Nov - Dec 2014

Curiosity Travel and Tourism News & Attractions

The Land of

NOV - DEC 2014

M iddle E a s t

Ice & Fire

Jean Gabriel Peres President & CEO Mรถvenpick Hotels & Resorts

15 Years

at the Helm and Going Strong

PAssion For

Fashion The

mid-market

Math

Looking for a relaxing escape?

Head to

Encore Spa Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 1

Curiosity

M i ddl e E a s t

Editor-in-Chief Karen A. Elson Creative Director Mohammad Usman Siraj Art Editor Melanie King Photographer Firoze Edassery This year as the UAE celebrates its 43rd National Day on December 2, we roll back the camera on Dubai’s phenomenal development with Mushtaq Ahmed who has served the Dubai Police for the last 38 years and is the 1st Warrant Officer. His photographs tell the city’s incredible story.

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e d i t o r’s

Over the period, one of the biggest changes that the country has seen is the phenomenal growth in the hospitality industry. We spoke to Jean Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Coral Hotels & Resorts, an Emirati group with a strong regional footprint, about his experience in the emirates and what holds him here.

In the run up to Dubai Expo 2020, the hospitality sector in emirate is witnessing an unprecedented activity. In view of the growing demand from travellers, the authorities in Dubai are pushing for mid-market hotels but the investors are dragging their feet. We spoke to a number of experts in the industry to see what is going on.

In addition, we have got many exclusive features in this issue including the interview with Jean Gabriel Peres, President & CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, who has just completed 15 years with the group.

Of course, we haven’t forgotten the festive season.

We went around and found some amazing promotions that will make your celebration extra special.

Happy holidays…

Travel Bug

Head of Technology Solutions Muhammed Ameen Production Manager Stanley Kularatne Business Development Director Amit Kakkar Contributing Editors Rose Henry Riham Ahmed Mohamed Al Sharief Nadia Sharif Pilar Vilada David Costello Maria Cornejo Nichola Gilbert Taslima Khan Daisy Mason Alex Lawson National Media Council No: 173 Distributed By: Dar Al Hikma LLC

Reach Us On For Editorial: 00971 4 438 7007 editorial@curiosityme.com For advertising: 00971 56 347 6535 amit.kakkar@curiosityme.com Copyright© Curiosity Middle East. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All information and travel details are correct to the best of our knowledge. However this may not be so on the date of publication. Curiosity cannot be held responsible for any information or photographs published here.

contents 06

64 06 Making News

The newsmakers in the industry

46

Must Haves

48

What’s On

52

Dine Out

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First Bite

Don’t leave home without these cool accessories Best of the upcoming events and exhibitions There is plenty to tempt your taste buds

Discover the latest additions to the culinary scene

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Going Places

Iceland is known for its extreme contrasts and being the obvious destination for people looking for the unexpected

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48 108

Great Escapes

110

Unwind & Indulge

114

Health Check

118

On the Shelf

120

Pet Power

Environment Sustainability at Constance Hotels & Resorts

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Cover Story

84

Picture This

Looking back and ahead: Jean Gabriel Peres, President & CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resort Rolling back the camera on Dubai's phenomenal development with Mushtaq Ahmed 1st Warrant officer of Dubai Police

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Editor’s Pick

In the run up to Dubai Expo 2020, the hospitality sector in emirate is witnessing an unprecedented activity

The newly opened Encore Spa at The Ajman Palace Hotel is a luxurious urban getaway Medical tourism in the UAE Christmas and books go together like sugar and spice Fish tanks catch on

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110 122

Art & Soul

130

This & That

Fashion designer Sahar Atif: Blending traditional Pakistani crafts with modern silhouettes Colourful knick knacks that we found hard to resist

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Tech Talk

134

Movers & Shakers

136

Check-In Check-Out

142

In Focus

Spg Keyless from Starwood Hotels & Resorts: The First Mobile, Keyless Room Entry Getting out of the comfort zone to take up new challenges

Landmarks to stop by

Events that have been keeping our cameramen busy

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‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY’ Clinches Guinness World Records At 555 metres (1,821 ft) high, Dubai clinched last month its newest Guinness World Records title.

And with it, Emaar Properties, the developer of Burj Khalifa, has unveiled a one-of-its-kind, mustexperience journey for every individual to the highest man-made vantage point on earth.

For the first time, Emaar is opening doors for the public to such uncharted heights with the launch of the all-new ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY.’ The grand unveiling of ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY’ was made even more momentous with the adjudicators of the Guinness World Records officiating Dubai’s newest tourist attraction as the ‘Highest Observation Deck’ in the world. Burj Khalifa bagged the laurel from Canton Tower in Guangzhou, China, which held the record for its observation deck at 488 metres (1,601 ft) high.

The new honour adds to Burj Khalifa’s three existing Guinness World Records titles for the Tallest Building, the Tallest Man-made Structure on Land Ever and the Highest Restaurant from Ground Level for At.mosphere.

With the new launch, Emaar is also scaling up the visitor experience with two additional observation points in the global icon. Apart from ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa’ on Level 124 that will continue to operate as normal, the tower now offers an additional ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY’ journey with two stops – at the observation floors on Level 148 and Level 125.

‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY’ at Level 148 is the crowning glory and the ‘hero’ level, where for the first time, Dubai residents and visitors can scale up 555 metres (1,821 ft), and step out to an outdoor terrace.

Ahmad Al Falasi, Executive Director – Property Management of Emaar Properties PJSC, said: “At the Top is today one of the world’s most compelling tourist attractions. With the introduction of ‘SKY’, we are scaling up the entire journey to Burj Khalifa by offering a truly premium experience that will be a lifetime’s memory for every visitor. We are doubly delighted to clinch the Guinness World Records title that adds to the glory of Burj Khalifa and enhances the reputation of Dubai.”

Talal Omar, Country Manager for the Middle East and North Africa for Guinness World Record, said: “Burj Khalifa has done it again, surprising the world with its iconic scale and the ongoing creative enhancements. The new Guinness World Records title is another feather in the cap for Dubai, a city that has now one of the fastest growing repertories of the world’s most fascinating achievements.”

Designed to aesthetic brilliance, ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY’ Level 148 has a premium lounge with five-star hospitality services. A team of guest ambassadors will introduce them to several pioneering experiences that integrate the latest in technology. An interactive life-size screen will enable them to discover iconic destinations in the city, while a retail boutique will showcase premium souvenirs. They will continue the journey with a stop-over at Level 125.

Level 125 serves as a tribute to Arab arts and culture. The entire level that is slickly designed will feature a Masharabiya motif as part of the décor’s central theme. The visitors can take in 360 degree views of the city with signature Viewfinders enabling them to explore the city in vivid details.

‘Dubai – A Falcon’s Eye View’ is a not-to-miss attraction at Level 125 that allows visitors to witness Dubai with an entirely unique perspective.

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They can go on a virtual tour across prominent destinations of Dubai, hovering above the city like a falcon.

The elevator journey back from‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY’ pays tribute to Dubai with an excerpt of Emaar Chairman Mohamed Alabbar’s speech underlining Burj Khalifa as an illustration of UAE’s drive to excel. All visitors will also pass through a Photo Collection point where they can purchase their souvenir photographs.

The addition of ‘SKY’ is complemented by significant enhancements to the current ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa’ journey. Every visitor to Burj Khalifa can now learn more about the inspiring story of the desert flower, Hymenocallis, which is the design inspiration for the tower with a vividly animated show. Newly composed music will set the tone for the journey, and Emirati television anchors Omar Butti and Ilham Al Hammadi will bring ‘News At the Top,’ which is a compilation of the record-breaking events hosted by Burj Khalifa.

Visitors can witness Mission Impossible star Tom Cruise’s adventurous climb to the spire of Burj Khalifa as well as theworld’s highest BASE jump from the tip of the spire.

‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa’ has already defined its credentials as one of Dubai’s most popular tourist attractions, having welcomed over 1.87 million visitors in 2013 and attracts celebrities from across the globe.

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Sydney Opera House & Maserati Announce New Partnership

Italian luxury car manufacturer Maserati and Sydney Opera House have joined forces and are announcing a new partnership. A two-year agreement will see these two great design icons coming together with Maserati becoming the exclusive automotive partner to the Opera House for the annual All About Women festival and Summer at the House program, as well as an official Opening Night sponsor. It is a partnership driven by a shared commitment to inspiring the next generation through excellence and creativity.

Sydney Opera House CEO Louise Herron AM said: “I am delighted to welcome Maserati – a design icon in its own right – as a new partner of the Opera House. Maserati is a marque that embodies passion, boldness and flair, all qualities synonymous with the Opera House.”

Glen Sealey, General Manager of Maserati Australia and New Zealand said “We are proud to be associated with an architectural masterpiece that represents Australia to the world. With Maserati growing and finding new audiences, this partnership is a coming of age. We are keen to invest in the future of Australians by supporting education and scholarship programs at the Sydney Opera House.”

Maserati celebrated its centenary in Australia in October at an event at the Opera House, which celebrated its 40th Anniversary last October.

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Katara Hospitality

Recognised as Hospitality Company of the Year at the 5th Arabian Business Qatar Awards Katara Hospitality, Qatar’s leading hotel developer, owner and operator, has been named ‘Hospitality Company of the Year’ at the Arabian Business Qatar Awards 2014.

Presented at a ceremony attended by high-level executives in the Qatari business community, the award honours Katara Hospitality’s outstanding performance in the local and international hospitality market over the past year.

“We are delighted to be recognised for the strides we are taking towards achieving our vision of becoming a leading owner, developer, and operator of iconic hotels around the world,” said Hamad Abdulla Al-Mulla, Chief Executive Officer & Board member of Katara Hospitality. “This tremendous success would not have been possible without the efforts and commitment of our Chairman, Sheikh Nawaf Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al-Thani, our board of directors and the entire Katara Hospitality team.”

“As Qatar’s flagship hospitality company that is leading the development of the local hospitality

sector, our goal is to leave an outstanding legacy for generations to come. We are developing world class hotels in Qatar that are relevant not only for our portfolio, but emblematic for the country as well.”

Hotel, Milan, the ‘Palace Distinction’ for the Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris and the ULTRA Best Hotel in Asia award for the Raffles Hotel Singapore.

Katara Hospitality’s contributions to the hospitality landscape have been recognised on a global scale over the past year.

Katara Hospitality currently has 28 properties in operation or under development, with more than 6,000 rooms. Earlier this year, the company acquired five iconic properties in key European cities – the InterContinental Carlton Cannes, the InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam, the InterContinental Madrid, the InterContinental Frankfurt, and the leasehold interest in the InterContinental De La Ville Rome. In August, Katara Hospitality announced the opening of the spectacular Peninsula Paris, following an extensive four-year restoration.

Last November, Katara Hospitality was named the World’s Leading Hospitality Company at the prestigious 2013 World Travel Awards, beating stiff competition from global hotel companies. In May 2014, World Travel Awards again recognised Katara Hospitality as the Middle East’s Leading Hospitality Development Company. Most recently, Katara Hospitality was announced the winner of the 2014 Hospitality Enterprise Agility Achiever award at the inaugural Qatar Enterprise Agility Awards: Entrepreneur of the Year which took place earlier this month.

Visit www.katarahospitality.com

These awards capped off a run of prestigious accolades and rankings for Katara Hospitality properties, including the Tourism for Italy award for the Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a Luxury Collection

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Lufthansa Group Flying to 260 Destinations this Winter

Destinations in 100 countries – passenger capacity up 2.9 per cent across the group this winter The airlines in the Lufthansa Group – Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Germanwings, Lufthansa and SWISS – are again offering their customers a dense and high-frequency route network in the upcoming 2014/2015 winter flight timetable, with 18,900 flights a week.

This winter, the Lufthansa Group airlines will be linking 260 destinations in 100 countries on four continents via its hubs in Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Vienna and Brussels, but also with many point-to-point connections. Around 20,500 weekly code-share flights with other partner airlines extend the carriers’ respective programmes and enable single-source bookings. The winter flight timetables for the individual Group airlines apply from Sunday, 26 October 2014 to Saturday, 28 March 2015.

Thanks to the use of larger aircraft, the Group’s capacity in available seat-kilometres is increasing by 2.9 per cent compared with the same period last year. At the same time, the number of flights in the period of the timetable is going down by 2.9 per cent. On average, therefore, a Lufthansa Group aircraft is taking off somewhere around the world every 32 seconds. The individual route networks of the Group airlines are increasingly converging with one another. Almost all destinations are connected via a Lufthansa Group hub. End-to-end fares enable passengers to book multiple journeys with convenient and punctual connecting flights. 49 per cent of the nearly 105 million passengers a year now book a transfer connection via a Lufthansa hub. 19 European airports are even served by all five airlines in the Lufthansa Group.

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Key news from the five Lufthansa Group airlines: Lufthansa This winter, Lufthansa is extending its route network to attractive new holiday destinations in warmer regions. After a break of over 15 years, Lufthansa is resuming flights to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands this winter. From 26 October, the new connection will take off from Munich to Gran Canaria every Sunday, and every Saturday during school holidays too. Also new in the winter months are flights from Munich to Split (Croatia) and Valencia (Spain). As of 2 October, Lufthansa also flies from Frankfurt to the Moroccan city of Marrakesh. A further addition to the flight plan from Munich is Miami in Florida, which will now have a daily non-stop connection. Delhi, the Indian capital, will also get a daily service from Frankfurt with the Airbus A380. The FrankfurtLuanda connection to the capital of Angola will be strengthened by a third weekly flight. Starting on 15 December, Lufthansa and Deutsche Bahn will extend their joint AiRail product of fast ICE train connections to Frankfurt Airport from Karlsruhe and Kassel.

SWISS In the winter flight timetable 2014/2015, SWISS is adapting its flight plans to winter demand.

SWISS is also increasing its capacity to popular holiday destinations. The long-haul route between Zurich and Miami is to receive four extra SWISS flights a week, taking the total to fourteen weekly connections. Services to São Paolo, the biggest city in Brazil, will also be increased by three flights a week this winter, taking the total to ten weekly connections. The flight timetable will also include a daily connection to Los Angeles again. In Geneva, SWISS is continuing many destinations from its summer flight timetable throughout the winter, including Copenhagen, Rome, Lisbon and Pristina.

Austrian Airlines In its 2014/2015 winter flight schedule, Austrian Airlines is again offering its passengers a wide range of up to 100 destinations in 56 countries around

the world. Following the successful introduction of Newark (USA) last July, Austrian Airlines will increase its weekly capacity from five flights to six flights a week as of April 2015, and to one flight a day from June. From June 2015, Austrian will therefore be flying daily to all its North American destinations. As a result of high demand in transit traffic, Austrian Airlines is also increasing the frequency of its flights to and from Chişinău from seven a week to a maximum of ten a week in the future.

Brussels Airlines Belgium’s largest airline is adding a new European destination to its winter flight timetable and improving many connections by adding additional flights: Riga, the capital of Latvia, will be served six times a week from Brussels as of 26 October.

Riga is one of the most important cultural and economic centres in the Baltic region and is hosting the EU presidency in the first half of 2015.

Brussels Airlines is boosting its capacity with additional flights from Brussels to: Madrid, Marrakesh, Budapest, Geneva, Vilnius, Hanover and Bologna. Connections are also being improved to the African destinations of Douala, Yaoundé, Nairobi, Kigali, Bujumbura and Luanda.

Germanwings In its winter flight timetable, Germanwings is offering a total of 84 destinations from BerlinTegel, Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Cologne/Bonn and Stuttgart. Additional capacity will still focus on Düsseldorf, where Germanwings is taking over more routes from Lufthansa. There are new high-frequency connections from the Rhineland metropolis to Berlin (57 flights a week), London-Heathrow (33 flights a week) and Zurich (24 flights a week). Also new from Düsseldorf are flights to Málaga (two flights a week), Naples (three flights a week), Nice (two flights a week), Moscow (seven flights a week) and Rome (five flights a week). The transfer of Lufthansa routes to Germanwings will be completed on 8 January 2015 with Düsseldorf – Zurich. Germanwings is also introducing a completely new route, Düsseldorf – Istanbul, with two weekly flights. With one flight a week, the German airline is also launching a new connection from Cologne/Bonn to the Cypriot port of Larnaca.

Creating moments to write home about

The Ajman Palace Hotel A picturesque sanctuary of privileged perfection conveniently located 22 km from Dubai International Airport and 11 km from Sharjah International Airport. Set on a private beach, this alluring hideaway is a heritage resort with a modern spirit. Bringing an unprecedented level of luxury, with captivating views of the Arabian Gulf, the resort is a destination unto itself. Balancing world-class facilities with the legendary Arabian hospitality, it offers 254 rooms, suites and serviced residences, a remarkable range of restaurants and lounges, fabulous meeting and event venues including the largest ballroom in the Northern Emirates ideal for weddings and conventions, as well as an array of leisure and recreation options at Encore Lifestyle Club featuring Encore Spa and state-of-the-art fitness facility.

A magical experience awaits you here.

Managed by HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street P.O. Box 7176 路 Ajman 路 United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 6 701 8888 Fax:+971 6 701 8899 Reservations@TheAjmanPalace.com www.TheAjmanPalace.com

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Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH, presenting the Excellence Award to Bedour Al Raqbani, Founder of ‘Kalimati'

Sheikha Wafa Hasher Al Maktoum & HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings Present 'Excellence Award' To Founder of ‘Kalimati’ Bedour Al Raqbani Under the Kind Patronage of H.E. Sheikha Wafa Hasher Al Maktoum, HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings recognised yet another exceptional woman, this time Mrs Bedour Al Raqbani, founder and director of Kalimati Speech and Communication Center.

Presenting the HMH Excellence Award to Mrs Raqbani, Mr Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO, HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings, said: "No words can possibly describe the contribution of this young lady who beat all odds to give to the UAE a dedicated speech and therapy center by forming Kalimati. And in doing so not only did she create an institution to help mothers, like herself, overcome their children’s disability but raised awareness for the need to have such a center. Hers is an incredible story that is bound to strike a chord with every heart. We feel honoured to recognize this special woman who is helping countless children to lead fuller lives despite their speech disorders”.

Kalimati means "my words" in Arabic and was born out of Mrs Raqbani’s desperate need for a similar facility in the emirates when she realized that her daughter was born with a profound hearing disability and therefore was unable to speak. In vain, she tried to search for a center that could provide her the necessary therapy in order for her child to communicate. However, at that 12 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

time, there was nothing existing in the UAE that matched her needs.

Receiving the trophy Mrs Raqbani said, “What do you do if your child was born deaf ? I wanted my baby and all others with similar challenges to communicate with the world. So, I decided to set up Kalimati, a non-profit organization, that was established to fulfill a growing demand for speech therapy services in the UAE. It was founded on love and hope. We believe that each child is special and our aim is to help him / her reach his / her full potential. Our therapists work as a team liaising with parents, teachers and medical professionals to provide quality adolescent therapy services.

I am truly grateful to H.E. Sheikha Wafa Hasher Al Maktoum and HMH Hospitality Management Holdings for this amazing encouragement. It is indeed through people’s appreciation of our mission here at Kalimati that keeps us motivated to strive for the best”.

HMH Award for Excellence celebrates women who are an inspiration for others. It is a tribute to exceptional women who are playing an extraordinary role in the UAE society be it in the field of art, literature, culture, sports, environment, healthcare, business, human welfare or public life.

Visit www.kalimati.org Visit www.hmhhotelgroup.com

Dubai Celebrates its Partners in Cruise Tourism Success Dubai Tourism recently recognised the contribution of its public and private sector partners to the growth of cruise tourism at a special ceremony held at Mina Rashid.

Certificates of appreciation were awarded to government agencies and aviation and tourism companies by H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Speaking at the event, Hamad bin Mejren, Executive Director – Dubai Tourism said: “This event is an opportunity to recognise and reward our partners from the public and private sectors who have worked with us to bring cruise travellers to Dubai, enhance our destination offering and raise awareness about the attractions of cruise tourism.

“Last year His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, endorsed Dubai’s Tourism Vision for 2020. This Vision includes the headline target of doubling the number of tourists coming to Dubai from 10 million in 2012 to 20 million annually by 2020.

“We already have a very healthy cruise sector in Dubai as the home port of choice for cruise companies in the Arabian Gulf. To match the

ambition of Dubai’s tourist industry as a whole, we have ambitious plans of our own for cruise.

We expect to welcome 450,000 cruise tourists by 2016 and to record continued, sustainable growth until 2020 – and beyond. To achieve our goals, it is essential that we have the continued support of our partners, which is why today’s ceremony is so important.”

Hassan Saadi LLC, Seamaster Maritime LLC and Wilhelmsen Ships Service.

The organisations recognised at the ceremony included DP World, which was thanked for its work on the new cruise terminal at Mina Rashid, as well as the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs which earlier this year introduced the cruise tourism visa.

Dubai is the home port of choice for cruise companies in the Arabian Gulf, one of the world’s top three winter-sun cruise destinations. The new cruise season began in late October 2014 and runs through to June 2015. The season is expected to surpass last year’s, especially in light of the new multi-entry UAE visit visa for cruise tourists that was announced last August, pricedat just 200 dirhams (approximately US$50). The number of vessels using Dubai Cruise Terminal as their home port has increased to six this season and these vessels are expected to make a total of 83 trips in comparison to the 63 trips that were conducted in the previous 2013/2014 season. Moreover, the team is expecting a total of 110 ship calls– up by 17 (an increase of 18.5 per cent) on the 2013/2014 season – carrying around 381,500 passengers in comparison to 93 ship calls carrying 320,000 passengers last year.

Also thanked for their contributions to the sector were Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, Dubai Maritime City Authority, Ports Customers and Freezone Corporation – Security Department, Road and Transport Authority, Environment Health & Safety, and Dubai Culture.

From the aviation sector, Emirates Airline and dnata were both recognised.

Shipping agents receiving certificates of appreciation were Gulf Agency Company (Dubai) LLC, Inchcape Shipping Services, Kanoo Shipping Agencies, Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC, Rais

Destination marketing companies and tour operators recognised at the ceremony were Arabian Adventures, Gulf Ventures, Orient Tours LLC, Sharaf Tours, SNTTA Emir Tours, Travco LLC, and Rida International Travel & Tourism.

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Carlson Rezidor Announces First Radisson Blu Hotel in Uganda Carlson Rezidor, one of the largest and most dynamic hotel groups worldwide, extends their African network and adds a new country to their growing portfolio: The company announced the Radisson Blu Hotel Kampala – Carlson Rezidor’s first property in Uganda. The upper upscale hotel featuring 195 keys will be located in Kampala’s prime business district and will welcome the first guests in Q4 2016.

“We are delighted to arrive in Uganda. Tourism is one of the country’s fastest developing sectors, and Uganda is also becoming an important market for foreign investment due to its rich oil reserves”, said Wolfgang M. Neumann, President & CEO of Rezidor, at the African Hotel Investment Forum in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia).

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Carlson Rezidor further strengthens their leading position on the African hospitality market: With 30 hotels under development, the group holds the largest pipeline on the continent (source: W Hospitality Group, Hotel Chain Development Pipelines in Africa 2014).Besides Radisson Blu in the upper upscale segment, Carlson Rezidor develops and operates Park Inn by Radisson in the full service mid-market segment. In early 2014, the group also launched two new brands: Radisson Red for the lifestyle select segment and the Quorvus Collection for the luxury market.

“We are committed to the African continent.

We aim to establish Radisson Blu as the leading upper upscale brand in the region – present in capital cities and financial & economic hubs – and to pursue the scaled growth of Park Inn by Radisson in high potential primary and secondary destinations,” explained Neumann. “Quorvus Collection and Radisson Red will offer additional potential to accelerate our growth in the region and to cover all market segments.” Neumann stressed that “our goal is always to form part of the local communities, blend and engage with the societies of the markets which we enter’’.

“Africa is one of our most important markets for growth. We believe in the great potential of this continent and are committed to becoming a key player in the travel and tourism sector across the continent,” added Elie Younes, Senior Vice

President & Head of Group Development of Rezidor. The group’s overall development strategy is built on a proactive asset-light growth with a considerable focus on emerging markets.

“Africa offers excellent opportunities due to its huge natural resources and workforces, improved infrastructure, and a growing middle class. We want to grow further on the continent together with our existing and new partners through transparent and responsible long-term business relationships. We also want to be a leading employer in Africa. By creating new jobs for local talent and by contributing to the communities where we operate in, we can make a huge difference”, said Younes.

Carlson Rezidor opened their first hotel in Africa in 2000, the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel, Cape Town (South Africa). Since then, the group has built up an impressive network of 51 hotels and 11,500 rooms in 21 countries in Africa, and has a Regional Office in South Africa. Recent flagship openings of the group include the Radisson Blu Hotel, Maputo (Mozambique), the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka (Zambia) and the Park Inn by Radisson Foreshore Hotel Cape Town (South Africa). Future openings include Radisson Blu and Park Inn by Radisson hotels in Nairobi (Kenya), Kigali (Rwanda) and Cape Town (South Africa).

Visit www.carlsonrezidor.com; www.rezidor.com

Dubai’s Burj Al Arab Wins Global Award for Best Social Media Presence Burj Al Arab Jumeirah proves social media can successfully extend brand equity

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, the World’s Most Luxurious Hotel, has been awarded the global title ‘Best Social Media Presence by an Individual Hotel, Property or Resort’ by Skift, the world’s largest travel intelligence and marketing platform.

During the seven month judging period from 1 January 2014 to 31 July 2014, Burj Al Arab achieved record engagement figures with more than six million likes, comments, shares and views across Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter.

Initiatives highlighted by Skift included hosting the #WorldsUltimateInstameet with the world’s largest Instagram travel account @BeautifulDestinations. The Instameet was attended by ten of the world’s most influential social identities who share a combined audience of more than 18 million. The event generated more than 25,000 comments and 3.2 million likes from supporters around the world.

The hotel also committed to a year-long partnership with #MyDubai, a campaign initiated by the Crown Prince of Dubai, HH Sheikh Hamdan. The initiative invites residents and visitors to hashtag their social media images #MyDubai to create ‘the world’s first autobiography of a city’. On the last Thursday of each month, the five best images are projected onto Burj Al Arab’s iconic sail.

Burj Al Arab’s social strategy targeted key social media influencers and high

net-worth individuals to engage with both the local community and with current and potential customers.

Jumeirah Group Spokesperson, Piers Schreiber said: “We are delighted that Burj Al Arab Jumeirah has received the Best Social Media Presence for Hotels award from Skift.

As the hotel is one of the most talked about and certainly the most photographed in the world, social media is the most natural platform for it to communicate with its many fans; and as the flagship hotel of Jumeirah Group it has pioneered the use especially of Instagram and YouTube in both building brand awareness and entertaining its followers across the globe. This award is a fitting testament to the creative passion of our marketing team at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.”

The inaugural Skifties awards recognise and award travel brands that excelled against peers in 2014 with judging based on the marriage between value data and editorial context.

Announcing the winners, Skift said: “To us, acquisition of users was not enough to make a brand stand out, it was about how their content engaged the community, and how present and genuine the brands were in their attempt to inspire and convert their audience.”

Other Skifties award winners included TripAdvisor for Best Branded Facebook Account and Lonely Planet for Best Branded Instagram Account.

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Australia’s Leading Chef Guy Grossi Hosts Masterclass in Dubai My Kitchen Rules Judge promotes the quality of Victorian produce to the UAE’s business and food community as part of Victoria Week Australia’s leading Chef and My Kitchen Rules Judge Guy Grossi hosted a cooking masterclass in Dubai as part of the official launch of Victoria Week.

Victoria Week is an annual initiative undertaken by the State Government of Victoria to drive deeper relations across business, trade, investment, sport and tourism with the Middle East region.

A celebrated chef and restaurateur, Chef Grossi has been a long-time ambassador of Victoria’s food and beverage internationally. He is the owner of Grossi Restaurants including Grossi Florentino, Merchant Osteria Veneta and Ombra Salumi Bar. The masterclass represented a unique opportunity for chefs, culinary specialists and food enthusiasts in the region, and showcased the best of Victorian produce to the UAE’s business and food community.

“I love talking about the quality of Victoria’s 16 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

fresh produce to key export markets and the masterclass in Dubai was another example of how we can successfully showcase our high quality ingredients to the world,” said Chef Grossi.

“We had a lot of fun together and I hope people enjoyed learning how to create some inspired dishes from Victoria’s wide-variety of produce that is available to consumers right here in the Middle East.”

Victoria’s exports of food and fibres to the Middle East have increased by 14 percent, from A$1.3 billion (AED4.47 billion) in 2012-2013 to A$1.48 billion (AED5.08 billion) in 2013-2014.

The state’s merchandise exports to the Middle East and North Africa in 2013-14 totalled A$3.1 billion (AED10.1 billion), an increase of 11 per cent on 2012-13.

John Butler, Victorian Commissioner to the Middle East and Africa and Turkey, said: “Food

and agribusiness is Victoria’s most valuable export sector and the Middle East is a top priority market for us. We are always seeking new opportunities and ways to showcase high quality Victorian produce.

“Chef Grossi is a passionate advocate of Victoria’s culinary pedigree globally, and it has been great to have him as part of our Victoria Week celebrations this year.”

Victoria Week has included a business delegation from industries including higher education, equine and food and agriculture travelling to the UAE and Oman. There has also been a showcase of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 trophy, which will see five matches, including the final, hosted in Victoria’s capital city Melbourne. The week culminates in a gathering of fans in Dubai for the Australian Football League Grand Final on Saturday.

Founded in 2003 in Dubai, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings is a fully-integrated hotel management company that prides itself on being the first hotel chain in the Middle East to offer alcohol-free safe environment. We provide hotel owners and developers a broad spectrum of comprehensive management solutions with five distinct, yet complementary, hotel brands catering to varied market segments from luxury to budget. These include The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort, Coral Hotels & Resorts, Corp Hotels, EWA Hotel Apartments and ECOS Hotels.

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Experience a Night at The Opera with Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, is delighted to offer a new Opera Package for the season 2014-2015 which includes luxurious accommodation at one of the hotel’s exclusive new suites.

Created for music and cultural lovers, this special two-night programme includes luxury accommodation in one of the hotel’s exclusive suites with butler service, combined with a private experience at the prestigious Opera House, Gran Teatre del Liceu. Guests will have VIP seats, a private tour to discover the secrets of the theatre, a glass of Champagne in the most ancient private Club in Spain Circulo del Liceo, plus a cold dinner served in the restaurant of the club, which is usually only accessible to members. At the end of the performance, guests will be escorted backstage to the artists’ dressing rooms to meet with the singers.

The private tour starts at the elegant Renaissance styled Vestibul del Teatre and continues along the Hall of Mirrors, that has been a meeting place for the Catalan bourgeoisie for many years. Champagne and dinner will be served in the Cercle of Liceu, founded in 1847, 18 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

which is a private English-style club with a unique artistic heritage. After the performance, the experience will end with a special backstage visit.

The performance itself takes place in the Sala de Concerts, which is an exact replica of the

be able to choose between a variety of unique and acclaimed opera performances and have access to the best seats: Il Barbieri di Siviglia from Giochino Rossini; La Traviate from Giuseppe Verdi; Maria Stuarda from Gaetano Donizetti; Norma from Vicenzo Bellini; Carmen from Georges Bizet; I Due Foscari from Giuseppe Verdi; Cosi Fan Tutte from W.A. Mozart and Don Pasquale from Gaetano Donizetti Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona’s Opera package is valid from 15 September 2014 to 27 June 2015. Rates start from EUR 5.700 based on two sharing and include:

magnificent original hall designed by architect Miquel Roca in 1847.

• Two nights luxury accommodation in one of the hotel’s exclusive suites • Butler service during the stay • Daily continental breakfast for two persons served in-room or buffet breakfast for two at the restaurant • VIP welcome amenity and a bottle of Cava upon arrival • Private guided visit at Gran Teatre del Liceu with dinner and two VIP tickets • Private transfer from/to the Opera House

From September 2014 to June 2015, guests will

Visit www.mandarinoriental.com

DTCM and Dubai Culture Sign MOU to Raise Awareness About Cultural and Heritage Tourism Offerings Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further unite their efforts in promoting Dubai’s cultural and heritage tourism offerings and implement the emirate’s vision and strategy.

The agreement includes plans to leverage the expertise of each entity in developing programmes and events to promote cultural and heritage tourism.

It also includes the development of training programmes for tour guides with a focus on Dubai’s culture, arts and heritage offerings as well as promoting these offerings internationally through DTCM’s global network of overseas offices.

The MoU was signed by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DTCM, and His Excellency Saeed Al Nabouda, Acting Director General of Dubai Culture, to support the strategic tie up between DTCM and Dubai Culturerelating to various activities.

His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri said: “DTCM has always worked hand in hand with Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and this MoU serves to formalise our partnership. In addition to supporting the growth of arts and the appreciation of the emirate’s heritage through increasing public awareness in Dubai, DTCM will maximise our efforts to encourage the implementation of cultural initiatives internationally through our 20 overseas offices.”

His Excellency Saeed Al Nabouda said: “The MoU underlines our shared vision with DTCM to enhance collaboration across various government entities for achieving our goal of establishing the city as a regional and global business and leisure hub. This partnership will help in implementing shared projects and initiatives between both entities, which will support Dubai’s strategic approach. We are confident that the MoU will play an integral role celebrating the uniqueness of the city across all spectrums.”

A committee from DTCM and Dubai Culture will be formed to set up the programmes and follow up on their implementation.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 19

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‘Light Up Your Life With Amari’ Thailand is home to numerous festivals that are as colourful and magical as its landscape making it the ideal destination for couples and families seeking a memorable culturally-rich holiday experience. To welcome international visitors to join in the celebrations, Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi are offering couples and families a unique cultural getaway with special Loy Krathong packages tailored to provide an enchanting holiday experience with reenergizing spa treatments, delicious meals and generous complimentary deals.

Loy Krathong, is one of Thailand’s most popular annual events. Celebrated in the evenings, thousands of elaborate candle-lit offerings decorated with flowers are set adrift into Thailand’s many rivers, symbolizing the drifting away of ill fortune. ‘Loy’ means to float and ‘krathong’ is the offering constructed from banana leave and flowers. When witnessed in their thousands softly floating downstream, this unique spectacle is at once both breathtakingly beautiful and memorable, and not to be missed by anyone visiting Thailand. Both Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi are offering the special Loy Krathong packages available through a limited time period from 4-9 November 2014.

For families and couples seeking a lively and vibrant island escape, Amari Phuket presents

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the ideal sanctuary. Located right on the Southern end of Phuket’s most famous Patong Beach, the property boasts stunning views of the picturesque bay and is surrounded by 68 acres of verdant forest.

In addition to providing contemporary designed rooms and suites with quintessential Asian hospitality, the resort offers sophisticated dining options and the ultimate pamperingat the resort’s Breeze Spa. Amari Phuket’s Loy Krathong package includes: three nights’ accommodation in a Superior Ocean Facing room (also available with Superior Ocean View and Deluxe Ocean View), round trip Phuket airport transfers by car, Thai buffet dinner with cultural shows on Loy Krathong day at Rim Talay Restaurant, 20% discount on Breeze Spa, 20% discount on laundry service and guaranteed late check-out until 16:00 and 10% discount on extra night(s). The total package costs starts from THB 17,744 (approximately US$ 544), exclusive of taxes and service charge, and is valid from 4 to 9 November 2014 only.

Situated on the sandy white shores of Tub Kaek Beach beside the tranquil blue of the Andaman Sea, Amari Vogue Krabi also offers couples and families luxurious beachfront accommodations with stunning views of Southern Thailand. The award-winning property includes free-form swimming pools for adults and kids and offers

babysitting services to keep the little ones safe and occupied, while the resort’s multi-level Breeze Spa and superb fitness centre and impressive array of dining options provide abundant opportunity for the adults to relax and unwind.

Amari Vogue Krabi’s “Loy Krathong Package” include three nights in a Deluxe Room (also available in Grand Deluxe, Grand Deluxe Jacuzzi, Spa Suite and One Bedroom Villa) alongside lots of value added services such as: round-trip car transfer between Krabi airport and the hotel, 20% discount on spa treatments at Breeze Spa, complimentary internet access, free access to hotel kayaks during your stay (subject to availability), Thai BBQ buffet to celebrate Loy Kratongnight at Bellini restaurant, complimentary Krathong to join in the celebration and 10% discount on extra night(s).

The total package costs starts from THB 22,731 (approximately US$ 697), exclusive of taxes and service charge, and is valid from 4 to9 November 2014 only.

Visit www.amari.com

We Promise To Delight You...

• Located opposite Burjuman Centre • Featuring 390 spacious guest rooms with lavish bathrooms • Diverse range of facilities • Rooftop pool • Fully equipped gymnasium, sauna and steam room • A choice of dining options • All day dining restaurant Le Metro with specialty grill menu in the evening • Kris Restaurant with its scintillating views combined with contemporary Asian cuisine • A number of function rooms suitable for small meetings through to extravagant banquets for 220 guests • Free Internet / Wi-Fi

Sheikh Khalifah Bin Zayed St, Opp Burjuman Centre Bur Dubai (P.O. Box 8264) Dubai, U.A.E Phone: +971 4 377 1111, Fax: +971 4 357 4477 Toll free: 8007171 (All GCC Countries +971) kriskin@parkregisdubai.com, www.parkregiskriskin.com fb.com/ParkRegisDubai

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Meliá Hotels International Announces Meliá Doha Meliá Hotels International signed the latest hotel to join its portfolio of managed properties at a ceremony in Doha last month.

The future Meliá Doha will open in January, 2015 and is their third hotel in the region. The Spanish company now operates in 43

countries and this agreement enhances its positioning in an emerging hotel market in the GCC. The spacious hotel set over 62,000 square meters has 280 rooms, with 37 suites ranging from Executive to the spectacular Royal Suite, and will offer a wide range of international and specialist restaurants, separate spas for both men and women, pools, and a gym.

The 41-floor Bin Samikh Tower, which will host the new Meliá Doha, is located in West Bay, the most prestigious district in Doha. It was designed to house a five star hotel of the highest standard, competing with luxury international hotel brands in the West Bay area.

The signature in Doha was made by the Chairman and CEO of

22 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

the prestigious real estate firm Tamniyat Qatar Real Estate Investment, His Excellency, Managing Director, Dr. Braik Bin Saeed Al Marri, and the Vice President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, Gabriel Escarrer, accompanied by his Executive Vice President of Hotels, André Gerondeau and Vice President of Expansion, María Zarraluqui and in the presence of the Spanish Ambassador in Qatar, Carmen de la Pena Corquera.

Gabriel Escarrer, Vice Chairman and CEO of Meliá declared: “The Arabian Gulf is a natural focus for the expansion of luxury hotel brands, and Qatar, a growing influence in the world, will be an exceptional location for business and for our positioning as a leading hotel management company.”

Etihad Airways:

World’s Most InDemand Employers Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has been recognised as one of the world’s most attractive employers on LinkedIn’s ‘Global 100 InDemand Employers’ list.

LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network on the Internet, announced the rankings at its 2014 Talent Connect conference held last night in San Francisco. Etihad Airways was ranked as the 82nd most in-demand employer among other notable companies, including Google, Apple and Expedia.

Ray Gammell, Chief People and Performance Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Being named one of the world’s most in-demand employers is a tremendous accomplishment. This is testament to our more than 22,000 people from over 140 nationalities who make Etihad Airways the organisation it is.

“Etihad Airways is an employer of choice because we offer exciting, challenging roles around the world at the fastest growing network carrier in history. We foster a culture of performance and reward with excellent opportunities for career progression. We also offer our people a number of unique employee

benefits, including the recently launched onsite nursery, ambulance service, a full-service medical centre, flight benefits, accommodation assistance and education support.”

The ‘Global 100 InDemand Employers’ ranking is a list of the world’s most sought-after employers, chosen based on billions of interactions from LinkedIn’s more than 313 million members.

Businesses are ranked according to the number of users who view profiles of their employees, connect with their employees, visit their company pages or follow their company.

Ali Matar, Head of Talent Solutions for LinkedIn MENA, said: “For Etihad Airways to be featured in LinkedIn’s 100 most in-demand employers’ list speaks volumes about the best practices adopted by home-grown global organisations from this region. Great talent creates competitive advantage for all organisations, putting the emphasis on attracting the best candidates. At LinkedIn, we are proud to provide the platform on which successful brands like Etihad Airways find the professionals to drive their success.”

LinkedIn recently revealed Etihad Airways as the most influential brand headquartered in the UAE based on engagement among LinkedIn’s worldwide users. The ranking followed a number of successful social media campaigns the airline ran on the platform, taking its number of followers above 120,000.

Earlier this year, Etihad Airways was also named winner of the Best Digital Integrated Campaign Award at the 2014 Performance Marketing Awards in Rome for its ‘Etihad Mapped Out’ tool.

Developed in cooperation with LinkedIn, the visual tool offers business travellers the ability to search and connect with their global network of contacts while travelling.

Mr Gammell added: “Being a globally recognised employer naturally helps to attract top quality talent. We have hundreds of jobs currently available and are constantly looking for talented individuals.”

Etihad Airways uses LinkedIn to recruit talented professionals globally and it provides the airline with a unique platform to engage business travellers and relevant decision makers.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 23

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Qatar Airways Receives Award for Excellence in Social Media

Receives Best Use of Emerging Platform Award from SimpliFlying for Instagram and Pinterest Reinforces Position As Second Most Liked Airline on Facebook. In the same week that Qatar Airways exceeded the 5,000,000 Facebook fan milestone, reaffirming its position as the second most “liked” global carrier, the fivestar airline won an award for the “Best Use of Emerging Platform” for 2014 by leading aviation marketing consultancy, SimpliFlying.

Qatar Airways leapt into second most liked airline on Facebook earlier this month, has surpassed more than 300,000 followers on Twitter and gained third place amoung airlines on Instagram, demonstrating an ever-increasing and successful online engagement with its fan base.

The fast-growing airline has has generated a dramatic increase in social media followers over the last few months, particularly as it has developed its global partnership with one of the world’s best football clubs, FC Barcelona, and capitalised on major events such as the arrival of its first A380 super-jumbo in Doha last week.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: “Social media has undoubtedly opened up the channels of communication between Qatar Airways and 24 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

our passengers. It is through our various social media channels that we have had a fantastic opportunity to engage with our passengers in new and innovative ways, and we look forward to bringing even more exciting initiatives to our followers, both those that already follow us, and those that hopefully will soon.”

Alongside generating revenue for the airline, Qatar Airways has undertaken a range of initiatives to engage its fans on social media and build a stronger bond with them.

In appreciation of these initiatives, Qatar Airways was nominated and then won Best Use of Emerging Platforms at the 5th Annual SimpliFlying Awards held recently in New York. To win the award, Qatar Airways needed to demonstrate how a particular social media platform – Instagram and Pinterest – were used to drive marketing goals for the airline.

The rigorous awards process at SimpliFlying consists of public voting and judging by a distinguished panel of thought leaders in the travel marketing space. Launched in 2010, the Annual SimpliFlying Awards have become an

authoritative voice on the best social media practices by airlines and airports.

This is the second year in a row that the airline has been recognised by SimpliFlying, having taken home Best Emerging Airline on Social Media in 2013.

The airline has been quick to respond to the opportunities presented through the use of social media platforms by engaging with the connected traveller. Qatar Airways uses 13 social media outlets to assist, inform, and engage with its customers: www.facebook.com/qatarairways www.twitter.com/qatarairways www.youtube.com/qatarairways www.instagram.com/qatarairways www.pinterest.com/qatarairways www.flickr.com/qatarairways http://qatarairways.tublr.com http://google.com/+qatarairways www.linkedin.com/company/qatar-airways www.foursquare.com/qatarairways www.vk.com/qatarairways (Russia) www.weibo.com/qatarairways (China) www.wechat.com (China)

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Anantara Eastern Mangroves to Target 20 Million Shopaholics

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa will join a handful of Abu Dhabi luxury hotels in close proximity to the eagerly awaited Yas Mall on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, offering keen shoppers 400 retail outlets to browse, purchase and enjoy.

The mall, developed by Aldar Properties, will become the second largest mall in the United Arab Emirates and is expected to welcome 20 million visitors each year.

Covering 235,000 sqm the Yas Mall is slated to open around Abu Dhabi’s Formula One weekend (21-23 November) and will feature a 20-screen VOX cinema, the region’s largest department store at 200,000 sq ft, three other major department stores, an edutainment concept store, Lego concept store, fashion retailers, cafes and restaurants. Yas Mall with its 10,000 car parking spaces also offers direct access for shoppers to Ferrari World.

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa located on the peaceful Abu Dhabi 26 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

mangroves waterfront is ideally situated just 20 minutes drive from Yas Island, making it the perfect choice for keen shoppers, and just ten minutes to other major malls in the capital.

“Until now Abu Dhabi has not been seen as a shoppers’ paradise; we expect the opening of Yas Mall to change that perception and make our destination even more attractive to key international markets known for their love of shopping.” said Mrs Sharon GarrettOtter, Area Director of Marketing & Communications, Anantara Hotels & Resorts, Abu Dhabi.

“Anantara’s Eastern Mangroves is perfectly situated for visitors to Abu Dhabi whether they want to visit the historical and cultural sites, have an adrenalin rush at the fabulous theme parks, challenge themselves on the championship golf courses or take advantage of the amazing shopping.” she added.

Dubai Tourism Commissions Art Installation Depicting Dubai Skyline and Landmarks Made Entirely out of Food

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing has commissioned an art installation depicting Dubai’s famous skyline and iconic buildings made entirely out of food. The unique work, which represents the city’s growing profile as a gastronomy destination, was created by UKbased food artist Paul Baker and is on display at this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London, UK ahead of being shipped to Dubai to be on display during the Dubai Food Festival, which takes place 6-28 February 2015.

Commenting on the installation, Baker said: “To be asked to create a foodscape model of Dubai was an honour and a huge challenge. We had to incorporate as many landmark buildings and geological features as possible, all made from food that wouldn’t deteriorate. We needed to find produce and food stuffs that not only wouldn’t wilt, smell or decompose but could actually look like buildings. After all, fresh produce is not normally square or rectangular in form. The challenge was to design and construct interesting and recognisable buildings from organic-looking shapes.”

Baker headed a team of six, made up of his best model makers. Together, they spent three hard weeks to create the spectacular foodscape, problem solving at every turn.

One of the big initial questions was how to make the world’s

tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, which Baker describes as “the lynchpin of the whole project”.

He eventually decided to use sweet corn – a total of 90 cobs – along with baby corn. After that, the rest of the buildings quickly fell into place.

Other famous Dubai landmarks depicted within the model include the Burj Al Arab, for which tubular pasta, lasagne pasta, tortilla wraps, cheese biscuits, diced barbecue chicken, dried herbs and shortbread biscuits were used to recreate the hotel’s distinctive shape. The Dubai World Trade Centre is made of milk and white chocolate bars, while a combination of white bread, pretzel sticks and roasted seaweed was used to model Jumeirah Emirates Towers.

Atlantis The Palm, meanwhile, is made from thin Italian crackers and green and flat pasta, with the Palm Jumeirah made of French batons.

The world’s largest shopping mall, The Dubai

Mall, is made up of a slightly longer list of ingredients, namely green peppers, French beans, broad beans, leeks, courgettes and baby courgettes, while the Dubai Metro, which runs the length of the city, is made of croissants and white chocolate sticks.

Every last component of the installation is made of food – including the ‘sand’ on Dubai’s many beaches. For this, Baker and his team mixed 2kg of freekeh wheat, 5.5kg of oat flakes, 2kg of coconut, 5kg of medium grain rice and 100g of cinnamon powder. Other ingredients used in the installation include chicken breasts, lamb kebabs, fruit pastries, waffles, rice cakes, slices of cheese and plenty more fruit and vegetables.

Accompanying the foodscape display is a fun, informative film revealing the production process behind the installation. The film was made in collaboration with production company Mench and will also be shown at Dubai Tourism’s stand during World Travel Market.

Paul Baker, the food sculptor, designer and model maker behind the installation, started model making as a career while studying graphic design. His work has received numerous accolades including a D&AD silver award and the ‘People’s Choice For Small Garden’ award at the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show in the UK. Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 27

First-of-a-Kind ‘Sparkle Towers at Dubai Marina’ Unveiled High-profile ceremony graced by Mr Markus Langes-Swarovski and Austrian ambassador Tebyan’s official launch of the Sparkle Towers at Dubai Marina was hosted in the presence of Austrian ambassador, His Excellency Peter Elsner-Mackay, Executive Board Member of Austrian crystal innovator Swarovski, Mr Markus Langes-Swarovski, Tebyan’s Chairman, Sheikh Adel Al Hussaini and Tebyan’s Managing Director, Mr. Naji Alia. Branded ‘Space Marveled by SWAROVSKI®’, the towers have made history as Dubai’s first crystal-inspired towers, with jeweled decor including sparkling lighting applications and crystal enhancements in the interiors.

In his speech, Tebyan’s Chairman, Sheikh Adel Al Hussaini said: “This is a

groundbreaking achievement not only for Tebyan and its treasured partner Swarovski, but also for all our future residents and visitors who we are putting on the top floor of luxury lifestyles, retail and architecture.

SparkleTowersat Dubai Marina will not just attract elite residents but also investors, tourists and property heavyweights. As one of the most sought-after addresses, this will be much more than a location: it is a status symbol, a milestone and a beacon of elegance.”

He added: “In a city that frowns upon the ordinary and demands the extraordinary, we have created an extraordinary residential haven. And in a metropolis where luxury has become the norm, we have elevated elegance to unsurpassed new heights.”

Addressing special guests, stakeholders and media practitioners at the ceremony,Executive Board Member of Swarovski, Mr Markus Langes-Swarovskisaid: “This is a landmark project that will delight generations to come. We are thrilled to take crystallized luxury to another level in residential interiors, and delighted with our partnership with Tebyan.”

Sparkle Towers at Dubai Marina is expected to be completed in December 2016.

28 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

HydraFacial MD® Treatment

Kempinski Hotel Ajman leads the way to healthy, younger looking skin with their new Evergreen Experience at Kempinski The Spa. Kempinski the Spa, managed by Resense, at Kempinski Hotel Ajman is taking the lead in advanced cosmeceuticals and wellness treatments as they launch new types of treatments. Being the first in the northern emirates and only sixth spa in whole UAE to offer HydraFacialMD, the treatments are adding to Kempinski The Spa’s concept of balance and wellness, inspired by the European Seasons. the Evergreen Experience goes a step further, bringing with it advanced techniques and technology to help guests look and feel younger.

The introduction of the Evergreen Experience sees the launch of an expert menu of new treatments featuring the innovative HydraFacial MD®. Already popular in the United States with celebrities such as Beyonce and Eva Mendes, the HydraFacial MD® is a non-surgical skin resurfacing procedure that not only effectively targets fine lines and wrinkles, congested, oily and acne prone skin as well as other common skin complaints such as rosacea and hyper pigmentation.

Merging soothing and invigorating therapies with advanced medical technology, the HydraFacial MD® treatment achieves instant, long lasting results. It’s formula and technique is tailored for all skin types and provides alternative to invasive procedures, offering effective and pain free results with no recovery time.

“HydraFacial is at the forefront of anti-ageing technology: the visible results in skin condition and the reduction of signs of ageing make it the perfect partner for the introduction of our new Evergreen Concept,” says Resense’s C.E.O Kasha Shillington. “Traditionally, HydraFacial was only available at specialist dermatology clinics, now guests can enjoy the benefits of this amazing treatment in a relaxing and luxurious spa environment.”

The environment we live in exposes the skin to a variety of “free radicals” such as stress, pollution, toxins and sunlight, which destroy the skin cells’ chemical make-up. The Evergreen treatments are designed to not only improve your appearance, but to restore youthful and healthy skin.

HydraFacial MD® effectively uses antioxidants to neutralise free radicals, restoring and protecting skin from damage.

The Menu: The Evergreen Experience menu offers guests a range of treatments, including HydraFacial MD® Treatment and Deluxe HydraFacial MD® Treatment for the face, neck and décolleté. These 60 and 90 minute treatments include a customisable and rejuvenating skin resurfacing treatment and LED light therapy to instantly reduce the look of lines, wrinkles, acne, hyper pigmentation, congested pores and uneven skin tone.

For those who are pushed for time, the Booster HydraFacial MD® Treatment is a quick fix solution to healthy looking skin.

The skin is cleansed, exfoliated and then bathed in rich antioxidants and deeply hydrating hyaluronic acid for a burst of hydrated radiance.

While the face, neck and décolleté is rejuvenated through the Evergreen Experience, the rest of the body is also

treated with targeted treatments for the back and body. HydraFacial MD® Back and Body Treatments address the first signs of ageing through a combination of cleansing, exfoliation, extraction and hydrating solutions rich in antioxidants.

For guests wanting to take their experience to the next level there is the HydraFacial MD® Treatment Enhancements, which can be added to any Evergreen Experience treatment. With targeted treatments such as Glycolic Peel, Lymphatic Drainage and Collagen Mask, a HydraFacial MD® Treatment Enhancement is the perfect addition to the ultimate skincare experience.

The Evergreen Experience will join the already impressive list of treatments at Kempinski The Spa, Kempinski Hotel Ajman.

Available at Kempinski Hotel Ajman from 15th November 2014.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 29

ONYX Hospitality Group Announces Maldives Deal Amari Havodda Maldives Will Open in Q1 2016 30 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Thailand-based ONYX Hospitality Group has announced a new Maldives project under its core brand, Amari.

Located 400km from the capital Male in the Southern Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, guests will be able to arrive via a short 55-minute domestic flight followed by a speedboat transfer.

Enveloped by the exotic nature that the Maldives is renowned for, Amari Havodda will offer a private and pristine island hideaway on one of the most preserved atolls in the archipelago. The resort will offer two principal villa types, ‘beach’ and ‘overwater’, each providing uninterrupted views over the reef and the ocean beyond.

Designed by award winning French designer Isabelle Miaja, within a theme of ‘natural simplicity’ and sustainability the guestrooms will offer a contemporary and restful environment,

with subtle references to traditional Maldivian art and architecture. In total, the property will encompass 120 Villas, including 48 Beach Villas, 12 Beach Pool Villas, 58 Overwater Villas and two Overwater Pool Villas.

Set to open in Q1 2016, Amari Havodda is owned by Crystal Plaza Resorts, a joint venture between Sri Lankan construction giant, Sanken Overseas and Singapore Hospitality Holdings, a Singapore based company specialising in resort investments.

The resort will be managed by ONYX Hospitality Group.

Commenting on the new deal, President and CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, Peter Henley said: “Tourism in the Maldives is strong and we see huge potential for an upscale brand like Amari. Our entry into the Maldives with Amari Havodda marks a key step in our

international development plan. We look forward to the exciting times ahead as we work closely with our partners to create a contemporary and relaxing haven for future guests.”

Co-owner of Crystal Plaza, Mevan Gunatilleke said: “We are thrilled to be developing a new upscale property in the Maldives with a strong hospitality brand like Amari. Sanken Overseas and our joint venture partner, Laith Pharaon, have been exploring opportunities in the Maldives for some time. I believe Sanken’s expertise in luxury resort development for more than 30 years, combined with our joint venture partner’s international experience in the hospitality sector and the natural beauty of our island, will produce a highly unique product in the Maldives.”

ONYX Hospitality Group currently manages 51 properties and projects throughout the Asia Pacific region.

Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 31

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Dubai Food Festival 2015 Will Celebrate the Emirate’s Emergence as a Gastronomy Destination 6th – 28th February 2015: the festival will highlight emirate’s diverse menu of Arabic and international flavours, restaurants by international chefs and increasing number of home grown concepts Dubai’s emergence as a gastronomy destination will be celebrated with the 2015 return of the Dubai Food Festival, a 22-day programme of events, activities and mall & restaurant activations created to highlight the diverse food offering of the emirate, from 5-star gourmet to quality street food; international brands to a burgeoning scene of home-grown concepts influenced by Arabic flavours and the menus of 200 nationalities who live in Dubai.

The dates of the 2015 festival were announced at World Travel Market 2014 (WTM) in London, UK, where the emirate’s gastronomic offering is being highlighted as a key reason as to why Dubai has gained the reputation of being a ‘must-experience destination’.

To mark the announcement of the 2015 edition of the Dubai Food Festival, visitors to the Dubai stand at WTM will see an art exhibit of Dubai’s world-famous skyline and landmarks made entirely out of food. Created by UK-based food artist Paul Baker, the installation includes landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Creek, and following its appearance at WTM, it will be on display in Dubai during the festival.

Her Excellency Laila Mohammed Suhail, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of DTCM, said: “The success of the inaugural Dubai Food Festival in 2014 showcased the wealth of flavours and cuisines on offer in Dubai and helped to demonstrate our city’s emergence as a destination for food lovers. For the food tourist, Dubai offers a menu of Emirati and Arabic cuisine and the tastes of 200 nationalities living in the emirate. In the past year our restaurant scene has continued to grow exponentially and the number of international chefs and brands who continue to choose Dubai as a location for their next opening is a demonstration of our emirate’s reputation on the global gourmet map. In addition to exhibiting this, the 2015 Dubai Food Festival will show the wealth of 32 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

home grown concepts that have been conceived in Dubai, from 5-star gourmet to quality street food and a burgeoning café scene.

“The development of an annual food festival is part of a wider strategy to develop a year-round programme of city-wide festivals that acts as a major contributor to the ongoing growth of the tourism and retail sectors. We are incredibly excited with the programme we and our partners are putting together, with a huge range of events and activities which will take place throughout the city and are looking forward to announcing this in the coming weeks.

Following immediately after Dubai Shopping Festival ( January 1st – February 1st 2015), the Dubai Food Festival 2015 will ensure a thrilling start to the year in Dubai continues.”

The full festival programme will be released shortly, but on the sidelines of WTM, DFRE revealed a number of key events, including the fact that the Dubai Food Festival 2015 will commence on February 6th with the return of one of the most popular elements of the 2014 edition, the Beach Canteen. Staged at Kite Beach, one of Dubai’s most popular beaches, Beach Canteen will be open throughout the duration of the festival and feature a number of pop-up versions of home-grown restaurant concepts on a purpose-built platform with views of Burj Al Arab and The Palm Jumeirah.

A programme of film, music and family events will entertain visitors with highlights being appearances and live demonstrations by a range of international chefs.

Gulfood, the world’s largest annual food and hospitality trade show, will return to the Dubai World Trade Centre on February 8th 2015, featuring more than 20,000 brands, 4,500 exhibitors and 120 country pavilions. Further demonstrating the investment potential of Dubai and the wider region, Global Restaurant

Investment Forum (GRIF) will return from the 16th to 18th of February, and highlight both why Dubai has become a key location for international brands to have a presence and the continuing investment opportunities within the emirate and the wider region.

Examples of celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs who have opened restaurants in Dubai include Jamie Oliver, Marco Pierre White, Gary Rhodes, Pierre Gagnaire, Atul Kochhar, Nobu Matsushisa, and Sanjeev Kapoor and, in the past year luminaries such as Wolfgang Puck, Heinz Beck, Sylvena Rowe, Greg Malouf and Simon Rimmer have been added to the list. A number of such chefs will be making appearances throughout the festival.

Other events will celebrate the range of international flavours offered by the destination - for example Taste of Peru will offer classic Peruvian dishes including ceviche, tiradito, causa, quinotto, beef anticucho and empanadas, served to a programme of music and entertainment in the atmospheric setting of Souk Madinat Jumeirah – but traditional Emirati food will also be a key highlight, with one objective of the festival being to help tourists discover the rich, varied and remarkable flavours of the cuisine.

Taking place annually in London, WTM is recognised as one of the leading global events for the major players of the travel industry, providing opportunities for destinations, hotels, attractions and DMCs to meet with trade professionals and buyers from around the world. Dubai Tourism will be at WTM on stand ME200.

Tony Attends the official opening of Salon “Toni & Guy” Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah Hotel This month saw the launch of “Toni & Guy” salon at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. The special ceremony was attended by the famous designer Tony Maskolo along with the most important VIPs in the United Arab Emirates.

This was the first visit of Tony Maskolo to the UAE. “Toni & Guy” was added to Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Ras Al Khaimah list of distinctive services that make a stay at the hotel an unforgettable experience.

“Toni & Guy” is a leading hairdresser and training brand worldwide. It was founded by the brothers Kjosb (Tony Gaetano) and ( Jay Maskolo) in the City of London in 1963. Joining them later were younger brothers (Bruno) and (Anthony Maskolo).

The Foundation has more than 400 salons in various parts of the world. It got the brand “Toni & Guy” 55 British award for hairdressing in 13 categories.

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Mandarin Oriental Bodrum Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is delighted to announce the opening of a new luxury resort, Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum. The property is offering guests a tantalizing Discover Paradise Bay offer, which provides three nights’ accommodation and includes a daily dining or spa credit of up to EUR 300.

Ideally located on a 60 hectare waterfront site on the northern side of the peninsula, at Cennet Koyu (Paradise Bay), with panoramic views over the Aegean Sea, Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum offers the perfect retreat. The Sea View Rooms and Mediterranean Suites provide the most spacious accommodation in the Bodrum Peninsula, ranging from 72 to 145 square metres, and are flooded with natural light.

Most rooms have terraces with private dining areas and sundecks. In addition, each suite features a plunge pool and outdoor shower set in private gardens with spectacular views over the Aegean Sea.

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The Discover Paradise Bay opening offer includes: • A minimum three-night stay in a guestroom, suite or villa • Daily dining or spa credit of EUR 150 per room, or EUR 300 per one bedroom suite or villa • Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum’s opening offer is valid from 7 July to 31 December 2014. Rates start from EUR 595.

Prices are inclusive of 8% tax and fees. This offer is subject to availability and advance reservation is required. Reservations can be made through Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s on-line reservations service at www. mandarinoriental.com or by contacting the Group’s worldwide sales and reservation offices, or by phoning Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum directly on +90 252 311 1888.

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UAE Participation in Global Aviation Cooperation Symposium The UAE delegation participating in the Global Aviation Cooperation Symposium (GACS), sponsored in Montreal, held a reception for International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Member States, and the diplomatic delegations participating in GACS. This was at the conclusion of the UAE delegation’s participation in the Global Aviation Cooperation Symposium (GACS), held at ICAO headquarters in Montreal, Canada.

The delegation, headed by His Excellency Saif Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), took part in the GACS meetings and discussions, which focused on strengthening the cooperation of the ICAO Member States in the areas of security and safety of aviation, air navigation and training, etc.

The reception was attended by nearly four hundred guests of senior executives in ICAO, heads of delegations, and civil aviation professionals from all the states of the world. The UAE participated in GACS as the official sponsor of the event confirming its effective role at the level of international cooperation in civil aviation, specifically in the context of programs and actions of the International Civil Aviation Organization.

His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, said: “The UAE attaches great importance to international cooperation, and continually strives to build bridges with the international community.

He added: “We did not hesitate to participate in ICAO GACS as the goals of this Symposium fit with the strategic objectives set by GCAA on the external level. Our participation today as the official sponsor of GACS emphasizes the UAE position in support of international cooperation, and our belief that the challenges facing the civil aviation cannot 36 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

be addressed individually, in isolation from the international civil aviation system.”

The UAE delegation participating at GACS organized a pavilion inside the headquarters of the ICAO to promote international cooperation programs carried out by the GCAA and to represent a platform through which the diplomatic delegations participating in GACS can meet and exchange collaboration opportunities and share expertise of civil aviation. In this regard, GCAA has designed and distributed specialized publications about the training programs in civil aviation provided by the National Center for Training, included the list of training courses and their descriptions for professionals in the civil aviation sector and those who wish to enroll in these courses.

His Excellency Al Suwaidi, on the margins of the GACS, met with a number of important figures in the field of civil aviation, including Dr. Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, the President of ICAO Council, and Mr. Raymond Banjamn, Secretary General of ICAO, and a number of general managers and representatives of the Member States of ICAO, as part of consolidating relations and discussing collaboration opportunities in the fields of safety, security, air transport, air navigation, and training.

During his meetings, Al Suwaidi highlighted the full commitment towards achieving the Authority’s vision and strategic objectives in the areas of security and safety of civil aviation, the protection

of environment, the promotion of efficiency and sustainability, and the rule of international civil aviation law. He also confirmed that the strategies of the civil aviation sector of the state centered on the promotion of international cooperation, as the UAE took the initiative to share training experiences with the Member States in the ICAO. GCAA of the UAE has applied the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Arab Civil Aviation Commission (ACAC), the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), and Latin American Civil Aviation Commission (LACAC), which included conducting field training courses in the area of safety and security in various regions in Africa and Latin America, in addition to contributing to various technical cooperation programs in Africa. The UAE, in addition to that, is seeking to strengthen international cooperation with various regional organizations of civil aviation.

In conclusion of his participation in the Symposium, His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, congratulated the ICAO and all the member states on organizing this important Symposium, which undoubtedly will contribute to build bridges of cooperation in order to build a better future of civil aviation.

United Arab Bank Launches ‘Reyadah’ Program to Support Industry-leading Emiratisation Efforts UAB targeting Emiratis to comprise 25% of most senior 50 employees by 2020; Bank has highest Emiratisation ratio in financial sector at 44% United Arab Bank (‘UAB’), the fastest growing bank in the Middle East, is implementing a number of new HR initiatives to step up support for its industry-leading Emiratisation efforts – including launching a training and career development program called “Reyadah.”

The Reyadah program will focus on developing the bank’s future leaders with a target of Emiratis comprising 25% of UAB’s most senior 50 employees by 2020. The objective of the program is to assess, identify and develop UAE Nationals that exhibit outstanding talent, and provide them the opportunities they need to meet their aspirations and thrive at the highest levels.

UAB’s Emiratisation ratio currently stands at 44% – the highest in the financial sector –after implementing a multiplicity of recent initiatives to encourage Emirati employees. The bank continues to attract, retain and continuously advance the skills of local talent to support its rapid business

growth – operating income soared almost 36 per cent over the course of 2013. As mandated by the Central Bank, UAB is required to grow its UAE national headcount by 4% each year.

The Reyadah program has welcomed 50 promising UAE nationals for further assessment and training, to help create a highly competent and skilled Emirati talent pool able to propel UAB’s growth into the future and guide the bank’s efforts to meet its wider targets –including its commitment to ensure the sustainability of the UAE’s economy.

Paul Trowbridge, Chief Executive Officer at UAB said: “At UAB, the recruitment of UAE Nationals is only the start of our Emiratisation strategy.

We offer our employees a multitude of rigorous training and career development programs to help improve their skills – ultimately, with the aim of creating tomorrow’s visionaries. With initiatives such as the Reyadah, we aspire to create a leadership pipeline of Emirati talent equipped to lead UAB in the near future.”

The training program aims to broaden the participation of Emiratis within UAB, with

exposure to more specialized areas of the Bank – such as Risk, Finance, Operations and Treasury. It will include leadership training with follow- up workshops, technical training by an overseas consultant and on-job-training in all areas of banking.

Among UAB’s current Emiratisation initiatives is an employee recognition scheme – the UAB Employee Awards – alongside a Chairman’s Award granted to the Emirati employee of the year. For career development, there is the ongoing Al Tamayouz programme, which focuses on the training and education of UAE nationals and provides opportunities for advancement.

In 2013, UAB maintained a 100% Emiratisation record of the Branch Manager position. In addition, many of the bank’s most senior positions are already occupied by UAE nationals: among others, an Executive Vice President, SVP of Corporate Banking (in Sharjah & Northern Emirates), SVP of Retail Branch Management and SVP of Products, Propositions & Alternative Channels.

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All Etihad Airways Boeing 777 Aircraft Now Offer Inflight Connectivity Etihad Airways reached a major milestone with the deployment of mobile and internet connectivity across its entire fleet of 24 Boeing 777 passenger aircraft, making it easier for guests to stay in touch with friends, family and work whilst in the air.

This milestone comes only months before the airline’s entire fleet of 89 passenger aircraft is connected, which will make Etihad Airways the first in the region and one of the few airlines in the world, to offer mobile and internet connectivity services on every aircraft. The passenger fleet includes 28 Airbus A320s, 26 A330s, 11 A340s and 24 Boeing 777 family aircraft.

The full suite of inflight connectivity services on the fleet includes Wi-Fi, mobile services and Live 38 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

TV. The services combine the “Etihad Wi-Fly” solution, powered by the Panasonic Avionics Global Communications Suite, and OnAir’s inflight connectivity solution.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are a global market leader in terms of onboard connectivity solutions. We believe that onboard connectivity is an important competitive differentiator for our guests and are continuously introducing new communications technology to enhance their travel experience.

“The roll out of our state-of-the-art connectivity solution will give our modern connected guests a seamless, robust experience at 35,000 feet, similar to what they expect at home or work.”

Guests will be able to enjoy high-speed broadband services on Wi-Fi enabled devices including smartphones, tablets and laptops, allowing them to surf the internet, update social media, purchase gifts, upgrade seats, change travel plans and much more, all from the comfort of their seat.

The mobile connectivity service can be accessed by guests using their mobile phones and smartphones to make and receive phone-calls, send and receive text messages and emails, and use mobile data services.

The Live TV onboard service allows guests to watch live news and major sporting events on seven popular television channels including BBC World News, CNBC, CNN, euronews, Japan’s NHK World Premium, Sky News Arabia, and Sport 24.

Cabin crew and flight deck operations can also utilise Wi-Fi connections to handle medical emergencies. The crew is empowered to manage inflight guest issues by phone or email in real-time with the airline’s ground teams based in Abu Dhabi. Connectivity is also paving the way for the airline to enhance the guest experience through increased onboard retail opportunities, with the added benefit of real-time credit card transactions.

Packages to access the internet start at US$5 and can be purchased using credit cards, PayPal and a range of other convenient payment methods.

Mobile telephone usage will be billed by the guest’s mobile service providers based on the international roaming rates levied by the service providers.

Etihad Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft are used for long-haul destinations across the airline’s network, such as Los Angeles, Washington DC, London, Manchester, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Paris, Sydney, Melbourne, São Paulo, Bangkok and Jakarta.

Seasonal FlavoursTandoori Lobster Kempinski Hotel Ajman Here it is again, the beginning of the week. We all sit in offices, in front of computers, with a bar of chocolate or another unhealthy snack next to us just to be able to take a quick bite between sentences of the email we are writing.

At some point there is a moment when we need to take a break.

Every little sound or scent creates thousands of pictures and cravings in our minds. This is exactly the moment when we would like to have something different on our palate, to taste a new combination of herbs or a marinade. This is normally the time when we make spontaneous decisions to finally go to the restaurant we have heard about for so long.

To fulfill a delicious desire, we land at a place that we wouldn’t head to on any other occasion – the best Indian restaurant in town. We happen to order the signature dish afraid to dig too deep into the menu. And there it is: the experience for all the senses.

Excited by this brave decision, we follow the chefs each and every hand movement of the preparation and try to sense any fresh spices lurking in the marinade. Colours, tastes, scents and sounds surround us until we reach the sweet meat of fresh lobster completely covered with the hand-grounded spices inherited from the ancient silk route. We anticipate the sensation for the taste buds, which is on the way and the delicate aroma delivered by the Tandoor, a charcoal-fired clay oven, embraces our nostrils‌ At Bukhara in Kempinski Hotel Ajman, they serve a whole experience instead of a single dish.

Chef Manoj Aswal

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IndiGo – Airbus Agreement Signed, Domestic Airline Places Largest Order

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One of the largest domestic airline from India, IndiGo, has signed an agreement with Airbus for 250 A-320neo (new engine option) planes and placed the largest order ever.

The per aircraft list price is $102 million putting the collective list price of IndiGo order at a $25.5 billion.

IndiGo signed the MoU with Airbus, which described it as the European aircraft manufacturer’s “single largest order by number of aircraft”.

IndiGo president Aditya Ghosh told the press, “This new order reaffirms IndiGo’s commitment to the long-term development of affordable air transportation in India and overseas. The additional aircraft will enable us to continue to bring our low fares and courteous, hassle free service to more customers and markets and will create more job opportunities and growth.

The IndiGo team is energised and excited to herald this new phase of our growth.”

Details Announced for Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival 2014

Festival has an educational and cultural format showcasing museums of Emirati figures that Sheikh Zayed was passionate about Majestic opening ceremony features over 5,000 people 22 days of live interactive heritage-themed events The Higher Organizing Committee of Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival 2014 has revealed the festival details, key milestones and main attractions for the festival which kicks off in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, from 20 November until 12 December 2014. The announcement was made during a press conference held by the Higher Organizing Committee, at the Jumeirah Etihad Towers Hotel in the capital Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival 2014 is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, and with the support of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. The festival is supported by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President and Chairman of the Emirates Camel Racing Federation, had earlier adopted the key elements of Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival 2014.

In his speech during the press conference His Excellency Humaid Al Neyadi, Vice Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee of Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival 2014 and General Manager of the Private Office of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, thanked HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for his continuous and unlimited support of the UAE’s heritage, and for nourishing it in the spirits of Emirati youth by strengthening their pride and sense of belonging with the UAE. His Excellency also thanked HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his unwavering support of the UAE’s heritage and all the events and activities that solidify this national heritage in the hearts of the youth. His Excellency reiterated that HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has not spared any efforts in promoting the UAE’s heritage and conveying this message with the most honourable image to the world.

His Excellency went on to thank HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his tireless work towards the success of this event, and conveying the UAE’s heritage to the rest of the world. His Excellency expressed his appreciation to HE Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan for his ongoing support of the festival, and for expanding it to global prospects over the next few years.

HE Al Neyadi added: “We are the people who have inherited the traditions and history that form the roots of our beloved country. Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival is the gateway to transfer the UAE’s rich heritage to upcoming promising generations and to the world, as an expression of love, gratitude and loyalty to our beloved leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan - may God have mercy on him and to his legacy of honouring the UAE’s history,

which deserves our appreciation and admiration.

All of the civilization, progress and prosperity that we see today throughout the UAE did not come by chance, but rather it was a seed planted by the founding father, and its fruits are being cultivated by the people of the UAE and the whole of humanity.”

HE Al Neyadi explained: “The festival consists of various elements that reflect the interests of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan - may God have mercy on him - ranging from horses, camels and other aspects of our heritage. He also shed light on Emirati historical figures who lived here since ancient times, and their academic and cultural contributions that might have vanished if it wasn’t for the great interest of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God have mercy on him. In the eyes of HH Sheikh Zayed, an Emirati person has and always will be creative and successful.”

He went on to say: “Through the ‘Memories of a Nation’ exhibition, many historical events and facts will be revealed for the first time to the general public. We are also highlighting the achievements and interests of Sheikh Zayed. The festival includes Sheikh Zayed’s gallery and horses, and displays the horses of the Al Nahyan family - especially Rabdan, Sheikh Zayed’s first mare that was the subject of many stories and poems. The festival also includes a museum of the poet Majidi bin Dhaher, as well as a museum of the navigator Ahmad bin Majid.

These great figures were about to be forgotten without the care and interest of Sheikh Zayed - may God have mercy on him - who issued an order to collect their academic and cultural contributions to serve as a testament of Emirati greatness for future generations. The festival also has an exhibition of the aflaj, which was part of the focus of the founding father, Sheikh Zayed - may God have mercy on him - who said: “Give me cultivation, and I will give you civilization”. Last but not least, the festival showcases Al Bidiyah mosque which dates back more than 500 years, as reflected in the framework of modern civilization and the UAE’s great history. “

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Play Tennis like a 'Pro' at Coral Beach Resort Sharjah Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, a charming resort with a variety of sports programmes to offer its guests, has launched the new season of 'Hit with the Pros' in partnership with the Clark Francis Tennis Academy (CF Tennis) to get all players into a rhythm with the game.

Hit with the Pros , the popular training programme by CF Tennis, which has become synonymous with the sport in Dubai for over two decades in the UAE, is open for tennis enthusiasts who aspire to learn the basics of the popular game, sharpen their skills or wish to join hitting and training sessions.

Jean-Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Northern Emirates, Coral Hotels & Resorts, said that this is an opportunity to experience some intense hitting and point play exercises in the newly renovated Tennis Courts.

He said: “Hit with the Pros is a unique programme that offers players a chance to learn from the top coaches without pre-booking. It has proven to be an excellent way for players to train hard under the guidance of former national and internationally ranked coaches. I am confident the forthcoming season will also be a huge hit as it has been during the previous years.”

The Coral Beach Resort’s newly renovated family pool for young ones and 42 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

young at heart is set to attract a group of little ones too. The Resort has signed an agreement with Al Reayah Al Mubakira British Nursery to offer swimming lessons to 3- and 4-year-old young ones. Lessons, scheduled once a week, will be focused on children's gaining confidence and learning the skill of swimming while having fun with their classmates.

The Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, managed by HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings, features 156 spacious rooms, many with panoramic sea-view. A major attraction is the wide repertoire of dining options with menus to cater to every taste. The resort is located on one of the emirate’s principal sand beaches and features a range of leisure activities for all ages, including the Rimal Club, stateof-the-art fitness centre, children’s pool, indoor playroom and complimentary Kid’s Club as well as tennis (By Clark Francis Tennis Academy), badminton, volleyball and two outdoor swimming pools.

If you are an intermediate to advanced level tennis player and fancy coming down to take on some of the CF Tennis pros, you may contact the recreation team at 06-5229999 on ext 654.

Visit hmhhotelgroup.com/coralbeachresortsharjah

Grand Millennium Dubai on Show at WTM London to Boost its Market Share Participating on the Dubai stand at the World Travel Market in London, personnel from the Grand Millennium Dubai were seeking to consolidate the hotel’s presence in the key British market.

According to Director of Sales Shadi Karameh, while there has been an increased focus on emerging BRIC countries in recent years, the UK has supplied a constant stream of both business and leisure visitors, a trend that is set to continue.

“There was an eight per cent increase in UK visitors to the UAE in 2013 and the UK continues to rank third out of all source markets for Dubai,” he said.

“The emirate is now seen as a family holiday destination with the bonus of year-round sunshine, while shopping breaks and cruise tourism are on the rise, and stopover traffic out of the UK is increasing due to exceptional air connectivity that includes daily A380 services out of both Manchester and London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports with Emirates.”

World Travel Market takes places at London’s Excel Centre between November 3 and 6, and attracts more than 50,000 travel trade professionals and media from around the world providing a showcase for the Grand Millennium Dubai hotel in both the UK and European markets.

About Grand Millennium Dubai Located just off the Sheikh Zayed Road, the Grand Millennium is conveniently accessible from the Mall of the Emirates and the Ibn Battuta Mall, as well as within easy reach of the city’s prime business and leisure attraction including the beach and golf courses. The 343-room five star hotel features a range of award-winning restaurants and bars, a beautiful rooftop pool, superb spa and health club with nine-treatment rooms, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, a magnificent ballroom and exceptional banquet facilities. For guests to stay connected on the road, the hotel provides the convenience of WiFi service in all its luxury cars.

Visit www.grandmillenniumdubai.com Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 43

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France Welcomes Its First Hotel Indigo® to Paris’ Operatic Heart Marking the brand’s 60th hotel opening in its 10th anniversary year InterContinental® Hotels Group (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, debuted last month its boutique brand, Hotel Indigo, in France, with the opening of Hotel Indigo® Paris – Opera at the heart of the capital’s entertainment district. The new hotel marks a milestone for the brand as the 60th Hotel Indigo hotel globally, opening in the brand’s 10th anniversary year.

Hotel Indigo® Paris – Opera is set in the elegant Opera quartier of Paris, defined by its centuriesold love affair with the stage. Encircled by the most prestigious theatres, music halls and opera houses in France – as well as lesser-known but equally enthralling venues – each evening the neighbourhood comes to life with culturehungry locals and tourists alike. Inspired by Molière and shaped by Haussmann, the area is best known for its ornate opera house: The Palais Garnier, which provided the inspiration for Gaston Leroux’s world famous ‘Phantom of the Opera’.

As IHG’s boutique brand, every Hotel Indigo property is designed to reflect the local neighbourhood. From the building design to the

hotel’s artwork to the locally inspired menus, every Hotel Indigo is unique to its surroundings, so no two hotels are the same. Hotel Indigo Paris – Opera truly reflects the fabric of its neighbourhood. Unique touches echo the area’s cultural charm and opulent architecture throughout the hotel. Traditional fabrics and opera-inspired murals blend perfectly with modern Parisian design to create a beautiful, unique interior.

After a day of enjoying the delights of the city’s individual arrondissements as well as both hidden and world-famous landmarks, Hotel Indigo Paris – Opera offers guests the perfect place for a refreshing drink or bite to eat. These include Tartare(s) Restaurant inspired by Chef Christophe Raoux - a first-of-its-kind bar and restaurant created in homage to one of France’s most-loved delicacies – tartare. Tartare(s) will explore the concept of raw food through a variety of ingredients including meat, fish, cheese, vegetables and fruit, all in a contemporary Parisian setting. The food will be complemented by expertly selected wine pairings both traditional and surprising.

Vincent Poulingue, General Manager, Hotel Indigo Paris – Opera comments, “Hotel Indigo Paris – Opera is located right at the heart of the action. Paris

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is brimming with history and culture, and this neighbourhood provides the perfect base for exploring our enchanting city. We look forward to welcoming guests and helping them to explore both the famous landmarks and hidden gems located on every corner” Tom Rowntree, Vice President Brand Management Upscale & Luxury Brands, Europe IHG said, “We’re proud to be opening our first Hotel Indigo in France in the key location of Paris. The hotel has been designed to reflect all of the charm and style of this fashionable and dynamic city, to give guests a truly Parisian experience. The Hotel Indigo brand continues to grow from strength to strength. We opened Hotel Indigo Madrid – Gran Via, Hotel Indigo Rome – St. George and Hotel Indigo St. Petersburg Tchaikovskogo earlier this year and have a further 13* hotels in the pipeline.”

The Hotel Indigo brand was launched in the United States in 2004, making it one of IHG’s youngest brands and today, there are over 100 hotels in the global system size and pipeline combined. IHG, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, with over 4,700 hotel globally across a broad family of nine brands to meet the needs of guests, whatever the occasion. Hotel Indigo offers guests the individuality of a boutique hotel but with the benefits and reassurance of a big hotel company.

Visit www.ihg.com/hotelindigo

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai To Host Talk on ‘Vision Therapy for Kids’

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai is all set to host internationally acclaimed ophthalmologists who will be in the emirate to discuss ‘Vision Therapy for Kids’ and how it can be missed during a regular check-up by pediatricians.

The talk, organized by the Child Early Intervention Medical Center Dubai on Nov.3, 2014, will feature renowned ophthalmologist speakers headed by Dr. Jeffrey Becker, the Director of Vision Rehabilitation at the Neurosensory Center of Eastern Pennsylvania.

Dr. Becker is trained in the Defeat Autism Now! Approach, and has lectured internationally about vision therapy, autism and rehabilitation for head injury and stroke patients. He has also authored articles about vision therapy and contributed to the book, “Cutting Edge Therapies for Autism.”

The meet, to be held from 5pm-10pm in the fully-equipped conference room of the hotel, will be attended by 50 top Pediatricians, Ophthalmologists and Occupational Therapists.

Mr. Scott Butcher, General Manager of Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai, said that the hotel has always been at the forefront to host such gathering of experts who deliberate on problems faced by the local community as

well as the humanity at large. He added: “The issue of ‘Vision Therapy for Kids’ is of utmost importance in today’s world as an increasing number of children are struggling because of vision problems, consequently they suffer in studies too. Unfortunately, in most of the cases their condition goes undiagnosed during school health screening or during normal check up at the pediatricians as they only check children’s distance vision using the eye chart. This meet will certainly bring the issue to the fore and will pave the way for a healthier lifestyle.”

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai has partnered with the Child Early Intervention Medical Center Dubai on several occasions including the Autism Walk held earlier this year to support children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families.

The Hotel staff also frequently participate in such initiatives to show that the community stands together towards a cause, be it joining the entrants for the walkathon in aid of raising awareness of the genetic disorder, breast cancer, diabetes, Autism or just to promote the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

About Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai is conveniently located opposite Burjuman Shopping Centre

adjacent to the Dubai Metro few minutes’ drive from the airport and within easy reach of the city’s major leisure and business establishments.

The 390-room 5-star hotel is the ideal address for both business and leisure travellers enjoying close proximity to Dubai Museum, Spice Souk, Gold Souk and Dubai World Trade Centre. It boasts a range of superb restaurants, a sports bar; rooftop pool, fitness centre, event facilities for up to 220 people and a business centre.

Room amenities include free Wi-Fi, interactive TV system with 100+ channels, desk and minibar, tea- and coffee-making equipment, designer bathrooms and 24-hour room service.

About Child Early Intervention Medical Center Child Early Intervention Medical Center is a highly specialized center which focuses on all aspects of child development from birth to 18 years. It offers developmental and psychological assessments, therapy services, special needs support and a variety of programs for children who require early intervention in learning or behavior. They are experts in the field of child development and offer parents, caregivers and professionals within the community the resources and tools they require for successful intervention.

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The Jeans with a difference Harley-Davidson® FXRG® Performance Riding Jeans have become the first motorcycle jeans in the world to achieve CE Level 2 approval, standing up to punishment longer than any other denim. As the most technically advanced motorcycle jeans in the world, Harley-Davidson® Performance Riding Jeans give bike enthusiasts the best of both worlds by offering extra protection on the road while making sure they never have to compromise on style.

The joy of travelling is usually the destination, but shopping makes it even more enjoyable.

Here are some cool picks…

G - S t a r R AW a n d P h a r r e l l W i l l i a m s L a u n c h t h e S e c o n d R aw f o r t h e O c e a n s C a m p a i g n at N Y F W

TRUSSARDI MY NAME Ocean Night has revealed the much anticipated second RAW for the Oceans collection for the next Spring/Summer 2015 season. Among the models was co-designer Pharrell Williams, who took the stage to showcase the collection.

An eclectic and influential mix of editors, tastemakers and celebrities have now joined the movement in fighting plastic pollution in our oceans through innovation.

Collection pieces were modelled and presented inside custom aquariums that cleverly created a magnifying effect of the fabrics – the world’s first denim created from recycled ocean plastic.

The new Trussardi MY NAME fragrance explores the most feminine and sensorial areas in the communicative world of the brand it represents.Its name expresses the identity of each woman and her relationship with the world.

ePAD Ge n i e 6 S phable t & E wa t c h wearab le d e vi c e EUROSTAR Group, the leading digital and consumer technology innovator in the Middle East, has introduced its latest technology innovations which include the ePad Genie 6S phablet, the latest addition to EUROSTAR’s highly-successful multi-functional Tablet series, and the Ewatch wearable device.

Outfitted in four new season finishes, the Air Loubi flat is the perfect gift for the holidays. The red-soled slipper was imagined when Christian Louboutin was mid-flight, and noticed a woman putting on soft shoes intended for air travel. Intended for indoor wear and ideal for holiday travel, this luxe flat is available in soft leathers and fabrics and features a supple red leather sole.

N AT U R A L LY K E N Z O This year evian® and French fashion house KENZO, partner to create a pure bottle, driven by a playful yet distinctly mysterious spirit.

G-Star RAW Spring/ Summer 2015 collection

G-Star RAW, a pioneer in luxury denim wears, has announced the launch of three new ranges of jeans as part of its 2015 Spring/Summer collection.

G-Star RAW’s three new ranges include: four new jeans rises, for women; a seasonal range of bomber jackets; and an innovative super skinny chalk white denim.

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what’s on?

There is always something exciting happening in town. Here’s a pick of the season’s best for fun and culture vultures

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5th Dubai International Parachuting Championship This is the fifth edition of the parachute championships and the categories included in the competition are accuracy landing, formation skydiving, canopy formation, canopy piloting and artistic events. All categories are open for both men and women and visitors are welcome to the show which will take place at Skydive Dubai.

When: Wednesday, 26th November - Sunday, 7th December 2014 Where: Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina Admission: Free admission for visitors Duration: 12 days

Band Jam Battle of the Bands

DP World Tour Championship 2014 Come and see the ‘Greatest Players on Earth’ at the DP World Tour Championship. The DP World Tour Championship is a world-class sporting and social event held annually on the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates. As the final tournament of the European Tour’s International Schedule it features The Race to Dubai where the season leader takes home a bonus pool of $US5 million.

When: Thursday, 20th - Sunday, 23rd November 2014 Where: Jumeirah Golf Estates Admission: Free admission for visitors Duration: 4 days

Battle of the Bands is back for its second annual show after a successful run last year. The event will kick off on an outdoor stage on Al Rigga road and is aimed at encouraging budding musicians to pick up their instruments and battle it out with competing bands on stage When: Thursday, 13th - Saturday, 15th November 2014 Where: Al Ghurair Centre Call: + 971 4 435 6101 Admission: Free admission for visitors Timings: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM Duration: 3 days

Dubai Motor Festival 2014 Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the Dubai Motor Festival returns to Dubai for its second year.

The event brings with it the phenomenally successful and popular Dubai Grand Parade and the exciting Red Bull Car Park Drift Championships.

When: Wednesday, 19th November - Saturday, 6th December 2014 Where: Jumeirah Golf Estates Admission: Free admission for visitors Duration:18 days

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Get Ready for the

‘Biggest Bridal Show’

in the Northern Emirates at The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort

The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort has announced the biggest Bridal Show in the Northern Emirates. The two-day fair titled ‘The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort Wedding Theatre’ will take place on 12th and 13th February, 2015 and will bring together over 50 leading brands and designers specialized in wedding wear and accessories.

Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort, said: “We have got the largest and most spectacular ballroom and wedding facilities in the Northern Emirates at our hotel. Therefore, we believe The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort is the perfect venue for this grand event that will serve as a ‘Wedding Theatre’ bringing together the ultimate accessories, dresses, jewellery, designers, beauticians, hair stylists, cosmetics, photographers, décor, flowers, cakes, entertainment and event planners in addition to other wedding must-haves. On the opening night will be a spectacular fashion show where the latest trends and wedding themes will be brought to life featuring the latest collections from some of the finest designers and boutiques.

It will be an unmissable bridal party giving you the much-needed inspiration for the big day. During the event, top experts will also share invaluable advice on creating a dream wedding.”

Picture courtesy: Rami Al Ali

International Premier Tennis League 2014 (Finals) The International Premier Tennis League is an inaugral tournament hosted in Manila, Delhi, Singapore and finally in Dubai. The sporting event aims to imitate the style and success of the Indian Premier League for Cricket and create a new breed of Tennis tournaments. With the formation of four teams vying for the top spot, Team Manila, Singapore Lions, Indian Aces and the U.A.E Falcons, this is going to be a totally new experience as rules are set to "break the Code" followed usually by Tennis tournaments around the world. Expect some of Tennis' biggest names, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams, and retired greats such as Andre Agassi, to make an appearance.

When: Thursday, 11th - Saturday, 13th December 2014 Where: Hamdan Sports Complex Duration: 3 Days

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The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort promises to deliver a fairy-tale wedding experience set in the stunning ‘Al Saalah’ Ballroom, the largest in the Northern Emirates with a capacity to accommodate up to 700 guests. The Bridal Suite consists of a private room with all-embracing plush white furniture, dressing area, separate makeup room, and a spacious living room furnished with mirrors and elegant sofas. The Suite offers all the charm and amenities for the wedding makeover. It is luxuriously designed to ensure a sense of privacy and comfort for the bride and her family.

Registrations for participants in ‘The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort Wedding Theatre’ are now open. If you are a wedding vendor or organizer simply email h.bakht@mpj-pr.com When: 12th & 13th February, 2015 Where: The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort Call: + 971 6 701 8888

Omar Khairat Live in Dubai 2014 Omar Khairat is a pianist, composer, conductor and founder of the Omar Khairat's Group, an opera group. He has been touted as one of the most awarded and respected musicians in the field of Arabic music. His influences range from European and African to traditional jazz and blues. Having begun as a pianist from a family of musicians, Omar now performs at the Cairo Opera house on a regular basis. The musical genius wil be back in Dubai this year to bring his beautiful sounds and symphonies to an adoring fanbase.

When: Saturday, 20th December 2014 Where: Dubai World Trade Centre Duration: 1 Day Timings: 6:00 PM - 11:55 PM Admission: Regular- AED 200, VIP- AED 300, Platinum- AED 500

New Year Dubai 2015 New Year Dubai is not to be missed.

With festivities taking place across the entire city, there's something for everyone in this city-wide celebration of fireworks and music. In 2014 Dubai rang in the city in spectacular style, setting a new world record for the largest ever fireworks display, marking the end of a memorable year that saw Dubai be named the host city for World Expo 2020. Firework displays take place at a number of iconic Dubai landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and The Palm Jumeirah.

When: Wednesday, 31st December 2014 Where: Dubai Duration: 1 Day

Dubai Shopping Festival Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2015, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is the largest shopping and entertainment extravaganza in the Middle East. Drawing visitors from across the globe, DSF kicks off Dubai’s calendar of events each year with a wide variety of events, activities and promotions. From international concerts, musicals and shows, to sports, outdoor, and fashion events, Dubai Shopping Festival caters to every age segment.

When: Thursday, 1st January - Sunday, 1st February 2015 Duration: 1 month 2 days

KathNiel Live in Dubai Daniel Padilla & Kathryn Bernado Fans of the famous on-screen couple KathNiel will get the opportunity to see these stars perform at a concert alongside Boobay and Minnie Aguilar at the start of the year 2015. Ticket holders can win a chance to meet and take pictures with the stars with more goodies to be won as well. Daniel John Ford Padilla and Kathryn Chandria Manuel Bernardo played the lead roles in the box office hit “She’s Dating the Gangster” When: Thursday, 1st January 2015 Where: The Indian High School - Dubai Duration: 1 Day Admission: Diamond- AED 299, Platinum- AED 399 (Inclusive of a meet and greet with the stars)

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dine out

Japanese Cuisine with Style and Spark For those who love Japanese food

Time was when there were no more than a handful of Japanese restaurants in the UAE. However, Japanese cuisine is fast growing in popularity in the emirates with a superb choice of restaurants.

The key reason being when one thinks of healthy, tast y and trendy food, Japanese cuisine often comes to mind. Here’s our pick of some great restaurants

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Zuma Opening Hours Lunch: Sun - Sat 12:30 pm - 03:30 pm Dinner: Sat - Wed 07:00 pm - 12:00 am Thurs & Fri 07:00 - 01:00 Reservations: +971 4 425 5660 reservations@zumarestaurant.ae Location: DUBAI Gate Village 6, Podium Level, Sheikh Zayed Road, towards DIFC Parking

NOBU Opening Hours Sat - Wed: 7:00 to 11:00 Thurs, Fri & Public Holidays : 19:00 to 00:30 Reservations: +971 4 4262626 restaurantreservations@atlantisthepalm.com Location Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

OKKU Opening Hours Mon - Thurs: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm, 7:00 pm - 3:00 am Fri - Sat: 7:00 pm - 3:00 am Sun: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm, 7:00 pm - 3:00 am Reservations: +971 4 501 8777 reservations@okkudubai.com Location: OKKU, 1st Floor, The H DUBAI, One, Sheikh Zayed Road

TORI NO SU Opening Hours Sun - Thurs: Lunch 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm Dinner 7:00 pm -11:30 pm Reservations: +971 2 811 5666 jadrestaurants@jumeirah.com Location: Abu Dhabi Jumeirah At Etihad Towers

BENIHANA Opening Hours Weekdays: Breakfast: 06:00 am - 11:30 pm Friday brunch: 12:00 - 3:30 pm Reservations: +971 2 02-6 97 9011 +971 2 6 97 9122 fb.beach@rotana.com benihana. beach@rotana.com Location: Abu Dhabi Beach Rotana , Al Zahiyah ,

UMI Opening Hours 07:00 pm to 12:00 pm Reservations: +971 7 203 5555 Location: RAS AL KHAIMAH Vienna Street, Al Jazirah , Al Hamra Waldorf Astoria

KAZU Opening Hours Mon. - Sat. Lunch 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Dinner 7:00 pm -11:00 pm Reservations: +971 2 656 0000 dining@viceroyhotelsandresorts.com Location: Abu Dhabi Yas Viceroy Hotel, Yas Island

Hashi Opening Hours Daily: 07:00 to 11:00 pm Reservations: +971 4 888 3444 dubai@armanihotels.com restaurant.reservations@armanihotels.com

Dragon's Place Opening Hours Mon. - Sat. from 5pm to 12 am Reservations: +971 56 118 0206.

Restaurant.Reservations@TheAjmanPalace.com Location : AJMAN Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street

Location: Dubai Armani Hotel, Downtown, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Boulevard

Now Open Karamna Beirut Restaurant at Ramada Abu Dhabi Offering authentic Lebanese dining experience in Abu Dhabi with an indulgent selection of the finest dishes.

Embark on a journey of sensory delights with an irresistible menu, enticing dĂŠcor, impeccable service and choice of Private Dining Rooms.

Ramada Abu Dhabi is conveniently located in the heart of the city’s business district just a few minutes away from Abu Dhabi Mall and the outstanding Corniche Beach.

P.O. Box 128743, Near Corniche, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Tel: 00971 2 401 9000 www.ramadaabudhabi.com

Festive Moments at The Ajman Palace Hotel

18th to 23rd December Santa’s Grotto This Christmas, the most important date in Santa’s diary is his appointment with the little ones at The Ajman Palace Hotel. Go and meet Santa as he waits for you in his ‘fairytale grotto’ with a sack full of goodies and a whole lot of fun.

Time: 14:00 to 20.00 hrs Price: AED 70 per child (under 2 years old for free)

’Tis the season to be merry and the festive spirit pervades all around The Ajman Palace Hotel. Surrounded by festive cheer, stay in the most luxurious accommodation, feast on the finest food in the magical 5-star settings and indulge in its spa. Soak up the gorgeous atmosphere, as the hotel takes you on a journey of sensory delights wrapped in luxury this Christmas and New Year.

6th and 24th December Christmas Choir Christmas is the time to get together. The children’s choir will perform some cherished Christmas carols in the hotel's lobby heralding the joys of the festive season. Take your little ones for these musical evenings filled with fun and good cheer.

Complimentary: Mulled wine (non-alcoholic) and mince pies Time: 16:30 to 17:30 hrs Venue: Lobby

6th December

Tree Lighting Ceremony Join the fun with your family and friends to turn on the Christmas Lights that will mark the beginning of festivities at The Ajman Palace Hotel. As you watch the spectacular tree being illuminated in the lobby, let the holiday cheer surround you. Sing along to your favourite carols with the choir, make merry in a larger-than-life Ginger Bread Village and indulge in all things festive including those irresistible traditional treats.

Time: 16:30 to 17:30 hrs 56 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Above price inclusive of 10% municipality fee and 10% service charge

Advertorial

6th January Russian Christmas A lavish Russian buffet awaits you to celebrate Russian Christmas featuring all the traditional delicacies and heavenly desserts. Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink upon arrival as you settle down for a fabulous evening.

Time: 19:00 to 24:00 hrs Venue: Encore Bistro Price: AED 180 per person Above price inclusive of 10% municipality fee and 10% service charge

25th December Christmas Day Lunch Tuck into a sumptuous Lunch Buffet at Encore Bistro offering a variety of international dishes from around the world. You will be spoilt for choice with a lavish spread of festive fare. Soak up the family ambiance of the restaurant or bask in the afternoon sun on the terrace.

You are bound to find yourself in a jolly good mood with plenty of fun and frolic.

Time: 13:00 to 16:00 hrs Price: AED 160 per person Children below 8 years dine for free Complimentary beach and pool access as well as hat and crackers Above price inclusive of 10% municipality fee and 10% service charge

31st December New Year’s Eve Party Step into 2015 with the biggest New Year bash. Kick off the party with an extravagant buffet including live cooking stations and wide selection of irresistible international favourites as well as an impressive spread of seafood.

Entertaining you throughout the spectacular evening will be a five piece band. As the countdown to the New Year starts, the celebrations heat up and when the clock strikes twelve, the DJ will build up the tempo to take you into the New Year.

Time: 20:45 to 1:30 hrs Venue: Al Saalah Ballroom Price: AED 650 per person Above price inclusive of 10% municipality fee and 10% service charge

For Bookings and Reservations Tel: +971 6 701 8888 | Reservations@TheAjmanPalace.com www.TheAjmanPalace.com

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 57

first bite

Al Fanar Restaurant and Café

Now Open At Town Center, Jumeirah

What better way to celebrate UAE National Day than with authentic Emirati cuisine?

The latest branch of Al Fanar Restaurant and Café has just been launched at Town Center in Jumeirah. The hugely popular Emirati restaurant first began operation at Dubai Festival City Mall followed by its second outlet in Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi.

Al Fanar Restaurant and Café has successfully established itself as the UAE’s first and only restaurant offering traditional Emirati cuisine in a themed rustic setting. Hashem Al Marzouqi, Principal, Al Fanar Restaurant and Café, said, “Our motivation with Al Fanar Restaurant and Café is to put the national identity of the UAE on a plate combining the most authentic flavours with our glorious heritage and culture. Inspired from Dubai’s various facets in 1960s, it offers diners a unique experience recreated from the age-old traditions of a Bedouin way of life. Reviving memories of Dubai as a small town on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, every

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corner has a story to tell at each of our restaurants. Here, along with glimpses of a bygone era we serve the finest Emirati flavours.”

Each and every detail is noteworthy. Discover the joy of dining under the desert tree, or have a lazy lunch at the fishermen’s hut or dine like a pearl merchant. The food is as fabulous as the décor. On the menu are a tempting array of fresh Emirati breads, appetizers, soups, salads, main dishes and desserts that have been created using family recipes handed down generations. Sizzling seafood, tender grills, aromatic rice and delicious desserts work up your appetite with scenes and scents of old Dubai. The service is equally impeccable and friendly.

Al Fanar Restaurant and Café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring indoor and outdoor dining areas with both modern and traditional Emirati style seating.

For reservations Call 04 344 2141 For more information about the restaurant Visit www.alfanarrestaurant.com

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 59

first bite

Experience Authentic Royal Thai Cuisine at Blue Elephant Restaurant’s Royal Thai Buffet Blue Elephant at the Al Bustan Rotana Dubai showcases an impressive dining experience for the most discerning food lovers with its Royal Thai Buffet every Tuesday!

Explore an excellent gastronomic adventure as you feast on a lavish selection of traditional Thai dishes fit for royalty. From starters and main courses down to desserts, the restaurant’s Thai master chefs offer nothing but authentic flavours of the Far East.

Complemented by a tropical ambience that will transport you to a traditional Thai Village complete with huts, waterfalls and lush greenery, this dining experience is not one you would want to miss.

Enjoy Royal Thai Buffet at Blue Elephant from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm for AED 209* per person, inclusive of soft drinks and AED 229* per person, inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

ZayZafoon Restaurant and Lounge at Bawabat Al Sharq offers finest Arabic cuisine The newly opened ZayZafoon Restaurant and Lounge by Abu Dhabi based Tarfeeh Capital, part of Baniyas Investment & Development Company (BIDC),offers authentic culinary delights from Egypt and the Levant region. Located in Bawabat Al Sharq Mall in Baniyas City inAbu Dhabi, this modern Arabic lounge restaurant hosted a gala event for its opening.

As the guests indulged in the finest Arabic cuisine, they were entertained by traditional Oud musicians, a caricaturist and a saxophonist.

The restaurant offers a wide selection of meat delicacies, mixed grills, soups and desserts. It also features a Shisha lounge in an outdoor terrace area where guests can enjoy the stylish ambience and a spectacular view of the city.

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Waleid Gamal Eldien, Deputy CEO of Baniyas Investment & Development Company, commented: “At ZayZafoon, you can enjoy the taste of Arabia with every bite, whether it is the tasty mixed grills or the fresh hot bread. Authenticity is the hallmark of our food. At our restaurant, guests can enjoy true Arabic hospitality in a relaxed setting. This is the first ZayZafoon restaurant and lounge in the UAE as we plan to expand within the region.” ZayZafoon also offers themed event nights including entertaining Arabian live shows and music, BBQ and Grill, Shisha and Ladies Nights.

ZayZafoon is located on level one in Bawabat Al Sharq Mall and can be accessed via the Food Court.

Friday Brunch with a view at Sur Mer Every Friday guests experience a memorable brunch, Mediterranean style. An assorted buffet is served on the terrace overlooking a vibrant backdrop of the beach and poolside activities whilst dining in the comfort of the chic, contemporary outlet.

Time: 12:00pm to 4:00pm Prices AED 195 per person AED 295 per person inclusive of Sangria AED 695 per person inclusive of bubbly

Keep Calm and Brunch by the Beach The season’s hottest beach lounge reopens with two incredible brunches

Beach in ‘The Walk’, JBR rolls out an exciting autumn with the re-opening of the most stylish beach lounge in town, Azure Bleu. The perfect atmosphere for a relaxing day in the sun, Meydan Beach spoils guests for choice as it unveils weekend brunching with double the fun. Sur Mer is the place to be every Friday with a delectable spread on the terrace while Saturdays treat guests to enjoy the relaxing outdoor ambience, gentle breeze and sunshine at Azure Bleu.

Saturday BBQ Brunch at Azure Bleu Azure Bleu sets the scene every Saturday as guests lather on the sunscreen and bask in the sun while the DJ spins lively tunes. Offering a variety of culinary delights, complete with live BBQ cooking stations and an extensive selection of refreshing beverages, Azure Bleu presents guests with an authentic seaside dining experience this season.

Time: 2:00pm to 6:00pm Prices AED 195 per person AED 295 per person inclusive of Sangria AED 395 per person inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages and a day pass AED 695 per person inclusive of bubbly Terms and conditions apply.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 61

Recently, a varied group of enthusiasts were given a tour of the Khan Murjan Souk to celebrate its journey to becoming a focal point for authentic craftsmen from all corners of the Arab world.

The day’s festivities included lunch at the famous Khan Murjan restaurant in the central courtyard.

The original 14th century Khan Murjan Souk in Baghdad offered inns and places of rest to travellers and traders, while also serving as a haven for artisans. Wafi Mall’s iteration remains true to that vision, gathering craftsmen from across the Arab world to showcase traditional skills that have been all but lost to history.

A highlight of Khan Murjan Souk in Wafi Mall is its celebration of authentic artisanal skills. The Souk’s construction brought together traditional craftsmen from Turkey, Egypt, Syria and Morocco.

Every single element, carving and pattern populating the Souk was created by hand using traditional methods and authentic designs, with finished pieces being shipped over and assembled into a cohesive whole.

And now, Khan Murjan Souk continues its homage to traditional skills, playing a role in keeping alive centuries old vocations by offering them a home in its subterranean expanses.

Khan Murjan Souk in Wafi Mall Unveils Resident Artisans from the Arab World

Souk inspired by 14th century original in Baghdad becomes permanent home to authentic craftsmanship Khan Murjan Souk, Wafi Mall’s authentic homage to the original souk once bustling with life in 14th century Baghdad, has expanded its selection of offerings by inviting artisans from around the Arabian world to set up permanent shops.

“Khan Murjan was developed with a deep respect and enduring passion for the historical, architectural and artistic identity of the Arabian world, where many traditional craftsmen have been bought out of retirement to produce genuine designs. We are continuing in that direction by creating an engaging showcase of artisanal skills from across the current Arab world,” said Dr. Akram Salah, Partner, Khan Murjan Souk in Wafi Mall.

Like the venerable original, Khan Murjan Souk in Wafi Mall too bustles with craftsmen creating and selling their wares. Visitors get a chance to see weavers creating Persian carpets, blowing intricate glasswork and preparing traditional meals for passers-by to taste. Wood weavers, tent carvers and copper makers populate the halls while basket weavers and calligraphists ply their trade in the passageways. Tanoura dancers add age-old mystique to the rhythm of traditional drummers, and henna artists decorate palms with intricate patterns passed on through centuries.

Guests on the artisanal tour enjoyed a festive lunch at the famous Khan Murjan restaurant, where Middle Eastern cuisine is prepared fresh in the central courtyard. Freshly baked breads accompanied tender meat grilling on charcoal beds, with the tinkling of a water wheel paying homage to ancient methods of water collection.

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Coral Beach Resort Sharjah Rolls out Season’s Specialties At Italian Restaurant ‘Al Dente’

Al Dente, Coral Beach Resort – Sharjah’s signature restaurant, has launched a new menu offering classic contemporary Italian cuisine. Rolling out the season’s specialties, the culinary team has made sure that these gastronomic innovations retain their traditional taste and texture, which will not only win new guests but will also provide them with a reason to keep coming back. The new menu features Italian favourites with modern twists. The chef ’s recommendations includes ‘Duck breast’ in an olive sauce served with potato Lyonnaise and green beans, ‘Arabian–Gulf Pizza’ with Za’atar, fresh tomato, halloumi cheese and ‘Ravioli Spinach Ricotta’ -- Fresh ravioli pasta stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese served with béchamel sauce.

Loyal guests who have been regulars at the restaurant can still enjoy their favourite Al Dente classics as well.

Jean-Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Northern Emirates, Coral Hotels & Resorts, said that the exciting new dishes provide one more reason to visit your favourite restaurant.

He said: “Al Dente is known for years as one of the best Italian restaurants for its superb food and amazing ambience. It has won loyal patrons by offering carefully crafted Italian dishes. As we serve fine Italian fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients, the distinctive menu offers a culinary experience that’s sure to delight guests.”

Call: 06 522 9999 Visit hmhhotelgroup.com/coralbeachresortsharjah

Celebrity and Local Chefs Race onto Yas Island for Inaugural Taste of Abu Dhabi The world’s finest chefs race onto Yas Island as the capital gears up for the inaugural Taste of Abu Dhabi, which debuts at du Arena from 6 – 8 November. Bringing together a mixture of international celebrity chefs with some of the hottest talents Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene has to offer, Taste of Abu Dhabi throws up all the ingredients for a world-class weekend.

Firing up the Yas Marina Circuit ahead of Taste of Abu Dhabi were internationally renowned chefs including: Food Network’s Reza Mahammad, Jenny Morris and Jonathan Phang, as well as Jun Tanaka, Eric Lanlard, Steven Edwards, Josh Stanzl and 18 year-old Emirati baking sensation Bader Al Awadhi.

Also joining the gourmet showcase on Yas Island were chefs from Abu Dhabi’s signature restaurants

including: Pradeep Kumar (Angar), Sohan Bhandari (Avasa), Albert Raven (Belgian Beer Café), Raghu Pillai (Blue Grill), William Chaban (Café D’Alsace), Maurice Maffeo (Carluccio’s), Thaung Nyunt (Noodle Box), Mohammad Mohammad (Rozanah) and Sandeep Ali (Ushna).

Whilst Caramel Lounge, Flooka, Koi, Safina, Sho Cho, Turqoiz, Villa Toscana, Nolu’s Café and Burlesque Restaurant & Lounge make up the final line-up of 18 restaurants that will invite attendees to explore a world of flavours at Taste of Abu Dhabi.

Foodies, families and friends will have the opportunity to meet all of the chefs over the course

of the weekend, as they serve up thrilling live cooking demonstrations and show off their skills at the Chefs Theatre and Cookery School.

Taste of Abu Dhabi takes place at du Arena from Thursday 6 November to Saturday 8 November 2014. The festival will run from 4 – 11pm on Thursday, 12 – 11pm on Friday and 12 – 10pm on Saturday.

With tickets still available from just 65AED, Taste of Abu Dhabi promises visitors a weekend to remember.

Visit www.tasteabudhabi.com Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 63

going places

The

Land of Ice & Fire ’

Iceland is known for its extreme contrasts and being the obvious destination for people looking for the unexpected. Here rustic beauty lies along epic landscapes. However, like all the ice in Iceland, its glaciers are rapidly sinking.

Story and Photographs

By Saleem Moopen

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Nestled in the mountains far behind is Iceland’s most famous volcano Eyjafjallajokull

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 65

Tourist taking pictures of volcano Eyjafjallajokull

C

an you pronounce Eyjafjallajokull” asked our guide John with a mischievous look in his eyes. We tried our best. He laughed and started to teach us the correct pronunciation. The volcano in question is Eyjafjallajokull, whose ashy eruptions last year famously shut down European air traffic for days, creating the worst aviation stoppage since World War II (and also a pronunciation stoppage among American newscasters; most resorted to “that volCANE-oh in ICE-land”)!

It all started in July 2013 when I and Dr. Jayamohan got an opportunity to visit Copenhagen to attend the European Ophthalmic Conference. I planned for a detour to Iceland for a short trip. After some amount of persuasion Dr. Jayamohan agreed reluctantly. As a serious photo enthusiast, Iceland had always been my dream destination. Copenhagen to Reykjavik is a 3 hour flight. We took the Iceland Airways and the services were impeccable. I was looking through the window, most of the time, admiring the beauty of floating clouds and Atlantic Ocean, except when the beautiful Icelandic Air Hostess walked past the aisle!

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Keflavic airport was covered with fog. According to legend , the first viking settler of Iceland,a Norwegian chieftain named Ingólfur Arnarson, was searching for land in the thick fog due to the geothermal steam rising from the earth. He threw two carved pillars overboard as he neared land, vowing to settle wherever they landed.

He then sailed along the coast until the pillars were found in the southwestern peninsula, now known as Reykjanesskagi. There he settled with his family around 874, in a place he named Reykjavik (Cove of Smoke).

Keflavic International Airport is 80 km from Reykjavik.

Even though the 2008 financial crisis has made the value of Icelandic kroner tumble down, prices for tourists in this country is still high like any other Scandinavian countries and taking a private taxi would be very expensive. The best way to travel to Reykjavik and back is by a Flybus booking. You can do it on line in advance and your bus will be waiting for you 24x7.

I had booked our room in Hotel Cabin. Externally the hotel looked proportional to the money we paid but once inside the room I found out that the hotel had utilized most of the space for corridors and dining halls leaving minuscule space for the rooms. The rooms were so small that I thought the name CABIN was put with great insight!

About 315,000 people live here among eerie rock formations and shining glaciers, but the landscape is so austere and weird, you might think that you had woken in an outpost in an alien world. In “Journey to the Center of the Earth,” Jules Verne wrote that the entrance to a subterranean passage was on Iceland’s Snaefellsnes peninsula. It’s easy to see why he would have imagined this. To visit is to be enveloped in a physical landscape so extreme that visions of it invade even your sleep.

Vatnajökull glacier

Jokulsarlon diamonds

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 67

Iceland is a stunningly beautiful place if you enjoy strange and desolate landscapes. Because it is so close to the Arctic Circle, the amount of daylight varies dramatically by season. The sun sets briefly each night in June, but it doesn’t get fully dark before it comes back up again. In the March and September equinoxes, days and nights are of about equal length, as elsewhere in the world. If you go in December, it’s almost 20 hours of darkness.

Summer is definitely the best time to go, and even then the tourist traffic is still mild. The midnight sun is a beautiful sight and one definitely not to be missed.

Icelandic Horses with Hekla Volcano in the background

Iceland tour can be done in multiple ways. The most economical is by making your base in Reykjavik, and taking day tours with the multitude of tour buses available. The disadvantage is that they go according to their plan and you are traveling with a group of people.

The second option is to hire a private vehicle with driver cum guide. Though expensive this is the best way to enjoy Icelandic landscape.

For those who are adventurous, can

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choose the third option of hiring a vehicle and drive around. With freedom to stop and shoot pictures anywere I decided to choose the second option.

Whichever option you decide to take, you do not have to worry about crime and robbers. Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, only around 120 people were in the jail in 2012.

There are people who travel Iceland by walking and hitchhiking only. Everyone is known by first name, even the president. Icelandic people have one of the highest life expectancies in the world, and one of the best state health-care systems.

There are few, if any, places where volcanoes are such a living presence. Since 2010, there have been two eruptions here.

Iceland is on the Mid-

Iceland is a stunningly beautiful place if you enjoy strange and desolate landscapes. Because it is so close to the Arctic Circle, the amount of daylight varies dramatically by season

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Skogafoss is a well known Icelandic waterfall on the South of the Iceland near the town Skogar 70 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Atlantic Ridge, a belt of mountains and rift valleys where periodic eruptions widen the ocean floor. One of the world’s most tectonically volatile places, it feeds more than 200 volcanoes and 600 hot springs and heats 85 per cent of Iceland’s homes. Add to this energy produced by the nation’s rivers and streams, and the country essentially gets all its electricity from nature.

To get a thermal experience, take a visit to the Blue Lagoon—40 miles from the city. This geothermal spa is built over and around what could be described as the world’s biggest Jacuzzi — a large pool with white mud that you can smear all over the body (for the health benefits and to make a joyous mess). Much of the lagoon is shallow enough to stand on the bottom, heads above water.

Next comes the grand journey — the Ring Road (aka Highway 1), 830 miles of majesty that encircles the country and skirts blacksand beaches, volcanoes, imposing fjords, crater lakes, thermal fields, and some of the world’s largest glaciers. From Reykjavik the Ring Road can be tackled either way,

we decided to hit the south cost with the famous Iceland destination jekulsorlon as our night stay. Waterfalls continuously pour and scores of sheep roam free, without dogs to guard them or fences to bound them.

The Icelandic horses sleep on their sides — at first glance, they look dead — as their impossibly long manes lift in the wind. The vista is still, vast, apocalyptic.

Shining Solfar Suncraft Sculpture (Sun Voyager) in Reykjavik. It was created by Jon Gunnar Arnason in 1971

Gullfoss is the island’s most spectacular waterfall. To stand at Gullfoss and relish the beauty and the wonder of nature is an uplifting experience. One feels more energetic when leaving Gullfoss than when arriving. That’s the impact these unique nature sites such as Gullfoss and Geysir have on us.

At the national park, Thingvellir, you can touch the mounded remnants of the booths from the Vikings’ annual gatherings.

It was here that the first Icelandic council originally met in 930 A.D., and where

Sardines in Olive oil

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every year an elected member read the nation’s laws out loud to the people.

water mingled with sounds of streaming cascades and your own heartbeat.

Skogafoss probably rivals Gullfoss as Iceland’s most famous waterfall. This was a classicallyshaped rectangular waterfall that dropped 60m with a width of 25m. Adding to its allure was that it had a high volume of water making it thunder and produce multiple rainbow-yielding mist that often would make this falls a photographer’s dream under sunny skies.

Continuing along the south coast, the drive culminates in a stretch of blue called Jokulsaron, a lagoon filled with hundreds of icebergs calved from the Vatna Glacier. A boat ride brings you to within reach of the bergs, crossing waters that have appeared in such movies as Batman Begins.

Vatnajokull glacier is the largest icecap in the world outside the Arctic and it’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjukur, is the highest peak in Iceland.

In Iceland, you have the remarkable opportunity to see a beautiful waterfall from a rare perspective – you can walk behind the crashing, falling waters of Seljalandsfoss, a 130 foot high waterfall on the river Seljalandsa. Behind the powerful falls, you see the outer world through a veil of cascading water as you stand surrounded by astounding sensations: the scents of damp rock and pure

In Iceland you are aware at every turn of your smallness, the irrational, slow forces at work. The glaciers seem alive, like sentient entities. To be here is to be returned to a child’s sense of precarious awe: How on earth did this come to be? Even here man’s irresponsible interference with nature is making changes. Like all the ice in Iceland, its glaciers are shrinking rapidly. It used to creep forward every winter. Then it began retreating.

First 9 yards. Then 21 yards. Now, the guide estimates, it is losing up to 37 yards a year. At this rate Iceland’s Glaciers will disappear in 150 years!

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Dramatic sunset over the Hofn harbor in south-eastern part of Iceland

Beautiful Iceland mountain landscape

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About Iceland Capital: Reykjavik Language: The official language of Iceland is Icelandic, a North Germanic language derived from Old Norse. It has changed relatively little throughout the centuries. English is widely spoken and understood.

Border Countries: Iceland is one of only a few countries in Europe that has no other countries bordering it via land boundaries. It is in the middle of the North Alantic Ocean.

Population: 326,300 (Apr 2014). An estimated 7% (23.000) of the population is of foreign-born nationality. Median age is 37,1 years.

Area: 103,000 sq. km (40,000 sq. miles), bigger than Hungary and Portugal and a little bit smaller than Cuba.

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Time Zone: Iceland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year, and does not go on daylight saving time.

Unemployment rate: 6%.

Currency: The Icelandic monetary unit is the króna (plural krónur) – ISK.

Climate Winter: The Icelandic winter is relatively mild for its latitude. The southerly lowlands of the island average around 0 °C (32 °F) in winter, while the highlands tend to average around −10 °C (14 °F).

The lowest temperatures in the northern part of the island range from around −25 to −30 °C (−13 to −22 °F).

Summer: The average July temperature in the southern part of the island is 10–13 °C (50–55 °F). Warm summer days can reach 20–25 °C (68–77 °F). Annual average sunshine hours in Reykjavík are around 1300, which is similar to towns in Scotland and Ireland.

Government: Iceland is a parliamentary constitutional republic. Suffrage is universal from 18 years of age. The president is elected by direct popular vote for a term of four years, with no term limit. Most executive power rests with the Government, which is elected separately from the presidential elections every four years. Althingi is a legislative body of 63 members elected for a term of four years by popular vote. Judicial power lies with the Supreme Court and the district courts.

Holidays: 16 days a year

Economy: GDP = $14,5 billion.

Country Code: 354

Events January – March Dark Music Days: Annual contemporary music festival organized by the Icelandic Composers Union.

Winter Festival in Akureyri (Éljagangur): An annual winter festival with all types of exciting winter sports: mountain hiking, snow-boarding, downhill skiing, snow scooters, and much more.

A unique Hallgrimskirkja church in the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland. This is the largest church in Iceland

Getting There Keflavík International Airport is the gateway for most passenger flights to and from Iceland. A number of international airlines maintain regular scheduled flights to Iceland. It is a little over 3 hours flight from London, Paris or Copenhagen. Fastest one-stop flight between Dubai and Reykjavik takes close to 11 hours. To find a listing of airlines that fly to Iceland, visit www.visiticeland.com

Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival: A culture festival that celebrates winter and light with multiple events, exhibitions, poetry reading in a swimming pool, outdoor performances and much more.

Food and Fun: The essential component of the festival involves world-renowned chefs collaborating with Reykjavik’s finest restaurants, and as an extra serving of food and fun, chefs compete to create a three-course meal using Icelandic ingredients exclusively.

Eve-Online Fanfest: It brings together players in a massive celebration of the virtual world of EVE Online. Travelers from all around the world gather in one of the most beautiful and unique locations the planet has to offer. Allies and rivals alike set aside their in-game differences to share drinks with one another and forge new friendships.

Design March: It is Iceland’s most important annual design festival. Four days, dozens of events, hundreds of participating designers and all fields of design, from architecture to food to furniture and services.

Visa Travelling to Europe has been simplified with the introduction of the Schengen visa. Schengen visa is valid for stays of no more than 90 days per period of 180 days. The Embassy reserves the right to require additional documentation at any time. The consul of the Schengen state which is the main destination of your visit is always the consul competent to process your visa application. For Schengen visa applications in the UAE; Abu Dhabi and Al Ain residents should go to the VFS Global Schengen Visa Center or an embassy in Abu Dhabi, and residents of Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain (UAQ) should go to the VFS Global Schengen Visa center or consulate in Dubai.

A Schengen visa is a visa which entitles the holder to unrestricted travel in European Union (EU) countries which have signed up to the Schengen Visa agreement. Not all EU countries have signed up to the Schengen Visa, and the Schengen Zone includes countries which are not part of the EU.

Ripe blueberry

Health All insured citizens from member states of the EEA must bring the European Health Insurance Card or EHIC for use in Iceland. This does not apply to persons from the other Nordic countries. Those who are not covered by the EEA regulations can obtain medical assistance but must pay in full. They can then seek reimbursement from their own insurance in their country of origin or from their private insurance according to rules and regulations applicable in their insurance country.

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cover story

Jean Gabriel Peres, President & CEO Mรถvenpick Hotels & Resorts 76 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

In Praise of Peres Looking Back and Ahead

Jean Gabriel Peres, President & CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has just completed 15 years with the group. During the period he firmly established Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts in the upscale segment boosting the brand’s portfolio from 39 to 81 hotels across 25 countries.

This, despite the fact that he had to let go of 25 hotels as they were not up to standard. How did he do so with a mono brand philosophy?

Curiosity Middle East finds out.

By David Costello

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career over 30 years ago. The digital world has changed many aspects of the industry. From the way guests are booking their accommodation to the arrival of OTAs, Social Media… The age of consumer-generated content has arrived.

Brand websites and OTAs are currently the main generators of bookings. These changes are impacting the entire commercial environment.

Today I spend 40 per cent of my time in IT related business aspects.

Another aspect is technology…. good technology in the hospitality industry is now fundamental because our guests have similar in their own homes. As hoteliers we need to match and exceed guests’ expectations with our technology service offerings. While implementing new technology though, we should never lose sight of the guests and all IT applications in hotels must be functional, simple and easy to use. We endeavour to customise our technology services so they deliver real value and service to our guests. The balance is always about striving for efficiency while keeping the human touch.

Therefore, over the years, though many changes have taken place, the soul and fundamental aspects of hospitality remain the same. At the end as hoteliers, we want to provide experiences that makes our guests happy.

L

eading Swiss hospitality brand Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is looking stronger than ever, more so in the Middle East where it currently operates 29 hotels, including nine in Saudi Arabia, six in the UAE and five in Jordan. There are plenty more on the way. Its aim is to take its current portfolio of 81 hotels to 100 hotels worldwide by 2017. Driving this extraordinary growth is Jean Gabriel Peres, President & CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts who has been at the helm for the last 15 years. The group’s asset light development has been in large part driven by its ‘cluster strategy’ that has resulted in multiple properties in a region in quick succession.

What is noteworthy is, at a time when other hotel companies have been busy floating numerous subbrands, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts continues to succeed with a mono brand philosophy. The brand’s greatest appeal, believes Peres, lies in its Swiss heritage that is all about precision, quality, reliability, efficiency and personalised care. He is visibly excited about what the future holds as he shares some of the company’s expansion plans.

You have just completed 15 wonderful years at the helm of Mövenpick . Over the period, what is the biggest change you have seen in your industry?

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Under your leadership how has Mövenpick shaped as an international brand?

When I joined Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts in 1999, the company had a portfolio of 39 hotels.

We currently operate 81 hotels and have presence in 25 countries. Over 20 properties are planned or under construction across all regions. By 2017, our aim is to have 100 hotels open worldwide. During the course of the next 12 months, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts will launch seven new additions spread between Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, including the below. Many of our future openings are in countries that are new to the portfolio, including Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh.

1. Riyadh, KSA – marking our 10th hotel in the Kingdom 2. Jeddah Heraa, our third hotel in Jeddah 3. Kochi, our second hotel in India 4. Samui, Thailand 5. White Beach, Pattaya - Thailand 6. Istanbul, Golden Horn 7. Chiang Mai, Thailand

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"Mövenpick is today the second most famous brand in the Middle East and no one believed we would manage to grow so fast in the Gulf"

When you took over you had 39 hotels in operation. Today you stand at 81 properties across 25 countries. What contributed to this massive expansion when you had to actually let go of 25 hotels over the period?

Our approach is to have an organic, sustainable growth instead of a massive expansion. Mövenpick has always believed in growth, but at a sustainable pace. In every region from Europe and Africa to the Middle East and Asia we have carefully consolidated our developments to maintain a balanced portfolio distribution that ensures decision-making is effective, resources are efficiently utilised and development is sustainable.

We have very strong area teams and have a cluster approach to expansion with continuity in management. Mövenpick is today the second most famous brand in the Middle East and no one believed we would manage to grow so fast in the Gulf. Owners love our brand. We have a reputation of supporting owners in helping them grow the business. Our owners are high net worth individuals who know each other and therefore exchange a lot. We are very good at developing clusters and have close to 10 hotels in KSA. We are a leading Swiss hospitality group in the world with a very high reputation offering premium quality, be it in terms of management or culinary concepts and restaurants. We were born that way.

You are among the few hotel management companies with a mono-brand philosophy?

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How do you compete in a multi-brand market?

Is it a strength or a hindrance in terms of development?

We believe to have a mono-brand has been a strength for us. Our company has a clear positioning in the upscale segment and we are known for our quality, reliability, care and personalised service. We are not a hotel chain, we are a collection of hotels, each representing something unique about their location i.e. the sense of place. For me general managers are not numbers, they are entrepreneurs who create a soul for the hotel they run. We believe it is confusing to have too many brands and means very little if you don’t have enough hotels. It is only after you have developed quite a number of hotels i.e. 100 to 150 that you can segment into different brands.

You position yourself as an upscale brand. But there is an enormous demand for mid-scale / budget hotels in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. How do you see yourself in that segment?

We are not there and we don’t envisage to be there.

Yes, there is strong demand for mid-scale hotels in many regions, but we would rather stay loyal to our DNA and not jump at the first opportunity – as this may be more harmful in the long term. At this moment, we don’t have plans to create a mid-scale brand. If this changes in the middle or long term, it would be well planned and not just a quick reaction based on the market.

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What are your expansion plans for the Middle East? And how are you looking to achieve that?

This year, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts marks 20 years since its entry into the Middle East, when it opened Mövenpick Hotel Petra in 1994. The last two decades has seen steady and successful growth in the region. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has and continues to grow at a remarkable pace to keep up with demand.

We currently operate 29 hotels in the region, including nine in Saudi Arabia and six in the UAE, countries where we will continue to increase our portfolio. Our five properties in Jordan are very well known and we also have a good reach across the GCC and Arabian Peninsula. In terms of further expansion, we see great opportunities in Saudi Arabia, where we will be opening our 10th hotel, The MP Riyadh during the first quarter of 2015. In Dubai, we recently announced our 7th project, as we have recently signed a management agreement for MP Downtown Dubai, set to open in 2017. We have signed two projects in Dubai recently.

Our plans certainly include more hotels across the UAE and by 2020 we envision having around 15 operating hotels in the country spread over several emirates. In anticipation of Expo 2020 and the general outlook for the UAE, we are currently in negotiations with owners to make this happen. Emulating this sustainable success in Asia, where the company’s foothold will

double in the next three years, is of great importance to Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts.

Talking about the UAE, how do you plan on keeping your business competitive given not only the extensive construction of hotels for EXPO 2020, but also given the popularity of other regional destinations?

Dubai’s tourism sector has been strong so far this year with a solid growth of leisure guests to the emirate, despite an increase in room supply. Comparing YTD 2013 with 2014, our occupancy has remained stable at 83%. We expect that the rest of this year will follow a similar pattern.

We currently operate six Mövenpick properties in Dubai, located across different parts of the city including Ibn Battuta near Jebel Ali, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Jumeirah Beach on The Walk, Bur Dubai, Deira and The Square in Mamzar. It’s a good mix spread across Dubai and together they offer 1,566 rooms.

We are already seeing an upward trend since winning the bid and we expect that the destination will benefit significantly from this relatively long event.

Associated

Our plans certainly include more hotels across the UAE and by 2020 we envision having around 15 operating hotels in the country spread over several emirates 82 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

infrastructure developments, opening of new flight routes and additional attractions will of course assist all hotels. Expo 2020 will also expose Emiratis to new destinations and we hope they will continue to choose Mรถvenpick Hotels & Resorts for their stays abroad.

While business will be strong to the lead period to Expo 2020, we foresee good business beyond this major event as a result of the excellent vision of the Dubai Government, ensuring continued success and strong performance in the long term future.

As a seasoned hotelier with a flawless record of accomplishment, what advice would you give to up and coming hoteliers who wish to follow your example? What is your secret to success?

There is only one secret passion. One has to be totally passionate about the business. I am a finance MBA. Before joining Mรถvenpick Hotels & Resorts, I was the Managing Director of a leading sales and distribution company for luxury goods, perfume and tobacco products. This background helped me to understand the complexity of business. The hotel business has become very complex today

where you need to be asset manager, revenue and distribution manager as well as sales and marketing manager with a very global outlook. Over the years the most important thing I learnt is that you need to be true to people you meet. The loyalty you create among people goes a long way in garnering support when you need it. Some people that I work with today have been with me for over 25 years.

Always remember, you are lucky to be surrounded by those who have the same values as you. And I am very fortunate to have people like Andreas Mattmuller, the chief operating officer for Middle East and Asia who is an entrepreneurial hotelier and has contributed immensely to the success of our group.

Who are the people who inspired you during the course of your career?

All the people who created gold out of sand. People who had the vision to be pioneers in place where there was only sand. I have a lot of respect for those people.

Apart from work, what else interests you?

Music, literature, poetry, sports, tennis and family.

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Picture this

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Then&

Now Dubai in Pictures Photographer: Mushtaq Ahmed

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This year as the UAE celebrates its 43rd National Day on December 2, Curiosity Middle East rolls back the camera on the city's phenomenal development with Mushtaq Ahmed, 1st Warrant Officer from Dubai Police.

Mushtaq Ahmed has spent last 38 years photographing the emirates.

During the period he shot innumerable images that not only tell its incredible story of growth but reveal the invincible spirit of Dubai that turned it into one of the world's most popular touristic destinations. His works show the unexpected with dramatic contrasts of life then and now.

CuriosityME brings to you his exclusive pictures.

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talking point

Ajman Stocking up on Luxury 94 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

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or more than a decade Ajman had only one 5-star that is the Kempinski Hotel Ajman.

However, today the emirate boasts The Ajman Palace Hotel Managed by HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings, Starwood Hotels & Resorts’ Ajman Saray, a Luxury Collection Resort, and soon Fairmont Ajman and The Oberoi Ajman.

The big question is: Why does Ajman need all these luxury hotels and will the emirate be able to lure enough highend travellers to fill these rooms? Michele Frignani who took over as General Manager of Ajman Saray, a Luxury Collection Resort, in July 2013, firmly believes that Ajman holds tremendous potential as a destination. Here’s how he looks at it:

place such as the Early Bird offer. Therefore, we are very happy with the performance so far. Will certainly love to see more smiles with better ADR. What is the most important thing you learnt during this period?

I realised that you never stop learning. And you have to be humble. It has been a year of learning, a year when I completed my 30th year in the job. Coming to the Middle East meant adding a new page to my life and career.

The UAE is a melting pot of cultures. There is so much to learn here. So at every step you back up, analyse and change, and this is not the easiest part.

How have the first six months been for the Ajman Saray and the year for you? How would you put them in numbers?

Very exciting. Actually, a dream come true. Upon joining the hotel last year in July, I was immediately immersed in pre-opening activities such as putting in place the restaurant concepts, logos, hiring the right people for the various departments such as excom, sales, finance, etc. That is when you see the place come alive. It was important to know the overall impression from the general public, fine tuning all the way in terms of training and consistency of product and service to get the correct positioning.

What are the main challenges you are facing today in terms of business?

I believe the greatest challenge is the destination itself. Ajman is still not so well known among international travellers. We are trying to promote the destination in collaboration with the Tourism Board. Talking about service and overall expectations, we are benchmarked against icons such as Al Maha Desert Resort and Grosvenor House. Guests too come and compare us at those levels and there is no waiver and that is the challenge.

Talking about numbers, we never had any previous data to base our budget on being the first hotel here from the group. We soft launched on 1st February this year with 20% occupancy and ramping on from there to 70 per cent occupancy today proves we are on the right track. Though we had a slow summer due to various market conditions such as the Ukraine issue and stabilization and opening of Egypt, progression is very positive. Despite the fact that the hotel had opened outside the global contracting season, we did very well with the various promotions we had put in

What are the key trends you are seeing in terms of tourism in Ajman?

The vision is there from the government which is very important. Ajman Tourism Development Department was created about two years ago and that goes a long way to show that tourism is a top priority here. Ajman is well represented in all international trade shows such as ITB-Berlin and World Travel Market in London and we are glad to partner with Ajman Tourism to promote our facilities.

The Ajman International Airport, when ready, will boost tourism tremendously.

Travellers from Western Europe, CIS and GCC as well as domestic weekenders form the core of our business. In addition we are driving new markets with a very well-balanced and strong marketing strategy. We are investing a lot in generating awareness by organising strategic fam trips with various luxury TO’s based in the US. Emirates is opening new frontiers with direct flights from Houston, Chicago, New York, LA, San Francisco, Seattle, etc making it very convenient to reach the Middle East. We are eager to capitalise on those opportunities.

There is a lot to see in Ajman as the emirate offers the best of both worlds. It is a quiet and relaxing place where you can explore art and culture at a leisurely pace.

However, the government has to invest in more entertainment and cultural activities.

Having said so, there are many indigenous experiences waiting to be discovered here such as the Ajman fish market which is the largest in the emirates. A few months back

we took one of our fam trips there. It was an unbelievable experience for the people who were completely amazed and impressed by the way the local fishermen worked. The whole process of bidding, selling, loading was unique to them. And this is what the Luxury Collection Concierge Programme is all about.

We are dedicated to ensuring that each and every guest is able to discover and experience the secret treasures of the city and Ajman has plenty of those. And it is well surrounded with Dubai being only a short drive away.

What is your forecast for 2015 in terms of your business and the destination?

High Expectations. Our owners have high expectations from the investment they made on this beautiful property. It is the same from the operator as well as our customers and guests. We need to deliver on those expectations. Our aim is keep budget in focus and execute with a well balanced plan.

2015 will be our first full year. Awareness about Ajman Saray is definitely increasing with our sales teams driving more and more from the feeder markets that has helped us to have higher returns. So the trend is definitely positive with better forecast. The UAE is a very safe country and travellers value that a lot. Where else can you forget your wallet in a shop and get it back within hours. But, here in the UAE.

About Michele Frignani Leading the pre-opening team, Michele Frignani, joined Ajman Saray, a Luxury Collection Resort as general manager in July 2013.

Boasting an impressive track record of over 12 years’ experience as a general manager with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Italian native Michele is a seasoned hotelier with over three decades is hospitality.

During the course of his career he has held senior management positions with some of the world’s leading marques, including Marriot and Hilton, across the United States, Europe, and South America.

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editor's pick

Dubai

UP

on the

In the run up to Dubai Expo 2020, the hospitality sector in emirate is witnessing an unprecedented activity.

We speak to Christopher Hewett, Senior Consultant, TRI that is one of the region’s leading management consultancies for hotels, leisure and real estate, to know what is exactly going on.

How do you see the development of hospitality sector in Dubai?

It is time now for Dubai. The city has experienced strong performance in last 18 months with hotel occupancy exceeding 78 to 80% which is working well for the market. It shows the city is able to attract diverse range of visitors and appeal to both international and regional travellers.

Dubai’s success is based on providing quality accommodation and facilities to not only corporate but also leisure visitors and families. We are entering into a new phase with a very good project coming up soon i.e. Dubai Expo 2020 which is going to help grow the market at a quicker rate than what was originally anticipated although there will be potentially some challenges ahead and that is to do with having enough supply to meet demand and also provide quality range of accommodation - not just focusing on luxury and upscale but also midmarket and budget accommodation and serviced apartments that are Will Dubai be able to sustain demand given the competition from other destinations?

In order for Dubai to maintain its position as a leading destination in the region, it has already started to develop new attractions. The city recently launched three unique theme parks

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Christopher Hewett Senior Consultant, TRI

including Legoland as well as Mall of the World and Marvel Wonders project. So the market is developing and the trend is to put a number of key infrastructures in place to drive demand including more theme parks and family-oriented leisure attractions.

Would all these measures be able to fill the number of rooms coming up in Dubai? The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing expects to double Dubai’s hotel inventory by 2020? Are all these rooms a reality?

Absolutely. The market needs them. The hotel occupancy is averaging at the moment in the high 70s and there are indicators of a good balance between supply and demand. Regardless of Dubai Expo, the market wants to achieve 20 million visitors by 2020 and based on historical and current trends, it will be able to do so. The market is going to attract and increase visitor numbers by 7% every year in order to reach that target. So we are starting to see them becoming a distinct reality.

Now in order for hotels to maintain an occupancy of 75%, they essentially need to double the number of rooms in order to support the increase in demand. Now where is this supply going to come from? Well, they are going to come from mid-market and budget segment because that’s

where you can have a high number of keys in single properties and the amount of investment required for those properties is a lot lower than a luxury hotel and therefore allows for a greater speed at which these properties come along.

Do you think modular construction would take off in Dubai?

Well, I think it is certainly an option that construction companies and engineers are going to look at. If this sort of construction allows you to have a very concise development then absolutely, it is something to be considered. However, the authorities need to ensure that they maintain local regulations and fire and safety issues. Dubai is maturing and growing in a way that it is adopting new technologies in every arena and I don’t see why the construction of hotels would be any different. At the end of the day people who put money on the table are going to look for value for money. Investors are starting to become more financially savvy and therefore they are going to look for options that will be easier and more affordable for them to build projects and come on line quicker. And how they build and construct these is a topic in itself but I don’t see why investors will not look into that option if it is going to save them money and time and if it going to be of the same quality.

Talking about hotel development, are foreign investors shy about putting their money here? If not, who are the investors?

I don’t think they are shy. Recently, there are some Turkish companies that have come into the market, the Chinese are investing too, so there is a lot of investment in Dubai not only from the region but also internationally. Now if you look at the traditional developers of hotels in the market, these are predominantly family owned companies or individuals that are looking to expand their real estate proposition to include hotels and move away from traditional real estate that they have been used to. You also see a lot of international investors coming here and investing in hotel development in freezone areas or partnering up with local companies in joint venture agreements. But I don’t see Dubai as an unattractive destination for investment and you will see a lot of international investment coming into the city.

Do you see this sort of investment growing in the future?

Absolutely. As you get an increasing number of freezones and as the government allows for greater investment into the market more and more coming through. Real estate is one of three pillars of economy in Dubai and it is certainly not going to stop developing and growing.

Some say it is another bubble forming. What would you say?

I don’t think it is. The bubble that we saw in 2008 and 2009 was one predominantly driven by lot of speculation especially in the real estate market. However, the government and authorities have

put in place a number of measures to try and prevent that and stop that speculation from happening and you started to see that with some real estate developments actually cooling off in value not in overall market as such but you are starting to see real estate prices slow down and not grow with double digit figures that we have seen in the last 18 months.

To what extent are banks supporting hotel development in Dubai?

There is finance available for hotel developments.

However, all depends on individual investor, the track record with the bank, the profile of the investor. Banks are still very much cautious of lending within real estate, however, they are doing so when they know there is a lot more security and less risk from defaulting from the particular investor.

We see a lot of real estate companies forming their own hotel management companies here. What is really going on and why are so many real estate companies getting into the hospitality business?

Well, over the years a lot of investors have gone about this idea and there are precedents for success. Rotana is a great local hotel brand that has developed, Jumeirah is another, as well as other operators Coral Hotels through HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings and Landmark through Citymax Hotels to name a few. These are all operators that have come out of the country and are doing very well. However, once individual investors start delving into the actual nuts and bolts of operating a hotel they find that it is very, very challenging and it is a specialized market. So automatically they go back to the drawing board and bring on an international or regional operator to take on the project because they simply find it very challenging and realize they don’t have the expertise to deal with it effectively.

Is it really that easy to form and run a hotel management company?

To start with it is a very prestigious business and a very lucrative market for anybody to enter into.

However, it is not a market that you can enter too easily and without any expertise. It is a very challenging environment and you see a lot of situations where hotel management companies were formed and now cease to exist because they don’t have the full appreciation of what it takes to be an operator prior to doing so.

It is well known that the emergence and growth of OTAs have transformed the hotel business.

Looking ahead is there any way that brand websites can generate more bookings than they currently do? What is your opinion about social media as a booking platform?

Social media should not be used to try and

generate bookings, it should be used to try and influence people to book. And the hotel industry is coming to grips with the rapid expansion and adoption of new forms of technology and the role social media has to play. Online travel agents, as much as they are challenging for hotels, also provide a significant amount of demand and they are something that the hotels need to adopt and take on in a positive light. However, with online bookings obviously there are fees and expenses that are incurred with each booking and hotels are still trying to find ways to ensure that guests will book through their hotel website and direct channels rather than online travel agents. And this is being done by providing a number of incentives and added-value services on direct bookings that help to change the motivation of a guest to book through the hotel website.

How significant are tour operators in this part of the world?

The travel agents no doubt play a very key role in the hospitality industry especially in markets that don’t have the same international and regional reach such as some of the northern emirates. These destinations are still developing and trying to get their awareness out there and tour operators provide a key lifeline for demand in the absence of large media coverage and promotions done by the various tourism authorities. As the markets become more and more aware of international scene, hotels generally have a lower reliance on these tour operators as the overall marketing of the destination attracts a great proportion of demand.

How do you see TRI in this exciting hospitality landscape? What is going on at your end?

TRI provides a wide range of services and consultancy to the entire hospitality spectrum whether it is through the preparation of market and financial feasibility studies prior to developments being commenced, the negotiation and selection of hotel operators for new projects all the way through to operational reviews and assistance for existing hotels to try and improve their performance and reposition hotels to maximize their asset value. We provide strategic advice for hotel operators whether they are large international brands or local emerging companies.

We are a boutique firm and we specialize in providing customized and bespoke work or advise for our clients regardless of how big or small they are.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 97

The

MidMarket Math Modular Construction Can Make the Economics Work for Hotel Investors in Dubai

T

he mid-market hotel segment in Dubai has been a lot in focus recently. Everybody is in agreement that there is a massive shortage in comparison to demand, so what is really holding back investors? Curiosity Middle East talks to Grant Salter, Director - Head of Travel, Hospitality and Leisure Advisory (Middle East Region), Deloitte Corporate Finance Limited, to find out what is going on in the region As low cost airlines rise in popularity across the region, budget travelers are finding Dubai a more attractive destination and in so doing are pushing

98 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Grant Salter Director - Head of Travel, Hospitality and Leisure Advisory Middle East Region Deloitte Corporate Finance Limited (Regulated by the DFSA)

the demand for mid-market lodging in the city.

However, if Dubai has to achieve its goal of 20 million annual visitors by 2020, it must widen its appeal amongst the fast growing middle class in emerging economies of Asia and Africa. And in doing so, it needs to provide more affordable accommodation options. Currently, 5-star and luxury hotels dominate the market, with a market share exceeding 60 per cent giving the well-heeled travelers abundant choice. Out of the existing stock of hotels only 10 per cent of room supply is in the upper midscale and midscale segments.

The tourism authorities realize the destination’s shortcoming and are, therefore, pushing the

development of mid-market hotels. According to Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) statistics, Dubai currently boasts 634 hotels and hotel apartments with 88,680 keys. This number is expected to almost double touching 160,000 rooms within the next 6 years by Dubai Expo 2020. Nearly 30 per cent of hotels will be in the mid-market category in the upcoming supply.

The demand for mid-market remains strong but the challenge is to get the supply rolling. So, why are investors shy on putting their dollar in this segment, given the staggering potential for growth?

High cost of land and construction are the two

There will be a rise in the supply of mid-market hotel inventory which will potentially put demand pressure on the 5-star sector as guests and tour operators look for better deals

primary reasons holding back investors. Alternative construction methods, such as modular-built, appear to be the way forward to make the economics work.

How well is the Middle East region performing in terms of travel and tourism and what are the key trends emerging in the hotel sector?

The Middle East is doing very well in relation to the rest of the world. If one looks at RevPAR growth, according to STR Global data, the Middle East grew at 5.5% for YTD July 2014 while Asia Pacific grew at 1%, Europe 4.4%, North Africa 3%, Southern Africa 6.3%, North America 7.7%, Central America 3.5% and South America 17.1%.

The region’s contribution to GDP at 2.5% is slightly below the world average of 2.9% but is set to increase by on average 4.6% per year over the next 10 years whereas the world average growth is expected to be 4.2% with only Asia Pacific, and Africa growing at a higher rate.

In terms of pipeline growth, the anticipated growth in hotel rooms in the Middle East based on data from STR Global is close to 41%, Asia Pacific 14%, Europe 3%, Africa 8%, North America 7% and South America 15%.

Some of the key trends emerging include the following: Shorter stays more often: Time pressure has meant that in general the days of 3 to 4 week holidays are no longer the norm.

Shorter breaks of between 5 to 10 days have become the norm with visitors taking extended weekends or at most two weekends with the week in-between. This changes the way resorts in particular need to market themselves and their product offering as people want condensed experiences whilst they are travelling.

Millennials: The traveling public is becoming younger with

Millennials travelling more frequently and generally in groups. The Millennial traveler wants ‘experience’ based travel and doesn’t mind paying for such experiences. The range and intensity of the experience is important to the Millennial traveler and they typically choose their destination based on these experiences/attractions.

In terms of accommodation, this market tends to seek accommodation options that are different to your stereotypical ‘hotel’ again seeking to have an ‘experience’ rather than simply a bed. A number of the top hotel operators have developed product to tap this market. Citizen M, Moxy, Malmaison etc. are brands that seek to offer products that offer “non-typical” or unusual design and experiences at a midmarket price point to capture this market.

Millennials also typically travel at short notice making planning for this type of travel (from the hoteliers point of view) quite challenging.

Technology/Connectivity: The tourist is now much better informed than ever before and this has impacted the way the market has to approach its customer. Social media and review websites/apps have created challenges for hotels but those that are able to embrace this technology and respond to their customers’ needs are winning loyalty.

How do you foresee the hospitality landscape in Dubai in the next five years?

I think the market in absolute terms will continue to grow from both a supply and demand perspective. In the short term, supply growth is likely to outpace demand growth as the world economy grows at a slower pace over the next few years. I think the main recovery period has occurred already and we will see healthy growth in demand going forward but not at the pace that we have seen over the last two years. The lag in demand growth vs supply growth could impact rate performance in the market as hotels seek to compete to maintain their occupancy levels.

In addition to this there will be a rise in the supply of mid-market hotel inventory which will

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 99

potentially put demand pressure on the 5-star sector as guests and tour operators look for better deals. In general terms, however, we are bullish about the market as a whole and its prospects over the next 5 years assuming there are no major “shocks” to the market. There are a number of initiatives being rolled out in the coming years which are designed to enhance and expand the broader tourism offering in Dubai and this hopefully has the effect of growing and supporting the demand. This will potentially alter the visitor profile to Dubai again supporting need for mid market accommodation options.

estate investment and this is no different in the hospitality sector. Location is a key determinant of success for hotels but it is certainly not the only factor. Hotels are complex businesses that require experienced management to generate the appropriate levels of returns. Hotels in Dubai are heavily reliant on the strength of the economies in the source markets of their guests and market shocks can result in fluctuations in revenues from one year to the next. Residential real estate investment tends to be more simple to manage and returns tend to be more stable but at a lower long term return.

You recently spoke about the ‘new normal’ that hotel owners and operators need to accept in terms of performance i.e. basically 70 per cent average occupancy instead of 80. What are the reasons behind this?

There are some supply and demand challenges which will take some time to impact the market.

The range of accommodation options is increasing, and with a general volume increase, could change the performance in the market as a whole. This is not necessarily a bad thing. At the moment the market is led by the supply side of the market. At occupancy levels where they have been over the last couple of years the hotels are able to dictate the pricing regime which is not a healthy situation for an extended period. Dubai is already getting close to one of the highest rate markets in the world and if the rate growth continues unabated, this has the potential of hurting the appeal of Dubai as a destination as people start to look for more attractively priced options. So if the planned growth in supply does indeed outpace demand growth, then the market wide occupancy will likely decline to levels of around 70% to 75%

We all know the factors driving demand for mid-market and budget hotels but somehow the progress is slow. Why is it taking so long for investors to realise the potential of budget brands?

There is a lot of interest in the mid-market sector.

The real problem with mid-market is that using tradition/typical construction methods, the cost to construct at present often makes the projects less attractive to investors. Then if you add the cost of land, the project then becomes unviable.

Alternative construction methods have to be used to ensure the projects are viable and there needs to be some sort of intervention from government regarding land because in the areas where midmarket hotels need to be to attract patronage, land is typically prohibitively high. Another challenge is that Dubai has very high safety standards for construction of hotels. This is a good thing, but when it comes to new construction technologies, the process of approvals could take a long time and could become quite expensive for the investors.

How is investing in the hospitality sector in the UAE/Dubai different from investing in other real estate projects?

Location is always the dominant factor in any real

100 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

What kind of investors are we looking at in the UAE hospitality sector?

Typical investors here are from local families and local real estate investment groups from the region.

There is an interest from foreign investors too but on a much smaller scale. Generally speaking,

foreign investors like to acquire properties rather than developing properties on their own. There is considerable cross border investment into the UAE market from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait.

Russian investors have slowed down a bit, however, interest from Indian and Chinese investors and developers remains strong.

How are regional hotel chains faring in comparison to big international brands?

Big brands and operators are often locked into relationships with the large developers.

Smaller investors generally have to look at smaller operators and alternative brands.

Whether those brands have value in the market remains to be seen..

What kind of ROE can an investor expect in budget segment?

Returns in the current ‘landscape’ are under pressure due to high land prices and rising construction costs. We tend to focus rather on internal rates of return (IRR) which could be somewhere in the region of 2 or 4 percentage points lower for mid-market properties. But the important fact is that such properties tend to be more resilient to market fluctuations in the long term.

What are the key challenges being faced by midmarket brands?

The mid-market brands are all keen to get involved in the market but probably the key issues for the mid-market brands are around brand consistency.

There is an expectation in the region for brands to offer a higher level of service, luxury, facilities, etc. In many cases this challenges the brand expectations outside of this market. For example a typical 3-star brand in the US/Europe will tend to be positioned as a 4 star product in this market yet still be branded the same and will be sold as the same brand which can confuse the market.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 100

Jean Pierre Simon Regional General Manager Coral Hotels & Resorts

AHotelier’s Story of the UAE 101 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

then Managing Director of HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings Michel Noblet (now President) asking me to take the next flight to Dubai saying he needed me to join this fabulous home-grown chain of hotels that was the first in the region to develop an alcohol-free concept. It sounded very exciting so I accepted. I arrived in Sharjah on 15th April, 2008 to join Coral Beach Resort Sharjah and never left.”

Jean Pierre Simon (Right) and Christopher Nelson (Left) receiving a tennis award from H.H. Sheikh Hasher Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum

As the UAE gears up to celebrate its 43rd National Day, one of the biggest changes that the country has seen is in the hospitality industry. It has grown at an incredible pace.

We speak to Jean Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Coral Hotels & Resorts, an Emirati group with a strong regional footprint, about his experience in the emirates and what holds him here

S

wiss Hotelier Jean Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Coral Hotels & Resorts, has over 45 years of experience in the industry working with leading brands like Hilton, InterContinental and Sheraton Hotels worldwide. He first came to the United Arab Emirates in 1994. Since then he left its shores many times only to return back. And the last time he came, he decided to stay on.

He recalls, “I came to Dubai to open Royal Abjar Hotel in 1994 as Executive Assistant Manager and in-charge of F&B. During my time there, besides starting popular restaurants such as Flying Dragons, I opened Harry’s Bar, one of Dubai’s very first Jazz bars where we brought leading bands like Ronnie Scott from London. Our outlets did exceedingly well. Competition at the time was not much. All we had those days in terms of luxury hotels was Chicago Beach Hotel which later became Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Hyatt Regency, Hilton World Trade Center and Al Habtoor Metropolitan Hotel. Forte Grand in Jumeirah Beach was under construction”.

A year later, Jean Pierre left Dubai to work in Bahrain from where he moved to Jordan. It was not until1998 that he once again decided to return to

the emirates – this time to join the Jebel Ali Hotel & Golf Resort as Director of Food and Beverage.

He says, “I was missing something and that is when I got a call from Jebel Ali Hotels & Golf Resort saying that the General Manager Mohamed Al Geziry wanted to see me. I came down for the interview that was quite successful. And so, I was hired as Director of Food and Beverage to look after 20 different outlets as well as a massive banqueting operation including outside catering for up to 5000 people. Mr Geziry is the man who helped to bring the European market to Dubai especially the Swiss and German tourists”.

Jean Pierre continues, “I stayed at the Jebel Ali Hotel & Golf Resort for three years and during the time I had the honour to do some of the most prestigious functions for the government and many mega events such as the Dubai Airshow, Dubai World Cup, Dubai Desert Classic, Nad Al Sheba Camel and Horse Races, etc where very often we had the seven rulers of the seven emirates attending”.

In 2001 Jean Pierre took the post of General Manager at Al Jazira Hotel & Resort in Ghantoot, Abu Dhabi. He remembers, “The reason I went there was because they wanted to build a totally new concept opening a new hotel complex with villas and golf club.

Unfortunately the project never took off and after one and a half years I left”.

This time Jean Pierre took off for Mauritius from where he travelled to Kenya and South Africa. He says, “In the summer of 2008, I got a call from the

Jean Pierre looks back over the last two decades with a great deal of amazement. “Sheikh Zayed was only World Trade Center and after the Metropolitan Hotel there was just sand until Jebel Ali Hotel. It was a whole day affair to travel there.

When I first came to the UAE, I used to hear all those big plans one after the other and say to myself, ‘No it will not happen. But everything that was announced was done. Once when my family visited, we saw those unbelievable design boards for Palm Island and few yeas later it was finished.”

He continues, “Likewise Burj Al Arab is the Eiffel Tower of Dubai. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, had fantastic vision to make it the trademark of Dubai and then everything followed. The largest mall, the tallest tower, the first metro… And all this in only a few years! What I am impressed most about Dubai is how fast they started to create world events to put Dubai on the world map. And the very first events that put Dubai on the map were Men’s Dubai Tennis Championship, Dubai Golf Desert Classic and Dubai World Cup. In the beginning I did not understand why these three mega events were scheduled one after the other and the rest of the year a bit quiet. But whoever made the decision was absolutely right. For those two months the world only talks about Dubai.

“Today, of course, we have plenty more events like the Jazz Festival, the different races, marathons, cycling, concerts, cultural shows, exhibitions and more. Dubai has done a fantastic job of promoting the UAE that most other nations could not do. It is truly fascinating and one can only admire Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce for having put Dubai so quickly on the world map.”

Dubai: Working up investors’ appetite for budget hotels

Will the cashrich investors bite into the mid-market pie?

Curiosity Middle East finds out…

Sumati Murari Vice President JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group Middle East & Africa

104 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

I

n view of the growing demand from travellers, the authorities in Dubai are pushing for mid-market hotels but the investors are dragging their feet. Sumati Murari, Vice President of JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group Middle East & Africa, believes it is only a matter of time before the market warms up to the opportunity. She said, “There is need for investors to broaden their horizon and consider mid-market projects as the hotel market gets stronger. It is fast growing and highly competitive market that will reap rich dividends.”

With over six years of hospitality real estate consulting experience, Sumati has been involved in numerous advisory, strategic consulting and asset review assignments for hospitality, leisure and mixed-use projects, assessing the strategic viability of these developments. Her work experience includes conducting various market and financial feasibility studies, valuations, research and strategic advisory assignments for the hospitality industry across Middle East, Africa and the Indian Sub-Continent.

What kind of change are you witnessing in terms of hotel development in Dubai?

It is a gradual change since the market has been completely steered to upscale and upper-upscale / luxury segment (more than 70% of existing supply in 4 and 5 star segment). Most of the current pipeline of confirmed 20000 rooms in

construction from now to 2018 is in the 4 and 5-star hotel segment. There is a gap in the branded midscale segment. Yes, there is a big talk about moving towards the mid-scale segment. It will happen as the destination is maturing and is also being actively backed by Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM.) Who is driving this change?

If you see any international tourism destination, mid-market hotels form the base of the pyramid.

In comparison Dubai has a significant proportion of upscale and luxury hotels. More mid-market hotels will help diversify the demand base of Dubai broadening its appeal to a wider range of travellers. This is also linked to the affordability factor of the destination.

What is the key reason behind the slow pace of development in mid-market segment?

There are multiple reasons. Primarily, financials of the hotel have to make sense in terms of return on investment. The cost of land is an important factor and from an investor’s perspective it is too high in certain areas of Dubai and at a level that cannot support mid-scale development.

So who is investing in hotels?

In this market there is a dependence on local and regional families when it comes to hotel investment. Within the Middle East, investor sentiment remains the most positive for UAE as it is considered a safe haven compared to some of the other countries in the region since the Arab spring.

Investor appetite in Dubai has increased over the last few years underpinned by

strong trading performance and tourism demand growth in the city. There is growing interest from international investors. Market is more driven by development rather than acquisition. There are land banks available and therefore it is still a very development driven market.

Realistically speaking how do you foresee the hospitality landscape in the city six years from now?

We see the city evolving into a more matured and robust hospitality market in the coming years. The hospitality landscape in Dubai will continue to remain increasingly competitive, however it will be supported by the development of the various tourism attractions across the city. If Dubai is talking about drawing 20 million visitors annually by 2020, there will be a need of diversifying its hospitality offering across segments. All said, Dubai is an upscale destination and it will continued to be positioned this way. However a more diverse hotel offering will enable it to attract a wider range of customers and make it competitive as a destination amongst international travellers.

And, we believe , it will happen.

How is Dubai emerging as a world-class destination in terms of hotel development?

Dubai has managed to continuously evolve itself as a tourism destination and the planned projects in the coming years will add to its overall offering. In terms of tourism infrastructure and offering Dubai has developed very well over the last 10 - 15 years and has multiple demand drivers such as family activities, beach, shopping, night life. Looking ahead it is only getting better with the city adding more new attractions such as branded theme parks, retail areas, dining options and leisure offerings.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 105

Meet the

‘G8’

GM At The Ajman Palace Hotel Managed by HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings

106 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Few general managers in the world can claim to have the experience that Ferghal Purcell brings to The Ajman Palace Hotel.

He is the man who hosted the world’s most powerful leaders in 2013 at the G8 Summit at Lough Erne Resort in Northern Ireland - the first ever in the region’s history, and the ‘best ever’ in the words of British Prime Minister David Cameron.

F

erghal took over as the General Manager of The Ajman Palace Hotel less than six months ago and has since infused the 5-star property, managed by HMH Hospitality Management Holdings, with an incredible passion. His warmth and enthusiasm is etched on every face that comes forward to greet guests at the hotel. Once again he has taken up an extraordinary challenge: this time to be a market leader in a destination that is just emerging on the tourism map and is witnessing an unprecedented development of hotels that is putting an enormous pressure on the supply and demand chain. Yet despite the growing number of luxury hotels in the emirate, he is determined to establish The Ajman Palace Hotel as the first choice among travellers.

Confident of achieving it, Ferghal stated, “The Ajman Palace Hotel is one of the top properties in Ajman and certainly the UAE. With my diverse global experience and my ability to get the best of those who work with me, I am confident of taking The Ajman Palace Hotel to where it deserves to be. The fact that so many of the world’s leading brands are present in Ajman will only strengthen it as a destination. We all need to lend our support and experience to drive visitor numbers into the emirate, and work more closely with Ajman Tourism Development Department to promote it. Plans for the international airport combined with new properties, infrastructure and attractions such as the golf course in Al Zohra will boost tourism in Ajman positioning it as a sought-after destination in the years ahead. There is sufficient business out there across the different segments to sustain existing and upcoming hotels but we would have to work very hard for it as we are competing with top destinations. As a feeder market GCC holds strong potential for us that we still haven’t fully tapped but would definitely be targeting in the coming months.”

Ferghal further added, “I see The Ajman Palace Hotel as a unique brand where our absolute signature is the warmth of our welcome and the level of friendliness and service. It is part of every experience at the property in a family-friendly, alcohol-free, safe environment. I am an Irish hotelier and that is what I do best.”

And it is no surprise to see this mammoth ‘will to succeed’ knowing where he is coming from. No event of the magnitude of the G8 Summit had ever been held in Northern Ireland before 2013 and leading the team who made it a true success was none other than Ferghal Purcell. In attendance were US President Barack Obama, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, British Prime Minister David Cameron, French President Francois Hollande, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta as well as the likes of IMF leader Christine Lagarde.

What is unbelievable is six months prior to hosting G8 Summit, a major fire at Lough Erne Resort gutted its 25 best rooms, spa, library and gym.

And the fire took place merely a day before British Prime Minister David Cameron was due to arrive to inspect the property to decide if it could play host to the summit.

Ferghal recalled, “We were stunned to receive him on such short notice at such a time for such a critical decision and there is nothing we could do to change it. We had absolutely no hope of making it. Prime Minister Cameron saw the very worst of the damage when I showed him around the hotel that day. And at that moment he said to me, ‘Ferghal don’t worry. I can see beyond the fire.’

Later as the British Prime Minister set down in a private room to discuss the matter with his people, he said, ‘It is just like Camp David, only better.’

And with it the G8 was confirmed for Lough Erne Resort. Will I ever do an event like it again? I doubt it, but what I learnt from the experience, enriched me both as a person and a hotelier. And that is the kind of passion I bring to The Ajman Palace Hotel.”

About The Ajman Palace Hotel The Ajman Palace Hotel, managed by HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings, is a picturesque sanctuary of privileged perfection conveniently located 22 km from Dubai International Airport and 11 km from Sharjah International Airport.

Set on a private beach, this alluring hideaway is a heritage resort with a modern spirit. Bringing an unprecedented level of luxury, with captivating views of the Arabian Gulf, the hotel is a destination unto itself. Balancing world-class facilities with the legendary Arabian hospitality, it offers 254 rooms, suites and serviced residences, a remarkable range of restaurants and lounges, fabulous meeting and event venues including the largest ballroom in the Northern Emirates ideal for weddings and conventions, as well as an array of leisure and recreation options at Encore Lifestyle Club featuring Encore Spa and state-of-the-art fitness facility. A magical experience awaits you here.

Visit www.TheAjmanPalace.com

Ferghal Purcell with US President Barack Obama Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 107

great

escapes

Environment Sustainability at

Constance Hotels & Resorts

E

nvironmental sustainability is about making responsible decisions that will reduce the business’ negative impact on the environment. It is not simply about reducing the amount of waste you produce or using less energy, but is concerned with developing processes that will lead to businesses becoming completely sustainable in the future, which is why Constance Hotels & Resorts have incorporated various environmentally friendly practices into their business models.

Constance Hotels & Resorts in Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles strive to keep

108 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

achieving environmental sustainability practices including; meet and exceed applicable environmental legislations and standards, value and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of all properties, promote efficient use of materials and resources, especially water and energy. In addition, all the properties work diligently to minimize the waste stream by reusing, recycling and conserving natural resources, particularly through energy and water conservation. Constance Hotels & Resorts promote on-going awareness and educate employees on environmental management system to ensure they will be able to reflect it to the guests.

“Green Day” at Constance Ephélia Seychelles Constance Ephélia is a successful example of environment sustainability as it balances between the economic benefits of tourism and conservation.

With a national nature reserve, marine park and ancient mangrove forests all on its doorstep, Constance Ephélia was built with the idea of actively protecting and enhancing the biodiversity of the region. All the plants in the resort are endemic to the region and the raft of water sports on offer are nonmotorized to protect the stunning marine park. In addition, Constance Ephélia makes its own compost and recycling wastewater, as well as monthly environmental project such as ‘Green Day’ when guests, staff and locals work together to clear waste from the mangrove forest and plant seedlings.

“Coral Gardening” & “Turtle eggs rescue” at Constance Lémuria Seychelles Constance Lémuria has the first ever large-scale active reef restoration project in the region using “Coral Gardening”. 50,000 fragments of coral have been raised in underwater nurseries and a further 15,000 transplanted in degraded areas. The longterm success of this mass transplantation is yet to be monitored but the project has already had a very positive knowledge-building impact: 30 scientific divers were involved and trained on reef restoration techniques.

Constance Lémuria have taken extra measures to protect the endangered species of the green and hawksbill turtles that they have employed a turtle manager and landscape manager. They have rescued 135 green turtle eggs from Grande Anse Kerlan to protect them from their natural predators such as crabs and rats. The turtles are safely collected by the

turtle manager, and are placed in a box and covered in sand so that they can hatch wintin 8 weeks. As soon as they hatch, Robert Matombe releases the baby turtles safely on to the beach so they can find their way to the ocean.

Constance Halaveli protecting reefs in Maldives Constance Halaveli has signed a venture in association with Valmont and Water Solutions to create an artificial coral garden in the North Ari Atoll to help protect the Maldivian seas. A super structure resembling a Maldivian ‘Dhoni’ - the traditional

Maldivian boat made of steel, will act as the skeleton on which existing corals from the house reef will be planted. These will serve as a refuge for marine life including eels and lionfish and will help develop and enhance the lagoon’s corals, which are already suffering because of climate change.

Constance Hotels & Resorts main goal is to protect the environment, plants and animals in order to ensure a healthy living for future generation.

Visit www.constancehotels.com

Constance Lémuria have taken extra measures to protect the endangered species of the green and hawksbill turtles that they have employed a turtle manager and landscape manager Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 109

unwind &

indulge

Now Open Encore Spa At The Ajman Palace Hotel L ooking for a relaxing escape?

The newly opened Encore Spa at The Ajman Palace Hotel is a luxurious urban getaway offering an array of indulgent spa and beauty treatments. Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of The Ajman Palace Hotel, said, “Encore Spa is the perfect sanctuary to unwind - a place where you can experience the ultimate relaxation and restoration surrounded in a tranquil setting. Upon entering the spa, you will find yourself transported to a world of peace and calm”.

Encore Spa features nine beautifully appointed luxurious treatment rooms equipped with the very best facilities. Out of these four offer sweeping views of Arabian Gulf. On site are also two 110 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

VIP treatment suites with expansive bathtubs for specialized body treatments, one room for couples as well as a relaxation area enclosed in the traditional Arabian-style Mashrabiya that further enhances the experience.

Inspired by some of the world’s greatest wellness traditions, Encore Spa is a full service premier day spa. Here you can dive into a journey of rejuvenating treatments designed to restore and revive mind, body and spirit in a secluded location.

On the menu are a wide selection of massage treatments from around the world from Balinese to Swedish, Thai and Indian massage. Available also is deep tissue massage, foot and hand reflexology, and aroma warm stone massage. Working on tired nerves and muscles, highly skilled therapists melt

conveniently located 22 km from Dubai International Airport and 11 km from Sharjah International Airport. Set on a private beach, this alluring hideaway is a heritage resort with a modern spirit. Bringing an unprecedented level of luxury, with captivating views of the Arabian Gulf, the resort is a destination unto itself. Balancing world-class facilities with the legendary Arabian hospitality, it offers 254 rooms, suites and serviced residences, a remarkable range of restaurants and lounges, fabulous meeting and event venues including the largest ballroom in the Northern Emirates ideal for weddings and conventions, as well as an array of leisure and recreation options at Encore Lifestyle Club featuring Encore Spa and state-of-the-art fitness facility. A magical experience awaits you here.

Visit www.TheAjmanPalace.com

away your stress and pamper your senses using luxurious products and healing techniques. Equally superb are the beauty treatments that are a perfect complement to the signature spa treatments giving you the right glow and finishing touches.

Opening Soon, Encore Ladies Salon will offer an array of hair care services from hair styling and cutting, to blow and dry, hair curling, colouring and highlighting. Additional services would include make-up application and bridal services.

About The Ajman Palace Hotel The Ajman Palace Hotel, managed by HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings, is a picturesque sanctuary of privileged perfection

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 111

unwind &

indulge

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112 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Burj Al Arab Launches Relaxation Steam and Sauna Rooms Exclusively for Gentlemen

The hotel launches sky-high glass sauna and steam lounges 150 metres above the Arabian Gulf Burj Al Arab, the World’s Most Luxurious Hotel, has taken rejuvenation and wellness to new heights with the launch of male heat and steam spa lounges looking out to the World Islands and Downtown Dubai. Sleek, smart and sophisticated, the new panoramic spaces feature exceptional visibility at all times thanks to a rare fog-proof glass. The steam lounge also has a special crystal frame which, when heated, becomes covered in a veneer of ice, against the exquisite mosaic tiles designed exclusively for Burj Al Arab.

To further enhance guests’ experience, the steam and sauna lounges have chromotherapy colour light systems increasing energy and relaxation.

These new additions further complement the spa’s exquisite panoramic infinity pools and plunge pools.

Burj Al Arab is managed by Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel

company and a member of Dubai Holding. It is designed to resemble a billowing sail and stands at a height of 321 meters. It is one of the most photographed structures in the world and has been consistently voted the world’s most luxurious hotel, with features including in suite check-in and check-out, reception desks on every floor, round-the-clock private butlers and use of the hotel’s Rolls-Royce fleet and private beach. The hotel’s 202 luxury suites range from 170 to 780 square meters with a rain shower and a Jacuzzi in each suite, as well as six restaurants and conference and banqueting venues.

Burj Al Arab’s Talise Spa (formerly Assawan Spa) provides bespoke treatments designed to match guests’ needs and desires. Located on the 18th floor with uninterrupted views over the Arabian Gulf, the spa offers 14 therapy rooms incorporating the traditional colours of the UAE. Talise Spa is open for both in-house guests and visitors.

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health check

Dubai Cosmetic Surgery is one of c the leading cosmeti surgery clinics in U A E a n d a k e y p l ay e r l in within the medica tourism sector. We a caught up with Anis Vrabac, the Head of Hair Transplant D e pa r t m e n t at t h e c l i n i c t o ta l k about the impact of cosmetic surgery on medical tourism in the region.

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How did Dubai Cosmetic Surgery curve out a niche in the medical tourism sector?

From the beginning when Dubai Cosmetic Surgery clinic started its operations in 2003, we started receiving clients from other countries, but on a smaller scale. Then when the Hair Transplant department was established back in 2009, the rules of the game changed because we made it more affordable compared to other countries that are offering similar services like the US, Canada and Europe. This move made more patients make a beeline for Dubai Cosmetic Surgery and to date, during the peak seasons (October to March); we get 50% to 60% more cosmetic and hair transplant surgery patients, which is an impressive figure.

How is Dubai Cosmetic Surgery performing in terms of attracting foreign clients? What are your statistics?

Dubai Cosmetic Surgery is very active in terms of marketing our cosmetic surgery services, like hair transplant. In regards to attracting foreign clients, our statistics stand at 50% to 60% more patients during the peak season which is October to March. This is due to the clinic offering the latest and most current procedures and treatments, our fair prices due to UAE being tax free (75% cheaper compared to our competitors in the West), offering packages that include tourism activities like shopping, site-seeing etc. in addition to the medical procedures and doing complete follow-ups on our patients.

Which regions do most of your clients come from?

Although we are targeting clients from everywhere in the world, at the moment most of our clients come from the GCC region, United Kingdom, United States, Australia and Western Europe. We also receive VIPs from Nigeria, India and other parts of the world.

How is the UAE, and in particular Dubai Cosmetic Surgery different compared to countries like say Turkey that are offering almost the same services but at a lower price?

First, I would like to point out that the services are nowhere near the same as UAE in general. Although countries like Turkey are very popular when it comes to procedures like hair transplant, their cosmetic surgery sector is not regulated like it is in the UAE. For instance,

in some of these countries you will find technicians doing hair transplant procedures instead of qualified surgeons. Hence you will find that the quality is not at the same level. In UAE, the Ministry of Health regulates everything, making sure that the services offered are up to the highest standards, and that is also what we offer at Dubai Cosmetic Surgery.

What are the challenges faced by the cosmetic industry in UAE? I would not really call them challenges, but rather the government being thorough with all new procedures being introduced in the country. It takes a lot of time to get a new procedure approved by the governing body concerned. But, since it is for the health sector’s benefit, we do understand.

What distinguishes Dubai Cosmetic Surgery from other cosmetic clinics in the UAE? At Dubai Cosmetic Surgery, we have the latest cosmetic technologies, procedures and treatments. For instance, we are the only clinic in the Gulf region specialising in Stem Cell FUE hair transplant procedure. In addition to this, we always make it a point to have specialised personnel by bringing in experts to handle different procedures instead of having one surgeon handle several different procedures. Our approach to our patients is totally different, compared to others, in that we have personalised it through doing complete follow-ups for up to one year after a certain procedure.

What are the improvements you have seen in the UAE over the last five years in regards to medical tourism and cosmetic surgery?

There have been numerous improvements over the years. Firstly the UAE government has taken great steps in achieving the highest levels of quality; the safety regulation is very strict; the government is now promoting UAE as a destination for medical tourism; and finally, instead of residents leaving the UAE for other countries to have cosmetic procedures, it is the other way round. More people are coming to the UAE to have these medical procedures.

Do you think UAE has reached its saturation point in terms of Cosmetic clinics? Why or why not?

No. UAE is getting stronger and stronger as the demand grows. This means the supply has to grow as well, considering we are looking at a medical tourism economy boost of up to Dh2.6 billion by 2020.

What are your plans for Dubai Cosmetic Surgery and Hair transplant within the clinic and in UAE in general?

At the moment we are working on a number of expansion projects. We are looking to expand across the GCC region after we cover all the emirates in the UAE. In addition to that, we are also in the process of merging with leading healthcare providers in the region.

Before

After

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 115

health check

Global Hawk Imaging & Diagnostics (GHID) Bags International Star Quality Award 2014 in Medicine The premium chain of diagnostic and telemedicine centres, a division of multinational conglomerate Mulk Holdings, has been recognized for its innovative radiology and telemedicine offerings.

Global Hawk Imaging, Diagnostics (GHID) and Telemedicine Services, the premium healthcare division under the UAE-based multinational conglomerate Mulk Holdings, has won the prestigious International Star Quality Award 2014 in Medicine for offering the most innovative radiology and telemedicine services in the Middle East.

Dr. Nawab Shafi Ul Mulk, Director of GHID and Mulk Healthcare Division, received the coveted ISQA at a ceremony organized by Business Initiative Directions (B.I.D) at the B.I.D. International Quality Convention in Geneva Switzerland recently. The internationally acclaimed award comes in recognition of the excellence in quality, service and innovation offered by the chain of GHID centres in the UAE. 116 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

offering the concept across the globe,” Dr. Mulk further said.

GHID is the region’s one of the biggest private multi-disciplinary referral diagnostics facility, which was unveiled in Dubai in 2011. With its in-house tele-radiology service, provided under the umbrella of Global Hawk Telemedicine, GHID is the region’s only ‘twin concept’ diagnostic service provider, and the UAE’s only Tele-radiology solutions provider, approved by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

The International BID Quality Award is designed to recognize the prestige of the outstanding companies, organizations, and leaders in the business world.

Upon receiving the award, Dr. Mulk, said, “We are extremely proud of receiving the global quality star award. At Mulk Holdings, we are deeply committed to quality and innovation. All of our services are driven on this model and we aim to constantly excel at it. These accolade stands not only as a stamp of our success but also as a continued assurance of our commitment towards excellence. This has helped us set even higher quality benchmarks for ourselves for the future.”

Introducing the concept in 2008, GHID incorporated the latest medical technologies, aimed at providing diagnostics and tele-radiology services in record turn-around reporting time of 30 minutes for local diagnostics with second opinions from global radiology experts. This is in addition to implementing other global benchmarks,” he added.

“By introducing the unique combination of internet and digital radiology in the region, GHID and the Telemedicine division have been pioneers in the segment. Based on the success of this model in the UAE, we aim to expand our operations

Commenting on winning the global recognition, Mr. Nawab Shaji Ul Mulk, Chairman of Mulk Holdings, said, “We are very honored to be recognized by BID, which is a highly-reputed international quality board. We are extremely grateful to the visionary Rulers, Government entities and the local community in the UAE for extending their support and encouragement to us.”

Dr. Mulk said, “We installed the first prototype ‘Mulk‎Digitizer’ at Global Hawk Telemedicine office in Hamriyah Free Zone. We later moved to Dubai Airport Freezone Authority. Stepping away from the conventional diagnostic model, the focus of our tele-radiology service has been on digitizing x-ray and CT imaging technologies. The computer compatible images are sent online to radiologists in other parts of the world, to generate reports and reverting to the physicians who require the service.”

“We further enhanced the efficiency of the system, enabling our Centre to provide the unique service -- reading and diagnosing radiology images for a number of hospitals and medical facilities across the UAE and the Middle East. The concept of teleradiology gained momentum very soon and is now emerging as a revolutionary medical service model globally, in line with the latest developments in the digital technology sphere,” he explained.

GHID provides high quality and rapid subspecialty radiology interpretations from an expert panel of trained subspecialist radiologists from around the world. The range of services includes Open MRI, 16 Slice CT SCAN, General Digital Radiography, 4D Ultrasound / Doppler; Fetal Imaging, CAD Mammography, Bone Densitometry and Digital OPG; in addition to laboratory services like Pathology, Histopathology, Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry.

Visit www.globalhawkdiagnostics.com

A Christmas Carol

By Charles Dickens

on the shelf

Season’s Reads Christmas and books go together like sugar and spice. We have put together some great reads for the whole family to curl up with on the couch this season. So which of these will be under your tree?

A Christmas Carol has been described as the most perfect of Dickens’s works and as a quintessential heart-warming story, and it is certainly the most popular. It’s a ghost story with a moral, a message of hope, good cheer and Christian redemption, and an assertion of the value of the Christmas festival when families get together for feasting, and quarrels are made up.

Paper: An Elegy

By Ian Sansom “What do reading a book, smoking a cigarette, throwing confetti and voting in an election have in common? The answer, of course, is paper. Paper serves nearly every function of our lives. It is the technology with which we have made sense of the world. Yet the age of paper is ending ... “

Thinking, Fast and Slow

By Daniel Kahneman

Kahnemann is the godfather of behavioural economics, and this distillation of a lifetime’s thinking about why we make bad decisions – about everything from money to love – is full of brilliant anecdote and wisdom. It is Kahnemann’s belief that anyone who thinks they know exactly what is going on hasn’t understood the question; as such it’s the perfect gift for opinionated family members everywhere.

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How to Be a Woman By Caitlin Moran Underneath beautiful, aching and hilarious memories of family life, it’s a true polemic, arguing that women still eat, shave and dress entirely for the benefit of men.see everyday vegetables in new light.

The Box of Delights

By John Masefield

The Box of Delights is hard to beat as a festive read and a true Christmas classic. It is a children’s fantasy novel and a sequel to The Midnight Folk. It was first published in 1935.

The Christmas Mystery

By Jostein Gaarder

The book contains a story within a story and certainly reminds one of the magic of Christmas. Fifty years ago a girl disappeared from her home in Norway. She ran after a lamb and found herself travelling right across Europe to Palestine, and back through 2000 years to meet the Holy Family in Bethlehem.

On the Map: Why the World Looks the Way it Does

By Simon Garfield

“... from the early sketches of philosophers and explorers through to Google Maps and beyond, an examination of how maps both relate and realign our history ... “

Christmas Craft

By Danielle Lowy Christmas Craft contains everything you need to get into the holiday spirit.

Decorate your gifts in style, dress up for the occasion and deck your home with handcrafted decorations.

This book is sure to provide hours of festive fun.

The First Christmas

By Jan Pienkowski

It is a gorgeous book, with Pienkowski’s signature silhouette illustrations. The text is taken from the King James Bible, which is hard to beat when it comes to the nativity story and reads like a service sheet for a traditional carol service.

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pet power

Aquariums: Decorative and Restful Fish Tanks Catch On

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B

e it a hotel, home or office, a dazzling aquarium is a surefire way to impress and wow people. But more than that, a tank of tropical fish can have a tranquilizing effect on you.

Experts claim pet fish can reduce stress and lower blood pressure.

Therefore, it is turning out to be one of the biggest hobbies in the UAE. The surge of interest has created a demand for exotic and more expensive species often mixed with commonplace guppies, neon

tetras and swordtails that are the mainstays of pet shop aquariums and the quart bowls.

Saltwater reef fish are more prized than freshwater varieties, for brilliance of color as well as other aesthetic considerations. But nearly all have to be captured in native seas, a process that drives up the price and causes greater mortality in shipping because the fish must endure more handling and stress for longer periods of time.

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art & soul

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fashion

for

Blending traditional Pakistani crafts with modern silhouettes, fashion designer Sahar Atif creates spectacular bridal, formal and casual wear under her signature brand SAAI

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T

here has been no looking back for Sahar Atif, the pioneer princess of SAAI a leading brand for bridal, formal and casual wear, since she rolled out of the first experimental batch of PIFD (Pakistan Institute of Fashion Design) in 1998.

An artist by nature, Sahar has never been intimidated by challenges. She has chosen to look them in the eye and faced them with grace, be it her passion for fashion or her continual efforts in the revival of rural craft. A glimpse of Sahar - the maestro- at work, absorbed in her creations would open a new window into the life of this passiondriven designer. Sahar works like an ancient artisan working on every piece of her creation.

In 2012 Sahar took on Pareesa, a brand launched

by ChenOne (One of Pakistan’s largest retail chain) as a Creative director. It was a very wholesome experience which transformed the artist within her into an entrepreneur - a true marriage of sorts.

Every time she opens the ramp she bedazzles her audiences with a unique blend of bridal couture and fusion of latest trends along with the shades of traditional weave and unmatched excellence.

Although she likes to experiment yet her identity is defined by the traditions of the subcontinent.

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SAAI

By Sahar Atif

Established in 2004, SAAI by Sahar Atif is an under stated, minimalistic brand best known for the designers’ signature incorporation of Pakistani craft and heritage within each creation.

Indeed SAAI's outlook towards design is extremely experimental with the female form, at times playing with body sculpted silhouettes and at other instances draping it in yards of flowing fabrics to create the allure of mysterious romanticism teamed with the timelessness of craft embroideries.

Sahar Atif herself is a graduate of the first batch of Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design [PIFD] who further studied fashion marketing in America. She encapsulates the spirit of entrepreneurship with her expanding brand SAAI and academia through her work as a teacher within the realms of fashion. To this end, Sahar is an integral part of the visiting faculty at PIFD where she teaches fashion marketing to aspiring designers. She also currently heads the Design and Textile Department at the Lahore Grammar School and is also working in close coordination with the University of Cambridge in the implementation and design of an A-level module in Textile, Design and Fashion.

While SAAI was initially launched with a focus on bridal and formal wear, the brand has grown to encompass a diversity of labels including pret-a-porter, Haute Couture and diffusion wear.

July 2005 saw the launch of ‘SAAI Concepts’, a brand focusing on home accessories with its retail outlet in Lahore. In 2007 Sahar showcased her SAAI bridal collection at the coveted Bridal Asia platform in New Delhi to an overwhelming response from media and buyers alike.

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The SAAI “Revival Collection” in 2008 saw collaboration between SAAI and AikHunarAikGhar [AHAN], an organization focused on encouraging the revival of craft and the empowerment of marginalized rural women in Pakistan. The 2009 witnessed the showcasing of SAAI's Bridal collection at the Asiana Bridal Show in January of the same year to much acclaim. At the 2010 PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week, Sahar Atif made her runway debut in Pakistan with her critically acclaimed “Gulistani Sahar” prêt a porter collection, inspired by the regional embroideries of rural Pakistan. This was followed by the showcasing of “Lattice Lure” in November 2010, inspired by locally crafted embroideries.

The SAAI “Revival Collection” in 2008 saw collaboration between SAAI and AikHunarAikGhar [AHAN], an organization focused on encouraging the revival of craft and the empowerment of marginalized rural women in Pakistan

In February 2011 SAAI was invited to present its collection at the Mauritius Fashion week and later in the year, Sahar showcased “Domail”,

a collection in which AHAN came together with SAAI under the umbrella of Sahar Atif ’s design aesthetics, focusing on ethnic Kashmiri embroidery, at the PFDC Fashion week platform.

Thus far, 2012/14has witnessed Sahar Atif ’s collaboration with Chen One’s Pareesa Lawn brand. Sahar single handedly took responsibility of Chen One’s participation in “Lifestyle Pakistan” in New Delhi. A hugely successful venture both brand and designer. Pareesa showcased in the PFDC fashion week 2014 in the high street category, Presenting runway lines to the mass market customer on the Chenone racks.

Sahar continues to be an integral part of the Chen One team as a the Creative Director of Pareesa.

SAAI showcased at PFDC Bridal Couture Week 2012 and 2013 and also exhibited at Bridal Asia in New Delhi in 2013.

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Let’s

‘Clay’

with Homa Farley

Homa Farley Potter and ceramic designer Homa Farley is currently living and working in the United Arab Emirates. She founded the Abu Dhabi Pottery in 1994 where she shares her love of clay with numerous students. Born in Tehran, she left for the UK as a teenager in order to study English.

She has since lived in various countries around the world. Her influences have come from ancient Middle Eastern pottery and ceramics and training with international potters in Japan and the UK. Passionate about working with clay, she specialises in mainly thrown Stoneware pieces.

Homa is also a keen Martial Artist and Instructor in the Korean Martial Art of Sil Jeon Moo. She was awarded a 4th Dan Honorary black belt in March 2013. Homa holds a 3rd Dan black belt in Hoi Jeon Moo Sool.

Homa has taken part in many exhibitions throughout the Emirates and internationally.

Following her solo exhibition in 2000, at the Aubgineh & Sofalineh Museum (The National Pottery & Glass Museum) in Tehran, two of her pots were selected to be placed on permanent display (she is the only contemporary potter to have the honour of having a permanent exhibit there). Her work has also been exhibited at the Saadabad Palace Gallery and Nivaran Palace Gallery in Tehran.

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Classes at Abu Dhabi Pottery Adults and children every day except Fridays and private sector holidays • Adults: 10 to 12 noon and 6 to 8 pm • Children: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Other Activities • Children and adults birthday parties • Team building workshops • Restoration • School/group visits • Supply and services of all pottery equipment and raw materials • Teacher training • Specialised workshops; Glaze making, glazing techniques, raku firing etc

How did it all start?

I was always interested in the Arts and tried many forms of Arts and Crafts but it was not till I touched clay that I realised how much I loved clay. It was love at first touch.

How did you begin teaching pottery?

After doing pottery for several years I realised I would love to share my love for clay with others and that is when I started teaching and realised how much I love passing on my knowledge whether it was Martial Arts or Pottery to other people.

What was your family’s reaction?

My family was and still is very supportive of my passion and my work.

Why pottery as a field?

Pottery and Martial arts have always been something I have been drawn to all my life I had to stop practicing Martial Arts because I could not afford to break any fingers which would stop me from making pots. I am so lucky to be working in a field for which I am so passionate.

Awards Homa was a prize winner in the 1990 students’ exhibition at the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, and was winner of the Judges Award (1st prize) at the 2003 Dubai International Art Centre Member’s Exhibition. Homa won the Professional Achievement Award 1st prize at Dubai International Art Centre Members Exhibition in 2008. In 2006, she was appointed as a member of the Arts Advisory Committee for the Dubai Community Theater and Art Centre (DUCTAC).

What are your future plans?

To do research into the areas I am really interested in such as making and creating new formulas for textured glazes.

Qualifications In addition to many courses with various potters/ Ceramicists Homa attended: 2008: Glasgow School of Art - BA in Ceramics Design.

2006: Glasgow School of Art - Diploma in Ceramics Design.

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s a m t s i r h C

this & that

bazaar

Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents. Let the festivities begin. Our handpicked traditional Christmas gifts will get you in the mood to celebrate

Christmas hand-made angel on tree

Red vintage handcrafted Christmas bauble with a furry texture decorated with a traditional Christmas tree

Hand-made Christmas bag

Hand-made Christmas fairy dolls

Handmade heart clipped to a Christmas ribbon with a Christmas tree shaped clothespin

Christmas stocking

Christmas snowman with scarf and Santa Claus hat Rocking Horse

Christmas deer

Clay bells

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tech talk

Room Key 2.0 – Key Card Optional Announcing the Global Debut of Spg Keyless from Starwood Hotels & Resorts: The First Mobile, Keyless Room Entry Rollout Begins at Aloft, Element and W Hotels Around the World It’s a mobile office. It’s a virtual wallet. It’s a lifeline. And now, it’s a hotel room key. The smartphone will get a whole lot smarter – especially while on the road. Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG®), the award-winning loyalty program from Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), introduces SPG Keyless, the hospitality industry’s first mobile, keyless entry system allowing guests to use their smartphone as a key.

Rolling out to Aloft, Element and W Hotels around the globe, SPG Keyless makes its official debut this month in 10 hotels in markets including Beijing, Hong Kong, New York, Los Angeles and Doha.

Cancun, Aloft Cupertino, Aloft Harlem, W Doha, W Hollywood, W Hong Kong, W New York-Downtown, W Singapore and Element Times Square. Starwood will rapidly rollout SPG Keyless with plans for it to be available on 30,000 doors in 150 hotels around the globe by early 2015 across Aloft, Element and W hotels.

SPG Keyless is available to SPG members who book a hotel room through one of Starwood’s

• •

noting that they are checked in and the SPG App will update with his/her room number and Bluetooth key when the room is ready.

Upon arrival at the hotel, the guest can completely bypass the front desk (where available) and go directly to his/her room.

After ensuring his/her Bluetooth is enabled, the guest simply opens the SPG App, holds the smartphone to the door lock, waits for the solid green light and enters the room.

SPG Keyless is an evolution of Starwood’s Smart Check-In, another industry-first that debuted at Aloft hotels in 2011, allowing guests to bypass traditional check-in and access their rooms with a RFID-equipped key card. Building upon those early learnings to develop SPG Keyless, Starwood tapped the world’s largest lock manufacturer, Assa Abloy, to create an all-new, Bluetoothenabled lock as well as keyless software, which are designed to securely recognize and connect with a guest’s mobile device.

SPG Keyless is a groundbreaking turning point in the traditional hotel experience, redefining the age-old way guests arrive and check-in to their rooms. SPG Keyless – powered by the SPG app – enables guests to bypass the front desk (where available), go directly to their room and unlock their stay with a simple tap of their smartphone.

“Not only does SPG Keyless alleviate a perennial pain point for travelers, but it also transforms the first interaction with our guests from one that is transactional to something more personal,” said Frits van Paasschen, Starwood’s President & Chief Executive Officer. “This is just the beginning, because through mobile we have the opportunity to marry high tech and high touch to transform the hotel experience in many exciting ways.”

SPG Keyless goes live Wednesday, November 5th at the following hotels: Aloft Beijing, Aloft 132 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

channels (hotel websites, SPG.com, the SPG app or customer contact centers).

HOW IT WORKS • SPG Members must register their phone once through the SPG App and allow push notifications.

• After booking a reservation at a keyless hotel and approximately 24 hours before arrival, SPG members are invited to opt-in to SPG Keyless.

• Guests will receive a push notification

In addition to the aggressive keyless rollout schedule, Starwood is simultaneously piloting innovations for the next wave of upgrades to the SPG App, which will support and enhance SPG Keyless. These upgrades aim to not only empower guests to control aspects of their stay, but equip hotel associates with the tools they need to continue Starwood’s legacy of personalization and provide meaningful, custom services away from the front desk.

Visit spg.com/keyless.

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movers & shakers Etihad Airways Appoints New Chief Operating Officer Equity Partners

James Hogan, Etihad Airways President and Chief executive officer, said: “I am delighted to welcome Bruno to the Etihad Airways Aviation Group. The high level of experience and expertise he brings will be critical in addressing the new challenges and opportunities arising from the evolution of our business and the fast-moving, dynamic interaction with our equity partners.

“I am confident he will be able to direct our partnership strategy and manage the supportive collaboration between our equity partners to optimise its commercial and network benefits within the geo-political environment in which we operate.”

Bruno Matheu Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the appointment of Bruno Matheu to the new position of Chief Operating Officer Equity Partners in the Etihad Airways Aviation Group.

With almost 30 years of senior management experience in the global aviation industry, Mr Matheu joins Etihad Airways after two decades at Air France-KLM. He most recently served as Chief Long Haul Officer at Air France and previously worked in executive roles across the airline’s commercial, network, marketing and revenue management operations.

The French national, who graduated from École Centrale Paris, started his career at Union de Transports Aériens (UTA), the largest wholly privately owned independent airline in France.

Matheu will assume his new role as Chief Operating Officer Equity Partners in December 2014, reporting directly to James Hogan, Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer.

He will lead strategic developments to optimise business performance, revenues and cost synergies between Etihad Airways and its equity partners across the world, and provide strategic leadership for airline partners where Etihad Airways has management responsibility.

Etihad Airways has acquired minority shareholdings in airberlin, Air Seychelles, Virgin Australia, Aer Lingus, Air Serbia and Jet Airways, and is currently in the process of formalising equity investments in Alitalia and Swiss-based Etihad Regional, operated by Darwin Airline.

Khaled Bani Amer

New Director of Human Resource for Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Khaled Bani Amer has joined as Director of Human Resource at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Dubai. Before moving to the Human Resource department, Khaled had a solid operational background in both Front Office for three years and Learning & Development sector for five years.

The Jordanian national started his career with IHG group in Jordan 2 years ago. His employment with Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts commenced in 2000, when Khaled seized the opportunity to join Mövenpick Resort Petra as Front Office for three years and Learning & Development department for five years. He has worked in different destinations such as Jordan and Qatar. Afterwards, he joined Mövenpick Hotel Sanaa as Human Resource Manager and moved to Saudi Arabia. The appointment at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach comes after almost five years in Saudi Arabia and Khaled is very excited about gaining experience in a vibrant city such as Dubai.

HMH Appoints New General Manager At Coral Al Khobar Hotel in KSA HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings has appointed Michel Mandrea as the New General Manager of Coral Al Khobar Hotel located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Making the announcement, HMH CEO Laurent A. Voivenel, said, “With over four decades of extensive all-round global experience in hospitality, Michel was the perfect candidate for this post. Having worked in the Middle East for 22 years, he is well familiar with the region’s business and cultural landscape and will prove instrumental in taking Coral Al Khobar Hotel to greater success. We are glad to welcome him to our team”.

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Michel makes the move to Coral Al Khobar Hotel from Golden Tulip Resort Dana Bay in KSA where he served as the general manager.

During the course of his career, the French national has worked with a number of leading hospitality brands in key positions. These include the Golden Tulip Hotels, Suites & Resorts; Janna Spa & Resort - Hamamat Mai’n Jordan; Holiday Inn Al Khobar; Holiday Inn Resort Half Moon Bay; Holiday Inn Bahrain; Metropolitan Resort & Beach Club, Metropolitan Hotel Dubai; Dubai Marine Beach Club; Royal Lancaster Hotel London and Martinez Hotel, Cannes, France.

IHG Names New VP for Human Resources in Asia, Middle East and Africa Region

Jumeirah Group Appoints VP Operations Jumeirah Group, the Dubaibased luxury hospitality company and a member of Dubai Holding, has appointed Stephan Schüpbach as Vice President Operations.

Deborah Woollard InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the appointment of Deborah Woollard as Vice President (VP) of Human Resources for the Asia, Middle East & Africa (AMEA) region.

She is a member of the AMEA Regional Operating Committee and based at IHG’s regional head office in Singapore.

Deborah is responsible for shaping and delivering human resources strategies to support the company’s business plans and objectives in the region. In her role, she will lead the company’s talent management programme to identify, recruit and retain key talent. She will also drive the training and development strategy for the company’s leadership team to ensure IHG continues to have the right talent to deliver its strategy in AMEA. Deborah joins IHG with more than 15 years in human resources. Prior to this, she was with Abbott Laboratories, overseeing regions spanning Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and looking after key emerging markets such as Russia, India and China. Deborah began her career with Unilever where she spent more than ten years building her career in talent development and HR. She has lived and worked in London, Australia and Singapore, where she has now resided for nearly seven years.

Jan Smits, Chief Executive, Asia, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “We operate in a very competitive environment today, and being in the service industry it is absolutely critical to our growth that we hire the right people, and retain them.

With Deborah’s strong background in HR and her experience working across our markets, we believe she will bring a fresh perspective to our team and help us stand out as the preferred employer in the industry.”

Commenting on her appointment, Deborah said, “As one of the largest hotel companies in the world, IHG’s strong leadership team and high level of employee engagement are well recognised amongst the industry. With its ambitious plans to grow its talent pool by over 50 percent by next year, there is immense growth potential for talent development and I look forward to working with the dynamic team at IHG to grow its reputation as the preferred company to work for.”

In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing the performance of Jumeirah’s owned hotels in Dubai, managed hotels in Asia Pacific, the global wellness brand Talise and leading the pre-opening preparations for Jumeirah’s next phase of expansion in Asia - he will report to Jumeirah Group CEO Operations Nicholas Clayton.

Since 2010 Stephan Schüpbach has been General Manager of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, the Ottoman inspired resort on Palm Jumeirah. He led the pre-opening team to a successful hotel launch in March 2011 and by 2012 the property was outperforming its competitive set and consistently hitting highs in its customer satisfaction ratings.

Stephan Schüpbach Stephan Schüpbach joined Jumeirah in 2006 as Hotel Manager at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, then as General Manager for Al Qasr and Dar Al Masyaf in Madinat Jumeirah. Before that he was Resident Manager at One & Only Maldives at Reethi Rah and worked for Ritz-Carlton as Executive Chef in Wolfsburg, Germany and San Juan, Puerto Rico. He also spent time in Colorado, USA, as part of the pre-opening team for the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch Colorado and became Executive Assistant Manager for Food and Beverage Operations. During his earlier career, he worked at the Royal Mirage and Al Bustan Rotana in Dubai, The Regent Four Seasons in Hong Kong and a number of properties in Switzerland.

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai Appoints New Executive Housekeeper Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, Dubai, has appointed Ms Clementina Boullosa as the New Executive Housekeeper. Ms Boullosa,

Welcoming her Mr. Scott Butcher, General Manager of Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai, said with her outstanding experience, Ms Boullosa will be an invaluable addition to the team. “The Executive Housekeeper plays an important role in providing the highest levels of comfort and hospitality to guests and ensuring impeccable standards of cleanliness and hygiene in all areas, as per the hotels standards, thereby achieving maximum guest satisfaction.”

During the course of her career, Ms Boullosa was instrumental in the opening of DoubleTree

by Hilton Resort and Spa Clementina Boullosa Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, as well as several other brand new hotels from the H-Santos who holds a degree in Business and Hotels and Eurostars Hotels in Spain.

Tourism from the Santiago de Compostela She has also served onboard cruise ships Universidad Galicia, Spain, brings with her Regent Seven Seas Mariner, Silversea more than 18 years of vast experience from Cruises and Royal Caribbean International various luxury five-star hotels, resorts and as Fleet Executive Housekeeper. cruise ships in different parts of the world.

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check-in check-out Our travel team anonymously checked into some fabulous hotels this season and they just didn’t want to check-out of some. We list them out for you

Asiana Hotel No. of Rooms & Suites: 134 Hotel Rating: 5 star Location: Salahuddin Rd, Deira , Dubai Tel: +971 4 238 7777

136 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

No. of Rooms & Suites: 147 Hotel Rating: 5 star Location: Jazeera Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah Tel: +971 7 206 7222

Al Hamra Palace Beach Resort Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 137

Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi

No. of Rooms & Suites: 500 Hotel Rating: 5 star Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 656 0000

138 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

No. of Rooms & Suites: 254 Hotel Rating: 5 star Location: Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, Ajman Tel: +971 6 701 8888

The Ajman Palace Hotel Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 139

Sharq Village & Spa - Doha No. of Rooms & Suites: 50 Hotel Rating: 5 star Location: Abdul Aziz Bin Jasim St, Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4425 6666

140 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

No. of Rooms & Suites: 221 Hotel Rating: 5 star Location: Located on an exclusive Island in the Indian Ocean. Noonu Atoll Republic of Maldives.320 km (199 Miles) North of Male.

Tel: +960 656 0591

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi - Maldives Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 141

in focus

Marine Show at Dubai Marina Yacht Club

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ubai Marina Yacht Club hosted the first-of-itskind Marine Show on 27th September. The event was a great opportunity to meet experts from the industry. The day included luxury yacht charters around Dubai Marina; all-day happy hour and food stations in Aquara Lounge; competition and raffle draws as well as special workshops.

142 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Wild Wadi Haloween

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his Halloween, Wild Wadi waterpark’s supernatural resident Djinn appeared from the shadows to spook guests out of her former village. Haunted Heights was the UAE’s first ever haunted house in a waterpark that invited guests on a walkthrough journey through a crooked old house, by touching and feeling their way through its dark quarters. With unexpected thrills and ghostly encounters with Djinn Haunted Heights ’turned out to be must-visit attraction.

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Galleries Night at Alserkal Avenue

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ne of the biggest nights of the year for art in Dubai, Galleries Night was held at Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz on 15th September. On the day galleries simultaneously opened their doors with a VIP preview from 5pm-7pm and a public opening from 7pm onwards. The evening welcomed the creative community to the unveiling of contemporary art exhibitions and events to mark the opening of the 20142015 arts season.

144 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Dubai World Hospitality Championship

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nder the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Za’abeel Palace Hospitality organized the second edition of the Dubai World Hospitality Championship, which was held in the emirate from 30th October to 1st November at the Sheikh Saeed Hall of the Dubai World Trade Centre. The inaugural session was a huge success and was honored by the visit of many distinguished guests.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 145

Art Night at Gate Village

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lients and visitors at DIFC enjoy a vibrant community of art, culture and cuisine, with numerous art galleries, cultural events and a wide variety of casual and fine dining facilities. Art Night returned to Gate Village on 27th October where art enthusiasts flocked to various galleries to view the different exhibitions.

146 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Loy Krathong at Dusit Thani Dubai

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elect few got together to celebrate Loy Krathong, one of Thailand’s most popular festivals on November 5 at the pool deck of Dusit Thani Dubai. On the evening one lucky guest won a trip to Thailand courtesy Dusit Thani Bangkok and Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Nov - Dec 2014 Curiosity 147

Abu Dhabi Film Festival

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ris Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s favorite sunset destination, welcomed a stellar line-up of celebrities from this year’s Abu Dhabi Film Festival (ADFF) on 28th October. Celebrities like Farouk el Fishawy, Basel Khayat, Ahmad Bider, Soulafa Meamar, Susan Skaf, Mohammed Karim, Dima Al Joundi, Zahra Arafat, Ibrahim Alzajali, Ibrahim Alhisawi, and Nelly Karim, graced the red carpet for a night of pure glitz and glamour.

148 Curiosity Nov - Dec 2014

Italian DJ at GQ Bar

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talian DJ Jako Diaz, made his debut in Dubai performing to music lovers at the stylish GQ Bar which is CondÊ Nast International’s first licensed venue in the Middle East. Fame Group and GQ Bar have announced that Jako, winner of Fame Music international DJ Contest, the largest Electronic Dance Music (EDM) competition ever held on the web and in the region, will take up residency at GQ Bar in Dubai from 27th October.

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Creating memorable experiences..

Located in the heart of new Dubai, the five star Grand Millennium Dubai is conveniently accessible from the city’s prime business and leisure attractions. The hotel is within close proximity from prominent shopping malls, beaches, touristic destinations and champion-ship standard golf courses. The 343-room hotel features modernly decorated rooms and newly refurbished serviced apartments. The hotel boasts a range of award-winning restaurants and bars, rooftop pool, a nine treatment room spa and health club, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, a magnificent ballroom and exceptional banquet facilities.

For reservation or more information n T +971 4 429 9999 n E reservations.gmhd@millenniumhotels.com www.grandmillenniumdubai.com Free scheduled shuttle service to the Dubai Internet City metro station. For more information contact the concierge.

Dream Getaway Whether you seek the tranquility of the sea or the dynamic bustle of a modern city, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah is ideally located to offer both. Perched on a scenic beach, merely 15-minutes from Sharjah International Airport and 45-minutes from Dubai International Airport, within close proximity to Ajman Port Trust Authority and Hamriyah Free Zone Authority, the deluxe resort features 156 spacious rooms equipped with the finest amenities.

Exceptional conference and banquet venues, excellent choice of restaurants and state-of-the-art fitness and recreation facilities make your stay truly enjoyable.

Managed by HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings

P.O. Box 5524, Sharjah - UAE +971 6 522 9999 +971 6 522 3111 Toll Free: +971 800CORAL (26725) reservations.sharjahresort@coral.hmh.email www.hmhhotelgroup.com/coralbeachresortsharjah