and soundness, particularly for

Check the air pressure in your tyres regularly

those who travel long distance by road. Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of RTA Traffic Agency, cautioned “Tyres command the attention of highway security and safety experts as they are one of the key factors responsible for serious overturning accidents. They are the sole contact point between the vehicle and the road. Drivers have to ensure that they are of top quality and most safe brand, verify the manufacturing date and New and old

52 l UAE Digest, September 2010

ensure that the measurements of all four are symmetrical, sound and inflated with the proper air-pressure. Avoid buying second hand tyres even though seemingly in a good condition.” “The driver has to have some knowledge about the symbols printed on both sides such that he or she can select the most suitable one for the vehicle. These symbols include the date of manufacturing, which consists

right refer to the manufacturing year, and the third and fourth digits refer to the week in which the tyre was manufactured in that year. For instance if the number was 2109, it means that the tyre was manufactured in the 21st week of 2009,” she explained. “You can identify the appropriate tyre pressure from the number shown beside the term (MAX PRESS); which sets the highest pressure level, or through the letter beside the word (Temperature) which refers to the heat resistance of the tyre; which must be (A) to fit with the prevailing high temperature rates in the UAE climate. Drivers have also got to appreciate the gravity on excess load on the vehicle as well as on tyres in particular,” added Maitha.

Safe maintenance courses for cab drivers Recently, the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) of RTA, in cooperation with Al Dobowi Tyres Company, launched a ‘Safe

of four digits preceded by (DOT) where the first two digits to the

Educative lectures on safety in general and vehicle and tyre safety in particular were given to cab drivers

Driving Road Safety Campaign’ initiative targeting all DTC cabdrivers, highlighting the importance of vehicle safety. “Al Dobowi is a key supplier to DTC as per our contract for the supply of Korean made Hankook tyres compatible with GCC specifications,” said Ammar bin Tamim, Director of DTC’s Fleet Drivers Affairs. “This initiative aims at introducing the concept of safety, raising the awareness of safe maintenance through regular checks and inspection of air pressure.” “All new and old drivers have been subjected to various intensive and specialised training courses based on top class global standards with a view to improving their performance. DTC will hold a number of educative programmes and practical demonstration sessions about the best traffic safety practices during driving so as to enhance the safety of drivers, passengers and road users at large. The courses, which will be run in three languages (Arabic, English & Urdu), are held in conjunction with several specialised bodies including Dubai Police, Traffic Department of RTA Traffic & Roads Agency, and Franchise & Enforcement Department of RTA Public Transport Agency,” said bin Tamim in a closing remark.

Motor bike license Another branch of RTA has been busy developing an advanced training programme

for obtaining a motorbike license. The Licensing Agency has developed a new policy for those intending to obtain motorbike driving licenses, whereby the trainee has to complete five key stages during the training, qualification and testing process. Commenting on the new system, the Director of Drivers Licensing Sultan Al Marzooki said: “The new system for training and testing motorbike drivers, which is currently being run in coordination with all driving institutes in the Emirate, is superior to the previous system as more attention is being paid towards ensuring the availability of all safety and security items during training and testing such that driving license applicants are now obliged to put on helmets, gloves, shoes and long-sleeve shirts during driving. The previous internal test, comprising a test on the shape of the figure eight, has been changed in the new system to two internal tests”.

“The underlying objective of these new training policies is to assist motorbike drivers in gaining high driving skills and ensuring advanced training and testing standards with a view to ensuring safety for themselves as well as road users” added Al Marzooki. This new system for those interested in obtaining motorbike driving licenses has been developed to include five stages. The

first stage is to provide a manual for safe driving written in three languages; Arabic, English and Urdu. The second stage of training includes driving skills concerning controlling and moving the motorbike and how to use the gear. The third stage focuses on developing an applicant’s driving skills such that the trainee can clear the first internal test. Stage four of the training focuses on learning advanced driving skills to assist in avoiding accidents. This stage helps the trainee pass the second internal test. The fifth and last stage helps the trainee apply skills gained in previous internal stages on road driving, which will help him to pass the external road test. UAE Digest, September 2010 l 53

REAL ESTATE

Checking on progress Accidents triggered by tyre explosion caused three fatalities in the first four months of 2010

lowly but surely construction projects are cropping up again â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the march of progress is not to be stopped completely in this country. Necessity dictates that certain buildings are needed and must be provided, as was seen recently when the foundation stone for a school was laid down. Ongoing projects are continuing with handover dates looming nearer and tenants moving into new-build villas that are now affordable and welcoming. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Group and Chairman of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), recently laid the foundation stone for the International Indian High School (IIHS) at the high-technology park. The ceremony was attended by Dr. Mohammed Al Zarouni â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Vice Chairman and CEO of DSOA, His Excellency Sanjay Verma, Consul General of India

to the UAE, Mohan Valrani, Honorary Chairman of Indian High School Dubai, Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of Knowledge & Human Development Authority (KHDA), as well as senior officials from DSO, KHDA and Indian High School Dubai. In his capacity as patron of the Indian High School Dubai (IHS Dubai), His Highness Sheikh Ahmed also presented a cheque for Dh100,000 on behalf of the IHS students to Mariam Othman, Director General of Rashid Paediatric Therapy Centre. An initiative of IHS Dubai at DSO, the International Indian High School is scheduled to commence functioning from April 2011, offering Indian curriculum as prescribed by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The academic focus will extend to IT, research and subjects such as nanotechnology. The new campus will be fitted

HH Sheikh Ahmed unveiling the commemorative plaque in the presence of Mohan Valrani and Dr Zarouni

54 l UAE Digest, September 2010

out with state-of-the-art facilities such as an amphitheatre, cafeteria, activity room, gymnasium, swimming pool, and a temperature controlled indoor sports complex. The new school will feature a wellequipped ICT department, virtual classrooms, smart boards and a wireless campus. Its central library will house manuals and materials for the continual improvement and updating of pedagogical practices. Marking the event, four trees were planted by Dr. Mohammed Al Zarouni, Sanjay Verma, Mohan Valrani, and Dr. Abdulla Al Karam respectively. His Highness Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuami, Member Supreme Council of UAE and Ruler of Ajman, has visited the Ajman Uptown master community development and reviewed the construction progress on the project which recently marked a key construction milestone with the completion of all

His Highness Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuami, Member Supreme Council of UAE and Ruler of Ajman, visited the construction site of Ajman Uptown

Ajman Uptown

sub-structures for the 1,504 villas being built within it. The Ruler appreciated and commended the Sweet Homes Group, the project’s master developer, for the fast-tracked progress of the project and its commitment to develop and create a model community in Ajman. During his visit, HH Sheikh Humaid was given a complete briefing on the current status by Eng. Abdul Sattar Dero, ِChairman, Sweet Homes Group, and other senior management officials, and has expressed his satisfaction over the architecture and overall plan. HH Sheikh Humaid also commended the rapid progress being made in the superstructure work across all two, three and four-bedroom townhouses and exclusively designed five-bedroom VIP villas. He spoke with senior technical team members and discussed the recently awarded MEP contract for the project, as well as the construction schedule for 2010. At present, construction continues on a 24/7 basis, with a total of 2,000 labourers working in different shifts in an effort to meet the scheduled delivery date. Strategically located in the heart of emirate, the project spans across an area measuring approximately four million square feet and offers two, three and four-bedroom townhouses and exclusively designed five-bedroom VIP villas. The project’s outstanding design is taken from classic French architecture and carries the overall ‘L’ Art De Vivre’ theme. As a fullfledged community it will house a school, a healthcare centre, a fire fighting station, two mosques, a health and recreation club, a swimming pool, markets, shopping mall, hotel and hotel apartments, and convenient and spacious parks apart from the luxury apartments and boutique offices.

Al Ain Convention Centre

In a significant development for Al Ain and a move that underlines its commitment to the city, ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) has announced the commencement of construction on phase one of the Dh3.5 billion Al Ain Convention Centre district, located near the popular Al Jimi area of the city. “Al Ain Convention Centre district is a pioneering and highly strategic initiative. ADNEC is very pleased to commence development on this landmark project which aims to create a vibrant business and lifestyle destination in Al Ain which will further boost the allure of the city,” said HE Ali Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, Managing Director of ADNEC. “Al Ain holds a special place in the hearts of the UAE people and carefully managing the city’s growth and development is a priority for our emirate’s leadership.” The district is a first-of-its-kind development for the city and comprises a state-of-the-art convention centre, a cultural centre, hotels, a serviced apartment complex, and a multi-storey car park. It also includes a cluster of residential and commercial low-rise buildings within an integrated micro-city that places the convention centre at the very heart of the development. The creation of a natural and sustainable environment will be emphasised throughout the development, with open spaces connected by walkways and several areas designed to be free of cars, key elements in the project design. Also, among the several noteworthy components of the project is a Wadi (waterway), being reinvigorated with the assistance of the Al Ain Municipality landscape depart-

ment, that runs adjacent to the Wadi Hotel, which is part of the development. ADNEC has appointed Al Fara’a General Contracting, one of ten wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Al Fara’a Integrated Construction Group, as the contractor for the first phase of the project involving extension of the existing hall located onsite. Al Barari, a family owned and operated property developer in Dubai, continues to progress strongly into the

Mohammed bin Zaal

first handover phase of its flagship, multibillion dirham residential address, despite challenging market conditions. It is a first-class residential sanctuary located in Dubai’s royal enclave of Nad Al Sheba. Built on 14.2 million square feet of natuUAE Digest, September 2010 l 55

in the construction sector to expedite ral and landscaped gardens and bordering the project’s progress. Shopping facilities protected wildlife reserves, the secluded and amenities have been rolled into phase haven is the lowest density development one’s construction schedule to bring in the Middle East with the built-up area added value to investors. comprising just 20 per cent of the site. “We have invested heavily in developWhile residential property prices in ing the gardens and amenities to optimise Dubai fell by up to 50 per cent in 2009, the lifestyle experience for our early Al Barari’s 2007 villa prices of between residents. This is really important because Dh20 to Dh50 million have remained unwe are selling much more than bricks changed. Since the project was announced and mortar. We introduce a new way of in 2005, it has sold 70 per cent of its first life by bringing people together, giving phase. back family time and balancing the haste “Although our rate of conversions did of city-living. Although our additional slow last year, there were around 10 sales amenities are driving up property values, of properties on the secondary market we have made a conscious decision not to which had marginal fluctuations in price. pass these onto investors at this stage,” This tells us that it is being offered at fair explained bin Zaal. market value. Investors have decided that He also adds that sales of homes never current valuations are an accurate assessbecame overheated because the family ment of Al Barari’s worth. We also continrestricted speculator involvement from ue to see clear demand for the botanical the start with contractual clauses to prelifestyle we are offering,” said Mohammed vent flipping and stringent ‘know your bin Zaal, CEO of Al Barari. customer’ due diligence. Its pricing strategy has remained The company has begun handover of largely unaffected by the recent property 33 villas in phase one of the project, with crash because of a considered approach to over 20 families now calling the botanivalue creation. According to the develcal haven ‘home’. Master-planning for the oper, sound master-planning for wellsecond phase is currently in progress and planned, high quality places remains the includes exclusive cultural quarters for key to building confidence and value in a residents. Among the planned amenidevelopment. A return to the fundamenties are outdoor performance spaces tals of property economics has been the guiding principle. “Creating a desirable Novelia villas at Victory Heights address is as much about offering a unique design concept as it is about driving long-term asset appreciation. As a company we strive for sustainability across ecology, investment and the community. The project has been conceived as a selfsufficient development; as the neighbourhood grows and the retail and resort facilities open up, it will continue to flourish. This will have a positive impact on property values,” said bin Zaal. As a zero-debt company it has been able to take advantage of the slowdown 56 l UAE Digest, September 2010

and art galleries as well as music, dance and art schools. This vibrant cosmopolitan precinct will also offer a souq-style market, grand mosque, restaurants, cafes, boutique stores, entertainment facilities and studio offices. More people are looking to rent high-end villas as a result of on-going price reductions across the Emirate which means tenants can enjoy good value on luxury homes, according to developers at Dubai’s Victory Heights. Figures published in Landmark Advisory’s June guide show that the overall rental market is still experiencing declines, with the villa market showing small reductions that means a three-bedroom villa in Victory Heights now costs on average six per cent less to rent than it did in April 2010. This means that a lower limit three-bedroom villa in the golfing residential community costs around Dh130, 000 per year to rent compared with a three-bedroom apartment in Jumeirah Beach Residence, which costs approximately Dh120, 000 per year to rent. “We are seeing growing interest from potential rental clients who have realised that luxury villas present great value for money compared with apartments. They offer more privacy and more space, both inside and out, for all the family, without

Cordoba villa in Dubai Knowledge Village

costing much more,” explained Talal Chihabi Head of Sales, Marketing, Customer Services and PR, Victory Heights. More than 400 families already live in Victory Heights which surrounds the award winning The Els Club golf course. Villas are built in three different styles; authentic Spanish Andalusian, bold Mediterranean and classic European. Building work has also recently commenced on the project’s first community centre which will offer residents a wide range of recreational facilities including swimming pools, children’s play areas, basketball courts and BBQ areas. The centre is due for completion at the end of the year. Dubai Properties Group (DPG) has also announced a significant increase in demand for its built-to-lease communities throughout Dubai as UAE residents opt for quality and location at excellent value for money. The increased demand is the direct result of DPG’s comprehensive six-week-long campaign to promote its built-to-lease communities across Dubai. DPG has received thousands of calls each week driving hundreds of visits to the community’s site offices daily. The leasing campaign featured eight of DPG’s diverse communities located across Dubai including the uniquely-themed beachfront development - Jumeirah Beach Residence, the Mediterranean-themed desert oasis in the heart of Dubailand – Layan; and Shorooq, a popular residential community in Mirdif. Cordoba, a family-focused community in an ideal location in Dubai Knowledge Village, and Al Khail Gate, affordable apartments conveniently located off Al Khail Road, are also featured along with commercial projects including Office Park 1 & 2. The premium skilled staff accommodation, Nuzul, rounds out the portfolio. Wates Construction International has been awarded the Dh150 million contract,

Al Bateen Secondary School, Abu Dhabi

alongside its joint venture partner Al Fara’s General Contracting, to build a new 1500 place secondary school for Aldar Academies at Al Bateen in Abu Dhabi. On completion in mid 2011, the new school will be managed and operated by Aldar Academies, respected as one of the leading education providers in Abu Dhabi. Aldar Academies currently operates three schools in the city – Al Yasmina School, Pearl Primary School and Al Muna Primary School. It represents the second educational construction contract that award-winning Wates has won in Abu Dhabi during the past few months. It was recently selected to develop a new extension and upgrade existing facilities at the British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi. Al Bateen Secondary School is set to become Aldar’s flagship school and one of the leading educational establishments in Abu Dhabi. Its design concept is based around a less hierarchal educational structure, allowing more student circulation and interaction between different year groups. Measuring 24,000 square metres, the new school will feature state of the art classrooms, a swimming pool, library and extensive outdoor sports facilities. Wates has a strong track record in delivering complex school and college educational facilities. It is one of the leading developers in the education sector in the UK and has built schools and colleges to accommodate 35,000 pupils, including Canterbury College and North Liverpool Academy. It is currently running the dayto-day operations of 26 UK schools. Hamra Hotels and Resorts has announced the opening of Al Hamra Residences in Ras Al Khaimah, offering 218 fully furnished apartments. It has introduced a first-of-its-kind investment concept in Ras Al Khaimah wherein

investors owning or seeking to buy any of the residential units 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 in Al Hamra Residences 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. The residences are also 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 equipped with a private entrance and reception and have access to a luxurious Spa offering saunas, Jacuzzis, fully equipped gymnasium, tennis courts, men’s and ladies salon, two swimming pools, a 1.2-kilometre private beach and waterfronted 18-hole championship golf course. Property developer and master planner, 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. 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 and upon completion will comprise 328 studio apartments, 420 UAE Digest, September 2010 l 57

Al Hamra Residences, Ras Al Khaimah

one-bedroom apartments, 172 two-bedroom apartments and 72 three-bedroom apartments. It offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a 560-metre private beach, gym facilities, underground car parking, ample children’s play areas, plus hotel and club privileges. The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has revealed the names of the six contractors that will undertake the Dh100 million development of the emirate’s Al Majaz Park. Sharjah Group for Construction Consulting will be responsible for road contracting, WSP Middle East for road Bab al Bahr, Ras Al Khaimah

58 l UAE Digest, September 2010

engineering, Ghesa S.A for fountain development, Wael Al Masri Planners and Architects (WMPA) for architecture development, Sharjah Municipality for landscape and park design, and the Directorate of Public Works for supervising coordination efforts between developers of the project. Development work at Al Majaz began with the commencement of digging works necessary to prepare the project site for development. Efforts are being made to facilitate vehicular traffic flow and to make most of the services provided by Al Majaz Park and Khalid Lake

available throughout the development process. Phase 1 of the project will see the construction of a large musical fountain in Lake Khalid and the addition of numerous buildings and amenities such as food outlets, cafés and entertainment establishments. Phase 1 is expected to be completed by November, before the launch of the Sharjah Water Festival and the F-1 Powerboat World Championship. Phase 2 will see the addition of six new restaurants, a children’s entertainment area and beautiful landscapes designed by famous international landscape designers.

REAL ESTATE

Tough market shaking out estate agents Phil Sheridan, says there is a perception that the real estate industry is a ‘soft option’ populated largely by individuals who ‘can’t crack it’ in other professions

“N

othing could be further from the truth thanks to the recession and new legislation governing the industry amongst other factors,” he says. “The general public tends to regard the real estate industry as an easy, ‘get rich quick’ line of work and that estate agent’s commissions are largely over-inflated. The fact is, property marketing is an extremely demanding occupation and the industry was particularly hard hit by the global meltdown given the lack of confidence in this market following the ‘sub-prime’ fall-out, general lack of financial liquidity and the fact that bank lending dried up to a large extent. Evidence of the economic crisis manifested in the form of a massive estate agent fallout. At the beginning of 2007, the number of Dubai real estate agents totaled more than 15,000. Today, only about 5,000 are registered.” Sheridan says that although the recession is chiefly to blame for the fallout, the fact that agents are now required to adhere to strict qualification criteria (as set down by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency) has also played its part in reducing the number of agents. Up until July 2008, anyone who could afford the registration fee to enter the property industry could do so. “Given this unregulated state of affairs and the fact that these self-made, overnight agents appeared to reap significant financial sums during the heydays preceding the economic fallout, it’s no small wonder that the

industry is viewed with such incredulity. It’s clear that there were simply too many estate agents capitalising in what was a unique market, and standards suffered. Today’s market is very different and estate agents have had to ‘up’ their game considerably to remain viable. The industry is consolidating and those agencies that remain will be populated by seasoned property professionals. It’s a scenario that will be embraced by the good and abandoned by the bad and,

ultimately, consumers will be the winners. Estate agents also have to contend with a number of other factors. They have to be familiar with local property market trends and statistics, take into consideration each buyers budget constraints, personal taste and requirements, be ‘au fait’ with legal best practice and policies and realistically value a property, which is a skill in itself. They also have to advise the seller on strategies as to how to sell their house quickly without offending them, source suitable buyers, be computer literate, build up a buyers list, network, advertise, list the property, prepare all of the marketing material, negotiate fair deals and ferry around clients to properties. All of which is done at their own cost. Agents also have to parry other property hungry estate agents, deal with warring couples and are routinely snubbed by clients who don’t arrive for meetings or decide not to buy or sell after being chaperoned for months. Estate agents also have to deal with touchy sellers who refuse to budge on their selling price, are called upon 24/7 and work seven days a week. In short, those who choose to do business with qualified estate agents can do so safe in the knowledge that they are dealing with someone who is hard-working and will look after their interests. Laid-back, band-wagon type estate agents simply haven’t, and won’t, survive in this industry anymore.” Phil Sheridan is the Chairman of property group Fine & Country International (Middle East) UAE Digest, September 2010 l 59

TRAVEL

Agra Fort is made of red sandstone

More than just the Taj Mahal By Linda Benbow

t’s been many years since I listened Agra doesn’t mean that you only have with rapt attention to the holiday the Taj Mahal to visit (wonderful though stories of friends-without-children that edifice is). There is sprawling Agra who flew off to fanciful locations Fort – built of red sandstone - to marvel three or more times a year. Working in at, gardens to be enjoyed and heritage a busy UAE environment is walks to be blazed. hectic and they needed to Similarly, with re-charge their batteries, they Jaipur, also known as the said, as they made plans to Pink City, there are nine visit volcanoes in Indonesia, forts and monuments to dragons in Java, avoid brigands wonder at, five temples in Burmese forests and sleep to visit and four gardens like royalty on a train in India, to contemplate. The city while visiting the three cities is remarkable among of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur on pre-modern Indian something called the Golden cities for the width and Triangle tour. That was 15 regularity of its streets years ago, and I have since which are laid out into journeyed to many of those six sectors separated by places and joined the ranks of broad streets 111 feet the ‘multi-holidays’ worker. (34 m) wide. The Palace Browsing through the quarter, Hawa Mahal, brochures and websites for encloses a sprawling Shera the Tiger, mascot of the an Eid break it was with some palace complex, formal 2010 Commonwealth Games amazement that I realised that to be held in Delhi in October gardens, and a small lake. 60 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Nahargarh Fort, which was the residence of the King Sawai Jai Singh II, crowns the hill in the northwest corner of the old city, while the observatory, Jantar Mantar, is a World Heritage Site. Delhi is said to be one of the oldest existing cities in the world, along with Varanasi. Legend estimates it to be over 5,000 years old. It encapsulates two very different worlds, the ‘old’ and the ‘new’, each presenting different experiences. Spacious New Delhi was built as the imperial capital of India by the British; rambunctious Old Delhi served as the capital of Islamic India. Visitors can easily dip into both, spending half the day immersing themselves in history at the dramatic Red Fort, Jama Masjid and medievalflavoured bazaars of Old Delhi, and the other half reviving themselves over frothy cappuccinos or frosty cocktails at one of New Delhi’s swanky cafés and bars. Next month will see a more sporty tourist in Delhi when the 2010 Commonwealth Games will be held there

between October 3 and 14. The games will be the largest multi-sport event conducted to date in Delhi and India generally, which has previously hosted the Asian Games in 1951 and 1982. The opening ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. It will also be the first time the Commonwealth Games will be held in India and the second time the event has been held in Asia (after 1998 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). Existing and new stadiums will be used to house the sports during the Games. The opening and closing ceremonies will take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi. • Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi – Athletics, lawn bowls, weightlifting • Dhyan Chand National Stadium – Hockey • Indira Gandhi Arena – Archery, cycling, gymnastics, wrestling • Delhi University sports complex – Rugby sevens • Thyagaraj Stadium – Netball • Siri Fort Sports Complex – Badminton, Squash • Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range – Shooting • Talkatora Stadium – Boxing • SPM Swimming Pool Complex – Aquatics • RK Khanna Tennis Complex – Tennis • Yamuna Sports Complex – Table tennis There are 26 new stadiums which will be utilised for the Commonwealth Games. Some older ones will be upgraded and some new will be constructed.

Quwwat Ul Islam mosque, Delhi Rambagh Palace in Jaipur

Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium

Medical Tourism The Commonwealth Games are expected to bring a boom to the medical tourism industry. With many patients already travelling thousands of miles to receive affordable medical care and treatment, the games are going to drive more fans to Delhi. Medical areas, especially dental and cosmetic treatments, which are mostly day care procedures and are quite expensive in countries outside India, can expect a significant increase. UAE Digest, September 2010 l 61

TRAVEL

Residents’ choice

t may only be a few days off but the Eid holiday is a good reminder that holiday breaks can be a mindsaver from the humdrum everyday living that some folks endure. Short holidays away from your usual environment are a boost to morale, allowing you to return to normal living with a fresh mind and attitude. And short does not have to mean nearby. We are lucky here in the Middle East to be a few hours flight from many enjoyable locations. Other GCC countries beckon, Mediterranean locations entice, island destinations abound, and even long-haul journeys of six to eight hours can be comfortably endured as they usually occur at night when the body naturally wants to slow down and sleep. Wake up to a new country and new experiences. The Sultanate of Oman’s annual Khareef Festival will be held in Salalah until the end of September. Large numbers of visitors are expected to travel to the capital of Dhofar Province and the country’s second largest city. The festival is held in the mountains of southern Oman to celebrate the monsoon. Previous festivals have included a three kilometre carnival area with 1,000 carnival participants, games, rides, international cuisine and concerts. Last year a shopping festival was added. Numbers of tourists here have remained positive over recent years as a result of substantial tourism infrastructure developments and investment. There has been signifi62 l UAE Digest, September 2010

Salalah

bouring islands by bicycle, gather around a barbecue lunch in the intimacy of their villa or participate in the many waterborne activities available at the resort. Set over two separate pavilions - one for the bedroom and another one for the living room - both accommodation styles offer a spacious garden, a private infinity pool and a wooden deck designed for dining under the stars. The resort’s Beach Villas, located on the sandy beach of Villingili, provide direct access to the turquoise lagoon, while the Deluxe Pool Villas, nestled Family on the Congo River Rapids at Alton Towers Resort offers a selection of attractions for the whole family to enjoy in rich vegetation, offer together. Made up of hotels, a theme park and water park, guests of all ages can enjoy an abundance of fabulous fun-packed activities. New rides for 2010 include Thi3teen, located in an area of unexplored woodland known as the Dark Forest, and perfect seclusion and views is a guaranteed adrenaline-pumping experience of the gentle rolling waves of the ocean. For Middle East guests cant recent infrastructure investment in the Port looking for the ideal family of Salalah and the town’s UNESCO protected getaway, England offers frankincense sites. unforgettable family-fun Oman Air has increased numbers of flights experiences all within close scheduled over the summer, and is one of the proximity to London. Alton main sponsors of the festival. Oman has long been Towers, Legoland (more than a popular destination among regional and inter50 thrilling rides, shows and national tourists for its natural beauty such as the attractions), Chester Zoo beaches, caves in the Omani Mountains, Jabal (over 7000 animals and 400 Qara, and reefs around the Daymaniyat Islands. different species, including Festive annual celebrations are a major attraction endangered species) and in both the capital Muscat, and Salalah; two of historic Stonehenge (a World the most prominent and popular tourist cities in Heritage Site) are just some the country. of the top attractions on In celebration of Eid Ul-Fitr, Shangri-La’s offer. Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives offers a Some of Britain’s largest special four-night stay package valid from 8 to industrial cities have become 18 September 2010. The Eid Ul-Fitr promotion highly fashionable internaincludes one free night and a range of complimentional tourist destinations, tary benefits, as well as an exclusive 25 per cent a surprising new survey discount on the second villa booked, giving guests reveals. While London and the opportunity to enjoy the festivities with Edinburgh are the two most friends and family. Arab father and daughter on Buchanan Street, Glasgow popular urban destinations Situated on a three-kilometre long island, the in the UK; Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow are emerging resort offers guests the luxury of space and a range of recreational strongly as formidable rival attractions. The transformation of activities to match everyone’s preference. Couples can enjoy a the cities is highlighted by a new analysis of overnight stays by relaxing atmosphere and innovative treatments at Chi, The Spa overseas visitors in UK cities between 2006 and 2009 by VisitBriwhile children can have fun at the Adventure Zone. For a memotain, the UK’s tourism agency. rable family moment, guests can choose to explore the neighUAE Digest, September 2010 l 63

Stunning luxury resorts, world-renowned attractions and the recent launch of the ‘YourSingapore’ brand have all contributed to a significant increase in tourists from the Middle East, according to new figures from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Latest figures reveal that the number of visitors from the Middle East to Singapore during the period of January to June of this year compared with 2009 grew by 23.21 percent, with nearly 55,000 visitors arriving from the region. Strong growth comes in the wake of the opening of two new multi-billion dollar Integrated Resorts as part of Singapore’s transformation. The resorts include South East Asia’s first-ever Universal Studios, located on Resorts World Sentosa, featuring 24 exciting rides and attractions and the world’s only Madagascar theme park. The amazing Marina Bay Sands has also helped Singapore gain a place on the international centre stage. This fully integrated resort boasts six hotels with a staggering 963 hotel rooms, designer shopping centres and six celebrity chef restaurants, and is already succeeding in appealing to tourists with its magnificent nightlife, entertainment and luxury venues. And there is more to come. Singapore will also play host to enthusiastic racing fans from around the globe when the Singapore Formula One hits town in November. Cunard’s newest cruise ship Queen Elizabeth will visit Dubai on her maiden world voyage in March 2011, and flagship Queen Mary 2 will dock here the following month. Continuing the company’s legacy of the annual World Voyage pioneered 90 years ago, Cunard Line is Singapore Resort Worlds, Sentosa Island offering 2011 World Voyage programmes aboard two of its most famous ocean liners which will sail to 60 ports across 33 countries. Queen Elizabeth will visit Dubai for an overnight halt on March 31, 2011, while Queen Mary2 will dock on April 3, 2011, offering the region’s cruise lovers a chance to join the world cruise programme from Dubai to Southampton in 22 days (the final leg of their epic voyages includes the transit of Suez Canal, as well as calls in Oman, Jordan, Egypt, Greece, Italy and Portugal before returning home to Southampton). The company is offering itineraries calling on legendary ports, featuring overnights in Sydney, Hong Kong and Dubai. The rich travel legacy combined with the Line’s hallmarks of elegant fine dining, impeccable service and a wide variety of premier stateroom accommodations, including the award-winning Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites - provide an unforgettable experience.

Manchester, with its ultra-modern new landmark buildings such as the Lowry Centre, a cool art and culture scene, and world-class sport, is firmly in third place as a top destination with about 900,000 visits, followed by Birmingham with its outstanding and hip arts and exhibitions on 737,000 and Glasgow famous for its style, culture, architecture, and design attracting a hefty 687,000 foreigners. The port city of Liverpool, European Capital of Culture in 2008, comes next in the holiday league table with an average of 162,000 foreign visitors staying over in each of the past four years.

64 l UAE Digest, September 2010

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