Benchmark Middle East, March 2016 edition by Benchmark Middle East

benchmark middle east

MARCH 2016 / VOL. 5 NO. 3

Work + Play = Life

Published from Dubai Media City

MARCH 2016

Can expats work in the public sector?

Working for the government certainly has its advantages — but job opportunities are few and far between when it comes to expats. p18

Top 10 things to do in London

Let’s face it, London is never out of fashion for Gulfies who love to pop over to Britain’s capital for a visit whatever the time of year. p46

benchmark middle east

inside

MARCH 2016 / VOL. 5 NO. 3

Work + Play = Life

MARCH 2016

Published from Dubai Media City

MARCH 2016

Can expats work in the public sector?

Working for the government certainly has its advantages — but job opportunities are few and far between when it comes to expats. p18

Top 10 things to do in London

Let’s face it, London is never out of fashion for Gulfies who love to pop over to Britain’s capital for a visit whatever the time of year. p46

Cover design Geri Batara Sonny

Work

By the numbers: Infographics To go Public or Private? What it pays.

10: Trends from the World 14 Top Government Summit 18 Can expats work in the public sector? sector: Why Emiratis should 22 Private take the plunge? 26 Can public and private sector work together? advancement possible 30 Isin career the public sector?

34 38 44

How bad really is the private sector? THE BOSS: Interview Q&A with Ali Al Shamsi, Vice-president of Emiratisation strategy at Etihad. Work: Events planner Here is Benchmark’s guide to the top business events of the next two months.

PLAY Top 10 things to do in London 46 Travel: Shufilondon.com, a new bilingual site — in

Arabic and English — has featured the the most popular attractions in the UK capital, as ranked by TripAdvisor.

Beautiful Beasts 50 Motoring: Fornasari, an Italian company that specializes in producing bespoke,luxury cars that are not only fast enough to give top sports cars a run for their money, but also built tough enough to conquer extreme trails.

56 Top Five Properties For Rent 58 Top Five Properties For Sale 60 Fashion for Her and Him Events planner 64 Play: Here is Benchmark’s guide to the top cultural outings over the next couple of months.

Eyes right! 66 Health: Five top tips for preventing and managing eye strain from over-digitisation.

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Editor's Note

n the Gulf for many years the public sector has often been seen as the cushy number, the go-to choice of work for locals who receive big pay for small hours. But the UAE is challenging those perceptions, by embracing smart government and increasingly running its public services as profit centres where efficiency and hard work is prized, while simultaneously encouraging its citizens to embrace a professional life in the private sector. And so where should one work, if one is an Emirati is the private sector really that bad? And if you are an expat are there opportunities to turn your skills to the good

of the host nation and work for a government department. This month is Work, Benchmark aims to answer questions such as why Emiratis should take the plunge and make their way in the private sector, while Ben Flanagan looks at opportunities for expats. We examine if the two sides of the employment coin can work together, our mega-graphic lovingly plots the rise of the UAE’s workforce and we look at the top takeaways from last month’s local government summit in Dubai. In The Boss we meet a man who knows what it takes to make the UAE national workforce soar as we sit down with Ali Al

Shamsi, vice-president of Emiratisation strategy at Etihad Airways. Meanwhile in Play this month we take a look at the must-see spots of London thanks to a new website — shufilondon.com — aimed Gulfies heading to the UK capital. Of course we have fashion picks and the latest, most luxurious, properties to rent or buy and we take a look at the custom creation from the workshop of an Italian high-performance, custom carmaker called, Fornasari. Plus, as ever, we’ve got all the events both professional and pleasure, for your forward planners. Enjoy. Scott Armstrong Chief Executive Editor

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Infographics

IN NUMBERS

TO GO PUBLIC OR PRIVATE?

WHAT IT

PAYS

verage salaries in the UAE are set to increase by a barely noticeable 0.9 per cent this year. So anyone looking for real pay hike is likely to need either a big promotion, or change of job. But is the public, or private sector right for you? Government employment is perceived as offering both good salaries and a decent work/life balance, according to one study. But the cut-and-thrust of the private sector, with some six-figure monthly salaries on offer, is also an allure to some. Benchmark crunched the numbers on your next career move.

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Infographics

Work

SALARY INCREASES

Forecast rises across the GCC in 2016 (all sectors) %

3.0

Oman

Qatar

3.1

2.9

Bahrain

Saudi Arabia

2.7

2.6

Kuwait

UAE

1.6

2.0

0.9

1.0 0

UAE: Growing labour force, shrinking unemployment Total labour force (in million) Unemployment (% of total labour force)

2011

5.9

2012

6.1

2013

6.2

2014

6.3

1.0

2.0

3.0

4.0

5.0

6.0

7.0

4.09%

3.79%

3.59%

PUBLIC VS PRIVATE-SECTOR PAY The last official labour force data published by the UAE National Bureau of Statistics dates back to 2008. Since then, many government employees have received substantial pay rises. In 2013, for example, the Dubai Government said some employees would receive a hike of up to 100 percent. Private-sector salaries have grown too â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the average listed here would be much higher if only white-collar roles were included. But hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the breakdown as of 2008:

Sector

Average monthly earnings 2008 (Dh)

11,186

Federal government

10,057

Local government

5,878

Foreign sector Private sector

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Monthly hours worked

3,449

142.1 184.1 201.6 218.6

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Infographics

PRIVATE SECTOR: A GCC SALARY GUIDE FOR 2016 What top professionals in the Gulf region should be earning this year Average salary Dirhams/month

Position

FINANCE

Group Chief Financial Officer (Large firm) Head of Credit/Risk Chief Accountant Internal Auditor Financial Advisor

160,000 61,500 24,000 20,000 19,500

Senior Contracts Manager Senior Project Manager Senior Architect/Designer Site Architect Senior CAD Technician

60,000 54,000 25,500 20,000 12,500

Project Director Engineering Manager MEP Manager Electrical Engineer Assistant/Junior Engineer

75,000 52,500 30,000 15,000 7,000

HR Director HR Manager Senior Recruiter Compensation & Benefits Assistant Admin Assistant

50,000 27,000 17,000 12,000 10,000

IT Director/CIO Head of IT Project Manager Security Consultant IT Support/Assistant

60,000 40,000 22,000 15,500 8,000

Chief Legal Officer/General Counsel Senior Associate Lawyer Legal Secretary Legal coordinator/Assistant

77,000 56,000 36,500 19,000 13,000

General/Operations Manager (Large firm) Office Manager Personal Assistant Receptionist/Customer Service Translator

40,000 19,000 18,000 10,000 10,000

CMO Public Relations Manager Art Director Sales Director Sales Manager

73,000 32,000 15,500 55,500 18,500

Supply Chain/Procurement Director Supply Chain Manager Production Manager Procurement officer/Buyer Logistics Officer/Coordinator

55,000 35,000 19,000 15,000 13,500

CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY

ENGINEERING

HUMAN RESOURCES

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

LEGAL

OFFICE SUPPORT

SALES AND MARKETING

SUPPLY CHAIN

benchmark middle east | March 2016

50k

100

150

200

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work

Infographics

PUBLIC SECTOR:

TOP FOR WORK AND LIFE BALANCE Government work is seen as by far the most attractive sector in terms of achieving a good quality of life, according to a poll of UAE residents by Bayt.com and YouGov. Respondents were asked to pick the top three industries by the perceived quality of work and life balance Work sector

% of respondents

Government, Civil service, Utilities

Oil, Gas & Petrochemicals, Energy

Banking, Finance

Airline

Education, Academia

IT, Electronics, Telecoms

Human Resources

Hospitality, Entertainment, Tourism

Military, Defence, Police, Security services

Healthcare, Medical services, Pharmaceuticals

Construction

Manufacturing, Engineering

Real Estate

Internet, E-commerce

Management Consulting

Advertising, Media, PR, Publishing

Retail

Transportation

Automotive

Agriculture

Charity, Volunteering work

Law

PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF THE PUBLIC SECTOR

The majority of GCC residents view the government as being a favourable employer, according to a poll by Bayt.com and YouGov. “How favourable is the government as an employer in your country of residence?” % of responses

Kuwait

Don’t know or didn’t answer

Extremely unfavourable

Qatar

Saudi Arabia

12 16

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Neither favourable nor unfavourable

Oman

UAE

Slightly unfavourable

Slightly favourable

28 21 19 26 24

Extremely favourable

24 37 43 44 45

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Infographics

PUBLIC/PRIVATE SECTOR UAE SALARY PERCEPTIONS

The government and utilities sector is perceived as the second most attractive for salary packages (inclusive of non-monetary benefits) after the energy industry, according to the Bayt.com/YouGov UAE poll. Respondents were asked to pick the top three industries Workforce

% of respondents

Oil, Gas, Petrochemicals, Energy

Government, Civil service, Utilities

Airline

Banking, Finance

IT, Electronics, Telecoms

Military, Defence, Police, Security services

Manufacturing, Engineering

Construction

Hospitality, Entertainment, Tourism

Healthcare, Medical services, Pharmaceuticals

Real Estate

Management Consulting

Advertising, Media, PR, Publishing

Human Resources

Education, Academia

Retail

Internet, E-commerce

Automotive

Law

Transportation

Agriculture

0 0

EMIRATIS IN WORK

MIND THE GAP: Emiratis in the private sector

75%

of UAE nationals working private sector that are in oil, gas or banking sectors, or at state owned enterprises

Public sector posts held by UAE nationals

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Average additional salary received by Emiratis in private sector, compared to expat workers (2013 estimate by Hay Group)

0.5

Proportion of private sector workforce made up of Emiratis (2013 estimate)

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Infographics

Work

MOST ATTRACTIVE SECTORS FOR EMIRATIS A survey of 300 employed UAE nationals by Oxford Strategic Consulting found that most want to work in the public sector % of respondents in favour

60 45

15 0

Public sector

Defence and security

Banking and finance

Oil and gas

Telecoms

Aviation

7 Utilities

Real estate

Shipping

Industrial

Most favoured organisations to work for among UAE nationals % of respondents in favour

29 24

Real Estate Bank

National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD)

Customs

Emirates Airline

0 General Abu Dhabi Municipality Command National Oil /Civil of Police Company Service (ADNOC)

Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

Armed Forces

Etisalat

PAY BY NATIONALITY Like it or not, those of different nationalities attract different average salaries in the UAE. The last official estimate on this published by the UAE National Bureau of Statistics dates back to 2008 Best paid

Oceanic Countries

Worst paid

North American Countries

South American Countries

United Arab Emirates

European Countries

GCC Countries

Central American and Caribbean Countries

Other Arab Countries

Non-Arab African Countries

Non-Arab Asian countries

SOURCES:

The World Bank | Korn Ferry Hay Group 2016 Salary Forecast | UAE Federal National Council/The National (2013) | ‘Bayt.com Top Industries Survey in the Middle East and North Africa’ (Bayt.com/YouGov, January 2016) | ‘Emirati Employment Report 2015’ (Oxford Strategic Consulting) | UAE Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority | ‘Salary & Employment Report 2016’, Hays

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Top 10

top 10

Last month’s World Government Summit in Dubai saw an A-list line-up of speakers and guests who both probed — and are proactively shaping — the way we will live in the future. US President Barack Obama gave the main address via video, while Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, announced sweeping government changes in a live ‘Dialogue of the Future’ via Twitter. Over 3,000 policymakers attended the three-day event, with other speakers including Khaled Bahah, prime minister of Yemen, and Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum. These were some of the top themes on the agenda.

1 In one of the most groundbreaking moves made at the Government Summit, Sheikh Mohammed announced what amounts to the largest structural shake-up in the UAE federal government since the country was founded. During a three-hour social-media discussion, the Vice President said the UAE plans to consolidate some ministries and outsource “most government services” to the private sector. The UAE’s appointment of state ministers for happiness, tolerance and youth certainly attracted headlines globally.

benchmark middle east | March 2016

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Top 10 Work

2 The changes announced at the summit included several new UAE ministerial positions for women – signaling even representation at the highest levels of government. Six of the nine ministerial appointments were women, and included Ohood Al Roumi, who was named Minister of State for Happiness, and Shamma Al Mazrui, a 22-year-old who already has a masters’degree from the University of Oxford, and who was appointed Minister of Youth Affairs. Other appointments included Noura Al Kaabi as Minister of State for FNC Affairs and Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi as Minister of State for Tolerance.

3 Visitors to the World Government Summit were given a glimpse of a brave new world of technology at the temporary ‘Museum of the Future’ exhibition at the Madinat Jumeirah. The future of robotics and artificial intelligence formed a major part of the show, with concepts of bionic enhancements and brain implants under the microscope. There were also some fun interactive games on display in the futuristic museum, which was opened by Sheikh Mohammed. A permanent ‘Museum of the Future’ is being built near Emirates Towers in Dubai, partly using 3D-printed materials, and is set to be opened in late 2018.

How new technology could both improve our lives and make governments more efficient was a major theme of the summit. But there were also warnings about the possible negative impacts of this – including, for example, robots taking over more and more humans’ jobs. According to a 2013 study by researchers at the University of Oxford, about 47 percent of all US jobs are at risk of computerization – from loan officers being made redundant by algorithms to delivery drivers being replaced by drones. A research paper prepared for the World Government Summit – “The Impact of Advanced Science and Technology on Government”, written by The Economist Intelligence Unit – said that governments need to foster new thinking about the employment challenges posed by such technologies.

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Top 10

5 There were also warnings about how hacking attacks could lead to a ‘cybergeddon’ scenario in the future. Speaker Rod Beckstrom, cybersecurity expert and former head of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), told summit delegates about possible “Doomsday scenarios” as more and more objects get connected to the web. “There are two types of organisations in the world – those that have been hacked, and those that don’t know that they’ve been hacked,” he said. Beckstrom pointed to the “tremendous vulnerability” of electricity substations to cyberattacks: “You can blow up transformers with a software attack,” he said.

6 Optimism about the future, rather than gloom over current oil prices, was the overriding vibe at the summit. And some high-level delegates even said that the crash in prices could be a blessing in disguise for the troubled Arabian Gulf economies. Angel Gurría, secretary-general for the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), said that the low oil-price era marks a “historic opportunity” to scrap fuel subsidies, a move already taken by some Middle East states. “The silver lining of this drop in prices is precisely that you can completely scrap the subsidies,” he told the World Government Summit website. “If for whatever reason, the price of oil goes up again, stay with it,” he advised.

7 Can you imagine zooming between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 15 minutes – without, that is, boarding an aircraft? It sounds like a futuristic dream – but it is just around the corner, said one delegate to the World Government Summit. Brogan BamBrogan, co-founder and chief technology officer of Hyperloop Technologies, said the transport system his company proposes – capsules travelling at up to 800 mph in reduced-pressure tubes – is not a question of ‘if’, but ‘when’. “It sounds like science fiction, but it’s not; it is real and happening,” Mr Bambrogan said. “We are doing the hardcore engineering to bring this technology from the drawing board… into reality.”

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Top 10 Work

8 There were mixed signals about the technological feats being undertaken in the Arab world itself. Representatives of the Emirates Mars Mission – which plans to send an unmanned probe to the Red Planet in 2020 – held a number of press meetings at the summit. But one Al Arabiya English panel discussion heard that science in the Arab world as a whole was in a “sad state”. As Ahmad Moghrabi, longstanding science editor for pan-Arab daily Al-Hayat, told the panel from his base in Beirut: “The Arabs have made no contribution to the inventions that surround us or the technology and gadgets we use. They are also not contributing to the core science such as mathematics and physics.”

9 Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Emirates Group, took to the stage at the summit for a question-and-answer session with CNN’s Richard Quest. He said the UAE is working to redesign its airspace to make it more efficient. “We can save another 12 percent from our cost,” he said. “Many aircraft are going round and round and circling for almost half an hour or so. That shouldn’t be the case.” Sheikh Ahmed also gave tantalizing clues about a new on-board feature that Emirates plans to offer its passengers from next year – although he stopped short of revealing exactly what it will be. “We have to raise the bar all the time… there will be an announcement in a few months”.

10 At most conference centres, it’s usually a bit of a scramble to get a simple cup of coffee. Not so at the World Government Summit, which aside from bounteous refreshment stalls also offered a rarity – perhaps even a first – for a UAE business event: free massages. Delegates at the summit were offered the chance to unwind with free 10-minute treatments by staff of the Talise Spa at the Madinat Jumeirah Hotel, where the event was held. Perfect for when all that hobnobbing with the world’s A-list speakers got a little too much.

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March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Public & Private Sector

CAn expats work in THE public sector? Working for the government certainly has its advantages â&#x20AC;&#x201D; but job opportunities are few and far between when it comes to expats Page 20 >

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Work

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Public & Private Sector

by Ben Flanagan

he public sector is perceived as the most attractive industry in which to strike a good worklife balance, and the second most appealing after oil and gas for employees looking to pull in a hefty salary, according to a poll of UAE residents by Bayt.com and YouGov. But in the era of low oil prices, the UAE government is acting to streamline its institutions – meaning that a mass recruitment drive is unlikely anytime soon. The UAE Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum said in February that the UAE plans to outsource most government services to the private sector, and cut the number of ministries. So what opportunities remain in the public sector, particularly for expats? Benchmark spoke to recruitment expert Vijay Gandhi, regional director at the Korn Ferry Hay Group, to find out. What recruitment trends do you see in the public sector? In the public sector – especially in the UAE – projects are being executed. So we have not seen any slowdown or any reduction in workforce in the public sector. Hiring for support functions like HR, finance and IT has slowed down, but the projects are being executed. When they need an engineer for the Dubai Metro, for example, they are going to recruit. What kind of opportunities are there for expat workers in the UAE public sector? I would be surprised if there are more than 15 to 20 percent of expats in the public sector to begin with. Because they need to be Arabic speakers, they need to be well-trained in the local language. Having said that, in the public sector there is still talent required, especially at the consultant level, where they hire expats with specialist skills. And those expats are still in demand. Opportunities are few and far between for expats to work in the public sector. But there are no job cuts per se in

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Opportunities are few and far between for expats to work in the public sector. But there are no job cuts per se in those specialised positions

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

Work

financial services sector tend to be paid much higher than their colleagues who are non-nationals at the same level. So we see a wage gap. How are the opportunities in the public, versus private sector changing in the UAE? The opportunities in the UAE are in the private sector. There’s a clear direction in the public sector to outsource its services, and look at ways in which they can improve the services through smart government. We will see more job-creation happening in the country. But it will be restricted to sectors that are weathering the storm of this economic climate, outside the oil and gas, and financial services sector. There are a lot of semi-government entities which are still doing well, a lot of family businesses are growing, in retail or the construction sectors. We are seeing the growth trend continuing in the private sector, which will be the frontrunner in creating more jobs.

those specialised positions. They would be largely specialised positions with technical skills, be it engineering, finance, or legal affairs, in the government sector. How else is the public sector changing? From a public sector perspective they are definitely going into an era of efficiencies. This will mean more and much better services for the citizens and residents of the country. But from a job perspective, I don’t think that expats have found the public sector to be attractive. Historically it’s the nationals who have worked in the public sector. If an expat is coming to the UAE, they will largely work in the private sector. If they were working in the government, they would be coming from the World Bank, the IMF, or bringing that international experience to help the organisations or institutions over here to further grow. benchmark middle east | March 2016

What about the flipside of this: UAE nationals finding work in the private sector? The IMF chief [visited the UAE in February and said that, in order] to have a balanced economy, there needs to be more nationals in the private sector. And I think that’s where the nation is heading. I think there is more room for nationals in the private sector, who today may be working in family businesses, on the retail side, in the oil and gas or financial services sector. Emirati employees in the private sector typically receive higher salaries than their expat counterparts. What is the trend in the kind of premiums being paid? The premiums are still the same. I don’t think they have changed. Usually national graduates who are entering the

What are the top-line trends in UAE recruitment you see this year? In terms of recruitment by sector we have seen organisations, especially in financial services and the oil and gas sector, slowing down on recruitment. There are very few organisations in those sectors where they feel that they need to hire more employees. Having said that, our research shows that 54 percent of organisations do not plan to change their workforce. However there are 31 percent who are planning to hire more employees in 2016, to support their core brands. And a large number of them are definitely in the private sector. The reason behind the reduction in oil and gas recruitment is pretty obvious. But to what do you attribute the trend in the financial services industry? Most of the financial services organisations had difficult quarterly results. And the bad debts are wiping out their profitability. The organisations in consumerrelated sectors, like FMCG, retail and automotive are the ones who are hiring more employees. And one third of the GCC businesses are planning to increase their workforce in 2016. This picture is very different than in 2009, when there was a real estate lull. The UAE is a very diversified economy [so] is well placed to grow in 2016. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Public & Private Sector

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

Work

Private sector:

Why Emiratis should take the plunge?

by Ben Flanagan

he UAE wants more Emiratis to work in the private sector — but why should national citizens take the plunge? Two years ago officials an-

nounced a goal to increase the number of UAE nationals employed by private businesses by tenfold by 2021.

But that is easier said than done, given that perceptions of working for the government are extremely favourable, and that an estimated two-thirds of UAE citizens in employment already work in the public sector, according to International Monetary Fund data. Yet many individual businesses have set targets to boost the number of UAE nationals the employ — including large institutions such as Standard Chartered Bank. Here Mohammed AlMazemi, head of strategic manpower at Standard Chartered Bank in the UAE, himself a UAE national, explains the incentives for Emiratis to turn to the private, rather than public sector when choosing their careers. benchmark middle east | March 2016

Q&A with Mohammed Al Mazemi, head of strategic manpower at Standard Chartered Bank in the UAE What is the bank’s current level of Emiratisation and what are its targets going forward? The bank now employs approximately 2,300 people in the UAE, with a large number UAE nationals developing their careers among the 70 other nationalities that bring strength and diversity to our workforce. Standard Chartered Bank has always been considered as an “academy” that grooms local talent and leaders into the banking sector. We are deeply committed to developing March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

Work

Private sector:

Why Emiratis should take the plunge

by Ben Flanagan

he UAE wants more Emiratis to work in the private sector — but why should national citizens take the plunge? Two years ago officials an-

nounced a goal to increase the number of UAE nationals employed by private businesses by tenfold by 2021.

Work Public & Private Sector

We spend most of our time and effort in focusing on the lookout for experienced and passionate UAE national talents, especially for more senior roles within the bank, to ensure we are assimilating UAE national talent into all levels of the organisation Mohammed Al Mazemi Head of Strategic Manpower Standard Chartered Bank, UAE

and nurturing local talent, and have thus set a clear Emiratisation 2020 Vision, which is to be the international employer of choice for UAE national talent, driving sustainable business growth of our bank and the economy. We are now, more than ever, on the right path to deliver on our Emiratisation vision and continue to drive our Emiratisation agenda within the financial service industry with innovative attraction strategies, robust employee satisfaction strategies and by giving our UAE national employees a clearly defined career path. What are the key challenges Standard Chartered faces in recruiting more UAE nationals? The challenge is the high competition on a small talent pool, especially in the banking industry. We spend most of our time and effort in focusing on the lookout for experienced and passionate UAE national talents, especially for more senior roles within the bank, to ensure we are assimilating UAE national talent into all levels of the organisation. 24

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

Why should Emiratis take the plunge and work in the private sector? What are the advantages? Private sector [firms] including Standard Chartered give the flexibility and opportunity for UAE nationals to rotate across functions, and in the case of the bank, take advantage of its global footprints to help employees work with global expertise to gain and develop their skill sets and experience. The Emirates Nationals Development Programme (ENDP) announced a plan to reduceâ&#x20AC;Ś unemployment [among] Emiratis in Dubai to less than 1%by 2021. Standard Chartered is committed to playing a key role in hiring, retaining and developing UAE national talent and to develop a generation of talent that is capable of leading the UAE banking industry in the future. The UAE public sector is still perceived to be the most attractive for work-life balance and job security, and the second most attractive for pay. How much of a barrier is this to boosting Emiratisation in your industry? A career in the banking sector would fulfil a candidateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s need for more challenges, responsibilities and overall more opportunities for personal and professional development and growth. Merit-based progression and reward would provide a quality stamp on their CV. At Standard Chartered, we continue to introduce innovative workplace enhancement initiatives to appeal to the highest quality of UAE national talent.In the UAE, we have introduced a part-time and flexible time work schemes for employees. Employees can request for these flexible working patterns to suit individual circumstances and commitments while continuing to meet the needs of the bank and its customers. The flexible work programme will give participating employees the opportunity to balance work and personal life while also allowing the bank to reach out to a wider recruitment pool and create more job opportunities for job shares. Standard Chartered Bank UAE is committed benchmark middle east | March 2016

Work

to creating a more inclusive environment and has recently enhanced maternity leave days from 90 calendar days to 140 calendar days. Are numerical quotas really the best way to measure Emiratisation? Shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it be more merit-based? Being one of the leading international banks in the region, we are fully committed to meeting our regulatory requirements as we want to be regarded as a true partner to government in achieving ambitions for the UAE. When it comes to the Emiratisation, our focus is on quality over quantity. We recognise that developing a pipeline for local talent and placing great emphasis on training and development of UAE nationals is key to our success in the longer term. We are investing and creating a long-term sustainable talent pipeline, developing leaders of the future. The UAE this month announced it is outsourcing most government services to the private sector. What message do you think this sends out in terms of Emiratisation? The decision of the UAE government to outsource most services to the private sector will provide a boost to regional and multinational service providers. Outsourcing of government services is fairly common in many countries and has been successfully done. The move will allow the government to be more agile and focus on more strategic issues, and is likely to involve back office functions in the initial stages. This will also increase synergies across public-private partnerships which will also be beneficial in the government meeting their vision around smart cities and innovation. Many jobs are likely to move to the private sector and the government will have to work closely with the private sector to maintain employment opportunities for UAE nationals. The outsourced business is likely to go to local and multinational companies with proven track records in outsourcing, or expertise in specific domains. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Public & Private Sector

Can public and private sector work together?

by BEN FLANAGAN

nion Oasis is a five-tower project set to rise in Dubai’s Deira district — and its name is certainly a fitting one. As one of the first de-

velopments under the emirate’s new public-private partnerships (PPP) law, the planned project — located above the busy Union Square metro station, and spearheaded by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) — marks the start of an era of greater ‘union’ between corporations and government.

Dubai’s PPP law, which took effect in November, aims to encourage more private investment in infrastructure projects. It is expected to be used in big projects in Dubai, likely including the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and the Dubai Metro. Just a couple of months after the PPP law was enacted, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, announced sweeping changes that will see more participation of the private sector in government affairs. The UAE plans to outsource “most government services” to businesses, Sheikh Mohammed said during a live ‘Dialogue of the Future’ via Twitter. No further details or timeframes for that move were given, and the nature of 26

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the work and structures behind such outsourcing deals are likely to be radically different to those seen under the PPP law. But together, the two steps signal a desire for closer ties – both in terms of investment and business services – between government and private firms. Yet whether greater union with the government will prove a real “oasis” for private businesses remains to be seen. PPP law Dubai’s new PPP law is expected to apply mainly to large infrastructure projects such as transport developments, and would commonly involve some capital investment from a private sector partner. Ashurst, a global law firm, said in a briefing that the law could kick-start PPP March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

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projects in Dubai in a similar way as in some other Arabian Gulf states. “Kuwait’s new PPP law, which came into force in March of [last] year, has successfully rebooted Kuwait’s ambitious PPP programme. The hope is that the New PPP Law will have a similar effect in Dubai,” it said. One of the most significant objectives of the law is to ease the financial burden of big infrastructure projects on the government’s budget — something that is, say some, even more pressing in the current economic climate. Projects under the PPP law can be initiated by either the public or private sector, and could run under many different frameworks including, for example, the build-own-operate-transfer model. This 28

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model, says Ashurst, would involve a private company receiving “a concession from the government agency to finance, create and operate the facility for a set period until ownership is transferred back to the government agency.” Ashurst said that the new PPP law is “a positive development” as it “demonstrates to the private sector that Dubai is ‘open for business’ in relation to PPPs.” Stephen Jurgenson, Dubai Managing Partner at international law firm Winston & Strawn — which advises both private firms and the public sector on major deals — said the PPP model had several advantages for governments. “There’s a variety of reasons for doing these projects. You transfer project risk to the private sector and bring private-

sector expertise to an industry that was previously government,” Mr Jurgenson told Benchmark. “Another is that the government doesn’t necessarily have to fund capital investment upfront; part of a PPP deal may be that the private sector brings that.” Challenges But PPP structures also bring some challenges, Mr Jurgenson said. “The transactions themselves sometimes can be complicated, and may not be as quick to set up as a traditional government procurement. Certainly, where capital investment by the private sector is required, to bring construction to a start, more deal structuring, analysis and negotiation is required,” he said. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

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The wider Middle East region has seen PPPs used for several big infrastructure projects. Many power and water projects have been developed using the PPP structures In a briefing note published in January, the legal firm Clifford Chance said the PPP law was a positive step, but still needed work in adding details to its legal framework. For example, while the PPP law allows for consortium-led bids, no member of a consortium may also submit a competing bid. “This may affect developers which are contractors under one bid and consortium members under another,” Clifford Chance said. The legal firm also said that “restrictions that will apply to share transfer, subcontracting and realisation of security under PPPs will require careful consideration”. PPP precedents The wider Middle East region has seen PPPs used for several big infrastructure benchmark middle east | March 2016

projects. Many power and water projects have been developed using the PPP structures, and in Dubai this sector remains governed by existing legislation rather than the new law. Public-private partnership structures have also been used in the development of projects such as Zayed University in Abu Dhabi, the Queen Alia airport expansion in Jordan, and the $1.2 billion expansion of Madinah Airport in Saudi Arabia. And in the era of low crude prices, and fiscal deficits, there is expected to be more interest in PPP mechanisms, to help ease the burden on governments when financing projects. “With low oil prices looking like they will be around for some time to come, interest in PPPs is growing,” the legal firm

DLA Piper said in a research note. But such structures take time to set up. The RTA in February said that the deadline for developers and potential bidders to submit pre-qualification documents for the Union Oasis project had been extended. The government body also introduced “extensive and significant financial enhancements to the investment structure of the project”. Mr Jurgenson said it is too early to observe a significant uptick in the number of PPP deals since the Dubai law was issued. “It’s early days yet,” he said. “It’s not the case that suddenly lots of PPP deals will be signed.” And with some PPPs likely to span 30 years or more, forging such long-lasting unions will clearly take time. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Public & Private Sector

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Public & Private Sector

Work

Is career advancement possible in the public sector?

by BEN FLANAGAN

overnment employees are sometimes portrayed as an army of pen-pushers — the living embodiments of the essential, but banal bureaucracy required for nations to function. Yet in the Arabian Gulf there are more positive

perceptions of public sector work — as something that can send employees on the right career path, rather than driving them up the wall. According to one survey by jobs website Bayt.com and pollsters YouGov, working for the government has better perceived career-growth opportunities than most other sectors, including aviation, construction and law. Recruitment experts point to decent job opportunities in the public sector — even in a country like the UAE, which plans a mass move to outsource government services to private firms. “The public sector is indeed seen as very favourable and a fertile professional learning ground and growth and innovation hub,” Suhail Masri, vice president of employer solutions at Bayt.com, told Benchmark. Having a good career path is one of the top priorities for many employees, according a poll by Bayt.com. It found that, when UAE residents are selecting their ideal job, the three most important factors are salary and benefits, opportunities for career growth and job security. Thatis prompting professionals to increasingly seek experience in both the public and private sectors, said Mr Masri. “Today, employees in the UAE are — understandably — eager to craft solid career trajectories and advance their professional development, in all sectors,” said Mr Masri. “We see an increasing propensity for professionals to be exposed to both the private and public sectors, especially benchmark middle east | March 2016

as the demand for people with successful track records in particular roles and with particular projects and solutions grows.” But change is afoot. With the UAE planning to outsource “most government services” to the private sector, does that mean fewer opportunities going forward? Mr Masri said that Bayt.com — which works with several public-sector entities — has not yet seen a significant decline in opportunities. “We haven’t seen a drastic or a significant drop in hiring,” he said. “Many of these entities have projects that they need to complete. I believe that the hiring process is continuous and it will never stop.”

Today, employees in the UAE are — understandably — eager to craft solid career trajectories and advance their professional development, in all sectors Suhail MASRI VIce President of Employer Solutions, Bayt.com

There will however be an inevitable shift towards more positions that involve government work being advertised by private-sector companies, Mr Masri said. “[When] they start to outsource, definitely the hiring process will continue, but it will be through the private sector rather than the public sector,” he said. Those looking to rise in the ranks of the public sector increasingly need more specialist skills, Mr Masri said. He pointed to, for example, the “smart city” push in Dubai, which involves ever more technical abilities of government workers. “The new market requires specialist skills,” he said. “Previously people were studying, for example, marketing. But right now it’s not enough to study marketing. People need to be specialised in social marketing… It’s important to understand the specialist skills that are required in the market.” Government entities, like private firms, also face a fight to retain top talent, Mr Masri added. “They don’t want to lose their talent,” he said. “And I believe the UAE is still the number one [place] to attract talent — in the private or the public sector. It is the most attractive place to work.” And with public perceptions of the public sector remaining high, it seems the only pens being pushed will be candidates signing government job contracts. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Public & Private Sector

Top tips on how to rise in the ranks of the public sector

Suhail Masri, vice president of employer solutions at Bayt.com, explains how you can ensure your career path is heading in the right direction

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o advance in their careers and rise through the ranks, professionals in the UAE need to offer companies the skills and experience that are most needed. According to the Bayt.com Job Index Survey in the Middle East and North Africa (February 2016), the most desired skill by UAE employers is the ability to work well in a team, with almost half of those surveyed (49%) claiming that their company values candidates who are â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;team playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Good communication skills in Arabic and English, efficiency and productivity and leadership, are also highly valued skills for 46%, 41% and 40% of UAE working respondents, respectively. Good communication skills in English only and the ability to work well under pressure both follow at 39%. As for the most sought-after educa-

tional qualifications, graduate/post graduate degrees in Business Management, Commerce and Engineering emerged as the most desired academic qualifications when looking for candidates in the UAE (all at 27%). Professionals need to keep in mind that the nature of the jobs needed in the future will also vary: new upcoming projects like smart cities are creating skills gaps to some extent because the skills required are new skills that are not always taught in all universities and that not many professionals may have much experience in. Lifelong learning is key to succeeding in the modern workplace in both private and public sector as are maintaining solid work relationships, showing a true commitment to the organisation and projects, and being fully dedicated in terms of work ethic, hours and productivity. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Public & Private Sector

Work

1st 12th 2nd 5th Best career growth

Optimum job security

Government ranked 5th out of 22 sectors listed

Most stressful to work in

Hiring most fresh graduates

Best for work/life balance

How the public sector shapes up

ow attractive is working in the public sector? A survey by Bayt.com and YouGov, published in January, found that the government work — including positions in the civil service and utilities firms — ranked highly in people’s perceptions across most of the categories measured. But while that is good news for some, it also proves a challenge in the Arabian Gulf, where governments are trying to encourage more nationals to pursue careers in the private sector. Here’s what the survey found about people’s perceptions of working in the government sector, based on respondents from 13 countries across the GCC, Levant and North Africa.

SOURCE ‘Bayt.com Top Industries Survey in the Middle East and North Africa’ (Bayt.com/YouGov, January 2016)

5th 4th 12th 14th 6th Best salary packages

Attract highest proportion of local talent

Longest working hours

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Industries with strongest growth

Most attractive to women workers

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Work Public & Private Sector

HOW BAD REALLY IS THE PRIVATE SECTOR? 34

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Work

Are you a willing worker, or wage slave? Does the thought of going to the office fill you with joy, or are you still hitting ‘snooze’ past 9am?

by ben flanagan

s in most countries, levels of job satisfaction in the UAE vary greatly by sector and employer. One survey suggests roughly six in 10 UAE workers are satisfied with their work culture — although some industries, notably construction, are perceived as more stressful, and demanding longer hours, than others. So is working for a private-sector company in the UAE a good gig, or dumb decision? Benchmark did a poll of the polls to find out. I plan to move to the UAE to work. For how long will I be stuck at my desk each day? You might want to rephrase that question when you sit for the job interview. But anyway: The official working times in the UAE are set by the government, and stand at eight hours a day, or a maximum of 48 hours a week. If you are asked to work more than that, you’ll be eligible for overtime, with extra hours attracting at least 25 percent more pay than your normal rate. Brilliant! Where do I sign…? Hang on a minute — it’s not quite as straightforward as that. A 2014 survey by YouGov found that 79 percent of professionals in the UAE had worked over their contracted hours in the previous sixbenchmark middle east | March 2016

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Work Public & Private Sector

month period. But of those, only 21 percent said they had received additional pay. Public sector workers, and those in lower income groups, were most likely to receive overtime payments. Half the respondents said they would feel uncomfortable asking for overtime pay, while 80 percent said working long hours had a negative effect on their family or social life. But at least there’s that cushy tax-free salary to think about. It’s true that there is no income tax in the UAE, despite other forms of tax – notably a VAT sales levy – being on the horizon. But don’t expect your salary to rise much this year, either. Recruitment firm Korn Ferry expects an average global wage increase of 2.5 percent in 2016 – but salaries are expected to increase by just 0.9 per cent in the UAE, once inflation is taken into account. Oh. I feel like I need a holiday already. There’s good news and bad news there. Poll results published by YouGov in December 2014 suggest most UAE residents are happy with their annual holiday allowance, with 68 percent saying they receive sufficient days off. The average holiday allowance was found to be 30 days. But – andhere comes the bad news – only48% of respondents said they used their full annual allowance. When on holiday 63 percent of men and 48 percent of women said they work at least sometimes. And 74 percent agreed that technology has made it more difficult to switch off from work when away. I suppose I could just chill out a bit at work to make up for it… You’d be in the minority. Three out of four people questioned by YouGov said they find their current job stressful. And another poll, conducted by Bayt.com and YouGov and covering the Middle East and North Africa, pointed to a rather bleak working environment in regional companies. It found employees’ trust towards both senior management and line managers to be low, and identified over one third of respondents whom strongly believe that their company’s environment is neither happy nor pleasant. Just two out of 10 strongly believe that the morale in their company is high. Ouch. So is the private sector really all long hours, terrible bosses and unpaid overtime? Not universally. Another YouGov and Bayt.com poll found that 60% of UAE re36

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Work

The UAE places 20th in the World Happiness Report 2015, the highest ranking of all countries in the Arab Middle East spondents are satisfied with their work culture. Conditions vary greatly according to the industry, the survey suggests. Construction is perceived as the both the most stressful industry, as well as the one that requires the longest working hours. Banking and finance and the energy sector are also perceived as stressful, unlike charitywork, e-commerce, and agriculture, which respondents to the survey said are the least stressful. What are the best companies to work for? According to the Great Place to Work Institute UAE, the logistics firm DHL ranks the best company to work for in the UAE. The other firms in the top 10 of the 2015 ranking were: Ericsson, Omnicom Media Group, THE One, Estee Lauder, Weber Shandwick, Hyatt, Leminar and Fun City. What about in the public sector? Respondents in the YouGov and Bayt.com poll had favourable perceptions of government work. Almost seven in 10 UAE respondents view the government as a good employer of choice, with only 2 percent viewing it as extremely unfavourable.According to a poll of employed UAE nationals by Oxford Strategic Consulting, the General Command of Police, Civil Service and Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) are among the most favoured organisations at which to work. But landing a public sector job is not easy for expatriate workers, especially now the government is looking to outsource most services to the private sector. Have you got any good news for me? Yes: The UAE places 20th in the World Happiness Report 2015, the highest ranking of all countries in the Arab Middle East. And with the recent appointment of a dedicated Minister of State for Happiness, the country looks set to rise further in the index. All the more reason to keep smiling during that job interview. benchmark middle east | March 2016

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WORK THE BOSS

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THE BOSS

WORK

WORK THE BOSS

What does it take to make your UAE national workforce soar?

by Ben Flanagan

li Al Shamsi knows only too well. As vice-president of Emiratisation strategy at Etihad, the executive has helped grow the Abu Dhabi airline’s UAE national staff base, as announced in January, to 3052 — including 627 pilots and

cadets. Having recruited 1,200 Emiratis last year, the airline has an ambitious target for UAE nationals to account for almost half its total workforce by 2020.

Mr Al Shamsi said growing opportunities for UAE nationals is “at the heart of Etihad’s mandate”, with the airline having launched dedicated programmes designed to attract thousands more Emirati employees over the next four years. Here the executive describes some of the challenges of boosting the airline’s UAE national workforce in the future. Q&A with Ali Al Shamsi, Etihad’s vicepresident of Emiratisation strategy What are the key challenges Etihad faces in recruiting more UAE nationals? Though aviation is fairly new to the region and typically not seen as one of the most attractive industries for Emirati nationbenchmark middle east | March 2016

als, Etihad Airways can happily claim that it has secured a position as one of the world’s fastest growing airlines, with an extremely diverse workforce, representing more than 144 nationalities. Along with its commitment to expanding its global workforce, Etihad also has the highest and fastest-growing rates of Emiratisation or nationalisation among its regional peers and leading employers in other sectors. UAE national development is regarded as a business imperative at Etihad, supporting the organisation’s growth trajectory in the future, both in terms of capacity and capability. The opportunities and potential are tremendous. Our rates of growth are aligned

to offer exciting careers for Emirati nationals based upon their performance and potential. As an internationally regulated industry with the highest quality of safety and service standards, and 24/7, 365-daysa-year operations, Etihad cannot compromise on performance expectations. Another challenge was the limited awareness among Emirati youth about the aviation industry. We have overcome that by carrying out roadshows to universities across the UAE in order to inform students about the industry and to encourage interest in both males and females. Recruiting females was a gradual process as we managed to shed light on successful female role modelsacross all areas of the aviation industry. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

WORK THE BOSS

The UAE’s vision is to become internationally competitive and diversified so as to build on its continued economic success, to drive towards greater self-sufficiency and to build on our remarkable human capital and knowledge base

Can you ever see Etihad becoming an all-Emirati staffed airline? Or will there always be room for expats? By 2020, 43% of the total workforce will be Emirati, underpinning the airline’s operations throughout the world. This is an extremely positive growth story. There is an overwhelmingly favourable perception of government work in the UAE. How much of a barrier is this in boosting Emiratisation in the aviation industry? Etihad has invested in creating 22 distinct programmes to build aviation capacity and bring awareness of the industry in the UAE and across the region. These span management, entry-level, technical and pilots. In 2015, 280 Emiratis graduated from the airline’s various programmes. Etihad Airways also offers UAE nationals the opportunity to work in a dynamic, multi-cultural environment and to be posted on international assignments to accelerate their development. More than 90 UAE nationals are currently positioned at the airline’s offices and airports across the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the Americas. As the growth and success of the airline 40

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continues, the attractiveness of Etihad to national talent is also positively impacted. The sense of pride in working for Etihad is now a significant driver of engagement for UAE national employees. What are the advantages for Emiratis in working in the private sector? The UAE needs to strike a balance of recruiting Emiratis across both sectors. In the airline and aviation industries, where we deal with international guests from around the world, we need to ensure we have the right calibre of people, with the right skills to meet our business objectives, and to be true UAE ambassadors. The concept of Emiratisation may sound strange to some from outside the region, given that in many countries employers are not allowed to recruit according to nationality. But can you spell out why the initiative is important for the UAE? The UAE’s vision is to become internationally competitive and diversified so as to build on its continued economic success, to drive towards greater self-sufficiency and to build on our remarkable human capital and knowledge base. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

THE BOSS

benchmark middle east | March 2016

WORK

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

WORK THE BOSS

benchmark middle east | March 2016

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THE BOSS

What kind of career development opportunities are there for Emirati workers at Etihad? At Etihad Airways,recruitment and development efforts go hand-in-hand. A critical element of the Etihad Airways mandate is the development of long term strategic initiatives to develop Emiratis. We do this not only by creating employment opportunities but also by motivating and equipping UAE Nationals with the right workplace skills and empowering them with the knowledge and aviation-specific expertise needed for them to become the aviation leaders of the future. The airline is developing career initiatives and policies specifically for UAE Nationals. UAE national employees are encouraged to attend aviation-specific benchmark middle east | March 2016

programmes globally to network with international colleagues and share best practice. Etihad also provides internship opportunities for UAE nationals studying at local universities and has developed collaborative partnerships with local and federal institutions. The Corporate Traineeship programme for UAE national students is promoted in local universities and provides Etihad with a pipeline for the graduate programmes. During the sponsorship period corporate trainees complete a number of planned internships within Etihad. All UAE Nationals in the airline have a dedicated Personal Development Plan that documents the required training necessary for professional advancement. Many of the training courses attended are related to compliance, and aviation-specific cer-

WORK

tifications required for current roles and are a pre-requisite for advancement into future roles. What do you personally like about your career in the aviation industry, and why did you choose it over the public sector? I went on a summer internship, or work placement when I was in school for three months back in 1987. I loved it because it was service-driven and alsoshowcased our famous Arabian hospitality. The concept of shift work and Emiratis in uniforms was something new, as was the concept of Emiratis checking bags in a challenging and ever-changing environment. One has to constantly adapt. So it is an exciting industry to work in. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Work Events Planner Travel and logistics have long been key sectors for the UAE, not least giventhe soaring success of its two main airlines, Emirates and Etihad, and the buoyant global growth of ports operator DP World. Amid the economic gloom due to the oil-price crash, these industries remain relatively resilient – and so, as they look to remain so, it is fitting that they are the subject of several upcoming UAE conferences. Here is Benchmark’s guide to the top business events in March and April.

Cityscape Abu Dhabi

Arabian Travel Market 2016

Abu Dhabi’s housing market proved fairly resilient last year, and although market activity is expected to slow in 2016, sales prices are forecast to hold steady, according to Asteco. But nothing is certain in this era of low oil prices – and so there will be much on the agenda at the annual Cityscape Abu Dhabi property show. Government authorities and over 100 companies – from developers and designers to architects and consultants – are expected to attend. The need for more affordable property was a key talking point in 2015, and is likely to figure prominently this year too.

WHEN April 25-28 WHERE Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

WEBSITE www.cityscapeabudhabi.com PRICE Online registration

The Middle East’s biggest travelindustry event returns in April, and is expected to be even bigger than last year, which saw over 26,000 visitors, 2,873 exhibitors, and more than $2.5 billion in business deals signed. The trade show spans several exhibition halls, with exhibitors ranging from airlines and cruise operators to corporate hotel groups and wellness resorts. A big talking point at the 2015 show was the subsidies row between the three biggest Arabian Gulf airlines and their US counterparts; this is likely to resurface this year at the accompanying conference sessions, at which at least one chief executive from a regional airline is expected.

Middle East Retail Banking Forum & Expo

WEBSITE arabiantravelmarket.com PRICE Online registration required

WEBSITE www.retailbanking-expo.com PRICE Free

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WHEN April 18-19 WHERE The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Dubai Banking is already completely different to what it was 20 years ago – partly due to the rise of web transactions – and many forecast similarly radical changes over the next two decades. This conference is all about how retail banking will look in the future, with a key focus on how new technology is shaping the industry. The event will also comprise of specific shows titled ‘Mobile Banking’ and ‘Digital ID and Security’.

CREDIT: thebrideshow.com

CREDIT: ATM

WHEN April 12-14 WHERE Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

Bride Show Abu Dhabi 2016 WHEN April 13-16 WHERE Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre The weddings industry is vast – and this upcoming show in Abu Dhabi is set to attract big business execs as well as excited brides. Bride Show Abu Dhabi is billed to feature fashion shows, live demonstrations and advice from celebrity ambassadors. With over 30,000 visitors expected, it marks an opportunity to “expose your brand to this high net worth audience”, according to the event organiser. For public visitors, basic entry tickets cost just Dh20, but VIP tickets (including access to all events and a goody bag) cost Dh100, while a Platinum VIP ticket (with additional complimentary manicure or pedicure, afternoon high tea, and a chance to meet the ‘celebs’) costs Dh175. WEBSITE www.thebrideshow.com/abudhabi PRICE Dh20 (basic ticket, in advance) March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Neuromarketing World Forum

WHEN March 8-9 WHERE Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

WHEN April 4-6 WHERE InterContinental Hotel, Festival City, Dubai

The Gulf states have spent billions on rail networks, with the Dubai Metro launched in 2009 and other systems in development across the region. But not all the projects are entirely on track: Etihad Rail said in January it has suspended the tender process for stage two of the UAE’s national network, while a GCC-wide rail system has faced several technical and bureaucratic delays. But there is still big business on the table, something this rail event in Dubai will explore, with over 300 exhibitors and 9,000 attendees expected. The event is co-located with the Cargo Show, which is geared towards the transport logistics supply chain business.

We’d love to get Don Draper’s take on this upcoming meeting. Neuromarketing is billed as “science meets business to better understand marketing”, and involves biometric studies into how individuals react to adverts and other stimuli. This annual meeting of the Neuromarketing World Forum is all about developments in the field, and is geared towards ad agencies, marketers and academics. Speakers on the bill include representatives of Google, Unilever, Hershey’s and Cartier.

WEBSITE www.terrapinn.com/ exhibition/middle-east-rail PRICE Free (individuals)

CREDIT: adnec.ae

Middle East Rail 2016

Custom Show Emirates 2016 WHEN March 31 – April 2 WHERE Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

WEBSITE www.neuromarketingworldforum.com PRICE €699/Dh2860 a day (booked in advance)

WCA Worldwide Conference

Logistics is also under the spotlight at the WCA Worldwide Conference, the 2016 meeting of the world’s largest network of independent freight forwarders. Over 2,500 executives in the freight forwarding business – which is involved in coordinating between logistics carriers but does not itself engage in the movement of goods – are expected. “Delegates create tens of millions of dollars in combined new business and save weeks of travel time… by pre-booking up to 40 pre-arranged meetings with fellow agents,” says the organiser. “You can conduct more business in a single day at a WCA Worldwide Conference than can be achieved in a whole month of business travel.” WEBSITE www.wcaworld.com PRICE $1,150

CREDIT: aimcongress.com

WHEN March 12-16 WHERE Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

Annual Investment Meeting 2016 WHEN April 11-13 WHERE Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre Foreign direct investment (FDI) is high on the agenda at this investment meeting, which is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The wideranging event is set to host a conference, ministerial roundtable, investment awards event, and various bilateral meetings. Last year’s Annual Investment Meeting featured about 500 exhibitors from 140 countries, along with country pavilions with representatives from foreign investment offices and trade agencies. WEBSITE www.aimcongress.com PRICE Online registration

benchmark middle east | March 2016

This high-octane event in Abu Dhabi is geared towards customized cars and bikes – and, in the car-crazy UAE, that must be a big target market. The Custom Show Emiratesincludes some adrenalinefuelled entertainment, including a 4X4 ‘drifting arena’, a car and bike parade and live customisation show. There are also competitions including ‘Battle of the Engines’ and the ‘Custom Bike Competition’. But it is also geared towards the business market, as a platform to connect suppliers of tuning and after-market products with buyers and end consumers. WEBSITE www.customshowemirates.com PRICE Dh50

GITEX Shopper (Spring Edition) 2016 WHEN March 30 – April 2 WHERE Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre Gadget fans flock in their thousands to this twice-annual consumer show in Dubai. The Gitex Shopper Spring edition clocked up 135,210 visitors and Dh150 million in sales in 2015, according to the organiser. Big crowds are expected this year too as local electronics retailers look for big volume sales, with many offering special discounts and ‘bundle’ deals. The five top selling products last year were smartphones, feature phones, laptops, tables and TVs. WEBSITE www.gitexshopperdubai.com PRICE Dh25 (adult entry) March 2016 | benchmark middle east

TO P 10

Things to do in London Let's face it, London is never out of fashion for Gulfies who love to pop over to Britain's capital for a visit whatever the time of year. So shufilondon.com, a new bilingual site — in Arabic and English — which aims to be a one-stop-shop for information about the UK capital, tailored to visitors from the Middle East, has featured the the most popular attractions in the UK capital, as ranked by TripAdvisor.

benchmark middle east | March 2016

British Museum The colossal British Museum – dedicated to human history, art and culture – was established in 1753, and first opened in 1759 on a different site. The current building in Bloomsbury includes the spectacular glass-roofed Great Court, which was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000. The museum’s permanent collection includes some 8 million works, with 330,000 from the Middle East including the most important collection of Mesopotamian antiquities outside Iraq. It is also controversially home to the Elgin Marbles, amid calls by some to return the sculptures to Greece. While entry to the museum is free, an admission charge usually applies to non-members wanting to access the special exhibits.

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Travel

V&A Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum houses over 4.5 million objects, and is the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design. It was founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Play

Tower of London

The National Gallery

The National Gallery houses Britain’s national collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The gallery is open 361 days a year, with free entry.

This historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames was founded in 1066, with its White Tower built by William the Conqueror about 12 years later. With its defensive walls and moat, the castle has been used as a royal residence, armoury, treasury and even a prison. Many public figures who had fallen into disgrace, such as Elizabeth I before she became queen, have been held here, leading to the phrase “sent to the Tower”. It also earned a reputation as a place of torture and death – although not always fairly given more executions were held at Tower Hill on the north of the site. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the priceless Crown Jewels, learn the legend of the Tower’s ravens, and see the swords and armour on display.

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Churchill War Rooms

Theatre & performances

Going to theatrical events was ranked fifth in the TripAdvisor study. Find out more about what’s on in ShufiLondon.com’s Events & Entertainment section.

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Housed in a once-secret WW2 bunker beneath the streets of Westminster, this museum offers a glimpse into both Britain’s war effort and the life of the Prime Minister of the time. In the Cabinet War Rooms, you can walk in the footsteps of Winston Churchill and see the Map Room, which has remained exactly as it was left on the day the lights were switched off in 1945. The Churchill Museum also tells the wartime leader’s story, with letters and objects dating back to his early childhood.

Big Ben See above about how to visit the famous London bell.

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Travel

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Houses of Parliament

Walking tours Walking tours were ranked eighth in the TripAdvisor study. Find out more about upcoming tours in ShufiLondon.com’s Attractions section.

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Parliament is open to those wanting to attend debates, watch committee hearings or tour the historic buildings that are home to the House of Commons and House of Lords. UK residents and overseas visitors can book tickets for a guided or self-guided audio tour of the Houses of Parliament on Saturdays and on most weekdays during Parliamentary recesses. UK residents (but not overseas visitors) can also book a free tour via their MP, as well as visits to the Elizabeth Tower clock tower to see the famous Big Ben bell. Places on the clock tower tours – which take visitors up 334 stone spiral steps – are limited and can only be booked via residents’ local MPs.

St. James’s Park

Every year millions of Londoners and tourists visit St James’s Park, the oldest of the capital’s eight Royal Parks.

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Motoring

Motoring Play

Beautiful

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Motoring Play

Beasts b y F a i s a l M o h a mm e d N a i m

“Luxury runs fast” is an apt motto for Fornasari, an Italian company that specializes in producing bespoke, luxury cars that are not only fast enough to give top sports cars a run for their money, but also built tough enough to conquer extreme trails. And it’s little wonder that the brand recently shifted its base of operations to the GCC, a region with an unparalleled passion for fast cars, off-roading, and acquiring the crème de la crème of the motoring world.

n a recent visit to Oman, my eyes happened upon a strangely bulbous, but macho-looking car on my way through a hypermarketparking lot. While I consider myself an auto-Buddha, with a great depth of knowledge about cars (and equally great humility, of course), I could not make-out exactly what kind of car I was looking at. In a hurry, I tried to take in as many details as I could while speeding past. I caught a glimpse of the brand tag on the back, which read something like “Forensic”. I went on my way, but the memory of the aggressive, bold lines; the protruded, broad rear end; the creamy beige interior; and the chromed, billet-shaped dials, which I spied on the dash, haunted me. I theorized that perhaps it had been some kind of extreme Porsche Cayenne modification. But theories were not enough; I had to know more. I began to investigate, and a few Google searches later, I learned the car I’d seen was the “99” model, a custom creation from the workshop of an Italian high-performance, custom car maker called, Fornasari. benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Motoring

The brand was founded in 1999 by Giuseppe Fornasari, an Italian from a family of car racers, who began importing and tuning Corvette engines in associationwith the famous American engine maker, Reeves Callaway, in the early â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;90s. Fornasariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father was aracing driver for Alfa Romeo and Maserati and competed in Italy's Mille Miglia road race for sports cars in the 1950s, and his love affair with cars rubbed off on Giuseppe at a young age. By 1994, Giuseppe had built 10 Callawaybased GT cars, and after winning the 1996 Italian GT championship, he developed a street version of the car and decided to strike out on his own to build a line ofcustom cars that were lightweight, sturdy, and super-fast. 52

benchmark middle east | March 2016

I dug a bit deeper and was surprised to find that the brand was shifting its operations from Italy to the GCC. They had arranged collaboration with Shanfari Automotives in Muscat, Oman. With a workshop so close, I immediately started making plans to pay the carmaker a visit. It was a busy place, buzzing with teams of engineers and mechanics working on half-made cars and technicians cutting out body parts, which were then carried to the far end of the workshop to be painted. I was greeted by an Italian man in his fifties. His eyes shown bright and his spoke with a classic Mediterranean accent, and it took me a moment to realize it was the man himself, the one behind it all â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Giuseppe Fornasari.

We began to speak about his vision and his cars. His idea was an automotive contradiction: a GT car that was also a sport-utility. "I wanted to build the fastest off-roader," he said, eyes blazing with enthusiasm, "but at the same time, a car that you drive like a GT and can still use with the family."Basically, the idea of a Fornasari car is to take a high power engine and transmission and put it into an exclusively created race design frame, with hearty suspension, and a custom body to make vehicles that are as luxurious as they are extremely capable. In essence, Fornasaris are supercars for daily commuters. Fashioned from Carbon fiber and Kevlar, the handmade rides are super light and yet extra tough. The suspension was March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Motoring Play

designed by the same Mitsubishi team who havewon the Paris Dakar Rally for the last 25 years consecutively; and making them menacingly fast, are the supertuned V8 SRT engines procured from General Motors in the United States. I began to ask Giuseppe if the Fornasaris were handmade or machine built, but before the question escaped my mouth he answered me. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It takes six months to make one,â&#x20AC;? he said, pointing at the bustling bay of artisans. The eight Fornasari models, mostly SUVs, are eye-catching with unique, outof-the-box designs. The flagship Fornasari 99 combines the aggressive look of a GT and the plushness of a luxury sedan. The interior is drenched in premium leather benchmark middle east | March 2016

and wood, with multiple customizationoptions. At 17 feet long and seven feet wide, the car looks dominating, and with engine options going up to 6.2 liter V8, producing 740BHP, and 807Nm torque, it has the power to back it up its beastly looks on the road. Among the other models, there are the somewhat strange, robotic-looking Hunter and Racing Buggy. While the Hunter is focused more towards rescue and protection services with its armor-ready design, the Hunter is build purely for extreme off-roading. The Tender looks more like a yacht than a car, with an extended cut out rear, rearward winding rooftop, and solid teak details on the exterior. And there is, of course, a sports car in the lot. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Motoring

Meet the Monsters Reminiscent of the classic GT design of the 1950s, the GIGI 311GT was named after Giuseppe’s father Gigi Fornasari, and the all-aluminium car combines its spectacular looks with astonishing performance thanks to a 6.2-liter Corvette engine that churns out a top-speed of 340kph. The GIGI is also the first Fornasari model exclusively made here in the Gulf. But how drive-able are custom, highperformance cars like these? According to Giuseppe, Fornasaris are easy to maintain because they are made using mass production vehicle parts.“Most of the operational parts, including the engine, are procured from mass production vehicles, which are available everywhere. Apart from the routine service, Fornasaris have minimal maintenance. They perform like a Ferrari, but are not delicate like one. Fornasari is meant to be your everyday supercar,” he explained. To ensure ease of service, Fornasari also sets up a local partner servicing facility wherever its customers are based. It took five years to shift operations from Italy to Oman, and now that things are up and running here in Muscat, the biggest challenge before Fornasari is filling the 400-plus orders they have from customers worldwide. Considering the fact that it takes six months to make one Fornasari, it might seem an overwhelming task, but Giuseppe is undaunted. “I have always wanted to do what others declared impossible,” he said casually. With a fleet of magnificent, fully customizable sports cars that can comfortably be driven daily, can take a beating off-road, and can outrace almost anything out there, I believe he already has. 54

benchmark middle east | March 2016

Six months, six expert technical teams, and tons of hard work, most of which is done by hand, goes into the making of a single Foransari vehicle. The hyper-performance brand consists of eight models, starting at around OMR 50,000 and going up to OMR 150,000. With a world of customization options, there is no limit to what you could spend, or achieve. But no matter which model you choose, apart from all the menacing, road ripping performance, Fornasaris are guaranteed raise eyebrows and envies.

Fornasari 99

Combining the aggressive looks and versatility of an SUV and comfort of a luxury sedan, this exclusive car is designed to appeal the elite among the passionate. Tech Spec Engine Options four (3.0ltr V6 to 7.0ltr V8), Power: 240bhp to 740 bhp, Torque: 550Nm to 807Nm Top Speed 280kph, 0-100kph: 3.8 sec Weight 1850kilos

GIGI 311 GT

The GT comes adorned with the classy Italian GT heritage of the ‘50s, but packs modern, brutal power. It features an all aluminum construction and is exclusively made in Oman. Tech Spec Engine Options three (6.2ltr V8 to 7.0ltr V8), Power: 490bhp to 640 bhp, Torque: 680Nm to 807Nm Top Speed 340kph, 0-100kph: 3.5 sec Weight 1000kilos

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Motoring Play

Racing Buggy

Combining extreme off-road racing features with daily on-road use, there is no equal in terms of absolute fun and performance. Tech Spec Engine Options four (3.0ltr V6 to 7ltr V8), Power: 240bhp to 640 bhp, Torque: 550Nm to 807Nm Top Speed 280kph, 0-100kph: 3.8 sec Weight 1400kilos

Hunter

Wild, strong, yet amazingly fast and utterly lightweight, this luxury-draped, armor-ready monster also comes with the option of being built as a petrolefficient hybrid. Tech Spec Engine Options four (3.0ltr V6 to 7ltr V8), Power: 240bhp to 740 bhp, Torque: 550Nm to 807Nm Top Speed 270kph, 0-100kph: 4.0 sec Weight 1850kilos

Tender

The most uniquely designed of the lot, the yacht-like car is extremely elegant and makes use of the most exotic materials, like solid teak and premium leather, for those who want to stand apart in with quirky class and charm. Tech Spec Engine Options four (3.0ltr V6 to 7.0ltr V8), Power: 240bhp to 740 bhp, Torque: 550Nm to 807Nm Top Speed 280kph, 0-100kph: 3.8 sec Weight 1650kilos

One-Off

Fornasari 600

The starting point forFornasari cars, or base model, if you can call it that, the 600 is a derivative of the global rally car, but amped up with bespoke offering in terms of performance and styling. Tech Spec Engine Options four (3.0ltr V6 to 7.0ltr V8), Power: 240bhp to 740 bhp, Torque: 550Nm to 807Nm Top Speed 280kph, 0-100kph: 3.8 sec Weight: 1650kilos

Gruppo B

Developed to be the street version of the legendary Group B prototypes that competed in the off-road rallies of the 1980s, this exciting car highlights the Fornasari racing soul, combining a fantastic power-to-weight ratio with an impressive road holding for real fast drivers. Tech Spec Engine Options: four (3.0ltr V6 to 7.0ltr V8), Power: 240bhp to 740 bhp, Torque: 550Nm to 807Nm Top Speed 280kph, 0-100kph: 3.8 sec

If the spectacular muscle machines Fornasari serves up on a platter still arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re after, then the brand can create a one-of-a-kind creation that caters to all your whims and fancies. Each custom design is a total unique rendition, or dare I say, piece of artwork.

To find out more about acquiring your own tailor made Fornasari supercar, get in touch with Shanfari Automotives in Muscat, Oman (+968 2460 2676, shanfari.com) or with Mr. Giuseppe Fornasari himself (+968 9388 8526)

Weight 1500kilos benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Property

Top Five Properties For Sale

Luxhabitat, Dubai’s only high-end real estate brokerage, gives us the rundown on the top five choices for sale in the emirate For more details on all these properties, and more, visit: Luxhabitat, Dubai's only high-end real estate brokerage and interior design company, at www.luxhabitat.ae or scan the QR code with your smart phone

Price on application Fully-furnished penthouse in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Index Tower

The essentials City Dubai Area DIFC Development The Index Tower Type Penthouse Availability Ready Lifestyle Luxury Penthouses Bedrooms 4 bedrooms Bathrooms 5 (4 ensuite) Built up area 7,300 sq ft Pool Community pool

This magnificent penthouse in Index Tower, DIFC exudes opulence and sophistication. This fully upgraded duplex property is offered furnished and has been designed to perfection — finished beautifully with high quality Italian marble flooring which runs throughout the whole penthouse and sleek modern furnishings which are showcased in the formal living, formal dining and family living areas. Upon entering the property you are welcomed by a beautiful reception room with unobstructed sea and views of the Dubai International Financial Centre. These views can be appreciated more from the balcony from the living room and the upstairs landing.

Dh6.2million Three-bedroom apartment in La Residencia Del Mar, Dubai Marina The essentials City Dubai Area Dubai Marina Development La Residencia Del Mar Type Apartment Availability Ready Lifestyle Marina Living Bedrooms 3 bedrooms Bathrooms 4 (3 ensuite) Built up area 3,682 sq ft Pool Community pool

benchmark middle east | March 2016

This beautifully upgraded three-bedroom apartment is for sale in the ideally located La Residencia Del Mar building. This stunning apartment — one of only two available in the building — has a modern contemporary finish, boasting a spacious living area with floor-to-ceiling windows drenching the property in natural light, a fully-upgraded designer kitchen and a large, unique outside area exploiting the fantastic marina view. The property boasts marble flooring throughout, a guest power room, two large en-suite bedrooms and a huge master suite that has been designed to incorporate a small work area, large bathroom and walk-in closet. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Property Play

Dh3.9million Contemporary three-bedroom townhouse in Zulal, The Lakes

The essentials City Dubai Area The Lakes Development Zulal Type Attached townhouse Availability Ready Lifestyle Lake Surroundings Bedrooms 3 bedrooms Bathrooms 2 (1 ensuite) Built up area 2,278 sq ft Plot size 2,340 sq ft Pool Community pool

This stunning contemporary upgraded three-bedroom townhouse in Zulal, The Lakes, makes the most of the open-plan space. The property boasts a generous large study room — big enough to be used as an occasional bedroom — on the ground floor, a fully-equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar. Make you way along the stylish corridor and find generous storage and laundry rooms and further space under the stairs. The statement glass and chrome stairway fills the lobby with light and leads to the upstairs room , the focal point of which is a large master bedroom fitted with contemporary mirrored wardrobes to make the space look even bigger.

Dh50million Luxurious six-bedroom Emirates Hills villa with private gym and cinema The essentials City Dubai Area Emirates Hills Development P Sector Type Villa Availability Ready Lifestyle Golf Retreats Bedrooms 6 bedrooms Bathrooms 9 (6 ensuite) Built up area 14,390 sq ft Plot size 16,964 sq ft Pool Overflow, heated and cooled private pool

This fully-furnished sumptuous family villa is located in one of Dubai’s most prestigious addresses - the exclusive Emirates Hills developments. Brand new to the market and meticulously designed and furnished, this magnificent property boasts six en-suite bedrooms and sits directly on the lake with jaw-dropping views of the Dubai Marina skyline as a panoramic backdrop. Complete with a private gym and home cinema, this state-of-the art property is also fitted with a top-end home automation and telecommunication systems. To the rear of the property you will find a large swimming pool and jacuzzi sitting directly next to the lake.

Dh5.8million Full sea view apartment in Al Bateen, Jumeriah Beach Residences

The essentials City Dubai Area Jumeirah Beach Residence Development: Al Bateen Type: Apartment Availability: Ready Lifestyle: Marina Living Bedrooms: 2 bedrooms Bathrooms: 3 (2 ensuite) Built up area: 1,669 sq ft Pool Pool Community pool

benchmark middle east | March 2016

This beautiful apartment in Al Bateen Residence offers floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the rooms with brilliant daylight and offer uninterrupted panoramic views over Dubai’s famous skyline. Ideally located to iconic entertainment developments as The Walk and a short stroll to the Jumeriah beach, the modern property also boasts an off-white stylish and fully-equipped kitchen, a spacious living room with a balcony offering the mesmerizing views of the sea and the Jumeriah Beach Residences strip, a large en-suite bedroom and en-suite guest bedroom and a laundry room. One of the most sought-after new residential developments which offers direct access to the beach. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Property

Top Five Properties For Rent

We’ve teamed up with Luxhabitat, Dubai’s only high-end real estate brokerage and interior design company, to bring you our top five choices to rent For more details on all these properties, and more, visit: Luxhabitat, Dubai's only high-end real estate brokerage and interior design company, at www.luxhabitat.ae or scan the QR code with your smart phone

Dh350,000 a year A custom high-end duplex loft in Jumeriah Beach Residences

The essentials City Dubai Area Jumeirah Beach Residence Development Bahar Type Duplex Availability Ready Lifestyle Luxury Penthouses Bedrooms 2 bedrooms Bathrooms 2 Built up area 1,900 sq ft Pool Community pool

No detail was overlooked nor expense spared in creating this luxurious completely custom, duplex penthouse loft. Looking onto the sea and soon-to-be-completed Dubai Eye, this apartment features two bedrooms spread over two floors, double-volume ceilings in the living room and smart home technology throughout. The custom Poggenpohl kitchen comes fully equipped with built-in appliances including double wine refrigerators along with a custom-built wooden dining table featuring a self-draining ice trough to keep all your bottles cool while entertaining. All dining ware, glasses and cutlery are included as the apartment is move-in ready. The living room has been professionally designed with furniture by BoConcept and Roche Bobois with large art pieces from around the world.

Dh1.8million a year Large provencal-inspired villa in Emirates Hills

The essentials City Dubai Area Emirates Hills Development E Sector Type Villa Availability Ready Lifestyle Private Communities Bedrooms 5 bedrooms Bathrooms 6 (5 ensuite) Built up area 14,000 sq ft Plot size 20,000 sq ft Pool Infinity, heated and cooled private pool

benchmark middle east | March 2016

This Provençal-inspired villa reflects the sophistication and glamour synonymous with the French Riviera. Well-suited to an upmarket family, the luxurious living space offers five comfortable bedrooms, divided spaciously over two of three floors, each with its own en-suite bathroom, with the light-filled and spacious master suite opening to an L-shaped balcony offering stunning garden and community views. A downstairs study may double as an additional sixth bedroom. The centre-point of the house, however, is arguably a glorious entrance and good sized contemporary living and dining areas easily seating up to a dozen people. A country kitchen (and adjoining wet kitchen) are both well-equipped, with an adjoining dining area overlooking a very inviting swimming pool, BBQ and terrace. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

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Dh420,000 a year Upgraded two-bedroom duplex penthouse in Botanica, Dubai Marina

The essentials City Dubai Area Dubai Marina Development Botanica Type Penthouse Availability Ready Lifestyle Marina Living Bedrooms 2 bedrooms Bathrooms 3 (2 ensuite) Built up area 3,838 sq ft Pool Community pool

A striking contemporary duplex penthouse with breathtaking views of Palm Jumeriah and the Arabian Gulf, this two-bedroom spacious living space is the utmost in modern contemporary chic and all the rooms have been designed to be bathed in natural light. The penthouse has an open-floor plan complimented with grey stone walls, black marble flooring and black leather features in the luxurious living and entertainment space. The property, offered to market with all fixtures, fittings and furnishings, opens out onto a large open-plan living space. In addition to two chic bedrooms, the penthouse features a office space, a spacious kitchen and a storage room.

Dh290,000 a year High floor luxury three bed duplex in The Torch, Dubai Marina

The essentials City Dubai Area Dubai Marina Development The Torch Type Duplex Availability Ready Lifestyle Luxury Penthouses Bedrooms 3 bedrooms Bathrooms 4 (3 ensuite) Built up area 3,874 sq ft Pool Infinity, community pool

This three-bedroom duplex apartment is located on the upper levels in The Torch, Dubai Marina. Distinguished from other floors in the building, this sub-penthouse level apartment is finished to a higher standard. Walk inside the apartment and you will be faced with a bright, open-concept living/dining area with direct access to the large outdoor terrace. The apartment enjoys incredible views over looking the Emirates Golf Club as well as partial views over Dubai Marina. Also downstairs is the upgraded kitchen and private maids room with en-suite bathroom. Upstairs is a central family room with a private,

Dh725,000 a year Fully-furnished three-story garden home villa in Palm Jumeriah

The essentials City Dubai Area Palm Jumeirah Development Fronds, Garden Home Sub-development Frond C Type Villa Availability Ready Lifestyle Private Communities Bedrooms 5 bedrooms Bathrooms 7 (5 ensuite) Built up area 6,000 sq ft Plot size 6,700 sq ft Pool Private pool

benchmark middle east | March 2016

This fully furnished, three-storey villa with panoramic views over the iconic Atlantis The Palm has undergone major architectural renovations. The kitchen, dining and sitting room, originally three separate rooms, have been opened up and now afford a large L shape living space, with stunning sea views. The open plan luxury kitchen is at the heart of the space. Upstairs, there are four bedrooms, all with new bathrooms, the master has been changed to afford a huge walk-in wardrobe. Stroll up to the top floor and you have a huge entertainment room, complete with large, Atlantis-facing terrace. The villa comes complete with live-in maid, a Hobie Cat sailboat and other sea toys. March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Fashion for Her

With Spring just around the corner it is time for a step up your sartorial game. Invest in the best laid back luxe essentials and demand attention in this season's boldest trends with the hottest new arrivals from Kate Spade and LK Bennett.

LK Bennett A twist on the classic white shirt, this champagnecoloured Liddon shirt with black accents is perfect to be tucked into jeans or a pencil skirt. Team with a classic black court shoe.

Dh1,060

LK Bennett No spring wardrobe in complete without a printed fine sweater. With fuss-free lines and the ever-chic round neck, the Elias black Emilia print jumper is a stylish yet comfortable stable to while away the weekends.

Dh790 Kate Spade Everythingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming up roses with this un-fussy floral print. The Mini Rose pleated print skirt is sure to put a spring in your step this Spring.

Dh1,380

Kate Spade Entirely embellished with sparkling sequins, this short-sleeved, creamcolored swing dress is great for all those big nights out where you want all eyes in the room on you.

Dh2,510

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

LK Bennett Bored of the little black dress? Make way for the LRD: the little red dress. Look sizzling hot in this striking body con fit fitting Rina dress in a striking cherry hue.

Dh1,420

LK Bennett A modern twist on the classic 50s silhouette, the Bianco full skirt dress is finished in a shimmery jacquard fabric and will help you master modern cocktail dressing.

Dh2,280

LK Bennett Step out on misty spring mornings and throw on this Caleste belted trench coat in a pop of cranberry for instant polished chic.

Dh2,380

Kate Spade Sometimes sophistication needs a playful touch. Enter the cape stripe sequin shorts. Team with a simple plain white t-shirt for day or vamp up with a silky white camisole and heels for night.

Dh1,380 Kate Spade You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fail to be cheery with this clutch bag covered with leather applique hearts, for a look that's equal parts sweet and chic.

Dh1,530

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Fashion for Him

Make room in your wardrobe. With a seasonal shift comes a wealth of new menswear trends waiting to infiltrate your closet. We have rounded up the best new pieces to invest in this Spring.

Columbia Lightweight but rugged, roll up the sleeves of the Silver Ridge Long Sleeve Shirt for a casually comfortable but stylishly versatile look thats that works as outdoor gear or casual office wear.

Columbia Add some sartorial style to your top half with the clean and classic Silver Ridge goanywhere short-sleeve shirt. So popular it is made in a bunch of colours, we prefer this muted blue for a versatile and preppy look. Team with the cargo short (above) for a casual weekend look.

Dh199

Dh169

The North Face The latest is athletic apparel, the Mezurashi Short is the ultimate in fastand-light adventure wear. Designed for extra comfort and added mobility, this outerwear is all the adventurous consumer needs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; as well as being aesthetically pleasing.

Dh449

Bally Who says statement shoes are purely for women? Outdo your other half in the elegant Drakeford driving shoe, crafted in burgundy leather and sporting an alligator skin trim.

Dh3,490 62

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Timberland Your search for a perfect jacket for any occasion stops here. The Mount Mansfield Varsity Bomber jacket in a versatile navy blue is cut from rugged twill and lightweight canvas and is a modern-day must-own for any style-conscious gent.

Dh649

Timberland Guaranteed to be a bona-fida outerwear classic, Timberland’s new lightweight red-coloured Sky Peak Gilet Vest offers the same warmth as down, but without the bulk. Toss on over a white t-shirt and and jeans for easy laid-back cool.

Dh449

Columbia Step out in the über-comfy Silver Ridge Cargo Short — a roomy and relaxed style chino-style short which works overtime to keep you cool and comfortable.

Dh159

Timberland Bally Put your best foot forward with the stylish off-duty Haido trainer, crafted in supple black and white calf leather. Can be worn with blazer and trousers or just a button-up shirt, sweater, and chinos.

Dh1,690

benchmark middle east | March 2016

We can not get enough of Timberland’s iconic 6-Inch boot and this season the cushioned shoe comes with a touch of British sartorial styling — an elegant leather padded collar. The soft grey finish adds a touch of elegance to the classic boot.

Dh825

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Events Planner The UAE is getting arty, with some major cultural events on the agenda in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Dubai Art Season, from March 14 to April 30, includes the renowned Art Dubai show, as well as World Art Dubai and the SIKKA Art Fair. And in Abu Dhabi there is the eclectic Abu Dhabi Festival 2016, as well as The 7th Art, dedicated to some of the world’s best cinema. Here is Benchmark’s guide to the top cultural outings over the next couple of months. The 7th Art

CREDIT: artdubai

CREDIT: worldartdubai.com

WHEN Until May 15 WHERE Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi Corniche

Art Dubai 2016 World Art Dubai 2016 WHEN March 16-19 WHERE Madinat Jumeirah Art Dubai has undeniably cemented its place on the global cultural scene – and returns this year for its tenth edition. The 2016 show will include diverse works from 90 galleries from the UAE and beyond, across three broad programmes: contemporary; modern, devoted to masters from the Middle East, Africa and South Asia; and a curated section on a particular theme or geography. There’s also an annual exhibition of works by winners of The Abraaj Group Art Prize. The event is open to the public, but is also billed as a gathering for global collectors and art professionals, and includes the Global Art Forum. WEBSITE www.artdubai.ae PRICE Dh50 (one-day pass); Dh80 (three-day pass)

WHEN April 6-9 WHERE Dubai World Trade Centre Accessible art is a key focus of this event in early April. The World Art Dubai show includes artists from across the world, with works ranging from paintings to performance art. The ‘Art For Every Wall’ section includes works for sale at as little as Dh500. There will be a number of free talks, workshops, live shows and curated art walks. There’s also the International Emerging Artist Award, on April 6, as well as the Emerging Emirati Artist Award, dedicated to UAE nationals. A panel of in-house experts will be on hand to advise visitors on topics like where in the home to display paintings and sculptures, as well as offering tips on how to buy your first original artwork. WEBSITE www.worldartdubai.com PRICE Dh15 (Adults)

The art of the big screen is under the microscope at this ongoing series of film screenings in Abu Dhabi. ‘The 7th Art’, an initiative of the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, includes ‘The Greatest Films of All Time’, with screenings introduced by veteran film expert Peter Scarlet and including a Q&A session after the closing credits. Upcoming screenings in the series include Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Vertigo’ (April 3) and Stanley Kubrick’s ‘2001 A Space Odyssey’ (May 1). There’s also a series of al fresco family friendly film screenings at different outdoor sites across the UAE capital. WEBSITE facebook.com/The7thArtAD PRICE Free

Dara O’Briain Live in Dubai WHEN March 17 WHERE Dubai World Trade Centre What better way to spend St. Patrick’s Day than attending this show by Irish comedian Dara O’Briain. The star of UK television shows such as ‘Mock the Week’ and ‘The Apprentice: You're Fired!’ is known for his quick-fire wit and lively ‘interactions’ with – read, ‘picking on’ – his audiences. “I’m delighted to be returning to Dubai after the amazing show I had there in 2011, and even more happy to be playing a room with a roof this time. And the show is on St. Patrick’s Day too, so Dubai has to endure yet another jolly Irish person,” O’Briain quipped in a quote on the gig organiser’s website. WEBSITE www.doneevents.com PRICE Dh300 (regular); Dh500 (premium)

benchmark middle east | March 2016

March 2016 | benchmark middle east

UB40 and Billy Ocean Live in Dubai

WHEN March 13-24 WHERE Al Fahidi Historical

Set in the evocative old neighbourhood of Al Fahidi (also known as Al Bastakiya), the Sikka Art Fair will celebrate a diverse range of works by UAE-based artists. It will showcase site-specific works across mediums including film, painting, photography and sculpture. Sikka is named after the narrow alleyways between historic buildings in the UAE, and so the setting in old Bastakiyais certainly a fitting one. Founded by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, Sikka will also include a series of workshops, including one by the Dubai International Art Centre about creating 3D artworks.

It’ll be like the 1980s all over again in late March, when UB40 and Billy Ocean will play a double bill at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium. A bitter feud among early members of UB40 means that two versions of the reggae band have toured, rather confusingly, under the same name. Dubai fans will see the line-up that includes Ali Campbell, Mickey Virtue and Astro. UB40 hits include covers of songs like ‘Red Red Wine’, ‘Can't Help Falling in Love’ and ‘I Got You Babe’. The R&B star Billy Ocean is best known for hitsincluding ‘When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going’.

WEBSITE www.dubaiculture.gov.ae PRICE Free

WEBSITE www.platinumlist.net PRICE Dh225

Taste of Dubai 2016

Middle East Film and Comic Con 2016

WHEN March 10-12 WHERE Dubai Media City Amphitheatre

WHEN April 7-9 WHERE Dubai World Trade Centre

Foodies will have a feast of a time at this year’s Taste of Dubai, which features cookery classes, stands by some of the city’s best restaurants, and celebrity appearances. The acclaimed British chef Tom Aikens – the youngest chef from the UK to achieve two Michelin stars – is one of the culinary stars billed to appear. Dubai residents might be familiar with Aikens’ Pots, Pans & Boards restaurant on JBR Walk. The food fest, in the pleasant surrounds of Dubai Media City, also includes a gig by Boney M. Featuring Liz Mitchell on the opening night.

All things pop culture will be celebrated at the Middle East Film & Comic Con, which is billed as the only cult-entertainment consumer event in the Middle East. Some visitors certainly dress for the occasion – with an array of superhero, sci-fi and comic costumes expected, whether for the official Cosplay competition or just for fun. An array of shows, stars and stands will be part of the wider convention, with movie previews, manga stands and roleplaying adventures all part of it. For uber-geeks only. WEBSITE www.mefcc.com PRICE TBC benchmark middle east | March 2016

Dubai World Cup 2016 WHEN March 26 WHERE Meydan Racecourse, Dubai The world’s richest day of horse racing is here again, with the $30m extravaganza that is the Dubai World Cup. The equestrian event, which marks the conclusion of the UAE racing season, features nine races, including the hotly contested 2,000-metre Dubai World Cup, with a top prize of $10m. For many visitors it’s as much a social event as it is about horses: expect flamboyant fashion on show, from party dresses to wild hats– and equally wild bar bills. General entry is only Dh25 but there’s a range of premium tickets and hospitality options available.

CREDIT: visitdubai.com

WHEN March 24 WHERE Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium

CREDIT: visitdubai.com

Neighbourhood (Al Bastakiya)

CREDIT: visitdubai.com

SikkaArt Fair

WEBSITE www.tasteofdubaifestival.com PRICE Dh75 (in advance); Dh100 (for Thursday concert, including two drinks); Dh240 (VIP, including two drinks and three food vouchers)

WEBSITE www.dubaiworldcup.com PRICE Dh25 (general admission); hospitality packages vary

Abu Dhabi Festival 2016 WHEN April 3-30 WHERE Emirates Palace and elsewhere in Abu Dhabi Some of the world’s most renowned artists are set to descend on Abu Dhabi in April for this annual cultural festival, which will feature everything from piano performances and jazz to ballet and kids’ shows. Notable performances include Lang Lang in Recital (14 April), Orchestre de Paris (15 and 17 April), The Little Prince (21 and 22 April), and Carlos Acosta and Friends (25 - 26 April). Aside from ticketed shows at the Emirates Palace hotel, there will also be a series of free events, including storytelling sessions and family music concerts inMushrif Park. WEBSITE www.abudhabifestival.ae PRICE Emirates Palace Auditorium tickets from Dh125-Dh500; other events free March 2016 | benchmark middle east

Play Health

Eyes Right! O

ne of the most overlooked health issues that may arise for office workers is eye strain – it’s a no-brainer really, considering the amount of time we spend staring at digital screens. Particularly in the last few years, our screen time has extended beyond office hours too, with our constant connectivity thanks to smartphones and tablets. It’s serious enough to merit its own medical terminology – Computer Vision Syndrome. This is an over-arching term for what is essentially a repetitive stress injury, caused by straining the eye muscles, and is symptomised by varying conditions ranging from blurred vision and irritation in the eyes, to headaches or even neck aches. Even if you don’t have any of these problems (yet), it’s always a good idea to take preventative action by following some best practices. And if you feel the niggling effects of CVS coming on, or other minor discomfort, then these simple steps are a must.

Sort out your screen This is a fundamental first step, wherein you optimise your screen settings. The brightness should be on par with your environment – using a white screen as a parameter, adjust the brightness; if it’s too bright, then it will glow like a beacon of light in a dark space, and it will appear dull and grey if it’s 66

benchmark middle east | March 2016

You spend thousands of hours looking at your computer screen. Ever considered how it might be impacting your eye health? Here are five top tips for preventing and managing eye strain from over-digitisation. By Sudeshna Ghosh

the opposite. Don’t forget to keep adjusting the screen if the lightaround you changes through the day. Plus, the text size and formatting on your screen should make for comfortable viewing, as should the contrast and colour temperature (adjustable in settings) – the lower the colour temperature, the better. Follow the rule of 20 For every 20 minutes spent staring at your screen, look away at a distant object (at least 20 feet away) for 20 seconds. It’s the least you can do, to keep up your 20-20 vision! Other helpful eye exercises include taking a break from screen time to look at distant and nearby objects alternately for a few seconds. Rabbit away Vitamins and minerals are essential for healthy eyes, with beta-carotene being one of the most important nutrients; carrots and other orange vegetables are a top source. Antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin are also important for eye health, and can be found in leafy greens and eggs. Plus, Omega3s (found in fatty fish and avocados), zinc (eggs) and Vitamin C (citrus fruits) are good for healthy eyes too. Blink-182 OK, so that’s not a number you need to stick to (unless you’re a fan of the band!), but the

idea is to blink often and lots. According to studies, people blink less frequently when using computers, and that too partially — which can lead to dry eyes, as blinking keeps the eyes moist. Our air-conditioned office environments don’t help either! This is especially important for contact lens users who are more prone to dry eyes, so form a routine or set yourself reminders to stop and blink slowly every 20 minutes or so. Pimp your workstation As much as possible, keep your workspace free from harsh glares (something of a challenge in our sunny part of the world). Whether it’s drawing the blinds to tone down the sunlight, or using lower wattage bulbs in your office or at your desk, ambient light needs to be controlled. If you don’t have the luxury of changing the lighting – apparently most offices are lit far more brightly than they need to be – then consider investing in a glare filter for your screen. If you need to switch between reading on the screen and reading printed pages often, then get a copy stand so the pages are at the same height as your screen, and ensure the pages are well lit, so you are not causing your eyes discomfort. Also ensure your computer screen is at an optimum distance from your eyes – around 25 inches – and at the right height – around 5 inches below eye level. March 2016 | benchmark middle east