Oct nov 2015

Ajman the perfect getaway...

Escape to a ďŹ ve-star luxury oasis, that is only a short drive away from Downtown Dubai, on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. Complete with a 500-metre, white sand private beach, Kempinski Hotel Ajman is tailored to meet your heart’s every desire.

Curiosity

M i ddl e E a s t

Editor-in-Chief Karen A. Elson Editor at Large Nirmal Khanna Creative Director Mohammad Usman Siraj Art Editor Melanie King Photographer Omar Abdelrahman Technology Solutions Muhammed Ameen Ameerzada Ashish Sareen

Letter

e d i t o r’s

World Travel Market (WTM) will take place in London from 2nd to 5th November. It is recognized as the leading global event for the travel industry to meet industry professionals and conduct business deals. Through its industry networks, unrivalled global reach, WTM creates personal and business opportunities, providing customers with quality contacts, content and communities.

Journalists from Curiosity Middle East will fly all the way from Dubai to London to cover the show.

Built on product innovation, service excellence and network connectivity, Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA) is the flag carrier of Singapore. As the airline gears up to celebrate its 40th anniversary of flying to Dubai in 2016, we speak to Erwin Widjaja, General Manager Gulf Region, Singapore Airlines, about his short, medium and long term plans for the Middle East.

With the lifting of EU and UN sanctions on Iran, travel and tourism industry is expected to grow exponentially in the country. Officials in Iran have announced plans to build 400 new 3- and 4-star hotels over the next 10 years. We speak to Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings about how he sees the market and the prospects Iran holds for HMH. Bangkok can be as bewildering as it is bewitching. Nirmal Khanna goes in search of some hidden treasures in Thailand’s exuberant capital.

As always, there is plenty more to read, from news makers to movers and shakers, as well as insights from industry pros.

Travel Bug

Graphic Designer Vinith Shivshankaran Production Manager Stanley Kularatne Business Development Director Amit Kakkar Contributing Editors Rose Henry Ghulam Sajjad Muhammad Ishaque 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 www.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 78

58 06 Making News

The newsmakers in the industry

38

Must Haves

Don’t leave home without these cool accessories

40

What’s On

Pick of the season's best for culture vultures

44

Dine Out

Selection of some of the finest Chinese Restaurants in UAE

48

First Bite

Discover the latest additions to the culinary scene

58

Going Places

Bangkok can be as bewildering as it is bewitching. We go in search of some hidden treasures in Thailand’s exuberant capital

66

Cover Story

76

Editor’s Pick

Exclusive interview with Erwin Widjaja, General Manager Gulf Region, Singapore Airlines

Dr. Catherine Bergeret-Galley, an internationally-acclaimed board-certified female plastic surgeon from Paris, is a visiting specialist at Al Garhoud Private Hospital in Dubai

78

Picture This

Zermatt is just picture perfect

86

In Conversation

With Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH- Hospitality Management Holdings on what prospects Iran holds for the hospitality industry

94

Unwind & Indulge

Wellness and Massage at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

108 96

Health Check

Premature Emirati newborn baby receives life-saving care

100

On the Shelf

102

Pet Power

104

Art & Soul

114

This & That

The best and most intriguing Science Fiction titles The most pampered pets in the fashion industry Jeff Scofield: Making a statement with sustainable art

Hand-made knick knacks from China that we found hard to resist

102 86 116

Face to Face

130

Tech Talk

134

Movers & Shakers

136

Check-In Check-Out

142

In Focus

With industry pros

38

Is new facial recognition technology the solution to hotel security problems?

Getting out of the comfort zone to take up new challenges Landmarks to stop by

Events that have been keeping our cameramen busy

114

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PARADISE REVISITED & REBORN IN MAURITIUS

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he countdown to the unveiling of Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa, Mauritius on 1 November is underway, with the extensive sixmonth renovation of the legendary Le Touessrok nearly complete and pop-up events being held in London, Paris and Dubai in late September and early October set to showcase the resort’s experiential offerings and provide a taste of paradise with Mauritian musicians, artists and flavours flown in for the occasion.

Located on the east coast of Mauritius in the stunning Trou d’Eau Douce Bay, the 200-room Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort offers no filter required Indian Ocean views from all guestrooms, suites and villas; talcum-white sand beaches; and Ilot Mangénie, a secluded private island reserved exclusively for guests that features 3.5 kilometres of pristine beach, a stylish beach club and on-island butlers.

For over 40 years, cosmopolitan jet-setters from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas have revelled in this paradise day and night. Now, after significant investment, the resort has been re-imaged, bringing together the renowned hospitality of Shangri-La with the legendary Mauritian island chic of Le Touessrok Resort.

“Our vision is to create a private hideaway that can be our guests’ own personal paradise,” said Gabriele Lombardo, general manager of Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa. “In an always-on world, our senses are constantly barraged. We want to give guests space for imagination and serendipitous discovery.”

As part of the major renovation, the resort’s tropical bohemian chic has been revitalized and enhanced by vibrant contemporary styling referencing

Mauritius most iconic resort introduces “Open for Imagination” island dream package 6 Curiosity October - November 2015

Mauritius’s diverse cultures and dramatic landscape of volcanic mountains, lush rainforests and blue lagoons, as well as Shangri-La’s Asian sophistication and heritage.

The use of organic and natural materials and touches of European glamour enrich the intimate ambiance of the resort, which has the feel of a Mediterranean-style village. Five new dining and bar concepts – such as Republik Beach Club & Grill, which features Mediterranean cuisine and barbecue specialties and a lively bohemian beach lounge, and Sega, a rum and Tiki bar where exciting local talents play reggae, seggae, jazz and the blues – burnish fan favourites such as Safran, the resort’s acclaimed Indian restaurant.

In addition to its two pools and extensive aquatic and land-based activities, there is the T-Club for children aged between 4 and 11 and an Active T-Club for those 12 to 17 years old. Guests also have access to the 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course designed by Bernhard Langer that is located a few minutes away by boat on Ile aux Cerfs.

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DUBAI-BASED SUPERMODEL HOST THE FASHION FESTIVAL BALI 2015 Dubai-based designers received high applause among world fashion critics Dubai-based supermodel, TV host, brand ambassador and the reigning Miss Czech republic Intercontinental Lenka Josefiova was chosen to be the official host of The Fashion Festival 2015 Bali held at The Trans Resort Bali Indonesia from August 20-22, 2015 and represent the United Arab Emiartes. The event was attended by fashion industry big names in Indonesia and the world. Dubai-based designers

such as Mona Al Mansouri, Russian designer Katya Kovtunovich and Dubai’s rising fashion designer Julia Milan also showcased their designs at the event.

Lenka Josefiova said, ”It is truly an honour for me to be chosen as the official red carpet host of The Bali Fashion Festival 2015 and represent UAE on international stage.”

The multi-awarded Beauty Queen also appeared in several TV programs in Egypt and had graced numerous magazine as the cover model in the Middle East and worldwide. “I love Dubai, and the United Arab Emirates for me is my home. I am truly proud to represent Dubai and the UAE across the globe. The Fashion Festival is a great fashion event to showcase the best designs all over the world including topnotch designers from UAE who gathered a lot of applause and commendations from fashion critics and international media” added Lenka Josefiova.

This is not the first time that Lenka Josefiova was representing UAE on international stage.

In September 2014, Lenka was nominated in 2 categories at The Asian Trend Awards 2014 held in Chengdu, China. Lenka represented UAE & won the Most Popular Star of the year 2014.

She graced the event with renowned fashion designer Mona Al Mansouri, which won The Best Fashion designer of the year 2014. Lenka will continue to represent the UAE around the world.

The Fashion Festival in its 3rd year was founded by Nicholas Meimaris, CEO & Creative Director of MGROUP, which aims to inspire and entertain the fashion-savvy consumers from around the region. Headed by a globally recognized and sought after brand service agency, this group is made up of an influential mix of visionaries who are shaping the realms of fashion, design, business and culture. The Fashion Festival is set to be launched in Dubai soon.

Lenka Josefiova together with Dubai-based fashion designer Mona Al Mansoori representing UAE at Fashion Festival Bali 2015

Lenka Josefiova, the official red carpet host of Fashion Festival Bali 2015. Representing UAE 8 Curiosity October - November 2015

“We are extremely excited to learn that Fashion Festival will soon be held in Dubai. It’s about time for Dubai to host such great fashion event.”

Media Rotana wins at the Business Destinations Travel Awards 2015

Media Rotana is a luxury 5-star hotel ideally located in the Heart of New Dubai, TECOM area and within easy reach of the Dubai Internet City Metro Station (#34 Red line), Major Shopping Malls and is only a 30 minutes drive from both Dubai airports.

M

edia Rotana, Dubai has just added another award to its collection of accolades as it received the “Best Business Hotel, Dubai” award from Business Destinations Travel Awards 2015.

“We would like to thank our prestigious guests and business partners who have shown their immense support to us in the past years. We promise we will continue to excel in every single aspect to make our guests’ stay an impeccable and unforgettable one” says Rabih Melhem, General Manager of Media Rotana, Dubai

Featuring 536 spacious rooms and suites designed with international flair, Club Rotana offering lavish personalized hospitality and 15 fully equipped, flexible meeting rooms making it the perfect venue to suit everybody’s needs and make it a memorable stay.

Guests will enjoy a unique culinary experience at Media Rotana with Five exquisite dining venues offering Italian, British and International cuisine as well as happy hours, theme nights and more.

For wellness and relaxation needs, Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club provides a Gymnasium offering the latest equipments, Massage treatments accompanied with a Sauna, Steam Room and a temperature controlled Swimming Pool.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 9

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news Emirates announced four new weekly flights between Phuket and Dubai, which will increase its capacity by 57 per cent.

Emirates adds flights to PhuketDubai route

The airline said that the flights will introduce connectivity from most cities in the Americas for the first time, as well as improve connections to a number of key destinations in Europe and the Middle East via one convenient stop in Dubai. Emirates launched the Phuket-Dubai route in 2012.

Jabr Al-Azeeby, area manager for Thailand and Indochina, said: “Phuket is one of Thailand’s premier holiday destinations and is a key gateway to many other islands in the region. Not only are these additional flights great news for holiday markets but also important to support travel and tourist companies which see great value in the direct flights to Phuket,” “The additional flights likewise make it even more convenient for residents in the southern part of Thailand to connect to Dubai and the rest of the world.”

Jabr added.

Passengers also have the added bonus of a generous baggage allowance with 30kg for those travelling in Economy Class, 40kg for Business Class and 50kg for First Class.

Emirates now has 42 weekly flights for the Bangkok-Dubai route.

The four new flights will start from December 1

10 Curiosity October - November 2015

The Gobbins opens for dramatic cliff walks V

isitors to Northern Ireland’s famous Causeway Coastal Route now have the opportunity to experience an exhilarating walk to awaken the senses, above crashing waves on a spectacular cliff path over the Irish Sea. The Gobbins coastal walk experience, first enjoyed in 1902 by the Edwardians has now opened the doors to a modern cliff path to delight those who wish to experience the coast up close.

The magnificently restored Edwardian attraction features a series of tubular and suspension bridges, a staircase, caves and tunnels carved through the County Antrim basalt coast. It offers a thrilling mix of rugged beauty, spectacular views, heritage, flora and fauna.

The route offers not just a walk along a cliff top but also includes metal bridges & water-splashed gantries installed along sheer cliff faces as well as below sea-level experiences of the caves and the bridges. The Gobbins' geologically diverse landscape is straight out of Game of Thrones and is actually in the vicinity of locations used in the filming of the hit TV show.

With access by guided tour, the journey begins at a state of the art visitor centre, from where walkers are transferred to the cliff path by minibus. Tours begin on the hour currently from

10am to 3pm daily. The full excursion including the visitor centre can take up to 3-4 hours. The walk is bracing and refreshing, and suitable for people of normal fitness levels.

Those not wishing to walk the path can still enjoy the stunning views and at the visitor centre learn about The Gobbins through an exhibition on the building of the path, its history from Edwardian times and the local geology and ecology. There is also a coffee shop and gift shop.

Only a 40 minute drive from Belfast, The Gobbins coastal path is in Islandmagee, a narrow peninsula just at the beginning of the world-famous Causeway Coastal Route and close to the famous Blackhead light house.

The area is an idyllic holiday spot and home to the Giant's Causeway, the Glens of Antrim, Bushmills Distillery, Rathlin Island and miles of golden sand and loads of water-based activity.

Walking the spectacular Gobbins Cliff path will now be a must for those touring Northern Ireland’s famous Causeway coastal route.

With both Emirates and Etihad providing double daily flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Dublin, accessibility is convenient and frequent, making it an ideal tour for those who dare experience this exciting new adventure!

October - November 2015 Curiosity 11

making

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HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings Partners with Ethiopian Airlines'

Frequent Flyer Program ShebaMiles

H

MH – Hospitality Management Holdings has entered into a partnership agreement with Ethiopian Airlines’ Frequent Flyer Program - ShebaMiles. As part of the agreement that is effective from July 25, 2015 all ShebaMiles members staying at any participating hotel within the HMH portfolio will be entitled to earn 2 Miles per 1 USD spent for their qualifying service.

Making the announcement, Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH, said, "Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles is one of the most successful frequent flyer programs with over one million members from 200 countries and is stated to grow at an annual rate of 20 per cent. Ethiopian Airlines flies to nearly all destinations that we currently operate in such as Beirut (Lebanon), Dammam (Saudi Arabia), Dubai (UAE), Muscat (Oman), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) and Khartoum (Sudan).

We are, therefore, delighted to be a partner in this superb scheme and look forward to welcoming ShebaMiles members to our hotels. At HMH we are committed to reward our valued guests for their loyalty and this new alliance will entitle members to outstanding earnings at our hotels."

A Star Alliance Member, Ethiopian Airlines is the fastest growing Airline in Africa and is the flag 12 Curiosity October - November 2015

carrier of Ethiopia. Operating to more than 91 destinations (52 in Africa), Ethiopian Airlines flies with the newest and youngest fleet.

Rahel Assefa, VP Marketing Ethiopian Airlines said, "ShebaMiles is Ethiopian's Frequent Flyer Program whereby members accumulate miles which entitle them to award tickets, upgrade awards and many other privileges. The more miles the members fly the higher the benefits they get from ShebaMiles. Membership to the program is open to everyone above the age of two years.

ShebaMiles has teamed up with several airlines and non-airline partners to create a world of choices for members to accumulate and spend miles.”

She added “We are delighted to partner with HMH and its portfolio of superb properties located in some of the most desirable destination across the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.

Our members have the convenience of selecting hotels which offer true hospitality, luxurious accommodation and the opportunity to earn valuable miles which can be exchanged for travel rewards when staying at any of their properties across the Middle East and North Africa.” www.hmhhotelgroup.com

SCTDA lauds Dr. Sheikh Sultan’s visionary approach in making tourism key segment of Sharjah’s economy

Recently announced Al Hisn Island project offers opportunity to unite efforts of tourism sector stakeholders under Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021: Al Noman

S

harjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority has attributed the remarkable growth of the tourism sector in the emirate to the visionary approach of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

Lauding the recent announcement by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan to develop the Al Hisn Island, a leisure and tourist attraction located in Diba Al Hisn, H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Noman, Chairman of SCTDA, pointed out that the project reflects the keen interest of the leadership in making tourism a key segment of the economy.

“The Al Hisn Island project is a testament to the visionary leadership of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi to make Sharjah’s tourism sector a key contributor to the overall economy of the emirate,” H.E. Al Noman stated.

“As a major leisure tourism project with advanced facilities and amenities for families, Al Hisn Island will contribute to the growth of Sharjah as a leading family tourism destination and help achieve the Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021, which aims to attract more than 10 million tourists to the emirate by 2021,” H.E. Al Noman added.

H.E. Al Noman said the project offers significant opportunities to unite the efforts of all stakeholders in the tourism sector under the umbrella of the Vision and help activate the key pillars of the Vision through collaborative efforts to strengthen Sharjah’s tourism potential and establish the emirate’s leading position on the global tourism map.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the Al Hisn Island project is located on a reclaimed island facing the Flag Square in Dibba Al Hisn. The new development will feature a water canal, a host of restaurants and cafes, in addition to a movie theatre, children playgrounds and other amenities.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 13

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3rd Annual MICE India and Luxury Congress 2015:

A Tremendous Success

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he MICE India and Luxury Travel Congress 2015 (MILT Congress), organized

by Dubai based QnA International, successfully concluded its 3rd edition of the event with over 1530 meetings in total between buyers representing the leading corporates, agencies, wedding planners and film production houses from across India and suppliers from leading tourism boards, hotel chains, venues, sports hospitality and MICE specialists from around the world.

The congress welcomed over 250 attendees over the two days, from the country’s leading corporate organizations who were in charge of decisions related to incentive, meetings, events and corporate travel planning.

Experts from the MICE segment in India from companies such as Ashok Leyland, Abbott Healthcare, Kurlon, Tata Motors, HDFC Standard Life Insurance, Tata Steel, Larsen & Toubro, Sanofi, Vedanta amongst others, came together to provide some much-needed perspective into the workings of this powerful sector to help broaden the understanding on MICE travel for planners and suppliers alike.

Industry stalwarts from the MICE planning industry spoke on the need for travel partners to get more creative with their offerings and to move away from the vanilla packaging that has been the norm until now. Adding their views on the monetary aspect, these MICE professionals agreed that although there would be a cap with the budget

14 Curiosity October - November 2015

that could be allocated towards the spending, these decision makers would not shy away from increasing their spend on certain creative proposals and new destinations that could re-invent the way we look at incentives and events.

There were also some interesting takeaways with these experts sharing their insight on what works best for the Indian market. Majority of buyers emphasized the importance of inclusion of the employee’s or distributor’s family in the activity to provide an enriched incentive travel experience. Another MICE buyer from a top tier pharmaceutical company enlisted the key factors responsible for a successful incentive activity, with value for money, proximity to India, accessibility, a proactive tourism board and creating a wow factor being the most important. During the highly anticipated visa panel discussion, the topic of ensuring a smooth visa issuance process for MICE rather than only focusing budgets on tourism marketing was highlighted.

Bringing it all together, it was

observed that corporates make their MICE decisions based on the 3Ss – Spend, Service and Satisfaction.

The congress provided a niche industry focused platform for hotel chains such as Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, FRHI Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Hilton, Address Hotels and Resorts, Marriott Hotels, along with DMCs, EMCs, Sports tourism players, tourism boards and convention bureaus from Spain, South Africa, Thailand, Fiji, Toronto, Switzerland, Geneva, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Korea, Oman, Zurich, New Zealand, Monaco, and Mauritius to meet C-level executives from the top corporation in the region.

“Our objective has always been to bring the world under one roof to meet senior decision makers from

India, who can make decisions on all aspects related to procurement for MICE, business and luxury travel activities. We have been successful in providing a platform for doing business and surpassing participants’ expectations over the past three years,” said Sidh N C, Director – Projects, QnA International. “Based on the feedback we have received, the MILT Congress has raised the bar this time around for all MICE events in India and is currently recognized as the strongest MICE platform in the region and we intend on raising the standard of the event with each forthcoming edition,” he added.

With the majority of the attendees at 3rd MILT congress confirming their participation for the next year's edition, the congress is set to only get bigger and better in the years to come.

AS HOTEL CONSTRUCTION IN TURKEY BOOMS LOCAL MANUFACTURERS SET SIGHTS ON DUBAI

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n exclusive new report published by TOPHOTELPROJECTS for The Hotel Show Dubai 2015 reveals that hotel construction in Turkey is at an all-time high with 75 projects and 12,968 new rooms in the pipeline.

Hotels and Resorts opened a new Sheraton hotel in Samsun, a city famed for its manufacturing businesses as well as providing a major port to the Black Sea. Hilton is set to open two properties in Eskisehir, another Turkish business centre.

The Hotel Show 2015 commissioned the report on the back of a 70% increase in interest from Turkish manufacturers exhibiting at the 16th annual event held in Dubai this year.

The TOPHOTELPROJECTS report puts Turkey in 3rd place in the Middle East for hotel construction, behind only the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Caroline List, International Sales Manager at TOPHOTELPROJECTS commented: “Turkey has emerged as a leading tourist destination with a massive growth in hotel construction. Trends we have witnessed for the Turkish market include recreational complexes, which can also be used for day trips, as well as hotels with spa facilities. Hotel construction is rife in Istanbul, which currently hosts over 800 properties and 50,000 rooms, but there is a clear move towards the regional cities popular for manufacturing companies including Samsun, Eskisehir, Ankara, and Izmir.”

“The increase in representation of local Turkish manufacturers looking to showcase their products to hoteliers and target distributers in Dubai is interesting and could be encouraged by buoyant hotel construction in that country,” said Christine Davidson, Group Event Director of the dmg events hospitality portfolio including The Hotel Show. “It is clear that these suppliers have their eye firmly on expansion and increasing exports and we are delighted to have such a strong contingency at the show this year.”

Turkey is now the 6th most visited country in the world with 41 million tourists in 2014, and its robust manufacturing industry including leather and textiles attracts a significant amount of international business travel. In 2015, Starwood

Over 30 Turkish manufacturers set to arrive in Dubai in September for The Hotel Show include Elemegi Furniture & Design, an architectural company undertaking turnkey hotel applications, design and restoration with the capacity of a 10,000sqm production area, and high-profile

clients including Rixos, Nobu and Burberry.

Porland Porselen, a leading Turkish porcelain manufacturer with production of approximately 70 million units per year. Dok-San, one of the largest home textiles manufacturers in the country. Maya Tekstil, a bedding manufacturer producing over 3,000 pillows and quilts daily. Hisar, cookware and accessories manufacturers, named one of the top 20 leading companies by IBM’s “Production Systems Catalog”. Dressbest, a quality uniforms manufacturer serving for hospitality, health and spa, airlines and government entities, and Sandalyeci, furniture manufacturers who already have a showroom in Dubai and have supplied to various hotels and restaurants after exhibiting at The Hotel Show for 2 years.

Engin Ertekin, The Hotel Show Dubai’s Turkish representative based in Istanbul said: “Dubai, UAE and the entire Middle East are always target markets for Turkish companies for all industries. There has been a continuous and significant increase in the last few years in part due to the general economic stagnation in Europe which is the number one region for Turkey’s foreign trade. This is pushing Turkish exporters to focus more on the Middle East and also to find new markets.”

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Bahrain to Host the 5th Annual Arab Aviation and Media Summit

T

he 2015 Arab Aviation and Media Summit (AAMS) will be held in Bahrain. The event, which is a joint industry initiative by world-leading organizations, will take place on the 7th & 8th of December 2015 in the Kingdom of Bahrain’s capital, Manama.

Running in its fifth edition this year, the Arab Aviation & Media Summit is an industry initiative committed to improving the state of Arab Aviation & Tourism. The initiative is braced by many leading organizations such as Airbus Middle East, Air Arabia Group, CFM, CNBC TV and The Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Tourism in addition to many supporting partners; and this year’s edition is held in partnership with the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and Bahrain Airport Company.

The 2015 edition will discuss the status of Arab aviation and tourism under the current political and economic climate, and will see industry pioneers from across the region come together to

discuss the growing significance of the partnerships between tourism and aviation.

Described as the ‘voice of the industry’, the Arab Aviation and Media Summit is the largest assembly of Arab media together with top executives from the aviation & tourism industry. AAMS takes place in a different Arab city every year drawing attention to the host city travel and tourism experience as well as facilitating for a large audience of Governments, decision makers and media to share, learn and exchange.

Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, CEO of Bahrain Airport Company said: “We are delighted that Bahrain has been chosen to host the 5th annual Arab Aviation and Media Summit, which holds great significance to us on both aviation and tourism scales. This step reflects Bahrain’s legacy and status as a leader in Aviation and Tourism and will showcase the Kingdom’s experience in developing its travel and tourism sector. We look forward to working with the many partners over the coming months to facilitate this year’s summit that will further foster the correlation between Arab Aviation & Tourism.”

This year’s Summit will bring together an array of international and regional industry experts, as well as media representatives from across the entire Arab World to exchange ideas and strategies to address the challenges faced by the sector.

Adel A. Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia said: “The aviation industry continues to

16 Curiosity October - November 2015

be the key contributor to Arab economy and the link between aviation and tourism is becoming increasingly significant. We are glad to be part of this growing industry forum that this year’s edition promise to bring together industry experts to explore the mutual benefits of fostering partnerships between the aviation and tourism industries for sustainable economic growth, with the aim of developing and encouraging tourism within the Arab states.”

The summit concludes every year with a white paper draft submitted to regulators and decision makers from both public and private sector followed up by a course of action. The report provides the latest insights on the current trends and challenges faced by the aviation-tourism sector in the Arab world and its impact on social and economic growth.

Fouad Attar, Managing Director of Airbus Middle East said: “The Arab Aviation and Media Summit with its fifth edition will once again bring in-depth analysis and insights to an audience of experts and senior journalists from 15 Arab countries. We are proud of our continued partnership with Air Arabia on this summit look forward to participate actively in showcasing Airbus latest market forecast and innovations”.

The summit is open for industry peers and Media.

To learn more and to register, visit: www.arabaviationsummit.com or call +971 4 3688219

Thai and Global Tourism Authorities Reassure the World Thailand Remains Welcoming

T

hai authorities and global tourism bodies have stepped forward to reassure the world that Thailand remains a welcoming tourist destination, saying the recent explosion incidents in Bangkok will inevitably have short-term impacts and that the kingdom’s tourism industry will bounce back strongly and quickly towards the end of the year.

The message of assurance and confidence was raised at a press conference organised by Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports and presented by representatives from the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), the Tourist Police Division, the United Nations’ World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). The event was held at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok Hotel.

H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Thailand Minister of Tourism and Sports (third from right) chaired the press conference, which was also presented by Mr. David Scowsill, WTTC’s President and CEO (far right), Mr. Carlos Vogeler, UNWTO’s Executive Secretary of Member Relations (second from right), Mr. Areepong Bhoocha-oom, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism and Sports ( third from left), Colonel Winthai Suvaree, Spokesman of the NCPO (second from left), and Police Colonel Supaset Chokchai, Deputy National Commander of the Tourist Police Division (far left).

H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports said, “We intentionally use this hotel as it is located next to the Erawan Shrine to reassure our confidence. I am deeply sorry for what has happened, but I do believe that the impact from this tragic incident will be short term and that Thailand will bounce back very quickly thanks to good friendships of our friends. The UNWTO and WTTC have taken immediate actions to reaffirm

their confidence in Thailand through international media. My special thanks to Australian Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Abbott, who urged his fellow citizens to continue to travel here and all friends of Thailand from across the globe who insisted via social media on visiting Thailand no matter what.”

H.E. Kobkarn expressed her confidence that the target of 28.8 million tourist arrivals and 2.2 trillion Baht revenue, including 1.4 trillion Baht from international tourists, will be achieved based on the booking trend in the remaining months the year and the significant growth in the tourism performance in the first half of this year.

Mr. Carlos Vogeler, UNWTO’s Executive Secretary of Member Relations said, “I would like to convey our heartfelt condolences to the affected people, and reiterate our support to the people of Thailand.

Thailand has a long tradition of being a hospitable and welcoming country and we fully believe it will continue to be so.”

Through discussions with Thailand Ministry of Tourism and Sports, UNWTO has lined up a number of supports for the Thai tourism industry, starting with Mr. Vogeler’s presence at today’s press conference as a short-term action to reiterate that “Thailand is not alone.” In the next steps, UNWTO Secretary-General, Mr. Taleb Rifai, is to pay a visit to Thailand to further reaffirming the confidence in the kingdom while H.E. Kobkarn will be invited to deliver a message from Thailand at some of UNWTO’s meetings this year.

In addition, Thailand has been chosen as the host country for the World Tourism Day 2016 which is scheduled on 27 September, 2016. “All these actions and directions show our solidarity to reiterate that Thailand has our full support,” Mr. Vogeler concluded.

Mr. David Scowsill, WTTC’s President and CEO said, “It is highly regrettable that Thailand, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, has been the target of this violence. Fortunately, Thailand has shown its resilience in the past from national disasters and other disruptions, and we hope that the situation will stabilise and return to normal very quickly.”

H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Thailand Minister of Tourism and Sports during a group interview post-press conference, along with Mr. Carlos Vogeler, UNWTO’s Executive Secretary of Member Relations (on her left) and Mr. David Scowsill, WTTC’s President and CEO (on her right).

Mr. Areepong Bhoocha-oom, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism and Sports said prior to the 17 August’s incident, Suvarnabhumi Airport recorded around 85,000 arrivals per day. He said the number was expected to fluctuate within these couple of weeks, pointing out as “not a significant drop,” and that the figure is still higher than last year.

Going forward, Thailand is set to further strengthen security measure as prevention approach to ensure safety and security for the locals and tourists.

Colonel Winthai Suvaree, Spokesman of the NCPO, said “In the initial response, security and safety measures have been heightened through increased presence of security forces at destinations and venues popular with tourists or densely populated.

Extra security, including strict checks of security measures at venues, has also been in place to address any loopholes and ensure proper management of these measures in a systematic manner.’

October - November 2015 Curiosity 17

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UAE THEME PARK REVENUES FORECAST TO INCREASE 78% BY 2019

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new report published by Euromonitor International for The Leisure Show Dubai 2015 forecasts that UAE theme park revenues will increase by 78% from US $ 470 million in 2015 to US $837 million in 2019.

The UAE is reported to have 5 theme parks under development at present including 3 parks within the major Dubai Parks and Resorts development: motiongate™ Dubai, Bollywood Parks™ Dubai and LEGOLAND® Dubai (2016); IMG Worlds of Adventure (2016); and Warner Bros.

(2018) on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.

have previously dominated top theme parks in the world lists. With its central global location, and excellent hospitality facilities, we predict the UAE has the potential to become a serious rival to theme park world leader Orlando by 2021.”

PwC predict ultimate theme park success in the UAE will depend on collaborative working between the Emirates, hotels and attractions to provide a complimentary and complete offering

In consultancy firm Aecom’s 2013 Theme Park Index, no Middle East venue appeared in the top 25 amusement parks in the world, but experts predict that this trend is set to change.

PwC Middle East will discuss “UAE’s transformation into a world-class leisure and entertainment destination” as part of the “MEGA Trends” panel at the Vision Conference in Dubai in September, a feature of The Leisure Show 2015. Philip Shepherd, Middle East Hospitality and Leisure Leader at PwC said: “Globally, theme parks in Europe, the Far East and the USA, Orlando in particular, dominate the market.

However, theme parks in the UAE have the potential to see over 18 million visits by 2021, versus Hong Kong’s 15m, where venues including Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland and 18 Curiosity October - November 2015

for tourists.

Phil Taylor, Managing Director of Dubai-based Team Leisure LLC at the Vision Conference. said: “The region is also experiencing the construction of 3 major museums and 2 safari parks alongside the record-breaking Meydan One mega-project in Dubai reported to be constructing the world’s

longest indoor ski slope, and a host of other worldclass attractions by 2020. This is arguably the biggest leisure development currently underway in one location in the world and is a huge undertaking. But if anywhere in the world has the resources, vision and power to pull it off, I believe it is the UAE.” Also the Vision Conference 2015 a “MEGA Projects – An inside View” session included 3 major UAE developments: Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah (Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority), the Paramount Hotel Dubai (Paramount Hotels & Resorts) and ME Dubai Hotel (Melia Hotels International) with interviews by dmg events Big 5 Editor Gary Wright.

“The Leisure Show Dubai 2015 had various on the floor demonstrations, features and knowledge theatres, really reflecting the increased activity in the sector,” said Christine Davidson, Group Event Director of the dmg events hospitality and leisure portfolio including The Leisure Show. “The varied product range showcased this year included bowling alleys (Switch Bowling); entertainment and adventure playground equipment (HPS Middle East and AlQaisar); pool tables and accessories (Interpool); golf simulators (X Golf); pools, spas and saunas (Aqua Middle East); and much more.” www.theleisureshow.com

The Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah

‘Go Pink’ with Pink Caravan' ambassadors for the campaign.

October is the international Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Awareness of the disease and the need for early diagnosis play a key role in improving survival rates. The Pink Caravan was launched under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Founder and Royal Patron of the Friends of Cancer Patients Society (FoCP), International Ambassador of the World Cancer Declaration for Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), and International Ambassador for Childhood Cancer for UICC.

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October 2015. In addition, all staff at the hotels are wearing pink ribbons for the month. Pink ribbons are also being distributed among the hotels’ guests along with flyers.

In observance of the campaign, everything at the hotels has a pink look - starting with beautiful floral displays in the lobbies to the lighting.

Special donation boxes have been placed at the reception areas of both hotels to allow guests to contribute to the charity from 1st to 31st

The Ajman Palace Hotel is host to a special wedding this week and the first recipients of the Pink Caravan ribbons were mother of the bride Ms Tashu Lalji, and the bride herself, Atiya Lalji. Presenting them with the ribbons General Manager, Ferghal Purcell, stated, “We are proud to kick off the campaign at both hotels with these two special ladies who have flown in all the way from Budapest and will be joined by over 400 guests from around the world to celebrate the wedding at The Ajman Palace Hotel. They are our first

he Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah went ‘Pink’ this October to mark the first day of the International Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The two hotels are passionately supporting the cause in the northern emirates and have joined the Pink Caravan, a Pan UAE breast cancer initiative by Friends of Cancer Patients, to raise awareness and funds for the charity.

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Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of Friends of Cancer Patients and Head of the Medical and Awareness Committee of Pink Caravan, said, , ". ThePink Caravan focuses on raising awareness and education around breast cancer detection and offers high quality free breast cancer screening across the UAE. We seek to dispel myths and stigmas associated with the detection and treatment of cancer and especially to reach out to men who are statistically slower than women in coming forward with medical concerns. October is a very significant month for breast cancer initiatives globally and we are truly grateful to The Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah for extending their support to the cause."

For more information visit www.pinkcaravan.ae www.TheAjmanPalace.com hmhhotelgroup.com/coralbeachresortsharjah

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Starwood launches Four Points brand in Turkey

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OINT 1: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) continues to accelerate growth in Turkey with the opening of Four Points Istanbul Dudullu, the brand’s milestone entry into the country. Located in the heart of Dudullu – Istanbul’s largest industrial zone – the hotel is on the Asian side of the city with easy access to the Trans-European Motorway (TEM) and only a 20 minute drive from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).

POINT 2: Owned by Ever Group, the new Four Points hotel features 182 guest rooms, casual dining at The Restaurant, seven meeting spaces totaling 224 square meters, and a fitness center. Guests will enjoy all of the brand’s popular amenities including fast and free WiFi throughout the hotel, complimentary bottled water, and a chance to sample authentic local craft beers as part of the signature Best Brews™ program. The hotel has received the prestigious Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) green building certification for its superior environmental responsibility.

For booking information, please visit http://www.fourpointsdudullu.com/

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POINT 3: “We’re proud to introduce the Four Points brand to our rapidly expanding portfolio in Turkey, now home to seven of our 10 distinctive brands” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East.

“Istanbul’s combination of rich culture and booming commerce will be the ideal setting for guests looking to experience stylish comfort and genuine service at an honest value.”

“Four Points Istanbul Dudullu will be a great meeting point for sports enthusiasts as well as business travelers, ideally situated in the buzzing industrial zone of Dudullu” said Selen Ersü, Chairman of the Board at Ever Group. “The hotel

strengthens our partnership with Starwood and I’m thrilled that by the end of the year we will be introducing a second Four Points to Istanbul in the thriving area of Batisehir.”

POINT 4: Four Points is experiencing incredible growth momentum. With 50 new hotel deals signed in 2014, the most in Starwood’s company history, the brand will surpass 200 hotels in 2015. Starwood currently has 13 hotels in Turkey including five in Istanbul. This year, Starwood will open two more hotels in the country - Four Points by Sheraton Istanbul Batisehir and Sheraton Istanbul Atasehir bringing the company’s footprint in Turkey to 15 hotels under seven of its distinct lifestle brands.

AL MAYA SUPERMARKET SIGNS WITH KOREA AGRO-FISHERIES FOOD TRADE CORPORATION

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l Maya Supermarket has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) to promote quality Korean food products in GCC market, informed Mr Kamal Vachani, Group Director, Al Maya Group, who has signed the MOU on behalf of Al Maya Supermarket.

On behalf of Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) Mr Jae Soo Kim, President of aT signed the MOU in presence of Consul General of Korea H.E. Mr Seong Doo Ahn.

Mr Kamal Vachani informed that with the signing of this MOU, aT and Al Maya will cooperate to introduce promising food products into the market through the chain of Al Maya Supermarkets.

Mr Kamal Vachani further added that there is a huge potential for Korean food products in this part of the world and assured the aT full support and ensure that no stone unturned in promoting the Korean products through Al Maya Supermarkets. Mr Kamal Vachani informed that some of the Korean products are already displayed

and sold in our supermarkets and are very well accepted by the customers.

Al Maya Group currently operates more than 40 supermarkets across the UAE and GCC and more to open by the end of 2015, added Mr Kamal Vachani. Most of our supermarkets are Open 24 Hours and provide Free Home Delivery, informed Mr. Kamal Vachani.

Mr Kamal Vachani thanked H.E. Mr Seong Doo Ahn for taking initiative to introduce aT to Al Maya Group.

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Turkish Airlines Reports Profit in the First Half of 2015

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ubai, UAE; September 3, 2015: Turkish Airlines, one of the world’s fastest growing airlines, reported first half 2015 consolidated financial statements with USD 4.78 billion in global sales revenue between January and June 2015. The airline also reported net profits of USD 406 million for the same period.

Europe’s best airline* also disclosed an operating profit of USD 238 million, outperforming the first half of 2014 by 21 percent. In the first six months of 2015, a period with severe fuel price and currency fluctuations, Turkish Airlines grew its net profit by 4.6 times compared to the same period of 2014 with the help of its diversified debt structure and dynamic risk management strategies.

Turkish Airlines realised a capacity increase of 10.1 percent (Available Seat Kilometre or ASK) in the first half of 2015 and carried 28.5 million passengers across its 212,000 flights with a load factor of 77.8 percent.

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In the 13 cities across the six GCC markets, total passengers carried by Turkish Airlines increased by 7.8 percent, reaching 1.35 million passengers.

Passengers across Business Class increased by 9 percent for the same period. The ASK for the GCC markets saw an increase of 2.5% reaching 4.3 million during the first half of 2015 from 4.2 million for the same period of 2014.

For the UAE markets with flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, total passengers carried increased by 6.1 percent, reaching 216,411 passengers between January to June 2015. Business Class passengers increased by 16.5 percent for the same period.

The ASK for UAE saw an increase of 9 percent reaching 759 million during the same period.

Adem Ceylan, Vice-President, Sales for Middle East and Cyprus, Turkish Airlines, said: “The Middle East is a high-growth region for us and the

UAE is one of the key markets in our network. We are planning to invest further in the GCC markets in order to serve our customers better. The establishment of our Arabic Call Centre recently reflects our long-term commitment to the region.”

Having been selected the “Best Airline in Europe” again in 2015 for the fifth time in a row, today Turkish Airlines flies to 48 domestic and 229 international destinations, a total of 277 destinations in 110 countries. With one of the youngest airline fleet in the world Turkish Airlines now operates 294 aircraft comprising 69 wide body, 215 narrow body and 10 cargo aircraft together with 23 aircraft additions in 2015.

Despite the strong competitive environment among the world’s leading players Turkish Airlines has tripled its global market share in the last decade and continues its profitable and sustainable growth while still gaining market share.

4th Annual

1st - 2nd March, 2016, Dubai, UAE www.mice-arabia.com An Initiative by

2015 edition highlights Over 1800 meetings conducted

Suppliers from over 35 countries

Buyer to Supplier ratio of 3:1

Over 300 attendees

“It was a great success as I managed to finalize a few groups during the conference. ROI achieved!” CINNAMON GRAND COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

“Perfectly organized. Great team that was very helpful. I will be interested in participating next year.”

JUMEIRAH GROUP

“It is one of the most effective events I have ever seen with the highest quality of people who could make decisions in business.”

HEYSEM TOURISM & TRAVEL, TURKEY

“Overall, it has been very successful for me, it is a great opportunity to open new markets.”

AFRICA ALBIDA TOURISM, ZIMBABWE

“The event was very fruitful. I think it will have a good impact and hopefully we will attend once again.”

GRECOTEL, GREECE

"Very specific and to the point meetings with potential buyers."

MAZAGAN BEACH RESORT, MOROCCO

Recently Confirmed 2016 Sponsors Include:

o Limited t ers 50 suppli und from aro ! the world Call: +971 4 388 5545 | Visit: www.mice-arabia.com | Email: info@qnainternational.com October - November 2015 Curiosity 23

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University of Dubai and Swiss Education Council Discuss Career Opportunities

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niversity of Dubai (UD) conducted a focus group discussion on ‘Career Opportunities in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry’ at Dubai Chamber. The event which was co-hosted by the Swiss Educational Council was moderated by UD Communications Manager Mr. Hikmat Beaini.

Several Industry experts, faculty members and students participated in the discussion.

The main objective of the focus group was to shed a light upon important topics such as the latest developments in the tourism and hospitality industry, as well as services, facilities and technologies related to these sectors. It also drew attention towards career opportunities in the global hospitality industry, and offered insights on related educational possibilities in colleges, curriculum and accreditations.

necessary programmes to advance Smart Tourism and Hospitality in UAE.” Dr. Rao said that University of Dubai’s strategic approach is aligned to Dubai’s aim to become a 'smart city’, and in this direction the university will create a structured academic process that will contribute to increasing efficiencies in the global tourism sector. He stated that the University is developing a special Smart Tourism and Hospitality programme to support Dubai’s vision to become a world class tourism destination.

Leading the discussion, Dr. Ananth Rao, Director of the MBA/PhD programme at University of Dubai, said: “Educational tourism is an essential part of the growing smart tourism industry.

Dr. Fauz Gataby, Director, International Development at the Swiss Education Council, stated that tourism contributes to about 9.8 per cent of the world GDP generating US$7.6 trillion and providing employment opportunities for 227 million people. Citing World Travel & Tourism Council figures, he pointed out that one in 11 jobs on the planet are in the hospitality and tourism sector, and forecast 74 million new jobs in the industry. Educational tourism has emerged as one of the niche segments in the global tourism sector, Dr. Gataby added.

University of Dubai is committed to develop the

Dr Gataby also confirmed that the employability

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and career opportunities of hospitality graduates are well beyond graduates from the traditional higher education pathway. He added that most of the leading hospitality and tourism organization recruit fresh graduates from renowned Swiss Hospitality institutions.

Switzerland is known to be the birth place of hospitality education. Students are selected and enrolled based on their passion for hospitality, and the education is founded on a unique platform that combination of practical with academic foundation.

Highlighting tourism as a booming sector, the focus group pointed to estimates by United Nations World Tourism Organisation that by 2030 there would by 1.8 billion tourists worldwide.

This would translate to US $ 7.5 billion of tourism revenue to the UAE economy by 2016 with 98 million passengers passing through Dubai Airports.

It revealed that the remarkable growth would be reflected across the region as the Middle East benefits from $49 billion in tourism revenue.

Host Dream Weddings at

Corp Amman Hotel T he Corp Amman Hotel has launched remarkable Winter Wedding Package enticing all those who wish to host grand ceremonies to solemnize their weddings at this prestigious location without being overlyexpensive.

Nizam Bou Antoun General Manager - Corp Amman Hotel

Nizam Bou Antoun, General Manager of Corp Amman Hotel, said that with the right blend of sophistication and extravagance the Corp Amman Hotel has become the perfect place to host wedding receptions in Amman, the most sought-after wedding destinations in the region.

He stressed that the hotel’s hospitality team is well-aware of the fact that a wedding reception is extremely important occasion for the couple who are looking to tie the knot in style. Thus they do everything possible to make it a truly joyful celebration of the couple’s dream”.

He added, “Indeed, the bride, her dress and her make-up remain the centre of attraction at a wedding ceremony. But the guests pay equal

attention to the venue, décor, hospitality and how generous the buffet is. While designing this package, we considered all these aspects so that you celebrate the nuptial with complete peace of mind.”

Valid during September and October 2015, the F&B package allows you to celebrate the marriage with up to 200 guests serving them light refreshment for JD3,500. If you prefer a fun and relaxing reception where guests serve themselves from a variety of food offerings, select the second option that allows you to host 200 guests over buffet (lunch or dinner) for JD4,500.

The package also entitles you to avail the services of an expert wedding planner to bring your wedding ideas to life. He will not only ensure that your wedding party runs without any hiccups, but also diminishes all sorts of stress surrounding the ceremony. www.hmhhotelgroup.com/corpamman

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Sctda Organises Training Course to Develop Capabilities of Frontline Staff in Sharjah’s Hotels

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s part of ‘Marhabtain’ initiative and under the title of “YOU@SHARJAH”, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) organised a training course aimed at developing the capabilities of frontline staff in the hospitality sector.

The training programme attracted participation from 15 hotels in Sharjah, including 36 participants from bookings, reception and customer service departments as well as number of staff who deal directly with tourists and guests.

Led by group of hospitality and tourism experts, the training course covered a variety of topics, including effective communication with hotel guests, dealing with comments and complaints, etiquette skills, anger management and dealing with situations concerning hotel guests.

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The course also included a discussion on ways to promote the Sharjah as a leading family destination and best ways to showcase the emirate’s prominent tourism, leisure, cultural and entertainment capabilities. Participants were taken on a tour of the emirate during which they visited a number of heritage and tourism landmarks.

Addressing the course HE Mohamed Ali Al Noman, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority said: “The ‘Marhabtain’ initiative includes a set of internationally accredited training programmes designed to improve the human capabilities in the tourism sector with the objective of achieving the Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021 which aims to welcome over 10 million visitors by 2021”.

He added that earlier under the initiative, training

programmes and workshops were launched to train frontline office staff and taxi drivers in Sharjah to enable them to provide best tourism services, and enhance their basic skills to promote Sharjah’s tourism landmarks.

The Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021 is focused on four main pillars – promoting Sharjah as an Ideal Family Tourism Destination, following an Innovative Tourism Approach, developing World Class Tourism Facilities and Capabilities, and strengthening Sharjah’s position as an International Cultural Hub. The Vision will unite the efforts of partners in the government and private sector in developing innovative packages and programmes to improve the tourism infrastructure and create new tourism projects in the emirate.

”Open Doors. Open Minds.“ I

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding and Orange County Visitors Association Produce Free Online Cultural Training Video

n an effort to optimize the experiences of Middle Eastern visitors to Orange County, California, the Orange County Visitors Association (OCVA), with the support of local leading retail partners Fashion Island, Irvine Spectrum Center and Macy’s, and in association with the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding, have announced the release of a free online training video for Orange County local business owners, community members and professionals from the local hospitality, tourism and retail industries.

The video, titled “Welcoming Our Middle Eastern Guests to Orange County,” highlights cultural differences and teaches etiquette for communicating and interacting with Middle Eastern visitors. The video aims to bridge cultural differences and ensure that Middle Eastern visitors have an exceptional experience while visiting Orange County.

order to ensure Middle Eastern guests can fully enjoy all that Orange County has to offer. In this regard, the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding was the perfect partner in helping us achieve these goals and we are extremely grateful for all their assistance and expertise in making this video possible” said Nasif Kayed, Managing Director, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding: “Operating under the centre’s philosophy and motto “Open Doors. Open Minds.” the centre strives to raise awareness and demystify the local culture, customs and religion of the United Arab Emirates. With an overall objective to improve cross-cultural understanding and communication, we are delighted to join this project spearheaded by the Orange County Visitors Association. As an Emirati their initiative to reach out to the people of the GCC in this way is greatly appreciated and I’m sure will result in many GCC nationals and expatriates increasingly visiting Orange County.”

“As the first tourism promotional body from the United States to have a permanent presence in the Middle East, we felt it important to produce a cultural training tool in order for our friendly service industry professionals in Southern California to even better serve our increasing number of guests from the Middle East,” said OCVA CEO Ed Fuller. “It’s important that we bridge differences with mutual understanding in

The cultural training video is the second in a series produced by the Orange County Visitors Association, the first highlighting cultural techniques in welcoming visitors from China. Presented at no cost to all, the training video can be easily accessed by visiting the OCVA Youtube channel at: http://youtu.be/UmBZtS1OrB4, and has been produced with the goal of creating an informative resource for best practices when welcoming Middle

Eastern travelers to Southern California.

“We hope businesses use this as training in their offices to encourage culturally- aware hospitality for our Middle Eastern guests,” said Mr. Fuller.

“Ensuring that we assist visitors by culturally providing for their needs will motivate Middle Eastern travelers to return to Orange County year on year.”

The video includes topics ranging from social and cultural norms and values to social etiquette for business relationships. Nasir Kayed, Managing Director and Dahlia, a volunteer, at the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rasid Centre for Cultural Understanding provide a detailed overview of these topics while presenting an overview of Islam and its influence on Middle Eastern culture.

The training website is launched just as the OCVA launches a special travel campaign exclusive for visitors from the Middle East. Entitled “The OC & ME”, the campaign provides visitors with complimentary VIP personal shopper experiences along with thousands of dollars-worth of shopping discounts and bargains at Orange County’s leading shopping lifestyle destinations. Additionally, the OCVA has also recently launched an Arabic and English website along with social media channels specifically tailored for Middle Eastern guests.

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The Ajman Palace Hotel Hosts Baniyas Football Club

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he Ajman Palace Hotel hosted the Baniyas Football Club for the second time as the soccer stars were in Ajman to play against Al Shaab Football Club.

The team stayed recently, in the hotel and was overwhelmed by the warm hospitality extended to them.

Speaking on the occasion, Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of The Ajman Palace Hotel, said that the hotel is always keen to host sports teams travelling to Ajman for their big games and feel proud to offer great services.

He added, “We are glad that the players of Baniyas Football Club enjoyed their stay at our hotel and appreciated our excellent customer service. We believe in treating our guests like family. It is traditional Arab hospitality at its best. We look forward to host them the next

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time they travel for a game.”

The stay became a cherished moment for the player Larrivey Joaquin Oscar whose birthday fell during the stay and The Ajman Palace Hotel congratulated him with a special cake.

Later, the team presented a memento to Ferghal Purcell as a mark of their appreciation to the hotel. The team’s visit was captured for posterity by a photographer as the players posed with Mohamed Eidha Al Menhalli, a member of the club management team.

The hotel has been regularly accommodating national football teams of Iraq and Congo, besides many other popular Emirati clubs including Al Nasr Football Club. www.TheAjmanPalace.com

The Epicure at The Dolder Grand, Zurich 2015 The Encore to a Successful Premiere

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he Dolder Grand’s Fine Dining chef and Michelin-starred Heiko Nieder is the driving force behind The Epicure, a celebrated rendezvous for top international chefs, all of whom have made a name for themselves through their pioneering creativity. Over the course of three evenings, guests in The Restaurant will be treated to an exclusive 8-course dinner.

Serving up culinary masterpieces alongside Heiko Nieder are esteemed chefs; Quique Dacosta, Gert De Mangeleer and Christian Bau, each with 3 Michelin stars.

During the second and third day of the culinary soiree, Masterclasses are on offer showcasing expert-led tasting sessions and a series of different culinary explorations. Throughout the event, guests can have a chat with professionals where they can learn the secrets of thespecialists and compare notes with like-minded gourmets.

The Epicure Final, set within the Gallery and Gallery Lounges, will witness Heiko Nieder presenting exclusive delicacies at 11 food stations, along with 10 award winning chefs conjuring up their creations. Stefano Baiocco, Mauro Colagreco, Gert De Mangeleer, Peter Knogl, Onno Kokmeijer, Silvio Nickol, Christoph Ruffer, Masanori Tomikawa, Davide Scabin, top pastry chef Yann Duytsche and world-class bartender David Rios will be demonstrating their own craft with exclusive products wherein guests can have the opportunity to sample the delicacies together with the perfect accompanying beverages. In addition to the exquisite delicacies, guests will be able to enjoy the magnificent view over Lake Zurich from the terrace creating the perfect ambience on this special day.

and culinary art as an overnight stay includes an 8-course Epicure dinner in The Restaurant.

Guests can also take pleasure inthe awardwinning 4,000m2 Dolder Grand Spa and enjoy a late checkout until 4.00 pm. Valid on September 17 to 20, this spectacular package starts from CHF 1,840.00 (equivalent to US$ 1,932.00) for 2 persons.

Experience culinary and hospitality excellence with “The Epicure package at the Dolder Grand”.

Be part of The Epicure and revel in international

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Cristal Hotels To Capitalise on

Potential Boom in Iran

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ith an ambitious annual visitor target of 20 million by 2025 – a five-fold increase - Iran is set to become one of the region’s most lucrative hotel development markets, according to Peter Blackburn, President and CEO of the Cristal Group.

Following the recent agreement with international negotiators on capping nuclear capacity, trade and financial sanction are due to be lifted in 2016, paving the way for expansion of the country’s infrastructure and industrial base, he said.

“There has already been talk of an investment of US$185bn in oil and gas projects, as well as further development of the country’s metals and automotive industries, while general trade is certain to rise which will give a tremendous boost to the region, and Dubai as a major hub.”

The huge influx of business traffic in to Iran has underlined the lack of accommodation in the capital Tehran that has an estimated 100 hotels, many of which are in need of renovation.

“Hospitality has moved on in recent years and international travellers expect certain levels of service, product and communications which are currently lacking in Iran,” said Mr Blackburn.

“Importing the services of experienced hotel operators who have a knowledge of the region will enable Iran’s hotel sector to up its game in the shortterm – and this is where we see a role for Cristal Hotels, working with partners in the country.”

The group already operates hotels in the Iraq, Lebanon and the UAE, with further properties under development and negotiation in Saudi Arabia, Kurdistan and Turkey, and Mr Blackburn said Iran would be a natural fit in the group’s growing portfolio.

“In addition to business interests, there is considerable demand for Iran as a new tourism destination, and we can see potential to grow in all sectors in the country, taking advantage of new financial incentives as well as the transformation of the image of Iran in global markets.” www.cristalhospitality.com

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Peter Blackburn President & C.E.O - Cristal Group

VFS Global Launches New Services for

the Embassy of Spain in the UAE

V Ajit Alexander, COO Middle East and Africa, VFS Global

FS Global announced the launch of a new service for the Embassy of Spain in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), for the first time. All Spanish nationals who wish to apply for consular services with the Spanish Embassy in the UAE can now submit their request in the two joint visa application centres managed by VFS Global, in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi. These services commenced from 05 August 2015.

The services offered to Spanish nationals include: • Registration and deregistration for residents and non-residents • Certificate of residency • Certificate of birth, marriage from civil registry • Collection of new passports Ajit Alexander, COO – Middle East and Africa, VFS Global, said, “We are delighted to offer this new service for the Embassy of Spain in Abu Dhabi. Our aim has been to consistently offer a seamless experience for all Spanish nationals who are UAE residents, with the flexibility and convenience of having these services at all our application centres.

VFS Global started operations for the Government of Spain in 2007, and now serves the client in 49 countries from 86 Visa Application Centres globally. We are honoured to extend the partnership to these additional services.”

This service is for Spanish nationals residing in the UAE only. Applicants wishing to avail of these services need to make a prior appointment with the centre. The services would attract a nominal fee, payable at the Centre. www.vfsglobal.com

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Royal Caribbean International Bring In Largest Number Of Fly-Cruise

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oyal Caribbean International has signed a first-ever multi-million dollar marketing collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Changi Airport Group (CAG) to promote cruising out of Singapore and, in turn, attract the cruise line's largest number of overseas fly-cruise guests here.

The tripartite collaboration – which runs between 2015 and 2018 – is estimated to pull in over 170,000 overseas visitors to Singapore to sail on Royal Caribbean’s cruises over that period, resulting in a projected growth of over 50 per cent.

This will be done via a series of marketing campaigns, research studies and channel development activities, such as partnerships with the media and trade, in markets not only within Asia such as India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and Taiwan, but also beyond the region in Australia, Europe and North America.

Royal Caribbean also plans to increase its number of sailings from Singapore during this period to over 40 a year. Currently, the cruise line’s 3,840-guest Mariner of the Seas makes around 30 voyages annually. Her next Singapore season which will be the largest ever starting from this 2 October, will feature more long cruises of seven to 15 nights, aimed at attracting more overseas fly-cruise guests.

Sean Treacy, Managing Director, Singapore and Southeast Asia of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. 32 Curiosity October - November 2015

said: “Having deployed ships here regularly for the last seven years, Royal Caribbean now looks forward to its next phase of significant growth in Singapore. Our three-year deployment plan is our strongest commitment ever to this market and we see great potential in Singapore as a source market and regional cruise hub. We highly appreciate this collaboration which will be a tremendous support for our business goals in Singapore and Southeast Asia, as well as the strong efforts of the Singapore Government for being so proactive in driving the cruise business in the country.”

Projected to generate over $100 million in tourism receiptsi, the collaboration with Royal Caribbean contributes substantially to Singapore’s cruise industry, with an estimated compounded annual growth of 5 to 8 per cent in throughput over the next three to four years. With the cruise industry already generating more than $500 million in direct spendingii in 2013, this development promises a further injection of significant economic impact into Singapore.

• • •

Based on an estimate of over 170,000 foreign cruise passengers to Singapore for Royal Caribbean cruises between 2015 and 2018 Based on a Cruise industry EIA study commissioned by STB in 2013.

Based on a consumer insight studies commissioned by STB in 2012.

What is equally important is the growing interest in cruising in Southeast Asia. With more than 25,000 islands, Southeast Asia is an ideal cruising destination for travellers seeking to discover

multiple cultures and new experiences in a warm, tropical year-round climate. The region appeals particularly strongly to Asian travellers due to its close proximity to home, with eight in 10iii who have never cruised before expressing interest to embark on a cruise vacation within Southeast Asia.

Said Ms Neeta Lachmandas, Assistant Chief Executive (Business Development Group), Singapore Tourism Board: “The tripartite collaboration is a significant development not just for Singapore but also for Southeast Asia. We hope Royal Caribbean’s commitment will inspire new cruise itineraries around the region to offer more reasons for travellers to take to cruising, and also motivate our neighbouring ports and destinations to invest and realise fully the tremendous potential of the Asian cruise industry.”

Providing a link between Royal Caribbean International, Singapore and its regional neighbours is Changi Airport’s strong connectivity to 320 cities worldwide, along with some 6,700 weekly flights, giving Singapore a strategic advantage to effectively tap fly-cruise traffic from across the globe and serve as a cruise hub for Asia.

CAG’s Senior Vice President for Market Development, Mr Lim Ching Kiat, said: “This collaboration represents the synergistic efforts by CAG, Royal Caribbean and STB to effectively tap fly-cruise traffic from across the globe and serve as a cruise hub for Asia. Changi Airport will continue to leverage on its network and work with airlines and travel agents to promote fly-cruise packages through Singapore.”

The Ajman Palace Hotel

Receives Certificate of Appreciation

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he Ajman Palace Hotel received a Certificate of Appreciation for Distinguished Support to the STS Work Placement Programme during the Academic Year 2014-2015. The hotel provided Secondary Technical Schools (STS) students an opportunity to gain experience of working in a professional organization as part of their academic requirements. The students completed apprenticeship in the hotel’s Sales & Marketing as well as Front Office departments.

The Ajman Palace Hotel received a Special Trophy, named ‘Plaque for providing work placements 2014-2015′. The trophy is given to firms that provide internship to students looking for exposure in professional work environment.

Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of The Ajman Palace Hotel, said that the experience could help STS students once they enter the job market or apply for higher education.

He added, “Our internship programme is good for students as they get a chance to hone their skills by learning from professionals. On the other hand it is a sound investment for us too as some of those students may join our organisation at a later stage.”

The Secondary Technical Schools (STS) schools have been established to provide young Emiratis with a senior high school education that has a focus on technical and technology education.

In doing so, STS schools provide students with an alternative choice to government and private schools and the Applied Technical High Schools (ATHS) which are run by the Institute of Applied Technology (IAT).

Ferghal said that as part of its corporate social responsibility programme the hotel will continue to offer internships to Emirati as well as other students. www.TheAjmanPalace.com October - November 2015 Curiosity 33

making

news

BANYAN TREE PHUKET RE-LAUNCHES As An All-Pool Villa Resort

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tranquil oasis in Thailand’s pearl of the Andaman, Banyan Tree Phuket invites guests to join in celebrating its highly anticipated re-launch as the island’s most recognised five-star retreat in its 21st year. With a complete redesign of several restaurants and villas, Banyan Tree Phuket offers a distinctive and memorable experience which indulges all the senses.

Banyan Tree Phuket’s re-launch comes after a period of renovation to its Deluxe Villas, now renamed Banyan Pool Villas. The upgrade means that guests can enjoy their very own private pool in any Banyan Tree villa category. The new Banyan Pool Villas are specially designed for couples, with an en-suite bathroom and his-and-hers private dressing areas. Blending Thai elegance with a modern sensibility, these romantic private pool villas offer the ultimate comfort and are another triumph for a resort celebrated for creating the ideal holiday experience.

Also re-opening are two of Banyan Tree Phuket’s most-loved restaurants.

Saffron, Banyan Tree’s crown jewel and signature dining experience is renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine and excellent service; and now offers its mouth-watering menu in a new contemporary setting in the heart of the resort. The Watercourt restaurant, popular for its succulent seafood caught fresh from the Andaman Sea, will also re-open its doors in a brand new ground-floor venue which includes private lagoon-facing decks and an air-conditioned dining area.

Both Saffron and Watercourt will be helmed by Banyan Tree Phuket’s new Executive Chef, the immensely talented Alfonso de la Dehesa, who has worked extensively in some of the world’s very best restaurants including Michelin-starred El Bulli. Chef Alfonso’s extraordinary talent for combining rich flavours with immaculate presentation is fueling the anticipation for the re-opening of Saffron and Watercourt under his stewardship.

Book the “Night on Us Re-Launch Offer - Stay 5 Pay 4” promotion with a minimum stay of five nights in any villa category and enjoy the following privileges: - A complimentary night for every five consecutive nights - Daily buffet breakfast - 20% savings at the new Saffron and Watercourt restaurants (excluding alcohol) 34 Curiosity October - November 2015

This offer is valid for stays between 1st November and 20th December 2015 booked with special offer code of BT2015 on www.banyantree.com. The Promotion starts at THB 87,504 nett (approx 2,457 USD) for a five night stay in a Banyan Pool Villa.

Best Available Rates on www.banyantree.com for a minimum stay of five nights are available all year round. http://www.banyantree. com/en/ap-thailand-phuket-resort www.banyantree.com

October - November 2015 Curiosity 35

making

news

Coral Al Madina Hotel enjoys an unrivalled location just across the road overlooking the Al Masjid Al Nabawi Al Sharief (the Prophet’s Holy Mosque)

Coral Al Madina Hotel Enters into Final Stages of Construction

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aurent A. Voivenel, CEO, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings was recently in KSA to assess the progress at Coral Al Madina Hotel that is in advanced stages of construction and is due for completion by the third quarter of 2016. It is one of the several properties scheduled to open next year under the HMH banner and will be a flagship hotel for the group in the Holy city of Madina.

Pleased with the progress, Laurent commented, “The construction has really picked up pace over the last few months and it is wonderful to see the building taking shape. The developers have done a fantastic job and we are confident Coral Al Madina Hotel will turn out to be a preferred address for travellers to the city”.

HMH is the most credible and leading

36 Curiosity October - November 2015

chain of Halal-friendly hotels operating across the MENA region, and KSA is central to its expansion strategy with the group looking to double its existing portfolio of hotels in the country over the next five years.

Laurent stated, “Coral Al Madina Hotel is going to be the biggest and most prestigious opening of the year for us and is being developed to be the first ‘Smart’ hotel in Madina offering the most advanced technology including high-tech smart rooms”. The luxurious 5-star enjoys an unrivalled location just across the road overlooking the Al Masjid Al Nabawi Al Sharief (the Prophet’s Holy Mosque).

The countdown to the opening has already begun with the hotel in final stages of development. Featuring 400

plus rooms and suites, spread over 10 floors and five basements, Coral Al Madina Hotel is owned

by Mobarak Hotels Group that has appointed Designs Company, specialized in providing integrated hotel solutions, to oversee their growth and expansion. All rooms are designed with guests’ comfort in mind and offer the ultimate in convenience and luxury, coupled with incomparable views of the Holy Mosque.

Laurent stressed, “Each room at Coral Al Madina Hotel is thoughtfully equipped to meet the needs of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and families. Included in the hotel’s wide range of facilities are three specialty restaurants and

a lobby lounge, two state-of-theart meeting rooms with adaptable function spaces, business center, fully-equipped gym and spa, shopping arcade, large private parking as well as helicopter landing site”.

Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH with Mohammed Al Nadi - Owner's Representative from Coral Al Madina Hotel

According to industry reports, religious tourism is flourishing in Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom completes expansion of the Holy mosques. The country expects visitors to Makkah and Madinah reach 25 million every year by 2025 from just over 17.5 million in 2014.Therefore, to meet this growing demand, both Makkah and Madinah have seen a massive increase in investment in the hotel sector.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 37

y

St le must

haves

Travel in

The Patravi TravelTec II World time on your wrist For the tenth anniversary of the Patravi TravelTec line, Carl F. Bucherer unveils an impressive new member of the family: the Patravi TravelTec II. The unique combination of three-time zone display and chronograph now comes in a bold compact case.

Carl F. Bucherer's outstanding Patravi TravelTec models have enthused watch lovers for ten years now. To mark this anniversary the new Patravi TravelTec II will take its place beside the Patravi TravelTec and Patravi TravelTec FourX.

The joy of travelling is usually the destination, but shopping makes it even more enjoyable. Here are some cool picks‌

MAGNIFICENT KINGDOM Autumn 2015 Reconsidering the past, the Autumn 2015 collection draws on PANDORA’s heritage to inform each design. In a tribute to the beauty of nature and the mystique of legend, flora, fauna and foliage are reimagined in 14k gold and sterling silver finished with sparkling stone accents and filigree details.

KENZO Spring-Summer 2016 Collection KENZO collection for spring-summer 2016 follows the global traveler as she confidently collects an unexpected mix of elements. She nonchalantly translates the souvenirs of her holiday adventures into her day-to-day wardrobe. She always has her swimwear at hand as she might find a place to stop for a dip en route to her next destination.

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ESPRIT LAUNCHES # I m P e r f e c t C A M PA I G N International fashion brand Esprit reveals the theme of the Fall/Winter 2015 campaign, featuring the ImPerfect hashtag through a lively and diverse cast of unique-looking individuals. Esprit’s Fall/Winter 2015 communication strategy raises questions of perfection and imperfection, celebrating individualism. The selected campaign look represents the sentiment of unbridled freedom of expression characteristic of the 1970s and the early founding days of Esprit.

Discover the new Nina Ricci Spring 2016 Collection.

For his Spring 2016 pre-collection, Guillaume Henry delves deeper into his vision for the House of Nina Ricci by forwarding the intention expressed on the fall runway debut while exploring and appreciating the depth of the House and its signatures and interpreting its spirit in modern ways.

Fun & Chic With its strong and ever-elegant shades for fall, the new Dior Vernis makes a "fun and chic statement" in the words of Peter Philips, Creative and Image Director of Dior Makeup

Elegantly innovative, imaginatively elegant!

Apple Watch Hermès in selected stores worldwide from October.

Jadore Dior – Touche de Parfum A soft and musky floral signature fragrance that caresses the skin, unveiled by a gently enveloping mist.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 39

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 40 Curiosity October - November 2015

Underwater by Wafa El Hilali Wafa El Hilali, a Dubai based artist, paints abstract images using acrylic paints that portray movement and a sudden impulse of creativity. Having travelled the globe with her latest works, she is now coming to the Dubai International Arts Centre. Underwater explores prosperous populated areas symbolically. This will be her first solo exhibition.

When: 29th September - 14th October 2015 Where: Gallery 76, Dubai International Arts Centre, Street 75b, Villa No 27, Jumeirah Beach Road, Near Town Centre, Dubai

HER by Matilde Gattoni GPP brings French photographer Matilde Gattoni and her work titled “HER� to Dubai. Matilde Gattoni has had the unique opportunity to encounter thousands of women from all corners of the world, from explorers in Dubai to war refugees in Kenya, Eritrea and Lebanon, from cluster bomb victims in Laos to tsunami survivors in Indonesia, from victims of domestic violence to land grabbing evictees. But through all the hardships these women go through, Matilde was able to find and build a connection between them and expresses these similarities and victories through her work.

When: 14th September - 31st October 2015 Where: Gulf Photo Plus, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai

Sharjah International Book Fair One of the largest book fair in the world, the most prestigious in the Arab world and home to the most exciting literary event in the region. Over the years, the 11 day event has transformed into a literary carnival with over 1256 publishers participating from 59 countries and attracting over 1,400,000 visitors. The Sharjah International Book Fair is proudly one of pillars that has elevated this city as the cultural capital of the region.

When: 4th-14th November 2015 Where: Expo Center, Sharjah

October - November 2015 Curiosity 41

Dubai Airshow 2015 The Dubai Air Show is a biennial event that has been attracting visitors for the past 23 years. It began as the Arab Air Show back in 1986 and comprised a small civil aviation trade show at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Two decades later, the show is a huge draw for all those involved and interested in the aerospace sector. The event focuses on connecting buyers to sellers from all over the globe. In 2009 the event drew over 52,000 trade visitors who connected with 890 exhibitors from 47 countries.

When: 8th - 12th November 2015 Where: DWC, Dubai Airshow Site, Dubai

2015 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Runway Dubai Season III Runway Dubai is a fashion promotional agency that began two years ago and have now become a recognizable entity in the Dubai fashion scene. They will be hosting the third season of their fashion show this November. The show gives local designers a platform to express their creativity while exposing them to potential customers and brands.

When: 24th - 26th November 2015 Where: Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, Dubai

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Now in its seventh spectacular year, the 2015 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be returning to the iconic Yas Marina Circuit. The world’s only twilight race will be the last of the 2015 season, and could potentially decide the prestigious F1 driver’s championship title once again.

Demand is expected to be at an all-time high following 2014’s record-breaking, sell-out race weekend. Last year saw more than 60,000 fans enjoy a spectacular finale to a nail-biting season and a race-weekend.

When: 27th - 29th November, 2015 Where: Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi

Fashion Forward 2015 (Season 6) Fashion Forward (FFWD) aims to be the definitive fashion platform for the Middle East – a fashion movement that highlights strengths, inspires and nurtures industry growth and its wealth of talent, with the ultimate goal of driving forward the entire fashion industry in the region. FFWD includes numerous catwalk presentations from top regional designers, inspiring talks and panel discussions led by global industry experts and fashion academia, as well as entertainment, through a string of social events and parties.

Some of the designers include Dima Ayad, Hussein Bazaza, House of Nomad and Dany Tabet. The event concourse also includes an assortment of accessory designers in the form of The Garden as well as The Fashion Gallery and Fashion Cafe.

When: 22nd - 25th October 2015 Where: Madinat Theatre, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

Opera in the Park at Wafi Wafi’s ‘Opera in the Park’ is back once again with phenomenal opera singer John Innes who will be performing some spectacular arias and popular songs from the world of Opera, Broadway and Big band swing, along with internationally acclaimed singers Georg Tormann and American soprano Julia Kermott live on the picturesque rooftop gardens of Wafi.

When: 5th - 6th November 2015 Where: Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai

GITEX Shopper 2015 (Autumn Edition) GITEX Shopper is the largest gathering of the region’s leading ICT retailers and suppliers. This high-energy consumer show attracts a diverse audience that includes IT professionals, technology enthusiasts, students and consumers as well as regional traders.

The event attracts visitors not just from the Middle East but also from North Africa and the Indian Subcontinent. GITEX Shopper attracts the biggest names in the retail sector, with unique launches and special offers across the best technology, communication and entertainment products.

Loyal buyers await this shopping bonanza year after year for exclusive deals and bundled offers which are not available anywhere else.

When: 3rd-10th October, 2015 Where: Dubai World Trade Centre , Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai October - November 2015 Curiosity 43

dine out

Sweet and Sour with Plenty of Spice Dubai has some of the best Chinese restaurants.

We sniff out the most popular ones‌ and they are not all Cantonese

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Shang Palace Category: Cantonese Opening Hours Sun - Fri: 12.30pm - 3pm & 7pm - 12am Sat: 11am - 3pm & 7pm - 12am Reservations: +971 4 4052703 Location: Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai

Yuan Hakkasan Category : Chinese

Opening Hours 12pm to 4pm & 7pm - 1am

Reservations: +971 4 3848484

Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai

Category : Chinese

Opening Hours Lunch - Sat to Thurs: 12.30pm - 4pm Dinner - Sat to Wed: 6pm - 11pm & Thurs and Fri: 6pm - 11.30pm

Reservations: +971 4 4262000 Location: Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

Zheng He's ROUGE Category : Pan Asia

Opening Hours Tue-Sun:Â 7pm- 11.30pm

Reservations: +9712 6170000

Category : Chinese

Opening Hours - Sun to Sat: 12.30pm 3pm & 6.30pm to 11pm

Reservations: +971 4 366 5866 Location: Jumeirah Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

Location: Hilton Capital Grand, Abu Dhabi

October - November 2015 Curiosity 45

TOSHI

Peppercrab Category: Singaporean Opening Hours: Thurs to Fri: 7pm - 11.30pm Friday Brunch: 12.30pm - 4pm

Reservations: +971 4 3172221

Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai

Category: Pan Asian

Opening Hours: 4pm to 2 am Reservations: +971 4 4299999 Location: Grand Millennium Hotel, Dubai

Long Yin Category : Chinese

Opening Hours 12:30pm- 5pm & 6pm -11pm Reservations: +971 4 702 2455 Location: Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai

Wox Restaurant Category: Asian Opening Hours: 12pm to 11.30pm

Reservations: +971 4 3172221 Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai

HONG LOONG Category: Chinese Opening Hours:7:00pm to 11:30pm Reservations: +971 4 4555656 Location: Sofitel the Palm, Dubai 46 Curiosity October - November 2015

first bite

Revel in the Fusion at Al Forsan's Newest Restaurant Offering

Al Forsan International Sports Resort is proud to announce that it will be introducing a new venue to its already impressive collection of restaurants this season. Kishi will bring a fresh new taste to Abu Dhabi, with its Japanese-Fusion menu that will be sure to delight all palates!

As Al Forsan offers various activities and sporting pursuits, so it provides a diverse range of food and beverage options that will allow diners to experience a plethora of different cultures and cuisines. Kishi brings traditional Japanese cuisine and injects an exciting fusion aspect into its diverse offerings. This melange has manifested itself into a stunning restaurant interior, which perfectly complements the food which it serves. The presentation of a contemporary aesthetic is neatly offset by the appearance of subtle Japanese icons, such as beautiful cherry blossoms and bamboo.

Whilst artfully featuring staples of Japanese cuisine such as: Sashimi, Gyoza and select Sushi; Kishi also showcases its fusion elements by offering dishes like: wrapped Foie Gras with Peking Duck, as well

48 Curiosity October - November 2015

as bespoke sushi items like the Crown Black Maki and 21st Century Smoked Foie Gras Maki. Kishi is also excited to offer Teppanyaki, with 3 unique options for the discerning diner. With the ability to choose between the Samurai (meat lover), the Kaisenyaki (seafood lover) and the Shogun (surf and turf), Teppanyaki fans will be able to enjoy a luxurious feast, whilst reveling in the spectacle of a front row seat at the teppan table.

This mix of the modern and the ancient is a perfect reflection of the food that is served by the talented Chef Tamer Shawki. After a long career working in many restaurants across the world, Chef Tamer now works at Al Forsan International Sports Resort, and spearheads a crack team at Kishi. With the skills accrued over a long career, alongside his expertise in molecular gastronomy, Chef Tamer is sure to lead Kishi into the forefront of Abu Dhabi’s burgeoning culinary scene.

Kishi is open from 13h00 pm to 23h00 pm (Closed on Sundays).

CHINA GRILL DUBAI REVEALS ITS BEST KEPT SECRET WITH THE LAUNCH OF “INDUSTRIAL AVENUE”

China Grill Dubai at The Westin Mina Seyahi revealed a big secret with the launch of “Industrial Avenue” an exciting new venue, concealed behind China Grill’s bar and reached only through a hidden entrance.

The new space, which is also available to rent for private functions, offers China Grill’s revellers the chance to continue the party in a unique, laid back environment with an industrial feel.

Industrial Avenue is another great reason to head down to China Grill (as if you needed one!).

Tel: +971 4 511 7333 Email: Reservation.Chinagrill@westin.com

About China Grill China Grill brings a unique and cosmopolitan taste of New York City to the UAE with their pioneering legacy of Asian-inspired World Cuisine. The brainchild of US entrepreneur, Jeffrey Chodorow and the management team behind some of the world’s most acclaimed and wildly popular dining hotspots such as Asia de Cuba, Red Farm, All’Onda and Blue Door with Claude Troisgros China Grill Dubai serves up a fresh take on Asian cuisine to Dubai’s savvy foodies. Its exciting, globe-spanning menu has absorbed influence from the west to look as Asian cuisine in a singularly innovative new way, just as Marco Polo expanded culinary innovation through his travels.

DARREN VELVICK LAUNCHES MODERN BRITISH CONCEPT ‘THE CROFT’ Stepping into the urban restaurant scene of Dubai, The Croft has found its home within the Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites set amidst stunning surroundings of Dubai Marina.

The Croft, is the brainchild of Marcus Wareing protégé and former Patron Chef of Table9, Darren Velvick.

Being one of the winning ideas of Marriott International’s Project Canvas campaign, the venue is closely inspired by Darren’s own childhood upbringing in the rural British village of Hampstead Norreys and it reflects the wholesome food culture that he grew up with.

Darren Velvick, Chef de Cuisine at The Croft stated: “We are thrilled to be launching our

dream after months of conceptualizing, planning and prepping. The theme behind the restaurant is very close to my heart and we are eagerly looking forward to receiving positive feedback from guests.”

Project Canvas was introduced with the purpose of nurturing local entrepreneurship as well as supporting the creation of homegrown concepts. The initiative, which builds on Marriott International’s entrepreneurial heritage, first launched in Bethesda earlier in the year, and has made the dreams of food and beverage entrepreneurs a reality using Marriott International as a lab in their quest to create.

Tel: +971 4 319 4794

October - November 2015 Curiosity 49

Nelson's, Media Rotana

Nelson's at Media Rotana is a modern Victorian pub and a trendy late-night destination features a full menu of designer beverages and upscale snacks as well as a giant video screen and a top-notch sound system that give the place a warm and relaxed vibe to enjoy watching the English Premier League and other major sporting events. Extended happy hour and a DJ spinning great music will ensure this pub is a welcoming place to hang out, kick back and enjoy a drink.

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Enjoy daily offers from Beer buckets, Pie & a Pint, Combo Night to Happy Hour, Ladies Night and Saturday Lunch Bunch. Don’t miss the amazing Friday brunch at everyone’s favourite neighborhood pub for delicious bangers, pies and much more starting from AED 155* per person.

Tel: +971 4 4350201

New Hotspot at Kempinski Hotel Ajman Sabella’s, the well-known Italian restaurant, has been offering excellent cheese and wine-pairing classes by the top sommeliers and has hosted family Christmas dinners and romantic settings for couples on Valentine’s Day. Starting from August 2015, Sabella’s is back with a new look and restaurant manager Jeanne Roux will explain all about the new concept, innovative dining trends and the 100% organic menu.

“The reason for changing the whole concept of Sabella’s was simple,” said Jeanne. “It was originally a fine-dining restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine made from organic, locally sourced products – not to follow a trend, but to add extra value to this fantastic venue.

And what would be a better way to highlight the importance of organic and locally sourced ingredients than creating a new innovative restaurant concept out of this and offering guests a 100% organic menu? For us, organic food means authentic. We want our guests to enjoy their dinner by knowing that they are not eating any modified or chemically improved products.

Organic ingredients are much tastier and healthier, and as a five-star hotel, we believe that the taste and quality of the food is primary. We really do believe in the health benefits of organic products. The well being of our guests is our utmost aim and the greatest reward.”

“When I hear about a fine-dining restaurant, the first thing that comes to my mind is: oh, we have to dress up. I have to arrive with heels in my gala dress and my partner has to bring his tuxedo,” laughed Jeanne. “We wanted to create an atmosphere that is more casual by changing the decorations and creating a different stress-free dining ambience,” she explained.

The new design of Sabella’s is more casual.

“Soon we are also opening up a pizza bar, where our guests will be able to enjoy live-cooking shows by our Italian pizza chef or see how their antipasti is prepared in front of them,” said Jeanne.

Italian cuisine is perfectly fitting for any lifestyle it is rich, generous and simple. There doesn’t have to be a special occasion to take your family for Italian dinner.

Sabella’s team looks forward to welcoming everyone from kids to seniors and pizza lovers to vegetarians for an unforgettable Italian dinner experience!

Open for dinner from Mondays to Saturdays from 18:30 to 23:30.

Tel: +971 6 714 5555 October - November 2015 Curiosity 51

800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria Now at Mall of The Emirates 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, launched a new pizzeria at the new extension of Mall of the Emirates, inaugurated by H.E. Ibrahim Mohammed Al Janahi, the Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer of JAFZA. The grand opening was graced by the presence of chief dignitaries and VVIP’s such as H.E. Umej Bhatia, the Singapore Ambassador to the UAE; Renuka Jagtiani, the Vice Chairperson of Landmark Group; Shahram Shamsaee, Founder at Msquared Shopping Centres; Lee Talbott, Director Leasing of Mc Arthur and Company; and Kritika Rawat, Presenter at Radio 89.1.

With a goal to take the GCC market by storm with culinary delights true to taste from Naples, 800 Degree Pizza’s fresh concept relies on creating completely customizable traditional Neapolitan Pizzas that are oven baked using Almond Wood right in front of the consumer.

After its launch at City Center Me’aisem, 800 Degrees Pizza brings to the table an ingenious menu of fully customizable pizzas –to choose everything from the base, to toppings and beyond and have them baked to perfection in 90 seconds, the traditional Italian way. The menu does not conform to pizzas alone; it also has Gelato, Burratas, Ricotta Cheese Bread and Salads to choose from, making 800 Degrees Pizza a home to authentic Italian delights. 800 Degrees Pizza’s specialty is the signature Neapolitan pie, which also provides a gluten-free option for crust.

A concept that originated in Los Angeles, California, 800 Degrees attributes its exceptional ideology to the need for authentic Italian pizzas.

Pizza Napoletana is made with just flour, salt, water and wild yeast to create a fluffy, thin and crisp crust. A rich tomato sauce indigenous to 800 Degrees alone, the scrumptious base is then topped with fresh mozzarella and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Charred in an oven to perfection using Almond-Wood and all of this is 52 Curiosity October - November 2015

up and ready in 90 seconds. Introducing the taste of Napoli for the first time to L.A., 800 Degrees now comes to the U.A.E. with rich, sumptuous and remarkable pizzas.

Manish Jeswani, the Managing Director of Eaters LLC and franchise rights owner of the US based 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, said, “I express my sincere thanks to His Excellency Ibrahim Mohammed Al Janahi and all of our chief guests for gracing the opening with their presence. The new location at The Mall of the Emirates is planned very strategically given that it is very accessible and right in the heart of the city. The experience that is created is very vital to dining – we want the customer to be completely invested in the creation of their meal. The base, ingredients, sauces and every topping is selected by the guests and made right in front of them.

Baked in just 90 seconds, it is a delight to watch how perfectly the pizza is created.”

Under the leadership of Manish and Master Pizzaiolo, Chef Rosario Accaria, 800 Degrees Pizza is the ingenious pizzeria that bakes the perfect pizza to take the region on a tour through the rich heritage of Naples and back.

About 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria: Founded

by Anthony Carron in the US originally, 800 Degrees Pizza strives to honor the heritage of Old World Italian tradition with its Pizza Napoletana baked with only the freshest, ripest ingredients right in front of the eaters. Taking the UAE market by storm within the first week of its inception in Me’aisem City Center, the 800 Degrees Pizza Middle East franchise brings the true taste of Naples to the table with customizable and specialty pizzas made the Italian way. Now open at Mall of the Emirates. The Neapolitan Pizzeria is internationally located at 7 outlets in California, 2 in Nevada, Illinois and Japan.

Olive Garden, Dubai Inspired by the culinary traditions of Tuscany, Olive Garden welcomes its customers with fresh and simple dishes, all served in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Since first opening in Abu Dhabi in 2013, the brand has established a market-leading reputation through its delicious food offerings, home-like interior setting and welcoming staff. It all adds up to a genuine Italian dining experience, with guests treated as if they are part of the family enjoying a meal in a rural Tuscan farmhouse. Olive Garden has become a firm favourite among diners for its full-of-flavour American-Italian food that is lovingly prepared and cooked with only the very best ingredients.

Olive Garden stands out in the region’s crowded food and beverage landscape through a harmonious blending of the best of AmericanItalian cuisine with the finest traditional Italian hospitality and second-to-none service.

Dubai Location and Contact Details: • Olive Garden is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite to Times Square Mall, Exit 41, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Safa, Dubai Open daily as below: • Thursday and Friday from 11 AM till 2 AM • Saturday till Wednesday 11 AM till 1 AM Contact details and social pages: • Phone Number : 04 3806027 • instagram.com/olivegardenme • www.facebook.com/OliveGardenME • www.youtube.com/OliveGardenME Abu Dhabi Location and Contact Details: • Olive Garden is located at Al Wahda Mall, Level 3 Open daily as below: • Sunday to Saturday from 10 AM to 11:00 PM Tel : +971 2 6437026

KRIS KROS to open KKLEBANON

KRIS KROS LEBANON is set to reinvent the authentic Lebanese food-fare experience to provide the ultimate in street food.

Pinnacle Restaurant and Catering Management is expanding to open the first brand extension of multi cuisine concept KRIS KROS. The new concept will deliver a cross-cultural infusion of Lebanese street food.

This no-nonsense food concept suits busy consumers who appreciate fresh, simple and satisfying food. Offering a widespread delivery service to the local areas and communities the new venture will provide high quality, convenient Lebanese street inspired meals at great value.

With a menu of definitive dishes from this famous cuisine, customers can get a taste of the authentic Lebanese lifestyle. Offering a mouth-watering selection of classic Lebanese sandwiches and wraps, and introducing the KKLEBANON specialty Soujouk Shawarma, all meals can be customized to order.

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The new concept provides a fun and lively setting to attract families and friends of all ages who appreciate casual, comforting and delicious food.

Guests will feel they have KRISKROS’ed to a genuine Lebanese street escaping the fast paced life of downtown Dubai every time they visit.

The 90 sq. meter location will operate from Aspin Commercial Tower II located on the main road of the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road accommodating fifteen dine in guests at a time. KKLEBANON will also provide the ultimate in convenience with a delivery service to the surrounding areas and communities.

KRIS KROS fuses culinary favorites with a bold, modern touch to present delectable dishes that transport you to Asia, the Americas and the Mediterranean. Now open in downtown Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Boulevard Plaza Tower II facing the Burj Khalifa.

Tel: +971 4 4539994

Now Enjoy 'Chicken Shawarmas' on Al Dente Terrace at Coral Beach Resort Sharjah

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s the weather cools down, it is time to enjoy the great outdoors. Coral Beach Resort Sharjah has added yet another attraction to its open-air dining venues with the launch of Al Dente Terrace. Whether you are out to enjoy a relaxed meal with a feel of the city's pulse or a quick bite on the go, Al Dente Terrace is ideally located to serve you.

Al Dente Terrace Menu • Chicken Shawarma Plate: AED 25 • Chicken Shawarma on Saj Bread: AED 15 • Chicken Shawarma on Shawarma Bread: AED 10 • Chicken Shawarma on Samoon Bread: AED 10 hmhhotelgroup.com/coralbeachresortsharjah Tel: +971 6 5229999

Haytham Aziz, Hotel Manager, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, said, "We are delighted to announce the opening of Al Dente Terrace that is a great new addition to our dining facilities. Shawarma is one of the most popular fast foods of the region and has a universal appeal among residents and visitors in the UAE. Al Dente terrace has been conceptualized to offer diners a quick and delicious bite at affordable prices."

On the menu at Al Dente Terrace are a variety of freshly grilled chicken shawarmas served from 6pm to 12pm daily. Whether you crave chicken shawarma on saj bread or shawarma bread or samoon bread, all are served in a jiffy at irresistible prices accompanied by the award-winning signature Coral service. Those with a bigger appetite can opt for chicken shawarma plate.

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Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel Launches Exciting New Menu

Hartmut Grauel, General Manager Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel

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he Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel has just launched an exciting new menu for diners at the Snug Restaurant as well as to guests who wish to avail the in-room service. Besides creating an array of new dishes to satiate all taste buds, the culinary team has also retained a few all-time favourite dishes, but that will be served with a twist.

The new menu features a la carte entrees composed of high-quality cut meat and seafood selections embellished with delectable seasons and sauces as well as vegetarian dishes straight from the garden.

Hartmut Grauel, General Manager of Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel, said that the new menu is perfect for locals and traveling guests alike. Similarly, it equally caters to those who wish to relish a fourcourse meal and those who wish to have a bite on the go and prefer sandwiches or burgers.

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He added, “Being a popular restaurant in the capital city frequented by food connoisseurs, it is important that we recreate our dishes regularly to give diners a new taste. However, while crafting a variety of new dishes, our chefs were guided by the guests’ penchant. Thus, while the diners will find a new flavour during breakfast, lunch or dinner, they will also find classic breakfast and lunch items that incorporate select signature dishes on the menu.”

To make a perfect starter to your meal, try Smoked Salmon Tartare (a rich and savory smoked salmon), Shrimps Hurricane (Crispy fried Mediterranean shrimps, mixed in homemade spicy sauce) and Crab Rolls (authentic AmericanChinese appetizer, stuffed with cream cheese and crab sticks served with soy sauce).

The Lebanese Section will continue to feature ever popular Hommos, Motabbal, Tabboule, Fattouch, and Potato Harra, Chicken wings Provencal, Cheese rolls, Mixed grill and Shish Tawouk.

The menu offers classic pizza with a variety of toppings reflecting the craft of the culinary team.

Take your pick. When it comes to Pasta, the list is equally rich. Choose from a variety of dishes, the simple and elegant Fettuccine Da Vinci (Fettuccine pasta folded into a parmesan-garlic creamy sauce with chicken and mushrooms) to Fettuccine Gamberetti (Fettuccine pasta folded into a Saffron

creamy sauce with sautéed shrimps, topped with parmesan cheese) and Spaghetti Carbonara (Spaghetti pasta with crispy Turkey Bacon, parmesan cheese, egg yolk and a touch of cream).

Select signature dishes on the Main Course menu include Grilled Chicken Breast, Beef Tenderloin (Tender fillet steak grilled to your taste, served with steamed vegetables and mashed potatoes), Veal Picatta (Veal filet slices sautéed with capers and lemon butter sauce served with steamed vegetables and mashed potatoes), Atlantic salmon (Grilled Atlantic salmon with our special ratatouille & white rice), Grilled Fish Filet (A goldbrown grilled Hamour with our special ratatouille & white rice) Among the ever-popular items that continue to feature in the new menu are Chicken Escalope (breaded chicken breast) and Swiss n’ Mushroom Burger (Hamburger topped with marinated mushrooms in homemade sauce & melted Swiss cheese).

The list of dessert is another fabulous addition.

Try chocolate fondant with chocolate sauce & vanilla ice cream, Toffee cheese cake with vanilla ice cream), Brownie with duo sauces & vanilla ice cream, or Apple crumble with caramel sauce & vanilla ice cream. www.hmhhotelgroup.com/coralbeirutalhamra

Sizzling Promotions

at Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel

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his season the culinary team at the Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel has created the most tempting promotions that are hard to resist. Happy hour starts early at the Grandstand from 4pm to 8pm offers 20% off on house beverages. Le Metro on the other hand offer Business Lunch available from Sunday to Thursday while Kris our signature restaurant located on the 19th Floor offer the very best of Pan Asia cuisine with 360 degree breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai as your backdrop.

GRANDSTAND: Every day: Enjoy our freshly-baked pizza with its thin crispy base and superb toppings or aussie meat pies along with a pint of selected beer.

Pizza Choices: Margherita, Chicken & Mushroom, Real Vegetarian, Seafood Island, Double Pepperoni Aussie Pie Choices: Steak & Onion, Minced Beef, Steak & Mushroom Event: PIZZA OR AUSSIE PIE + PINT Price: AED 70 Time: 12:00pm to 12:30am LE METRO: Sunday to Thursday: Enjoy business lunch buffet or 3-course set menu at Le Metro Restaurant and get 1 complimentary same day drink voucher for Grandstand or Kris with a View.

Event: Business Lunch Price: AED 75 per person Time: 12pm to 3pm KRIS WITH A VIEW: Every Tuesday: The city’s glittering skyline serves as a gorgeous backdrop for a memorable evening in Kris with a View as you indulge in our Ochi Sushi Night Buffet featuring a selection of sushi and sashimi accompanied with soups, Asian salads and sweets.

Event: Oshi Sushi Night Price: AED 155 Buffet Only | AED 275 Including House Beverages Time: 7pm to 11pm

Every Wednesday: Savour sumptuous Seafood Night at Kris with a View. Offering a wide variety of seafood selection ranging from calamari, prawns, lobsters, oysters, crabs, and shellfish to salmon, sea bass and many other fresh fish.

Prepared to your liking by our talented chefs in authentic Asian style accompanied with salad bar and Asian sweet buffet.

All comes with breath-taking uninterrupted panoramic views of Dubai.

Event: Seafood’s Night Starting from AED 130 per person Time: 7pm to 11pm Every Thursday: Kris with a View invites you to discover the very best of Pan Asian specialities buffet from Malaysia, Thailand, China, Japan and India surrounded by the unique panoramic views of Dubai.

Event: Pan Asian Night AED 165 Buffet Only | AED 285 Including House Beverages Time: 7pm to 11pm Every Friday: Enjoy the best of both worlds with our Indian Malaysian Flavours Night. Kris offers a buffet of authentic cuisines from India and Malaysia, taking dining experience to dizzying heights.

Event: Indian – Malaysian Flavours AED 135 Buffet Only | AED 255 with House Beverages Time: 7.00pm to 11.00pm www.parkregiskriskin.com October - November 2015 Curiosity 57

going places

Wat Arun Night View Temple in Bangkok, Thailand 58 Curiosity October - November 2015

Bewitched by

Bangkok Bangkok can be as bewildering as it is bewitching.

Nirmal Khanna goes in search of some hidden treasures in Thailand’s exuberant capital.

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Royal Grand Palace in Bangkok, Asia Thailand

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even trips to any city should be more than enough to explore every corner, But Bangkok had yet another treasure to leave me spell bound.

I thought I had seen it all. With innumerable stopovers plus a holiday of serious sightseeing, I was sure that every landmark had been covered and photographed...From the Royal palaces to the magnificent Buddhist temples, their golden steeples reaching to the sky, the charming floating market, lively stalls, and if you are a determined shopper the miles of stores and immense malls to help you spend. Then, there is the ultimate prize for determined buyer and collector: Chatuchak the weekend whole sale market, where arriving with a trolley is the only way to carry off the day’s bargains.

On a recent trip to Bangkok for a destination wedding, left with a free day at the end of the celebrations , while others were snoozing off their exhaustion, I checked with a guide if there was any sightseeing to pass a few hours, she came up with the ‘Renaissance Palace’ I thought I had heard wrong. A European medieval palace in a city of oriental palaces, gilded spires and Buddhist temples?

A Medieval Palace The Dusit palace is one of Bangkok’s best kept secrets and should feature high on every visitor’s ‘must see’ list. It has obviously been discovered by the Chinese as on the day, (actually every day as my guide told me), and there are just hordes of chattering visitors most of them more interested in selfies than admiring the golden treasures.

Reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican City, the magnificent palace is set in a sprawling area of more than 64,749 sq metres. It was constructed by King Chulalongkorn (RamaV) and originally called the Dusit Garden Palace (Wang Suan Dusit) and has over time become a complex of 13 palaces, throne halls, mansions and museums.

King Chulalongkorn’s old palace had been built around 1782 when the city of Bangkok, capital of the Kingdom of Siam, was constructed. Over the decades, the palace as the seat of the Royal Government became crowded with a growing family of many wives and many more children, plus courtiers, officials and other minions.

The Dusit palace is one of Bangkok’s best kept secrets and should feature high on every visitor’s ‘must see’ list

Medusa Shield on Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall's Gate, Bangkok, Thailand.

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A Vintage Early 19th Century Stagecoach on Display at Royal Carriage Building No. 3 at the Dusit Palace

The king, an outdoor person who enjoyed sprawling lawns and gardens, had also taken to the fashionable pastime of cycling. He was the first Thai King to visit Europe and he came back very impressed with what he saw: marble palaces, lifestyle et al.

He also found his old palace small and restrictive for his lifestyle despite the fact that more and more buildings were built for the growing needs of the Royal family and the King’s court.

King Chulalongkorn, fresh from his trip to Europe in 1897, was particularly impressed with the marble palaces of Italy. On his return, he established a new royal compound near the original palace and named it Suan Dusit (Celestial Garden). It

Arts of The Kingdom Museum at Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, Dusit Palace

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The Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall in Thai Royal Dusit Palace, Bangkok, Thailand

began with a single storeyed structure and over the years became the royal residence and was renamed Wang Dusit (Celestial Dwelling)

Chulalongkorn lived here till his death in 1910.His son Vajirudh ensured the completion of the palace and added to the gardens.

After his second trip to Europe, he expanded the greenery adding a private garden: Suan Sunandha, in honour of his first consort, Queen Sunandha Kumariratna.

In 1932 absolute monarchy was abolished and a part of the Dusit palace was transferred to the government.

Artists and artisans were summoned from Italy to build an exact replica of a Renaissance palace and fill it with frescos and mural. The Italian architects were Mario Tamago and Annibale Rigotii, and all the marble came from Carrara, Italy. It was constructed between 1908-1915. King 62 Curiosity October - November 2015

During the reign of the present King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the Chitralada palace remained the royal residence, a separate Parliament house was built and the Ananata Samkhoun Throne Hall was returned to the King as part of the original palace.

Handmade

by Artisans of Queen Sirikit Institute

The Ananata Samakhom Throne Hall This impressive marble palace, is a double storeyed majestic building with an equestrian statue of King Chulalongkorn just outside. It is the formal reception area within the Dusit Palace complex which is now a museum but is occasionally still used for ceremonial events. Crowned by an immense central dome with six smaller ones, it now has a permanent exhibition of golden treasures from the Royal collection. This includes the King Bhumibol’s golden throne and howdah, the Suphannapetra golden junk, a palanquin, and many

more used by the royal family for ceremonial events. Each one is crafted from gold wire mesh and embellished with gems.

Visitors are always spell bound by the immense ceiling and were it not for the Thai figures in traditional clothing; one could be at the Sistine Chapel in Rome. Stories of King Rama I to King Rama VI, adorn the ceiling and walls. Also recorded in paintings are historic events and the history of the Chakri dynasty.

The artists were Galileo Chini and Carlo Riguli who had been appointed by the King Rama V to mark important events like victory in wars, construction of royal temples, abolition of slavery, and bringing together by debate many religions.

Arts of The Kingdom Museum at Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, Dusit Palace October - November 2015 Curiosity 63

Arts of The Kingdom Museum at Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, Dusit Palace

Also on display are tapestries depicting religious scenes and events. One example covered an entire wall, done in tiny overlapping stitches and hues to perfection, it must have taken years to complete.

Arts of the Kingdom The Throne Hall has an array of the finest handicrafts of Thailand and the display is aptly billed as ‘The Arts of the Kingdom’ In 1976, Queen Sirikit established the Support Foundation to promote Thai traditional arts and crafts which apart from continuing a legacy would also provide income to underprivileged families. Talented artists would be sent to train in Bangkok and the finest examples of their handiwork were exhibited.

Amongst the traditional arts being revived are intricate gold and silver jewellery, Yan Lipao basketry, weaving, especially silk, painting and wood carving.

A remarkable craft is the use of beetle wing decoration used in paintings, textiles and jewellery. The wings of the Sternocera beetles, which have died of natural causes (which ensure that the brilliant green remains iridescent), are meticulously intertwined even in textiles, a skill imported from India in the 19th century.

A superb example of beetle wing painting is a splendid portrait of King Bhumipol and Queen Sirikit which is at the entrance of the Throne Hall.

There reaches a stage when a tourist can absorb no more and by the time I had had gone though the Throne Hall, I was totally overwhelmed by the magnificence of the display and needed time to absorb the splendid and harmonious blend of Italian structure and Thai craftsmanship.

“Would I like to see any of the other major buildings in the complex: The Vimanek Mansion, Abhisek Throne Hall or Chitralada Royal Villa”, asked my guide? “ Let’s just save it for my next visit to Bangkok” I replied.

An exceptional example of wood carving is an enormous teak divider, each side covered with legends and religious stories. What makes this even more spectacular is that the stories on both sides are intertwined.

Vimanmek Mansion, Bangkok , Thailand

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Handmade by Artisans of Queen Sirikit Institute

The Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall inside The Middle Court of Grand Palace of Thailand October - November 2015 Curiosity 65

cover story

Singapore Airlines:

Built on product innovation, service excellence and network connectivity, Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA) is the flag carrier of Singapore. Operating from its hub at Changi Airport, the airline has a strong presence in the Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, and ‘Kangaroo Route’ markets.

Its history can be traced back to 1 May 1947, when a Malayan Airways Limited (MAL) Airspeed Consul took off from Singapore Kallang Airport on the first of three scheduled flights a week to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang. Today, SIA ranks amongst the top 20 carriers worldwide in terms of revenue passenger kilometres, and 10th in the world for international passengers carried.

As the airline gears up to celebrate its 40th anniversary of flying to Dubai in 2016, Ghulam Sajjad from Curiosity Middle East talks to Erwin Widjaja, General Manager Gulf Region, Singapore Airlines, about his short, medium and long term plans for the Middle East.

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Erwin Widjaja General Manager Gulf Region Singapore Airlines

The global aviation industry will get even more competitive with capacity increases and ‘price wars’ in the coming years as many airlines have made big aircraft orders which will be delivered in the near future. The SIA group is well poised to weather the competition and succeed with our portfolio of airlines

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ingapore Airlines (SIA) was the launch customer of Airbus A380, currently the world’s largest passenger aircraft. A formidable player on the global aviation stage, it flies one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world to 61 international destinations spanning 35 countries in six continents as on 1st September, 2015.

In a fiercely competitive commercial aviation business, SIA is putting the accent more than ever on its customers. Continually investing in its products and services, the company with its Singapore Girl as an internationally-recognisable icon is providing customers with high-quality service and dominating the businesstravel segments.

SIA has won the World’s Best Airline award from Conde Nast Traveler 26 out of the 27 times it has been awarded.

What is the latest news from Singapore Airlines?

Singapore Airlines (SIA) launched the first flight with Premium Economy class on 9 August on Singapore – Sydney route. It will come to Dubai from 12 January 2016.The new cabin product is the culmination of two years of work, which included extensive research and focus group studies involving customers and our design partners. The Premium Economy Class will provide customers more comfort and in-flight amenities.

Complemented by the exceptional service that Singapore Airlines is so well known for, the new cabin class will be ‘a great new way to fly’.

Premium Economy Class will welcome customers with a contemporary and stylish design. Each seat has a width

of either 18.5 or 19.5 inches, depending on aircraft type, with an 8-inch recline and a seat pitch of 38 inches.

Together with active noise-cancelling headphones and a sleek 13.3-inch full HD monitor which is the largest in its class, customers can look forward to an enhanced in-flight entertainment experience. Other features include a full leather finishing, calf-rest and footbar for every seat, individual in-seat power supply, two USB ports, personal in-seat reading light, cocktail table, and more stowage space for personal items.

Premium Economy Class will also provide an extensive range of food and beverage offerings, which includes the Premium Economy Book the Cook service, enabling advance ordering of a selection of main courses.

Priority check-in and baggage handling, with a generous baggage allowance of 35kg, will be offered to customers.

Members of the KrisFlyer frequent-flyer programme will also receive 10% more miles when they fly in Premium Economy Class.

Premium Economy Class will be progressively introduced on 19 Airbus A380s, 19 Boeing 777-300ERs and the first 20 Airbus A350s. It will enter commercial service on financial year end 2015 to Sydney, before being introduced to other destinations such as Beijing, Delhi,

SIA has won the World’s Best Airline award from Conde Nast Traveler 26 out of the 27 times it has been awarded October - November 2015 Curiosity 69

Business Class To be fitted on new long-haul aircraft entering the SIA fleet

We will continue to try to improve the product and service that customers expect of us

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Hong Kong, Frankfurt, London, Mumbai, New York, Shanghai, Tokyo and Zurich.

How has been SIA’s growth over last 5 years?

Having recently moved to the Middle East, what are your plans for the region?

In the last 5 years, the SIA group has expanded through its portfolio of airlines.

We established Scoot in 1 Nov 2011, which is a low cost, medium to long haul airline to expand our operations. We have also increased our equity share in Tiger Airways, a low cost short haul airline. In essence, the SIA group has SIA as a full service carrier serving short haul metropolis, medium and long haul routes, SilkAir, a full service short haul carrier serving regional points, Scoot, our low cost carrier serving medium to long haul destinations and Tiger, our low cost carrier serving short haul destinations from Singapore.

I am very happy to be based in Dubai, UAE as we celebrate our 40th anniversary of flying to Dubai in 2016. UAE has played a very important role for us for the last 40 years and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future.

As GM for Gulf and the region, I am responsible for UAE, GCC countries and West Africa. At Singapore Airlines, we review our network operations on a regular basis in order to match capacity with demand and where there are opportunities for growth, we will take the decision. The Middle East and the Gulf is a fast growing region with plenty of opportunities. We are carefully assessing the situation.

In 2013, we also started a joint venture airline, named Vistara with Tata, based in India. We are well positioned to tap into India’s growing affluence with Vistara’s premium positioning in the country. India

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Expo 2020 is expected to generate a lot of visitors to the UAE. This is a very good opportunity for us to fly our customers from various part of the world to the UAE

with its big population and vast land mass is a huge market for domestic and international flights.

We are also actively expanding our code share arrangements with other carriers in order to increase the network connectivity for our customers.

How do you see Dubai Expo 2020 as an opportunity for SIA? Firstly, I am very happy that Dubai won the Expo 2020. This will be the first time that a World Expo is held in the MENA and South Asian region. Dubai, with its modern facilities and an international aviation hub is well positioned to ensure that it will be a great success. Expo 2020 is expected to generate a lot of visitors to the UAE. This is a very good opportunity for us to fly our customers from various part of the world to the UAE. How significant is the route for Middle East

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Travelers to Singapore or South East Asia?

With 10x a week services from Dubai to Singapore, our customers can fly to Singapore for convenient connections to the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, China, Japan, to name a few. Transiting at Changi International Airport, regularly rated as the best airport in the world, is a breeze. Passengers will be spoilt for choice with the array of activities that SIA will continue to strengthen its three pillars of product innovation, service excellence and network connectivity can be found at the airport itself : butterfly park, cinema and many boutique shops and restaurants.

Passengers with more than 5 ½ hours of transit time can avail to a free city tour to downtown Singapore. As an added bonus, passengers from UAE on Singapore Airlines can get SGD20 voucher at Changi Airport which can be used for

lounge access or any of the shops and restaurants.

As this route is important to us, we are flying B777-300ER for SQ495/SQ494. We have the widest business class seat on this route with 1-2-1 seating configuration, which guarantees aisle access for every seat. Our Economy Class seating configuration of 3-3-3 is also the most spacious and comfortable. For the discerning passengers, nothing beats First Class, with its very personalized service.

Come 12 January 2016, we will have even better seats with the next generation seat updates on First, Business and Economy Class. And this aircraft will come equipped with Premium Economy Class.

Are low cost carriers a threat to full service airline companies?

Low cost carriers help to grow the pie. With more people travelling internationally, they are keen to try out new product and services, that’s where we

will fill this niche market. So in a way, LCCs help to make air travel accessible to more people and thus expand the market as more people make use of the opportunities and choices available to them. In addition, we are keen to tap into the price sensitive segment and have Scoot and Tiger Airways to fill up this space.

How is SIA dealing with its competition and in specific, with the low cost carriers?

SIA will continue to strengthen its three pillars of product innovation, service excellence and network connectivity. We have invested heavily in new cabin products, the recently introduced Premium Economy class, we will continue to take delivery of A330s, B777-300ERs, A380s and by this financial year end, the game changing A350s will be introduced into service. We will also continue to invest on our staff in terms of training and explore opportunities to further expand our route network organically, through code share arrangements, and partnerships with other airlines.

Low cost carriers help to grow the pie. With more people travelling internationally, they are keen to try out new product and services, that’s where we will fill this niche market

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Singapore Airlines: An Industry Trendsetter As mentioned above, to compete in the low cost short haul, medium and long haul LCC segments, we have Tiger Airways and Scoot. In the full-service space, Singapore Airlines and SilkAir work closely together and we have partnerships with many other airlines. This is what we call our portfolio strategy, giving us a presence in all the key market segments from the Singapore hub. In addition, we are expanding into other markets, such as through Vistara in India and NokScoot in Thailand.

What do you have to say about the global aviation industry and how is SIA positioned – globally as well as in the Gulf region?

The global aviation industry will get even more competitive with capacity increases and ‘price wars’ in the coming years as many airlines have made big aircraft orders which will be delivered in the near future.

The SIA group is well poised to weather the competition and succeed with our portfolio of airlines, which I mentioned earlier. This is our strategy for the future.

As for SIA itself, we will continue to try to improve the product and service that customers expect of us. We have launched Customer Experience Management system to help our staff service our customers better by having a 360 view of the customer across all the various touch points.

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Singapore Airlines’ ever-growing list of industryleading innovations includes the following firsts: •

First to offer free headsets, a choice of meals and free drinks in Economy Class, in the 1970s

•

First to introduce satellite-based inflight telephones in 1991

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First to involve a comprehensive panel of world-renowned chefs, the International Culinary Panel, in developing inflight meals in 1998

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First to offer audio and video on demand (AVOD) capabilities on KrisWorld in all classes in October 2001

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First to fly the A380 from Singapore to Sydney on 25 October 2007

Career Highlights: Erwin Widjaja Education MBA from University of Sydney October 2014 – Present General Manager Gulf Region Singapore Airlines 2011 – 2014 General Manager Vietnam Singapore Airlines 2010 – 2011 Snr Manager Sales and Distribution Singapore Airlines

2007 – 2010 General Manager Thailand (Including Myanmar/Cambodia) Singapore Airlines 2004 – 2007 General Manager Italy Singapore Airlines 1993 – 2003 Various Roles in Sales and Marketing Singapore Airlines

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editor's pick

Rejuvenation Facial and Body

Dr Catherine Bergeret-Galley is an internationally-acclaimed board-certified female plastic surgeon from Paris. Visiting Specialist at Al Garhoud Private Hospital in Dubai she is one of the most sought-after surgeons with an A-list clientele across the Middle East and Europe, and is an expert in Facial Rejuvenation as well as in aesthetic and reconstructive body surgery.

Here she elaborates on Facial and Body rejuvenation.

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r Catherine Bergeret-Galley has over three decades of experience in addition to the most prestigious degrees from USA and France. Passionate about her work, she said, “Enhancing, and making patients more attractive is my goal. I take the time to listen to their deepest concerns, to evaluate the defect they are worried about and often see as a handicap... ‘I want to enhance the lives of my patients’.”

Dr Catherine Bergeret-Galley Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Member SOFCPRE, SOFCEP, IASPS and ASAPS

Facial Rejuvenation not only includes total facial lifting of face, neck and forehead, eyelid surgery and nose surgery but also injection of fillers and Botox. In body surgery Dr Catherine is famous for her tummy tucks and breast surgery including augmentation with both implants and lipo-filling.

One of her other speciality is genital surgery, with reconstruction of vagina and external genitalia after multiple child births.

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Facial Rejuvenation When looking at the ageing face, we sometimes see not only wrinkles, but an excess of skin. It looks like the skin suddenly is two sizes too large for the face.

In mild cases this can be corrected by injection of fat taken elsewhere from the body. This gives more volume to the face in the upper part and fills out the loose skin envelope. At the same time, an excess of fat, accumulated under the chin (a double chin) can be erased with liposuction. This treatment is usually done under general anesthesia. Risks are minimal, but of course a bleeding under the skin (hematoma) is possible, likewise some changes of skin sensibility.

This is usually only temporary.

Swelling of the face is normal after surgery, but usually subsides after 2

weeks, when it´s possible to resume a normal life. The final result takes 2 – 4 months to see.

It can be done in all ages but is usually common in 30 – 45 years, and in higher ages only as a complement to a facelift. The cost is around 30 000 AED. When the skin excess is more severe, fat injection will not alone solve the problem, but can be a useful complement to a facelift, to restore the natural beauty of an ageing face.

Incisions are hidden around the ears and are usually very discrete.

The surgery will remove all the surplus of skin in the face and neck. It can be combined with a liposuction of the neck. It’s done under general surgery.

Risks are minimal when done by a professional plastic surgeon, but bleeding and a hematoma is possible, why the patient should stay the first night in the hospital for observation. Sensory changes of the skin are a common side effect of the surgery, and usually disappears during 3 – 4 months.

Complete healing takes 4 weeks,

during this time the patient should refrain from work and physical activities. Swelling and blue marks subsides after 2 weeks, and social contacts is possible. Final result after 4-8 weeks.

This operation is most common in the ages of 40 – 60. Cost is 40 – 50000 AED. The result lasts forever! This means that if the patient of 50 years looks like she / he did at 35, she /he will always look 15 years younger than they had done if the surgery had not been done. The gained result will never be lost, but of course the normal ageing process continues. This process can however been slowed down. By proper skincare, avoid sun exposure, smoking and having a healthy diet, the face will stay young longer.

The first area in the face to show sign of ageing is usually around the eyes. The upper and lower eyelids have very fine and thin skin and are usually where the first wrinkles appear, which will later transform into a real excess of skin. The bags of the lower eyelids as well as a double fold of extra skin on the upper eyelids, almost covering the eye lashes, can be corrected by a blepharoplasty . This small and easy surgery, done under local anesthesia with sedation (for comfort), will give the eyes back the magic of communicating to other people, strength and vigor, rather than tiredness and old age.

In the hands of a good surgeon, there are hardly any risks and side effects.

Incisions in the lower eyelid is either done behind the eyelid or in front, right under the eye lashes. In the upper eyelid , the incision is done in the natural fold , which hides it totally with the eye open .When healed ,they becomes almost invisible.

Healing takes 2 weeks, after this, normal work and physical activities can be resumed. Some swelling will still be present, so the full result takes usually 1-3 months to be seen.

Because of the ageing process, this is usually done only after 35 years, but some individuals can have a hereditary look of tiredness, with puffy eyelids and bags, already in the early twenties, that can be cured with surgery. To maintain the result, strong sun without sunglasses is to be avoided, and good skincare is mandatory.

Cost is 10 000 AED for 2 eyelids and 16000 AED for all 4 eyelids.

Body Rejuvenation For women to be pregnant and give birth to children, is a terrible trauma to the body.

Most women heal well and the body goes back to it´s normal contour, but not for all women. For some of them, the body is destroyed forever. Strechmarks of the skin on abdomen and breasts makes the body disfigured and deformed. The breasts becomes ptotic (hanging) and the abdomen can sometimes look like an empty sack.

"I want to enhance the lives of my patients"

The remedy of this is an abdominoplasty – a tummy tuck !

With the patient under general anesthesia the plastic surgeon repairs the abdomen through a low incision just above the pubic area –well covered by small panties – The excess of shapeless skin is removed and the abdominal muscles below is repaired, to give back a narrow waistline and a flat smooth tummy.

Although this is a common condition after multiple pregnancies, it is also coursed by obesity followed by significant weight reduction.

This is a major operation and most patients need 2 days in the hospital. The healing period is 4 weeks after which most patients can resume work. Full strength of the abdomen is only after 8 weeks, when the final result is visible.

Risks include slow wound healing and thrombosis of the lower legs, why it is very important for the patient to follow the instructions, given by the surgeon.

This is not age dependent, but rather dependent of the factors above.

Maintenance is by keeping the body in shape, eating healthy, and avoid overweight Cost 40000 AED. To book an appointment, please call Anna Sunga on +971 55 523 0933 or email: cbg@wanadoo.fr Direct SMS (French Mobile Number): +33 609223059 The ideal time is when needed… www.body-surgery.com

The best time to do it, is when you start to spend more time in front of the mirror and to complain about less flattering light.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 77

picture this

Zermatt Paradise for Snow Lovers Some of the greatest mountains in Switzerland are located in Zermatt. Nirmal Khanna was in the picturesque town as it celebrated an important milestone in its history - 150 years ago seven mountaineers climbed the Matterhorn that had never been conquered before.

78 Curiosity October - November 2015

October - November 2015 Curiosity 79

Hikers Team in the Mountains Matterhorn, Swiss Alps

Zermatt is just picture perfect The Swiss town, famed for its year round skiing, lies low in a valley, with the magnificent Matterhorn looming over it: actually 38 four thousand meter high mountains are in the vicinity of Zermatt, yet it has retained its old world charm.

Cars are not allowed, the clip clop of horses with buggy can be heard and to ferry tourists laden with luggage to or from the station are vans powered by electricity.

With no carbon emissions, the air is clean!

Recently, the picturesque town of Zermatt, marked an important milestone. 150 years ago, seven mountaineers climbed the Matterhorn, a huge victory as it had never been conquered 80 Curiosity October - November 2015

before. Sadly, only three returned after the climbing victory: an avalanche supposedly claimed the rest. Actually, a rope had broken plummeting four of them into an abyss. It became a turning point as the triumph of conquest, closely followed by the sequel of tragedy, ensuing gossip of wrong doing, changed the face of the pastoral community forever and Zermatt was propelled into the limelight.

As the ugly rumours about the fate of the mountaineers who perished swirled in society and mountaineers’ circuit leading to doubt and conjecture news seekers, tourists, later the elite descended in equal measure and the tiny village fast developed

Bahnhofstrasse: Village Centre and Promenade

Urban Scenery with Famous Swiss City Zermatt and Wooden Chalets in European Alps Center of Alpine Sports

into a flourishing town where now every second building seems to be a hotel, inn or a home which lets out a few rooms.

Family Winter Ski Holidays in Zermatt, Switzerland

Starting July 9 till Aug 29, Zermatt’s dwellers have brought to life the tale of the heroism and disaster: ‘The Matterhorn Story’ by staging daily an outdoor performance in two languages (German and English) and described in five more (French, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese and Korean) which mirrors the nationality mix of tourists.

Now, there is a dramatic change in the scenario.

From Africans to Middle Easterners (some

Zermatt is known all over the world for its distinctive view of the mountain Matterhorn and it attracts a lot of travellers to visit

women in abayas and many more in hijab), brash Chinese shouting across to each other, orderly groups of Japanese following the guide, hordes of Indians (listen to the accent and guess the state!) the tourists just throng through the winding roads and lanes, of course with many stops for selfies.

Photograph: © Zermatt Tourismus

I visited Zermatt after a gap of 14 years and was amazed at the difference. There used to be the usual West European, a mix of serious climbers, skiers and elite making a fashion statement as they lingered over coffee in the many cafes.

Adding a bit of old world charm and drama are carriages drawn by huge black horses a favourite with flashy tourists who stopped frequently for posed photographs. The clip clop of the majestic black horses definitely recreates a regal era.

Striding along carrying their skis are people of every age: from the under ten, to teenagers in psychedelic ski suits, 30 somethings in designer wear, to the 60 plus their grey hair and muscled legs in healthy contrast. It was a

like an army of skiers marching purposefully through town to the ski lifts. The myriad souvenir shops on both sides could not distract them and neither did they bother to draw their attention. The shopkeepers were busy attending to the well heeled tourists of every hue as they fished out souvenirs catering to any budget: from tiny St Bernard’s complete with a bottle strapped around its neck to enormous ones which would have to be shipped to the destination, they were ready to handle every request.

Their stock of magnets, toys, pictures, bags, ceramic plates and much more with each item carrying picture to remind the buyer of Zermatt or Matterhorn, there was a souvenir for any taste: from garish to refined, it was available.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 81

The History of Zermatt Little is known about Zermatt before the 13th century. The small farming community’s former name was Praborno, later, around 1495 it was colonised by the Germans who called it Zermatt. Mountaineers began to explore and conquer the huge peaks surrounding the settlement, yet the Matterhorn, which looms large over the bucolic village, remained a challenge. In 1838, Dr Joseph Lauber, sensing the potential of development opened the first hotel, ‘Hotel Cervin’.

However Zermatt was brought into the limelight by Alexander Seiler who was determined to develop it as a tourist hot spot and Edward Whymper a mountaineer who had tried eight times to conquer the Matterhorn from the Italian side. In 1865 he linked with the Reverend Charles Hudson and two local guides, a father and son duo Peter Taugwalder, plus a French guide Michel Croz, Lord Francis Douglas and Douglas Hadow to make a group for their climb.

Sadly, only three returned. This bitter sweet victory and ensuing rumours of foul play brought Zermatt into the limelight for the right and wrong reasons but those led to rapid growth of the tiny rural community and it soon became a thriving mountaineering and skiing destination.

Alexander Seiler died in 1891 and the family continued with his mission to promote Zermatt as a holiday destination.

The Mountain Ski Resort Town of Zermatt, Switzerland

82 Curiosity October - November 2015

Swiss Alps and Valais Blacknose Sheep Nest to Zermatt in Switzerland

Ski Resort Zermatt in a Summer Day in Switzerland

Tiny pastoral Zermatt hit the headlines with Edward Whymper’s victory but the glory was tarnished with the death of four climbers due to the breaking of a rope. Ugly rumours swirled around the conquest: did the rope break or was it cut maliciously? Why was it weaker than the rest of the ropes used in the climb?

The bodies of three of the four climbers who fell to their death during their descent were brought back to Zermatt. The remains of the fourth, Lord

Photograph: Š Zermatt Tourismus

The Turning point

Frances Douglas were not found. An official enquiry was opened, Whymper and Taughalder were exonerated and blame was put on Hadow as he had been handling the rope.

Regardless of the offensive rumours, Europe became aware of Zermatt and its exciting ski slopes which were open all year round.

Mountaineers thrill seekers, explorers, backpackers and the elite descended on the pastoral village, hotels of all categories opened and it soon became the favoured resort that it is today. Now, apart from skiing, snow sport lovers come for snowboarding, tobogganing, sleigh rides, hiking, and more.

The population (in 2013) was about 6000 but at any given time the number of tourists is many multiples of this number. Half the jobs of the permanent citizens are in the hospitality industry.

Matterhorn First Climber: Edward Whymper October - November 2015 Curiosity 83

Bed-Chamber at Matterhorn Museum: Narrow Circumstances

The Matterhorn Museum Right in the middle of Zermatt, is the Matterhorn Museum which looks like a tented glass structure and is a definite ‘must see’ as it gives one a glimpse of the past.

The entrance, like all things Swiss, is pristine and functional. But far more interesting is what lies two floors below: it is a vivid recreation of how Zermatt looked about 200 years ago.

At the corners are farm animals, so realistic you expect a ‘baa’ any minute. But there are other very realistic recorded sounds: the chirping of birds, singing of hymns (from a tiny church) and even loud snoring. I went into the hut from where rhythmic snores emanating wondering if I was imagining it!

Photograph: © Emanuel Ammon

Photograph: © Emanuel Ammon

Matterhorn Museum Visitors on the Village Square

Tragedy of First Ascent Matterhorn, Broken Rope

These huts look authentic probably replicas or even moved from the old town area in Zermatt which has 200 year old cottages.

However, the prized exhibit in the Matterhorn museum is definitely the actual rope which was used for the ascent of the Matterhorn. Although the mountain was conquered for the first time, the rope that was used broke and as a consequence four people plummeted to death.

This also led to Zermatt becoming a premier holiday destination.

Photograph: © Emanuel Ammon 84 Curiosity October - November 2015

On the Ascent to Matterhorn

Zermatt offers year-long skiing with the Matterhorn seemingly standing guard

Photograph: © Christoph Frutiger

The Zermatt Experience

Gornergrat (3135mts) and many more. Also the winter offers hiking and snow shoeing. One can crisscross between the mountains in white silence.

Zermatt offers year-long skiing with the Matterhorn seemingly standing guard. It rises immense and sheer, in fact it seems to touch the sky. As the town is celebrating 150 years since the victory over the Matterhorn, every night there is a ribbon of lights going up the mountain to the peak.

The easy way to see the Matterhorn and other soaring peaks, without being an experienced climber, is by cable car. Swaying upwards in relative safety and with no exertion, just enjoy the view as the gondola swings upwards, higher and higher trying not to notice the ground falling further away.

The town is just cradled by high mountains prominent amongst them are the Matterhorn of course (4478 mts) Tauscher (4490mts) the

‘Zermatt’s mountain lifts lead you to the heavens,’ said a mountain guide and having seen the spectacular view I could not agree more.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 85

in conversation

Destination

Iran

With the lifting of EU and UN sanctions on Iran, travel and tourism industry is expected to grow exponentially in the country. Officials in Iran have announced plans to build 400 new 3- and 4-star hotels over the next 10 years.

We speak to Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings about how he sees the market and the prospects Iran holds for HMH.

86 Curiosity October - November 2015

Laurent A. Voivenel CEO of HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings

I

ran, host to many unique cultural and ancient treasures, largely unseen by international travellers, is expecting a significant rise in the number of tourists visiting the country in the wake of the recent historic nuclear deal. After remaining 30 years in diplomatic exile, the news about the nuclear agreement and lifting of economic sanctions has delighted the global tourism industry.

HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings, the Middle East’s largest group to operate in the Halalfriendly segment, is actively pursuing opportunities in the country. Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH, in conversation with Curiosity Middle East:

How do you think opening the Iranian market would shake up the dynamics of travel and tourism sector in the overall Middle East region?

Iran holds enormous potential both in terms of domestic and inbound as well as outbound tourism. According to World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism’s direct contribution to GDP in Iran in 2014 was US$ 9,149 million out of the total US$ 73.7 billion for the Middle East. This is estimated to grow at an average rate of 5.7 % annually to reach US$ 17,060 million by 2025 October - November 2015 Curiosity 87

Given its unique appeal Iran will complement other destinations in the region offering a special experience

compared to a total of US$ 121 billion for the Middle East. Opening up of this massive market will no doubt shake up the entire dynamics of travel and tourism sector in the Middle East region.

How do you think the revival of Iran's tourism sector would impact regional tourism, do you think it would impact tourists' flow to some GCC or Levant countries? Or would it simply be a new destinations for tourists to experience?

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Iran has a wealth of tourist attractions to offer, including key UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Esfahan and Persepolis, varied terrain for skiing during winter, beautiful hiking, mountain climbing options, rich ecotourism as well as popular religious tourism sites. Given its unique appeal Iran will complement other destinations in the region offering a special experience. It will help to attract more travellers to the region both business and leisure.

Are you looking to target specific regions in Iran? Please state what are the top three locations (cities or districts) that you would be targeting first, and why.

If the Iranian Government is to achieve its goal of increasing its annual visitors from 5 million to 20 million per year by 2025, it will need to speed up development of hotels. Therefore, at HMH we see Iran as one of the most promising markets that we are eager to step in. We are exploring various

opportunities and the pace of our expansion will depend on finding the right partners with a longterm understanding. Tehran, Esfahan, Persepolis, Mashhad and Shiraz are some of the cities we are looking at currently.

Both business and leisure travel would be expected to rise in the coming years - which do you think is Iran currently most in need of; five-star leisure resorts or more 3-4 stars business-friendly hotels in the cities?

There is enormous potential for hotels in both mid-market and luxury segment. Officials in Iran have announced plans to build 400 new 3- and 4-star hotels over the next 10 years. According to industry sources while there are more than 1,100 hotels in the country, only 130 properties belong to 3 or 4-star segment and many of the existing hotels are in need of renovation / refurbishment.

The cities definitely need more mid-market business-friendly hotels.

When do you expect the hospitality sector to start truly gaining results from Iran? This could mean it takes until projects are delivered, etc. but I'd like to know your forecasted deadlines/ timelines, etc. Also, please specify if you already have a projected time for which your first property would launch, or whether you are still in negotiations phase.

The need for quality accommodation in Iran is immediate. The demand will go up tremendously with massive growth of oil and gas operations as well as other industries such as infrastructure, metals and automotive. We have been watching the Iranian market very closely as it is one of the largest untapped markets especially in terms of hospitality.

We are already in serious talks with various developers and I was recently in Tehran to take our discussions forward.

What kind of partners are you looking for in Iran? What are some of the talents that would be sourced from there, and some others that would be exported there?

Being a pioneer in creating the first and 'still the only' alcohol-free chain of hotels in the Middle East, HMH is the region's largest group to operate in the dry segment. The company has come a long way since its formation 15 years ago. Today, we are the strongest player in the ‘Halal-friendly’ segment in the Middle East and North Africa and hold the region’s 50% market share in the segment. There are only a handful of operators in the dry business and HMH is a market leader with a presence in 15 key cities across the MENA region. Therefore, Iran holds enormous potential for brands such as ours.

We believe we are a perfect partner for investors in Iran.

Some businesses in different sectors might still be hesitant about Iran, and are refraining from announcing any potentially planned business ventures in the country, simply because they are waiting to see more political events unfold, to avoid any abrupt situations of potential reimposing of the sanctions, etc. On the other hand, you seem pretty confident. What if things get sour at any point in time?

With a long economic and political embargo, Iran is no doubt an unknown territory for many businesses and brands. Therefore, they are being extremely cautious about entering the market given its political sensitivity in the past. We at HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings believe that Iran is a very safe destination that holds excellent business and tourism opportunities. Assuming that there are no major turnarounds on the existing nuclear deal, it will certainly flourish as a country and emerge as an economic power.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 89

In terms of talent, being an Emirati company we have always had very strong ties with the people of Iran and this will be strengthened in the months ahead.

Would your operations in Iran be different in any way from you operations in other countries? This may be due to consumer behaviors, etc?

Every country and people have their own unique requirement. Given our strong regional experience and international expertise we are ideally placed to meet the varied expectations of global travellers no matter where they come from. Iran has traditionally been a very strong feeder market for UAE and a significant number of guests at our hotels come from Iran. We have been one of the preferred brands for both business and leisure travellers from Iran owing to our Halal-friendly family environment and we are eager to carry the same signature hospitality to the country.

If you already operate property in Iran, or have done your market research, please share with us some consumer trends that are quite common among Iranians? For example, tourists from the GCC region are popular in multi-generation travels, so the entire family from grandparents to grandchildren would travel together, hence hotels need to cater to all age groups. Are there some unknown facts about the Iranian consumer that hospitality executives need to be aware of?

Group travel is fairly well-known both locally and globally since the family spirit is extremely strong among Iranians.

90 Curiosity October - November 2015

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Maldives Tourism

Set To Attract Middle Eastern Tourist

M

aldives Marketing and PR Corporation, the Tourism arm of Maldives Tourism conducted a series of roadshows within the GCC starting from 23rd of August to 27th of August. The week-long mission targetted the residents of GCC region and saw Maldives representatives interact with local agents and public in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and Qatar.

The mission commenced on 23rd August in Dubai at Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel followed by a conference in Abu Dhabi on 24 August at Crowne Plaza Hotel. The Maldivian delegation then proceeded to Kuwait city on 26th August at JW Marriott Hotel with the roadshow concluding on 27th August in Crowne Plaza Hotel Doha, Qatar.

Heading the delegation along with 13 participants was Mr. Ibrahim Asim, Director of MMPRC. Commenting on the roadshow, Mr. Asim said “We are thrilled to commence our promotional series in GCC. The roadshows provide us with perfect opportunity to introduce our product to local agents and also interact with them.”

Participating in the roadshow were some of the known names from the Maldives Tourism Industry including: Adaaran Resorts, Anantara Kihavah, COMOHOTEL, Crown Tours Maldives, Let’s Go Maldives, Loama Resort Maldives , Per Aquam Huvafen Fushi, Reollo Travel, Sun Siyam Resorts, Splendid Asia PvT Ltd, StarWood Maldives, Trav 92 Curiosity October - November 2015

Maldives Pvt Ltd and Villa Hotel & Resorts.

Secluded islands, tropical beaches and a wide array of water sports to choose from makes Maldives an excellent destination for a leisure holiday. The MMPRC has also launched the Visit Maldives Year 2016 earlier this year. The Visit Maldives Year 2016 focuses on promoting Maldives as an exclusive travel destination. The official logo unveiling of the Visit Maldives Year 2016 was commenced by his Excellency President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom in the UNWTO Conference held at Maldives.

In a bid to promote Tourism, Maldives Tourism has also opened their promotional office in Dubai this May. The GCC market remains as one of the emerging markets for Maldives with a total share of 2.9% equivalent to 5,576 total tourist arrival in Maldives from January-February 2015

Ibrahim Asim Director of MMPRC an increase of 14.7% compared to same period in 2014. In 2014, Maldives received a total of 37,201 tourists from the Middle East equivalent to 16% increase compared to 2013. Saudi Arabia remains a priority bringing 12,405 visitors to Maldives in 2014, other GCC countries are also emerging as potential expanding markets including UAE with 7,007 visitors and Kuwait with 5,248 visitors.

Other Middle Eastern countries such as Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Jordan are accountable to 10,591 visitors to Maldives.

Mr. Ibrahim Asim, Director of MMPRC spoke recently with Curiosity Middle East.

Excerpts from the Interview.

Please tell us about Maldives as a fast emerging destination Maldives is a very promising market. The event at Park Regis in Dubai was a big success as there were 15-17 participants along with the Government to promote Maldives. We will be doing such events in Dubai , Abu Dhabi, Doha and Kuwait and try to reach out to maximum number of people. Middle East is a very loyal market and has shown steady growth and there are attractive opportunities for both sides.

What is the profile of the visitor ?

Maldives is a honey moon destination but a lot of families also visit the destination. It is a safe and a quiet place and completely hassle free for tourists. Visa is available on arrival for any Nationality.

What are the key things for which one should visit Maldives ?

Maldives is surrounded by sea and one can enjoy night fishing , water sports and sea plane. All its hotels have best of the Spas and we are also promoting Medical Tourism, 2016 is the Visit Maldives year so a lot more can be expected and one of our focus will be on Middle East Market.

Through the year we will have events and

festivals. Earlier Maldives was just sun, sand and sea but now its much much more. This place is also a Halal friendly place and one can always relish food made with Halal items. It’s a 100% Muslim country so there is no problem for any of the travelers from Gulf region. We have vegetarian food and all kinds of sea foods.

The submarine experience in underwater is something every traveler should have as the aqua life is clearly seen through clear waters. Aerial excursions through sea planes is another thing to experience.

Hotels here arrange all sort of activities for the visitors/tourists.

We also have ONE ISLAND ONE HOTEL / ONE RESORT concept with compete security. Weather here is like summers throughout the year with temperatures between 28-32 degree Celsius. There are rainy seasons as well.

Please tell us about the connectivity from Dubai ?

Maldives is four hours away from Dubai and can be reached through SRI LANKA airlines , EMIRATES and FLY DUBAI. October - November 2015 Curiosity 93

unwind &

indulge

The

Ultimate

Sanctuary Wellness and Massage at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan By Rotana

K

halidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana has announced the opening of the Wellness and Massage.

Located on the second level at the Beach Club at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana and providing a relaxing and rejuvenating environment, Wellness and Massage features 6 treatment suites and 2 luxurious relaxation rooms offering personalized programs and packages for the benefit of esteemed guests. Wellness and Massage delivers to guests a whole new level of relaxation by offering a wide selection of signature body treatments, facials and packages accompanied with aromatherapy products to suit exquisite tastes. Signature massage treatments include the ultimate aromatherapy experience in which uses carefully applied pressures and techniques to encourage a healthy wellbeing for body and mind. Wellness and Massage also offers scrub and wrap treatments for all ages such as the rose hydrator ritual, age repair facials and deep cleansing treatments for men as well. While indulging in invigorating full body treatments, guests get to enjoy the beautiful waterfront views of the Arabian Gulf.

Trained specialists at the Wellness and Massage are dedicated to gently coax the guest to a state of better health, beauty and tranquility, using premium quality natural products by Aromatherapy Associates London

94 Curiosity October - November 2015

who are the leading experts within aromatherapy for over 30 years of experience. Aromatherapy Associates London products are made from the purest natural ingredients, creating blends that enhance the oil’s inherent properties, turning them into rich beautifully scented products that deliver fantastic results. The experience of serenity and tranquility need not end when a guest leaves Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana as a wide variety of Aromatherapy products will be available allowing them to take their experience home and return again.

“Our new treatment rooms are a delight to us at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana and have been designed with our guests in mind the entire time. It is our intention to have our guest indulge in the finest of treatments while taking in the breathtaking view of the Jaded Jewel that is the Arabian Gulf ”, says Mark Timbrell, the General Manager at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana. Furthermore, he added: “We are excited about this new addition to our property. We are concerned with our guests’ health, beauty and overall wellness and state of mind. We are certain it would be a favourite with our guest as it is to us”.

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana looks forward to inviting guests to take some time out to treat themselves and their loved ones to a revitalizing and treasured time at Wellness and Massage.

Turn Your Bathroom Into A Personal Spa During Your Stay At Jannah Burj Al Sarab Karim, the unique concierge service, offers an extensive range of services, such as turning your bathroom into a complete spa experience

T

he newest addition to Jannah Hotels & Resorts portfolio, the five-star Jannah Burj Al Sarab in Abu Dhabi, offers guests the luxury of having their own personal ‘genie’ during their stay at the hotel. A unique feature of the Jannah brand, the Karim service offers more than that of the traditional butler or concierge. Available 24 hours a day, the Karim is dedicated to providing personalised attention to each guest without intrusion.

For those looking to unwind with a therapeutic experience at the hotel within the comfort of their own room, the Karim can turn the guest’s bathroom into a spa. Preparing baths with healing bath oils and salts and setting aromatic candles around the tub is only the beginning.

The Karim service at Jannah Burj Al Sarab includes general assistance, like wake-up calls followed by tea or coffee, to arranging for medical pillows. Guests travelling with their children can rely on the babysitting service as well as professional medical assistance.

An advantage is that this exclusive service is also available to those choosing to stay at Jannah Burj Al Sarab over extended periods. The hotel offers monthly and annual stay packages, entitling guests to discounts on its dining venues and laundry services, in addition to the Karim service.

The Karim acts as a streetwise guide for those who are new to Abu Dhabi, helping newcomers

with anything from car purchases to finding a suitable school for their children. The Karim can also act as a personal tour guide, which is perfect for visitors wanting to explore all of the wonderful sights Abu Dhabi has to offer.

In his role as a personal assistant, the Karim can carry out the shopping, sort mail, arrange pick-ups and drop-offs and manage personnel.

He can also help with wardrobe care such as packing, unpacking, laundry and pressing.

Guests can call their Karim if they need assistance in managing an event – from business meetings to anniversary dinners and birthday parties. His excellent communication skills, knowledge of fine foods and a passion for service make him a reliable choice when arranging a memorable dining experience.

Jannah Burj Al Sarab, Jannah’s fifth hotel in the UAE, has strategic access to Al Maryah Island, Reem Island and Saadiyat Island, and caters to business travellers and those eager to explore the capital city. The hotel is in a soft opening phase, and is due to open officially in September.

Call 00 971 (2) 6526 777 or 800-JANNAH, or email reservations.jbas@jannah.ae to make your booking. For more information on the hotel, www.jannah.ae

October - November 2015 Curiosity 95

health check

Premature Emirati Receives Life-Saving Care

P

remature birth (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) is the most common cause of neonatal death. Prematurity and its complications are linked to 25 percent of infant deaths. The later a baby is born, the more likely he/she is to survive. Premature babies, especially those born less than 32 weeks of pregnancy, can develop serious complications, including respiratory problems, bleeding in the brain, intestinal perforation and infections such as meningitis. Recently, an Emirati baby named Ayesha Mohammed Abdalla Ali was born at seven months gestation (30 weeks) and received intensive care for a month at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi. The Emirati parents, Mr. Mohamed Al Naqbi and Mrs. Khuloud Al Naqbi, decided to deliver baby Ayesha at Burjeel Hospital because they were concerned about the complexity of the case.

been treated recently at the said hospital. "We are seeing an increasing demand for neonatal intensive care to meet the unique healthcare needs of premature babies. The hospital is wellequipped with world-class clinical professionals and state-of-the-art technology to address the changing needs of the growing community,” said Dr. Abdelhadi.

Mrs. Al Naqbi was near tears after seeing her baby survive the critical condition. “I want to thank Dr. Abdelhadi and his team at Burjeel Hospital for the level of care they have given my baby. They saved her life. I can now watch my little Ayesha grow up and enjoy the life she was meant to live.” The baby’s father was also very impressed with the care his daughter received at the facility.

“Saving baby Ayesha’s life was a priority for us. We have left no stone unturned to ensure that she stayed healthy.” said Dr. Abdelhadi Abdelgabbar, Consultant - Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine and the Head of NICU at Burjeel Hospital.

Dr. Abdelhadi added that Burjeel’s NICU is now becoming one of the leading private facilities in Abu Dhabi and in the UAE. “Our NICU serves all the newborns delivered at our maternity unit, which at present oversees up to 300 deliveries a month. The unit provides medical as well as surgical care to all babies born at or above 27 weeks of gestation.”

Baby Ayesha’s case is one of the many that has

These numbers are likely to rise even further,

96 Curiosity October - November 2015

as the unit plans to provide care for babies from 25 weeks onwards. “We have started providing therapeutic hypothermia for infants born with serious deprivation of oxygen at birth. This is a very advanced treatment modality used only in tertiary neonatal units.”

“Unique baby screening systems for hearing, metabolism, jaundice and heart are also in place.

Car seat challenge tests are given too as option to interested parents. This is recommended by international groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics,” added Dr. Abdelhadi.

The neonatal service has also been extended to provide a dedicated baby clinic. Burjeel Baby Clinic is the only clinic in the private sector that is dedicated solely for newborn and preterm babies, and is open to all babies less than 60 days of age.

Mr. Clancey Po, CEO of Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi said, “Our unwavering commitment is to provide the best healthcare service for the residents of UAE and the Gulf. This dedication extends to providing world-class care towards the youngest members of the community, the infants. We want parents to know that their babies are in the best hands, regardless of the complexity of their medical conditions.”

Kaya unveils Kaya Ultima laser hair removal in UAE & Oman

K

aya Skin Clinic – the largest international skincare clinic chain in the region has launched Kaya Ultima Laser Hair Removal, the next generation laser hair removal technique, across select centres in the UAE & Oman, thus reinforcing its leadership as the preferred destination for laser hair removal. The launch in UAE and Oman follows the success achieved by the technology across Kaya centres in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Kaya Ultima has 3 clear advantages: Firstly, it’s faster as it targets larger areas with a single beam and unveils smooth skin in a single pass. Secondly, it is truly painless thanks to a special cryogen-based Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) that delivers cooling to the epidermal level of your skin in the very same instant as the laser pulse.

Three, it keeps your skin smoother for longer, delaying hair re-growth by the longest period ever known. It does so by penetrating deeper into

98 Curiosity October - November 2015

skin tissue and directing a controlled amount of therapeutic heat at the hair root.

With this addition to Kaya’s portfolio, Kaya becomes the go-to laser hair removal destination with 3 laser technologies that can be offered to clients based on their skin & hair type..

Dr Olfa Fahem, Beauty Advisor and Medical Innovations Manager at Kaya Skin Clinic, said: “Laser Hair Removal has always been a forte at Kaya Skin Clinic. Following the success achieved in KSA, we are proud to launch Kaya Ultima in UAE and Oman. Kaya Ultima offers us the flexibility to adapt our technology for the benefit of our customers in an effective, painless and smoother way. The presence of a dermatologist who determines the fluence used based on your skin and hair type and skilled and trained therapist who administer the service ensures the safety of our clients! “ She added: “Unlike other laser hair removal

technologies, you feel a cool rush instead of a heat rush thanks to the Cryogen-based DCD cooling.

The biggest USP of this treatment is the time taken to treat larger areas by almost one third the time as compared to other laser technologies!”

Kaya Ultima laser hair removal needs 3 to 6 sessions, or a bit more depending on the skin colour, coarseness of hair, and the area of the body being treated, besides gender and underlying health conditions. Customers can have long intervals of 6 to 8 weeks (or even more) between main sessions, based on what the dermatologists’ recommends.

Technologies at Kaya Skin Clinic are approved

by US FDA, which conform to the highest international quality standards, in line with its vision to deliver world-class hygiene and skincare services. Its advisory panel conducts highly advanced skin treatments, besides hair free, antiaging and hair fall solutions and has catered to over 150,000satisfied customers till date.

evian unveils new iconic bottle Pure as nature intended

E

vian has introduced the newlydesigned PET bottle in retail stores in the UAE. Following the success of its initial launch at coffee shops, hotels and restaurants channels in 2014, consumers now have the chance to take these bottles home and enjoy the fresh evian experience.

restaurants. As a premium brand, evian conveys not only a pure and natural taste but also a unique experience that transports consumers to the French Alps,” said Iain Farrell, Middle East Zone director for evian Volvic International of Danone – responsible for bringing evian to the region.

evian definitely takes a new spin on the classy drink’s look: the new transparent bottle has sleeker and cleaner lines which celebrates the transparency and purity of evian natural water. evian’s new bottle has a signature “label-less” look and the background depicts a landscape of mountains, commemorating the water’s source in a corner of the French Alps. The logo has also been simplified to evoke the brand’s simplicity and elegance. The back of the bottle gives a short summary of the brand’s history and “evian” is carved into the bottom of the bottle so one can be reminded of the legacy and purity of the brand whilst drinking the water.

Discovered in 1789, and bottled since 1826, evian water traces its roots to the birth of the French Alps. Each drop of evian begins as rain or snow high in the pristine peaks of the French Alps, and then travels through a vast mineral aquifer deep within the mountains before being bottled directly from the spring in Evian-Les-Bains. This unique, 15-year journey is the secret to evian’s purity and unique, natural taste. It’s also a journey that gives it rich and unique minerals. Entirely natural!

“We are thrilled to finally introduce evian’s new bottle in retail stores so our consumers can now enjoy the new and refreshed evian design at home and other places outside of hotels, cafes and

The new bottle design is available in the 330ml & 500ml sizes at away from home channel (including hotels, restaurants, cafes, petrol stations and cinemas) and now in the 330ml, 500ml & 1l sizes at retail channel across the UAE. Additional formats set to debut in the following months.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 99

on the shelf

Fantasy FICTION &

Science fiction is changing radically.

Here are some of the best and most intriguing titles everyone must read

Non-Stop (1958)

By Brian W Aldiss

It was originally published in the United States as Starship has been updated for the twenty-first century. Non-Stop remains a brilliant and ground-breaking work of imagination. Curiosity was discouraged in the Greene tribe. It's members lived out their lives in cramped quarters, hacking away at the encroaching jungle called 'the ponics'. As to where they were - that had long ago been forgotten. But Roy Complain decides to find out, along with the renegade priest, Marapper.

Rogue Moon (1960)

By Algis Budrys

Shortlisted for the 1961 Hugo Award, Rogue Moon is the disquieting story of what happens when monstrous scientific ambition is matched by human obsession.

The moon had finally been reached, and on it was found the most terrifying structure, that killed men over and over again, in torturous, unfathomable .

Weaveworld (1987)

By Clive Barker

Clive Barker has made his mark on modern fiction by exposing all that is surreal and magical in the ordinary world --- and exploring the profound and overwhelming terror that results. With its volatile mix of the fantastical and the contemporary, the everyday and the otherworldly, Weaveworld is an epic work of dark fantasy and horror -- a tour de force from one of today's most forceful and imaginative artists.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (1979) Douglas Adams Seconds before the Earth is demolished to make way for a galactic freeway, Arthur Dent is plucked off the planet by his friend Ford Prefect, a researcher for the revised edition of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy who, for the last fifteen years, has been posing as an out-of-work actor.

A WHIMSICAL ODYSSEY...Characters frolic through the galaxy with infectious joy.

In a distant and unsettling future, Anna Blume is on a mission in an unnamed city of chaos and disaster. Its destitute inhabitants scavenge garbage for food and shelter, no industry exists, and an elusive government provides nothing but corruption. Anna wades through the filth to find her long-lost brother, a one-time journalist who may or may not be alive.

The Time Ships (1995)

By Stephen Baxter

Darwin's Radio (1999)

By Greg Bear Ancient diseases encoded in the DNA of humans wait like sleeping dragons to wake and infect again--or so molecular biologist Kaye Lang believes. And it looks as if her controversial theory is in fact chilling reality.

For Christopher Dicken, a "virus hunter" at the Epidemic Intelligence Service, has pursued an elusive flu-like disease that strikes down expectant mothers and their offspring.

Then a major discovery high in the Alps --the preserved bodies of a prehistoric family--reveals a shocking link: something that has slept in our genes for millions of years is waking up.

There is a secret passage through time...and it leads all the way to the end of Eternity. But the journey has a terrible cost. It alters not only the future but he "present" in which we live. A century after the publication of H. G. Wells' immortal The Time Machine, Stephen Baxter, returns to the distant conflict between the Eloi and the Morlocks in a story that is at once an exciting expansion, and a radical departure based on the astonishing new understandings of quantum physics.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 101

pet

power Cara Delevingne's rabbit and social media star, Cecil is the ultimate fashion pet.

Whether nestling into Chanel boxes or meeting Rita Ora, Cecil's life looks very interesting

Craze

Karl Lagerfeld's Dr Evil-worthy white cat may have her own maid, but she also has 71,200 followers, despite joining Instagram in June 2012.

Pet

The fashion industry's fondness for pets has been well documented.

We take a look at some of the most pampered pets in the industry

American Vogue's Grace Coddington is all about her collection of kitties – particularly calico Persian Pumpkin, the star of Coddington's own Instagram account.

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Marc Jacobs' dog Neville is something of a pioneer – he's been photographed with "daddy" for a few years, and boasts a Love photoshoot on his CV.

Fashion designer Alexander McQueen had bequeathed £50,000 of £16m fortune to his beloved pet dogs and cats.

Audrey, Donatella Versace's terrier, is anything but a country mouse. She's urban and has the wardrobe – including a gold and leather harness – to match.

Like all of fashion's most adorable animals, Audrey is firmly on brand.

Kate Moss has Archie, a Staffordshire cross who looks great when combined with the wellies and Barbours of her Cotswolds lifestyle.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 103

art & soul

Making a Statement with Sustainable

Art

Jeff Scofield is currently exhibiting at the Abu Dhabi Art Hub. The show completes his recent month-long Artist in Residence program at the Liwa Art Hub in order to create Sustainable Art. The exhibition started 26 September 2015 and runs through the last week of October. This is where Curiosit y Middle East Magazine caught up with Jeff to discuss his artwork and its relevance to current aspects of life in the UAE.

T

Jeff Scofield

he theme of sustainability was suggested by the Art Hub, does your work usually cover this topic?

Yes, I am a sustainable artist and have spent years developing creative artworks around this theme. My specialty is installation art featuring recycled furniture and other found objects which I use to create minimalist pieces. For instance, I recycle construction materials from building sites in the UAE, and transform them into abstract compositions with the colors of rust and concrete, which should give the viewer a sense of the energy of a construction site, the noise, the dust, etc. I strive to create beautiful artworks with sustainable means.

I present my work to the public as Sustainable Art, in order to make a statement about the direction our culture should take.

Is it the first time that you have taken up such an initiative?

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I’ve participated in a number of art exhibitions dealing with sustainability, including a group show in Dubai titled Green Oasis in 2009, a solo show at Gallery 76 called Recycling into Abstraction in 2011, a group exhibition for the UAE Green Festival 2014 titled Recycling Art, as well as the group show Sustaining Identity at Tashkeel this year. I recently presented a paper on sustainability in art at the World Art Dubai Fair in April 2015, where I also exhibited my artwork. I am seeking similar outlets, including art galleries, museums and public art events, in order to develop new Sustainable Art initiatives.

Your exhibition has many stunning artworks, of which the glass jar installation is perhaps the most original. What was your inspiration behind this piece?

I am expressing various aspects of light and space through the use of glass, metal and organic materials. My primary intention is to capture the refractions of light passing through

the glass jars, creating patterns of contrasting shadows and highlights that play upon the wall.

The spices add a delicate touch of color and life to the composition. I like the quiet tone of this installation; despite the large scale of the work, it is calm and serene, almost Zen. How long did it take you to put this together, and do you hope to exhibit it anywhere else after the Art Hub? It took a month to assemble the installation, using glass jars that I accumulated over a year, and spices from the canteen at the Art Hub. I hope to sell the piece, although it’s a bit large for a private collector’s living room; at 3 meters by 4 meters in dimensions, it requires a big space in order to appreciate the piece fully. I hope a hotel would put it in their lobby or a corporation would place it in their offices, in order to demonstrate their support for sustainable issues to a wide public.

What inspired this thought of turning found objects into art? How did this programme come to life?

This evolved over time. A few years ago I found myself working with recycled paper in different ways, exploring 2D and 3D modes of expression. This eventually led to upcycling wood furniture into art objects, which I hung from the ceiling in order to emphasize their non-functionality. Simultaneously, I worked on commissioned pieces in which I upcycled

sponsors’ materials into art. This in turn opened up a whole range of original and exciting creations which cross the barriers between painting, sculpture, public installations and conceptual art.

What beauty as an artist do you see in these casually disposed items, to bring art to life from the recycling bin?

I strive to express Sustainable themes through the use of natural materials. For instance, I transform recycled paper, salvaged wood, metal and glass with a view towards expressing their intrinsic nature – the feel, the smell, the sounds they emit. I also use organic materials such as seashells and cotton fabrics in order to express the cycles of life through art. Simply associating a few different materials together in unexpected ways brings out intriguing and expressive effects.

From where and how do you collect these raw, waste materials?

I find upcycled materials in 2 places; at home and at construction sites. I carefully select items I believe will make a great art piece. Sometimes the simple

act of finding an object will inspire me to create an artwork. Other times I might take some time to discover what I wish to create. But I only collect materials that have some intrinsic value I believe can be transformed into Sustainable Art. Why do you choose upcycling as the elements of your projects?

This evolved over time. Starting with recycled paper, I moved on to upcycling wooden furniture, natural fabrics, and other materials as my artwork evolved. It is important to note that my objective has always been to create beautiful works of art. I’ve discovered that upcycling can be a very expressive way of creating fine art, and the public responds well to the Sustainable ideas. So I’ve continued to develop this as an original and provocative theme in my artwork.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 105

Which found objects come into most use while creating this recycled beauty?

Recycled newspapers and natural fabrics are the most prevalent materials. In addition, I use metal wires, grilles, glass, salvaged wood, and other construction materials. With these minerals, I mix organic materials such as seashells, spices, cotton and jute fabrics. By blending them together, I obtain intriguing effects of color and light that evoke a broad range of emotional expressions.

How is it that you have accustomed yourself to move out of your comfort zone and transitioned to beautify found objects?

This is simply part of the creative process. I discovered intriguing and thoughtprovoking new expressions from upcycling various materials into fine art. But upcycling is only a part of the process. The main endeavor is to create beautiful

paintings, sculpture and installations, and hopefully imbue them with sustainable themes that touch the viewers hearts and emotions.

Do you work alone or with other artists?

Three artists and I have been creating art together for many years at the Dubai International Art Centre, where we work as Art Instructors and Directors. Art is what brings us together – we are pursuing more or less abstract themes, each in our own way. The constructive criticism in our informal sessions is a key element that keeps us fresh and inquisitive as we pursue our individual artistic careers.

Does your team of four liaise with each other to produce a piece or do all of you create individually?

Both. We meet once a week at the Dubai International Art Centre to pursue our artwork as an informal group, where the friendly criticism and constructive dialogue is beneficial to our artistic growth. The remainder of the week we’re free to create our artwork individually, because it’s a very personal journey to pursue high-quality artistic expression.

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What are the other out of the box events you have participated in?

- Selected for a group exhibition called “Self Festival” at the Palazzo Ca’Zanardi in Venice to coincide with the 56th Venice Biennale 2015 - Selected for a group exhibition called “Sustaining Identity” at Tashkeel Art Centre in Dubai in 2015 - Conducted Sustainable Art workshops at Sikka Art Fair as part of Art Dubai 2015 - Selected for The Big Picture group show at Pro Art gallery in Dubai in 2015 - Delivered a paper on Sustainability in Art at the World Art Dubai Fair 2015 - Participated in the UAE Green Festival in 2014 with various art shows and public appearances at Art Couture and the Dubai International Art Centre.

- Mounted a solo show at Gallery 76 called Recycling into Abstraction in 2011.

- Participated in Art Oasis 2009; A Green Vision at Wafi Shopping Centre What do you hope to achieve after these commendable endeavors?

I am currently seeking a professional art gallery to promote my Sustainable Art. I’m looking for additional outlets for exhibiting my artwork, such as public art, interactive art, and other artistic initiatives. In addition, I’m trying to find sponsors who can help finance art materials and mount high-visibility art events for the public to enjoy and learn about Sustainable Art.

I strive to express Sustainable themes through the use of natural materials

What is your opinion about the general public's view of sustainability in the UAE, what would be your advice to improve the situation?

There is a general understanding about sustainability but it is clearly not a priority for most people in the UAE. There’s more to sustainability than conserving water and reducing energy consumption. It’s also about economics, politics and culture, which must work together with ecological improvements, in order to ensure a better life for future generations. Solutions must be viewed with a long term perspective. The key is educating the public, and that will be an ongoing activity as we strive for a sustainable lifestyle.

Jeff Scofield is an American artist who studied at the Ateliers des Beaux Arts de la Ville de Paris after earning his Master of Architecture degree at Columbia University in New York.

He migrated to Dubai 10 years ago, and is now the Art Director for Gallery 76 at the Dubai International Art Center.

Jeff uses found materials to create original abstract art installations. Working in a minimalist style, his artworks are conceptual, and focus on exploring natural materials as expressions of sustainable art.

Jeff ’s artwork has been exhibited in various art galleries, public institutions and hotels in New York, Paris, Rome and Dubai. His artwork has won numerous awards, and is frequently selected for juried exhibitions. His art can be found in private collections in the USA, Canada, France, the UK, Hong Kong, Australia and the UAE.

Artist Statement Jeff upcycles discarded construction materials from building sites to create original abstract artwork with myriad textures and surfaces.

Through paintings, sculpture, and installation art, Jeff mixes together found materials such as metal, wood, sand, plaster, wires, steel cables, grills, fabrics, glass and light. Working at large and small scales, Jeff ’s artwork evokes the complexities and contradictions of modern life through the expression of sustainable themes.

His artworks express symbiotic relationships between the natural environment and the modern city. The found objects, the newsprint, the layers of paint, the opposition of disparate elements create an unexpected balance. The upcycled glass jars, the organic sea shells, the play of light and shadow, the natural elements combine to express the wonders of life. With these media, Jeff expresses the delicate co-existence between the man-made world and the natural environment.

JeffScofield1@gmail.com www.JeffScofield.net Mobile: +971-50-253-1523

October - November 2015 Curiosity 107

Dazzling Diwali Collection Arrives at Ritu Kumar Store in Dubai With Diwali approaching, it is time to shop once again. Add a sparkle to your festivities with a glittering Ritu Kumar outfit. The spectacular Diwali collection has just arrived at the brand's flagship store at BurJuman Centre in Dubai.

108 Curiosity October - November 2015

A spectacle of vibrant colours, Ritu Kumar's Diwali collection stimulates all the senses with extravagance and elegance. Using a variety of rich fabrics such as silk, chinon, georgette, crepe, tulle, chiffon, net and lace, the internationally-acclaimed designer has produced a magnificent range of flowing lehengas, suits, anarkalis, kurtis and saris. Exquisitely embroidered and encrusted with sequins and crystals each ensemble is inspired from the rich cultural heritage of India. The outcome is absolutely stunning in shades of crimson, burgundy, orange, emerald, green, beige, yellow, fuchsia, peach, pink, purple, turquoise and indigo.

Diwali is certainly no time for understatement and opulence symbolizes the new collection as much as fantasy. Ritu Kumar has been known to dress some of the most beautiful women including the biggest Bollywood

stars, the most famous celebrities and the most stylish royals such as the late Princess Diana. So be among the best dressed this Diwali as you step out to dazzle in a Ritu Kumar outfit.

The Ritu Kumar boutique at BurJuman Shopping Centre in Dubai is stocked with all three lines from the brand namely Ri Ritu Kumar (Indian festive and occasion wear), Ritu Kumar (Classic ethnic wear) and Label Ritu Kumar (Global contemporary fashion clothing).

The Ritu Kumar store is located on Level 1 - 137B in BurJuman Centre.

Call 00971 - 4 352 8233 October - November 2015 Curiosity 109

TeresitA Orillac Born in Panama, Teresita Orillac is a Dubai based designer specialising in luxury womenswear. She showed her inclination towards retail & design with a sensibility for colours & proportions at an early age when she started working after school and weekends in her mother’s party supplies and decorating business.

By the age of 16 Teresita Orillac opened and co-owned a fashion boutique targeted to pre-teen girls called MiniDivas, where she was the buyer and visual merchandiser of the boutique. This experience ignited her curiosity and passion for design and so she began designing and creating for herself and family.

She continued her formal education in Miami studying Fashion Merchandising while doing an internship with Chanel. After graduation she had the privilege of working with Silvia Tcherassi at her Coral Gables Atelier & Boutique. After her time in Miami, Teresita moved to New York to continue her studies in Fashion Styling and Image Consulting while also working for Carolina Herrera assisting her with the preparation for fashion week.

Teresita then moved back to Panama and opened her own fashion atelier offering the services of personal shopping and image consulting for TV shows, magazines and personal clients. She also began designing her own collections and participating in Panama Fashion Week under the brand Teresita Orillac. During this time she started her blog for fashion and beauty advice and became a writer for several publications including Ocean Drive magazine.

Since the opening for her own business and fashion brand in Panama, Teresita has been an Ambassador to La Mer and held many Image consulting workshops and seminars sponsored

by Smashbox Cosmetics, Batiste Dry Shampoo, Bourjouis Paris among others. It was during these seminars and workshops that the idea for work wear and uniforms was developed, leading to the creation of the brand T.O by Teresita Orillac.

Despite her experience in North America, Teresita has always paid homage to her Panama heritage within her designs, none more so than in her latest SS16 collection, entitled ‘Into The Jungle’. The highly anticipated SS16 collection will be the first UK showcase for Teresita Orillac. Inspired by the Panamanian jungle, guests can expect to be transported to paradise with an array of vivacious hues, complex designs and customised, digital prints constructed from original imagery of the striking wildlife that inhabits the Panamanian rainforest.

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October - November 2015 Curiosity 111

Panama based fashion designer Teresita Orillac made her debut on Sunday 20th September at London Fashion Week with the launch of her newest, exotic birds inspired cruise collection, Into The Jungle.

The collection received an outstanding reception and the room rammed with over 300 guests, including top press and key members from the fashion industry and celebrities sat front row.

Panama is a tropical paradise welcoming visitors from all over the world to marvel on its beauty. Paying homage to the splendor of her homeland, Teresita Orillac has designed a luxury women’s ready-to-wear collection Into The Jungle.

The collection, ranging from elegant fabled dresses to skirts and tops as well as intricately designed jackets, sees an amalgamation of luscious peacock print effects, vivacious colours and complex designs found on the many species of gorgeously striking birds in Panamanian rainforests.

Transporting people paradise, the collection portrays playful, vivid and abstract splashes of lilac, bright green, various shades of blue and yellow. On the other hand, the evening gowns are themed with elegance in black, sky blue patterns with green and bronze hues.

The abundance of luscious greens gives depth and richness to the palette, while sky blue and lilac make the color scheme more jubilant and festive, providing the ensemble an organic feel.

This dynamic collection was designed not only by how they look on a mannequin or model, but to alter them to adapt to the ideal charismatic Teresita Orillac woman. An imaginative, upbeat personality, the ideal Teresita Orillac woman loves to travel, lives life as it comes, is outgoing and carefree. She’s ready to take on a party at the beach by day, and glamourous gala dinners by night. Into The Jungle embraces a very relaxed, comfortable silhouette crafted out of rich, crease-free fabrics and can be worn throughout the year.

“I started my career in fashion as an image consultant and personal shopper, and this experience has played a significant role as I designed my new line. I enjoy producing beautiful clothes, furthermore, I love creating something that has the power to make someone feel confident, beautiful and make their daily lives more comfortable. Through Into The Jungle I hope to pass on similar emotions to those who wear them”, says Teresita Orillac.

Teresita Orillac is a fashion designer and image consultant from Panama. From an early age, she has shown an inclination towards retail and design with a sensibility for colours and proportions by 112 Curiosity October - November 2015

working after school and weekends in her mother’s party supplies and decorating business. By the age of 16, Teresita had opened and co-owned a fashion boutique targeted to pre-teen girls called MiniDivas, where she was the buyer and visual merchandiser of the boutique. This experience ignited her curiosity and passion for design and thus began designing and

creating for her and family.

Teresita Orillac’s cruise collection Into The Jungle will be available from September 2015 at renowned local fashion outlets ValleyDez and BeYou. www.teresitaorillac.com

October - November 2015 Curiosity 113

this & that

Riot of colour:

China China is famous for its wide variety of arts and crafts with excellent workmanship. We scout around the streets of Shanghai in search of traditional souvenirs.

Chinese ceramics Chinese ceramic ware is an artform that has been developing since the dynastic periods.

Good Luck Bags During Chinese New Year, hanging decorations and “good luck bags� are made, adding to the festive atmosphere at home.

Chinese dolls

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Dolls with distinct features from all regions of China represent diverse culture.

True Asian creativity is portrayed in each of these special dolls

Chinese Calligraphy

Calligraphy, literally "beautiful writing," has been appreciated as an art form in many different cultures throughout the world, but the stature of calligraphy in Chinese culture is unmatched.

Handbags come in all kinds of textures such as embroidery, brocade, linen, silk and so on.

Lanterns A collapsible paper lantern or sky lantern in bright colours used for decorative purposes, commonly painted with Chinese art and calligraphy motifs.

Chinese embroidery has a long history since Neolithic age. Because of the quality of silk fibre, most Chinese fine embroideries are made in silk.

Each beautiful flower is delicately embroidered. A pair of jeans can make a perfect match with these shoes. Beautiful in appearance and comfortable in wearing!

Traditional Shoes

October - November 2015 Curiosity 115

face to

face

Kai Schukowski Hotel Manager - Kempinski Hotel Ajman

“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t –

either way you will be right.”

116 Curiosity October - November 2015

K

ai Schukowski, hotel manager at Kempinski Hotel Ajman, shared some insights about what it takes to have 11 successful F&B outlets in the smallest of the Emirates.

One of our main goals is to be more than just hotel rooms with one of the finest and the longest natural beaches in the UAE. We are aiming to become the F&B destination of choice in the Northern Emirates with a variety of offerings ranging from five bars to an organic restaurant and a bowling alley to a tea boutique with an aroma bar.

The Little Italy of Ajman “Having worked myself for the past ten years in the luxury hospitality industry, we are always talking about the new fine-dining hotspots in town, including Michelin-star experiences and gourmet food. But frankly speaking, nothing beats a good old pizza fresh from an authentic pizza oven. That is one of my weaknesses,” said Schukowski of his own experience.

“Consequently, we have recently revived one of our outlets, Sabella's, to offer our guests a truly authentic Italian experience in the Northern Emirates. By having a real Italian chef leading the team and using only organic products in the dishes, we have changed the menu to 100% organic and locally produced food. We have provided a chance for our guests to move from fine dining to a casual and relaxed environment that offers excellent cuisine at the best value for your money,” said Hotel Manager Kai Schukowski.

“Enjoy our live pizza counter, where you can see how our Italian master chef creates the crispiest bruschetta and the most tender pasta with your own eyes whilst sipping freshly made signature cocktails on the terrace overlooking the sun sinking into the shimmering sea. An ice-cold Limoncello is all you need for a moment that will last a lifetime,” said Schukowski.

Brunch 2.0 In October, we will launch our newly

Advertorial

conceptualised Friday Garden Brunch, which will offer an array of international favourites in a beautiful outdoor venue overlooking the sea with a number of mouth-watering live stations.

“We wanted to shift away from the traditional brunch with hundreds of items on display at an excessive price. Instead, we were keen to move our brunch experience outside, whilst highlighting the key features: our beautiful lush green lawns and gardens overlooking the sea. We want people to have the chance to live their Fridays to the fullest by bringing their friends and families for a long day at the beach to enjoy the lavish buffet and livecooking stations,” Schukowski explained.

“In addition to our Friday brunch, we are also looking to offer an interesting alternative for people who are engaged in the traditional Friday ritual that is often seen in Dubai with a Saturday BBQ by the sea at our award-winning Zanzi Bar with unlimited surf-and-turf options to choose from, accompanied by freshly prepared cocktails and a mesmerising sea view.”

It’s Tea Time

offered at our Lobby Lounge and presented on an elegant stand – an excellent experience after a long day at the beach. Another addition that Kempinski Hotel Ajman has recently inaugurated to the Lobby Lounge is the Tchaba tea boutique in the Northern Emirates. Together with the aroma bar, it introduces tea culture and history to our guests and visitors. It creates awareness and interprets tea culture in a special way. What would be a better way to enjoy beautifully hand-prepared tea than giving your body and mind a relaxing retreat accompanied by live piano performances?

Hotspot for Tex-Mex “We are working towards converting our bowling bar, which has so far been serving similar food to our sports bar offerings, to a really fun TexMex hotspot. Following the trend of Mexican restaurants opening up in Dubai, we are excited to open up the first one in the Northern Emirates, organising regular bowling competitions and featuring live Latin band performances,” Schukowski explained about the upcoming preparations at Kempinski Hotel Ajman.

The Master of Noodles “ At our specialty restaurant Hai Tao, we want to offer our guests the best Chinese treats in a very simple yet delicious way by bringing our long menu down to a single page to highlight Chinese favourites created by our newly hired Chinese Chef Huanxi Yan. He learned under original noodle masters for seven years and has now become one himself. We are excited to see him demonstrate his skills in live-cooking classes for our guests,” said Schukowski.

“In the food and beverage and hospitality industry in general, it’s all about being creative, innovative and forward thinking. You have to be on top of your game, otherwise somebody else will come in and snap away your ideas and bring them to life. We are in the 21st century and things are happening faster than we could ever imagine.”

“All the above are just some of the elements that help us bring ourselves closer to our vision of being the most ‘buzzing’ hotel in the Northern Emirates,” concluded Schukowski.

The Pearl afternoon tea is one of the highlights October - November 2015 Curiosity 117

Cwikwin, UAE’s first contest driven mobile app brands of UAE and participate any time of the day or while on the go.” says Kishore Chand, Co-Founder of Cwikwin.

Kishore Chand

M

iddle East is one of the fastest growing Smartphone markets and UAE, with over 80% residents using Smartphones is one of the highest penetrated markets.

Smartphones are becoming central to our lives not only for communication and gaming but also for shopping, entertainment and managing utility needs. In lieu of the upswing, Concept Diary FZC has announced the launch of a new mobile app called Cwikwin for Android and iOS users.

An easy to download app, Cwikwin, a play on the words quick and win, offers exciting prizes for its users. The exhilarating new mobile app provides a digital hub for UAE residents to participate and compete in quiz contests of their choice for various brands, products and services through their mobile devices. In the past year, Cwikwin has hosted nearly a 100 contests from brands in electronics, health care, amusement, entertainment, education and more. In addition, a total of 280 contest prizes have been announced since launch including smartphones, tablets, medical packages, dinner vouchers and movie tickets.

Kishore Chand, an established entrepreneur and the mastermind behind Cwikwin, insists the Cwikwin mobile app will provide a great marketing opportunity for business. He developed a deep understanding of the opportunities of mobile applications and digital marketing through his 15-year career in the telecom industry and aims to make the most of the growing popularity of the social web in the UAE. “We know that these days’ people are immersed in their smartphones and their apps – shopping, sharing, researching and buying anytime of the day or night. That represents a huge marketing opportunity for businesses. Keeping this in mind, Cwikwin will not only help brands connect with their target audience to drive brand engagement, but also serve as an online hub of contests where users can find multiple contests from various 118 Curiosity October - November 2015

The Cwikwin mobile app has a contemporary, sleek and vibrant lay out, it’s extremely simple to use, making it user-friendly for all those digitally less skilled users out there, and it’s open to all ages and genders. To participate, you simply sign up, play and claim your prize. What stands out about Cwikwin is its vast range of prizes. A winner can compete to win anything from concert tickets to digital devices and even medical services. The interactive app also offers a Loyalty Programme, where a user can earn points with every correct answer. The points can then be used to buy rewards from the Cwikwin online store.

Soon after its launch, Cwikwin has gained immediate popularity amongst Dubai’s Android and iOS users. Minakshi Singh, an avid Cwikwin user, says “When I first heard about Cwikwin, I thought they had an exciting concept where I pay nothing and get to participate in multiple contests to win exciting prizes and also collect loyalty points which I can redeem for a variety of gifts! It’s kind of cool and I have even recommended it to my friends.”

Excerpts from an interview with Kishore Chand What led to the development of the app?

Mainly two things. Increasing number of people world over are adopting smartphones and are immersed in their Smartphones and Apps shopping, sharing, researching, buying and seeing digital content; and that represents a huge marketing opportunity for businesses. For our users, we wanted to create ONE online destination where people could go and participate in online contests sponsored by brands, win exciting prizes, earn and redeem loyalty points for free gifts.

Why was a mascot chosen as a brand ambassador for the app?

We thought having a Mascot will allow us the opportunity to represent us as a person rather than a business entity. A Mascot helps to convey emotions, have conversations and be more expressive. Our Mascot also has a name 'Lucky' Do you plan to develop any more apps in the future?

We are a Digital Services company and aim to create a bouquet of Digital products/services which could be in form of Apps or web interfaces.

Is there any other app like Cwikwin in the UAE? At the moment there is no other App like Cwikwin.

Are such apps good for branding your services?

Most brands are adopting a 'Mobile First Strategy' now. Cwikwin is essentially an online brand promotion medium where brands can connect with their Target Audience in an infotainment (information-entertainment) manner. In the past year, Cwikwin has hosted nearly a 100 contests from brands in electronics, health care, amusement, entertainment, education and more.

What is the procedure / working of the app?

The Mobile App is free to download from Google Playstore and Apple App store.

What is your outlook about the tech / app industry in the UAE and Middle East?

MEA is one of the fastest growing Smartphone markets and UAE with over 80% residents using Smartphones is one of the highest penetrated markets. Smartphones are becoming central to our lives not only for communication and gaming but also for shopping, entertainment and managing utility needs. The focus on M-governance in Dubai is a reflection of the importance this sector holds.

The Tech/App sector has huge potential.

Is app advertising / branding the way forward?

While Traditional media continues to be relevant, Mobile Marketing is gaining rapid attention from advertisers as it offers some unique advantages like there are no barriers of location or time, there are multiple opportunities through social media, ad-words and platforms like Cwikwin.

Lutron® Electronics presents the full range of light, shade and temperature control solutions

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utron Electronics, the global lighting, shade and temperature control expert, presented its full range of solutions for the hospitality industry at The Hotel Show 2015, including the new myRoom™ guestroom solutions which bring Lutron’s lighting, daylight and temperature control systems expertise right into the guestroom.

In addition, Lutron solutions utilize guest presence detection to save energy** by turning lights off when a room is unoccupied or initiating HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) setbacks when a room is unsold. This ‘occupancy-based temperature setback’ can save 10-30% of HVAC energy in hotel guest rooms and so make a significant contribution to sustainable hospitality.

the world, including the GCC. Lutron is already providing lighting control and window shade systems solutions to some of the leading hotel properties in the region, including the Rosewood Abu Dhabi; The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi; Four Seasons Resort Dubai; The Palace Downtown Dubai; Four Seasons Hotel Doha; and The Regent Doha.

Lutron provides a comprehensive range of solutions for the hospitality sector including lobby and public areas, conference rooms, ballrooms, hallways and back of house, restaurants and spas, which all require different lighting solutions and the flexibility to meet a variety of needs and applications depending on the specific use of the area. As lighting, daylight and temperature control requirements change through the course of the day and night, Lutron’s flexible lighting control systems automatically optimize the environment, enhance the guest experience and save energy.

Mr. Shadi Kharouf, Lutron Sales Director for Middle East, Turkey and Central Asia, said: “With hundreds of new hotels and thousands of rooms under construction in the Middle East, this means rising energy consumption within the rapidly expanding hospitality sector in the GCC. Energy consumption in hotels is typically broken down into lighting (30%) and AC (40%) in the Middle East; with room management systems linked to the new myRoom guestroom solution, Lutron can help hotels significantly reduce their energy consumption and cost.”

“Lutron already has a strong pipeline for the myRoom solutions with several thousand guest rooms planned for the Middle East, over the next 18-24 months,” added Shadi Kharouf. “This reflects the regional market, where guestroom management systems are the norm (rather than the exception, as it is in most other regions, including Europe) and recognizes the merits of a solution that can guarantee a saving of 30-40% in guestroom energy consumption, whilst enhancing customer satisfaction.”

myRoom saves energy, reduces operating costs and increases guest satisfaction and loyalty by offering a high degree of personal control over the guest room environment. Through the options of myRoom prime and myRoom plus, the solution is available for any type of hotel room as a standalone solution or integrated into a broader hotel management system.

According to the STR Global Construction Pipeline Report for July 2015, there are 693 hotels totalling 176,612 rooms Under Contract in the Middle East/Africa, making the region an attractive market opportunity.

Lutron already works with most of the major hotel groups in the key hospitality markets around

**Occupancy-based temperature setback can save 10-30% of HVAC energy in hotel guest rooms. Actual savings may vary depending on HVAC system and control types, timeout periods, and occupant usage among other factors. GP Sullivan and J Blanchard. 2012. Guest Room HVAC Occupancy-Based Control Technology Demonstration. Prepared for the U.S. Department of Energy By Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

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Iftikhar Hamdani General Manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman

CSR Initiatives of Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman

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he luxury 4-star Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman composes of 388 luxury rooms and suites, two restaurants and a Ballroom with 600 to 800 people capacity, Indoor Pool and fully equipped Gym. While leading in hotel’s occupancy in the Northern Emirates in its segment, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman places a high value in Corporate Social Responsibility, actively participating in the preservation of natural resources and giving a helpinghand to the needy through various charity activities with noble cause.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman is an active participant in various worldwide community sustainability activities such as celebrating Earth Hour, Earth Day and World Environment Day. Apart from this, the property conducts periodic beach clean-up drives in the Ajman Public Beach.

Ramada Ajman is the 1st amongst the hotels in UAE

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Advertorial who had launched Zero Landfill Project on July 2012. The Zero Landfill Project intends to recycle and reduce the hotels’ food waste which is 800 kg to 1000 kg daily. While the inorganic wastes such as plastics, cardboards/papers, bottles, cans/ tins, used oils are given to recyclers. The initial efforts on this Zero Landfill Project generated positive results as the property nearly reaches 90% in terms of waste diversion. The hotel produces about 50kgs of compost from 500kgs of organic waste that is good enough to keep the hotel’s green environment enhanced. It also saves the hotel’s annual garbage skips fee of AED 120,000. The initiative was with the collaboration of AIMS Group, Green Mountain Waste Management and GreenGood Eco Tech.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman is the set-up of Urban Farm in 2013 which was taken from the 430 square meters of the property’s parking area.

The seasonal vegetables are planted, harvested and served in the hotel’s kitchen operation. The staffs are even enjoying the vegetables for free.

Apart from these, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman organized a “Children’s Painting Competition with theme “Go Green: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle” which was held on November 27, 2013. The event was geared-up to call for students of Grades 2 &

3 and Grades 4 & 5 to showcase their painting talents and at the same time to create awareness about pressing environment issues, in order to step up efforts from these young generations to combat global warming. The hotel, raised awareness to about 100,000 families in the Northern Emirates in this competition.

The property joint the CSR Initiatives of Diversey called “Soap for Hope Campaign” in first quarter of 2014 where the collected soaps are being sterilized and distributed to several communities in Cambodia.

Another ground breaking green initiatives of

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman is not only known for its best green practices but also virtuous for its Charitable Activities. Few to enlist are – Humanitarian assistance to Somalia in 2011 where we had collected a total amount of Aed 50,000.00.

The campaign was initiated by the management for a month who appealed to around 205 staff of the hotel to contribute a minimum of one day salary to support the cause; Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman had organized “Fashion for Passion 2012” were the property collected AED 50,000 generated through company sponsorships and individual contributions. The cause is to benefit the Ajman Club for Disabled. Another amount of AED 100,000 as an act of charity to the underweight children of Niger in 2013; a diminutive but

October - November 2015 Curiosity 121

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helpful contribution had made as well to the Philippine’s flood victims in September 2012 and a relief to Pakistan in 2010. And recently, we had donated AED 50,000 for the property’s Nepali associates who had been affected by the destructive 7.9 magnitude earthquake that hit Nepal last April & May 2015. This is for them to help their families back home to rebuild and recover.

Charity works never stop in here, the property had successfully organized twice Blood Donation Campaign with the collaboration of Sharjah Blood Transfusion Centre and Dubai Blood Donation Centre. The property believed that such initiatives were held to help save blood for emergency use and we knew how a drop of donated blood can be crucial in saving life.

Iftar time aimed to reduce road accidents and excessive driving speed in the Emirate. It was 2015’s Ramadan where Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman organized a special Iftar buffet for about 200 labourers at the Ajman Labour Camp. The Management of the property were even personally provided the VIP treatment for them.

Ramadan is a gift of giving and during this period the property sees to it that we help the less fortunate people. Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman had organized the clothes donation drive where the staff and executive donated clothes while the hotel gathered all the unused linen. The property teamed-up AL Ihsan Charity Associations to help distribute packed meals to limited-income families and individuals in the emirates of Ajman and Sharjah during the Holy month of Ramadan 2013 aimed at helping members of the community and also avoid food wastage from the hotel’s excessive food. Again teamed-up with Al Ihsan for the Ramadan 2014’s Campaign, “A Safe Ramadan” where 100,000 light Iftar meal boxes were distributed to the road drivers during

Because of various Green initiatives, the property has been frequently invited to various sustainable tourism conferences and events where Mr. Iftikhar Hamdani, General Manager represents the property as a guest speaker. Several recognitions and awards were bagged by the property for its Green and Charity Projects. Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman has been awarded as “Best Hotel with Charity Initiatives in 2012”, “Wyndham Green Hotel 2013 & 2014” beating the other properties under Wyndham Hotel Group in the EMEA Region. Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman was the silver awardee in the “Middle East & North Africa Travel Awards 2014 as “Best Environmental Hotel 2104”. The property has also been recognized as “Green Hotelier’s Highly Commended 2015”, a

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recognition given to hotels that brings together a genuine passion for sustainability.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman will continue to organize different charity activities to help less fortunate groups and individuals, and carry-on with our green projects to help preserve the environment for the younger generation.

the

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Qasr Sabah : An Appealing Blend of Mediterranean and Arabic Elements Curiosity Middle East catches up with Raj Sahni of RSG International to discuss the success behind the early completion of his magnificent property. Excerpts from the interview.

Share some interesting insights about your project Qasr Sabah has been funded solely by RSG international. Valued at AED 450 million, the project is being handed over to the investors since 1st September 2015. The project is 86 days ahead of the originally scheduled completion, making it a one-of-a-kind project in the global property market.

124 Curiosity October - November 2015

Qasr Sabah recorded a near sell-out response when it was first launched in February 2014.

The affordable prices and flexible payment plan comprising of 20% reservation deposit and 80% at handover, prompted huge demand from local and overseas investors. In the Holy Month of Ramadan 2014, Qasr Sabah was the only project in the UAE that pioneered a post handover payment plan for its investors encompassing 60% imbursement in three years after handover.

To offer additional value and a world-class experience to its investors, and in keeping with the elegant façade, the lobby at Qasr Sabah was and revamped at the company’s own expense

to make it look stylishly appealing and grand.

Qasr Sabah architecture is an appealing blend of Mediterranean and Arabic elements. Intricate nature motifs, lines and curves painted in gold are a reflection of the rich architecture of these cultures while the brilliant white façade symbolizes freshness and peace.

Why was IMPZ chosen as a location?

International Media Production Zone (IMPZ) is located adjacent to Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Road and within easy reach of both the Al Maktoum International Airport and Dubai International Airport. The new logistics hub Dubai

Advertorial South (earlier known as Dubai World Central), the site of the World Expo 2020 and the biennial Dubai Air show are only minutes away.

While Qasr Sabah is designed to be a selfcontained community that harmonizes work with family, IMPZ offers easy access to a number of social and leisure options, like malls and restaurants in the vicinity. The recently opened Me’aisem City Centre will bring a plethora of retail / entertainment outlets to the residents of IMPZ.

procedures by the government make the market look promising.

What are your upcoming projects?

While Qasr Sabah was our pioneer project, our next project in Jumeirah Village Circle will comprise of G+23 residential towers development built at a cost of Dhs 800m. Just like our first project, we aim to construct the new project with

"The UAE property market has stabilized currently and the growth looks positive. " An important piece of advice you would want to give to the investors A buyer’s mantra should be to get a home that’s financially comfortable. While there are two fold of buyers, the investors and the end-users, investors should look for developers who offer financial flexibility to invest and make use of their cash wisely.

Similarly, end-users should have enough cash reserves to make the down-payment. Also, no more than 40% of your net income should go towards your property payment. For buyers who get loans from banks, six months of mortgage should be used as cash reserve. This ensures that the buyer doesn’t end up paying penalties for default due to personal financial crisis.

Also, buying a home isn’t just a matter of replacing a rental payment with a mortgage payment. There are also maintenance costs, utilities and many other costs. It is essential to consider all of these before taking the big leap.

Lastly, one should look for established and reliable developers. There are plenty of developers in the market who offer attractive schemes and incentives, but never complete the project.

Moreover, everything agreed at the time of signing a contract should be documented to avoid discrepancies in the future.

What factors led to the early completion of the project?

Ever since we commenced our project, completing the project on time was our goal. As we were building out of our own cash reserves and not dependent on any financial institutions, we managed to exceed the expectations of the investors by delivering the project 86 days ahead of the schedule. Also, it was the extensive support and co-operation of Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (earlier known as Zoning Department) that paved the way for easy completion of this project.

equal dedication and commitment to quality and delivery. More details on the upcoming project will be shared soon.

UAE has the best of developers around. What was it that prompted the investor to invest in Qasr Sabah-a pioneer project by RSG International?

Is RSG going to focus solely on residential projects or also look at commercial ones?

We own a commercial building in Bay Square which is currently being leased. Recently, we have already exploring some new commercial projects. More details will be shared once we have everything in place.

Location and lucrative payment plans are the two key elements that have drawn bulk investors to invest in this massive project. In addition, it was our attention to detail and a complete transparent model that we offered to our customers that drew investors.

What is your Outlook about the property / real estate sector in the UAE and the Middle East?

What other parts of the UAE and the world is RSG International expanding its network to?

The UAE property market has stabilized currently and the growth looks positive. There are a lot of projects in the pipeline, all well on-track.

Moreover, with Expo 2020 shaping up soon, the population in the UAE seems to be on an upswing.

All these factors coupled with the regulated

While the whole of UAE offers lucrative benefits, Dubai tops it all. At the moment we are expanding in Dubai with residential and commercial projects, but very soon, we will explore territories outside the Emirate. Outside the UAE, we are developing projects in USA. October - November 2015 Curiosity 125

Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel

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he Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel is the result of the vision of the late HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, who sought to provide a modern and fully equipped complex dedicated to the officers of the Armed Forces of the United Arab Emirates. AFOC&H was designed by Roger Taillibert, well known for his project for the Olympic Stadium and Velodrome in Montreal. The building started in December 1984 and finished in 1995.

AFOC&H, nowadays is not only for officers of

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the Armed Forces, this Iconic landmark opens the doors to all cultures sharing its unique history, architecture, culture and traditional style maintaining International luxury standards.

The Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel has internationally acclaimed architectural design that matches the unique and genuine Arab hospitality. The luxurious 5-Stars hotel has come to distinguish itself as exceptional destination in the modern urban landscape of the United

Arab Emirates. The Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel features 600 elegantly appointed guests rooms and luxurious suites- embraced by impressive, inner garden, which has one of the world’s largest collections in an indoor location. Not surprisingly, the hotel was honored with the prestigious British Association of Landscape Industries “BALI” Landscape Award in 2002. The guestrooms offer the finest luxury accommodation in Abu Dhabi with a classic style blends perfectly with modern touches.

All guestrooms boast a superb selection of

Advertorial

Arabic traditional amenities, carefully chosen to address every need including wheel-chair accessible rooms and non-smoking rooms. We are also providing an extra workspace in our business centre which is complete with all modern facilities, equipment and dedicated staff for Professional business travelers.

The hotel also boasts some of the finest restaurants in town. Our menus bring together the world’s most popular cuisines featuring an incredible selection of outstanding Arabic and International

dishes. Al Bathna, one the restaurants inside the hotel, offers a sumptuous international buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring a variety of main dishes including a rich selection of European, Asian, Arabian and Khaleeji specialties as well as a delectable assortment of sweets. It also offers themes nights on Sunday for seafood lovers, Wednesday for Barbacoe fans and families’ can get together for Friday Family Brunch that keeps the kids well entertained. Taverna restaurant with its Tex-mex style is a perfect venue to watch sports matches and enjoy a casual bite with friends and

colleges. Kennedy restaurant is an unforgettable fine dining experience with superb contemporary European cuisine. Find your space for relaxation and enjoyments in Leisure Lounge, C3 Café, and Caracal Café.

Our central location next to ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company) and right in front of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque together with outstanding facilities provide a prestigious address for a variety of events. With an unparalleled level of service and impeccable attention to detail, we offer October - November 2015 Curiosity 127

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the highest standards of hospitality due to the variety of Top VIPS visiting our premises on daily basis. Set an indulgent stage with gorgeous appointed spaces – from private conferences and board meetings to exclusive weddings and glittering celebrations. The cinema accommodates up to 160 guests while Al Jaheli theater up to 700 guests is ideal for opening ceremonies, seminars or shows between others. In addition, the Garden overlooking the sea is a perfect location for major celebrations or outdoor live entertainment which can accommodate 15,000 guests.

AFOC&H is one of the largest state-of-the-art recreation facilities in the region including two fully-equipped gymnasiums, ladies private facilities, Olympic indoor swimming pool with an adjacent Jacuzzi, spacious steam bath complete with spa, sauna, cold-water pool and temperature-controlled shower.

Other attraction include two Olympic standard shooting galleries, one squash court, a bowling centre and facilities to enjoy table tennis, and paintball as well as indoor and outdoor football courts, indoor volleyball and tennis courts, indoor basketball courts and a track and field course.

“Visit the Destination where heritage meets luxury”

The hotel was honored with the prestigious British Association of Landscape Industries “BALI” Landscape Award in 2002

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UAE SPA TOURISM FORECAST TO DOUBLE BY 2017 A report published by Euromonitor International for The Leisure Show Dubai 2015 reveals that the UAE spa market is booming with revenues of US $411 million forecast for 2015, while the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) reports the UAE is leading spa tourism in the Middle East and North Africa with visitor numbers set to double by 2017.

GWI identifies that the MENA region is the second fastest-growing market in the world for spas behind Sub-Saharan Africa with “growth powerhouse” UAE set to add just under 1 million trips from 2012-17. Susie Ellis, Chairman and CEO of GWI said: “The Global Wellness Institute estimates that the top spa growth powerhouse, more than doubling wellness-focused trips from 2012-2017, will be the UAE, with 993,352 trips added and 17.9% annual growth.”

Other growth markets include Morocco, set to add 825,703 visits and with 14.7% annual growth, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Algeria, also set to see double-digit annual wellness tourism growth to 2017. GWI attribute the luxury day spa, hotel spa and spa resort “explosion” in GCC countries as a major factor behind the region’s spa market boom.

Euromonitor forecast spa revenues in the UAE will reach US $495 million by 2019.

“GWI identify Dubai as the leading growth market in the GCC countries. The Dubai hospitality market is unique in that it is over-saturated with luxury 5-Star resorts and is home to the only 7-Star hotel in the world,” said Christine Davidson, Group Event Director of the dmg events hospitality portfolio including The Leisure Show and The Hotel Show. “Within these properties a unique range of extravagant spa treatments have emerged including Dubai’s most luxurious offering, a 24-carat-gold facial, available at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. Dubai’s world-class hotel spas and day spas target the growing number of international tourists, the fast-growing local luxury segment and its growing expat community, which is one of the largest in the world.”

Davidson continued: “So it was quite appropriate that this year world-class pool and spa suppliers were in Dubai for the 2nd annual The Leisure Show and the Middle East Pool and Spa Awards 2015 in September. These events are dedicated to showcasing a hugely developing leisure market in the region. A new and valuable addition to The

Leisure Show this year was The Hub, featuring pool and spa workshops by Fluidra Middle East, talks on the growth of sports and fitness facilities in hotels

by Dubai Sports Council, and live demonstrations on the show floor together with the launch of brand new fitness programmes to Dubai by REPs UAE, keeping sports and fitness professionals up to date with the latest trends and crazes.”

Other pool and spa exhibitors at The Leisure Show Dubai 2015 included Pentair, Fluidra Middle East, ATECPOOL, Wellis, and The Cool Group.

Meanwhile, other product sectors on show this year included sports and fitness (Technogym), recreational fun and adventure (Switch International Bowling Equipment) and outdoor furniture and lighting (Fiore Rosso).

A visionary pool and spa feature by Aqua Middle East created specifically for The Leisure Show was also on display throughout the 3 days of the event.

Victor Nehme, General Manager of Aqua Middle East FZC, the regional branch of Aqua Industrial Group S.p.A, the leading Italian manufacturer of swimming pool equipment, accessories and wellness products said: “The Aqua Middle East FZC live feature at The Leisure Show Dubai 2015 had us building an indoor showcase of the latest, industry-leading designs in pools, saunas, steam rooms and SPAs designed by renowned architect Simone Micheli.”

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tech talk

IS NEW FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY THE SOLUTION TO HOTEL SECURITY PROBLEMS?

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Global online bookings in Q2 2015 and trends for future

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EC, global leaders in technology and pioneers of the most advanced facial recognition tech in the market opened the first ever TecSec Summit at The Hotel Show Dubai 2015 on 28th September.

The long-standing Dubai event has introduced a new technology and security forum in its 16th year as the global hospitality landscape is evolving to adapt with new innovations. Christine Davidson, Group Event Director of the dmg events hospitality portfolio including The Hotel Show commented: “We have seen evidence that hoteliers are investing considerably in technology.

Gone are the days when providing the ability to book online was enough. To capture guests, hoteliers now have to provide unique offerings and experiences that utilise the latest technologies from 3D cinema rooms to waterproof LED TV’s in bathroom mirrors to multi-room surround-sound music.

Evidence of enhanced guest security is another important factor now that state-of-the-art fingerprint door locks, facial recognition technology, and other new and impressive means of controlling an individual’s safety are available on the market.”

NEC is the world-wide leader of facial recognition technology, where cameras are installed throughout a property and used within hotels to recognise the faces of guests, check registered guest information, identify guests and alert hotel staff of VIP or undesirable visitors.

level of maturity and accuracy that it can be used for ‘real life’ situations of varying levels of security threat,” Van Donk continued.

“Terrorism, theft, violence and other security threats cannot be ignored and can now be monitored more closely and accurately.

VIPs as well as undesirable guests including wanted criminals can be detected as soon as they arrive on a hotel property.”

Kees Van Donk, Director of Hospitality EMEA at NEC said: “In the Middle East and Africa, the use of Facial Recognition technology has seen significant growth over the last two years particularly in Government sectors. We foresee this rise will continue with neighboring industries in the region’s private sector including hospitality, airports, theme parks and other travel-related businesses. This for both scenario’s, white-listing, welcoming the VIPguests, as well as black-listing, keeping the ‘bad guys’ out.”

“Hoteliers are now beginning to understand that although a safe environment for guests should be a basic and given element and condition, situations can arise which cannot be determined or pre-planned. The available face recognition technology has now reached a

Further highlights of the TecSec 2015 programme include: on the security front, “How to minimise the risk of threats checking into your business” presented

by Samer Abu Arisheh, Regional Security Account Manager at Cisco Security. On technology, Ali Hashmi, Industry Manager, Travel & Government at Google will speak on the topic of “Online behavioural traits of MENA millennials”, while Rayan Soumsom, Technology Manager - Middle East & Africa from TecSec sponsors for 2015, Crestron, will present on “Transforming an integrated hotel into a smart hotel”.

Other speakers were from TravelClick Inc., GREENTEC AUTOMATION DMCC, and the Rotana, Mina Seyahi and Media One hotels, while topics included: “The BIG IT Debate”; “Using social platforms to your advantage”; “Assessment of energy efficiency in hotels”; “Technology foundations for perfect guest experience”; “Global online bookings in Q2 2015 and trends for future”; “Can hotel rooms ever be too tech?”; and “How to satisfy tech savvy guests”.

The new TecSec Summit was sponsored by Crestron, Bang & Olufsen, RateGain and CMT Technologies.

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Overall cards spending in UAE increases 14% David Mountain Chief Commercial Officer, Network International

• Domestic market spends grew 17% • Growth driven by restaurants (up 27%) fashion (12%), supermarkets (12%) and public services (49%) Overall spending in the UAE has increased by 14 per cent as compared to last Ramadan, according to a new report by Network International, the leading payment solutions provider in the MENA region. The report, based on credit or debit card transactions by country during the period of Ramadan 2015*, found that the major surge came from stronger domestic market spends with a 17 per cent growth in spending, while international spends also witnessed overall growth of seven per cent. During Ramadan, domestic spend – spend on UAE issued credit and debit cards – was 75 per cent of total spending.

David Mountain, Chief Commercial Officer, Network International, commented: “The coinciding of the Islamic calendar with the traditionally quieter summer months in the UAE has given rise to interesting variations in spends, with the market still registering a strong overall increase. Domestic spend of locals 132 Curiosity October - November 2015

and expatriates based in the UAE becomes particularly important during these months.

Network International’s data provides retailers and businesses useful insight and guidance while formulating marketing and sell strategies as it indicates which nationalities affect spending and influence overall sales.”

Who were the biggest spenders?

North Americans were 7 per cent of total spend and GCC were 3 per cent, and their spend increases grew in line with domestic spend. The rest of world spend, which is 15 per cent of total spend was flat, driven by significant shrinking from the Russians (down 30 per cent), the Chinese (down 22 per cent) and the Germans (down 8 per cent). This seems to reflect recent economic turmoil in all three countries. The UK and Saudis had the largest growth amongst the foreign spend. Nigerians represented 3 per cent of foreign spend (1 per cent of total) breaking into the top 10 nationalities for the first time.

Where did they spend?

In the hotel sector, spending growth was a modest 5 per cent, and almost half of this spend came from UAE residents taking advantage of Ramadan packages for domestic travel. This domestic tendency was even more pronounced in restaurants, who saw domestic spend accounting for 83 per cent of the total spend. Driven by this spend, restaurants enjoyed an increase of 27 per cent spending as compared to last year. The malls found things more challenging - spending was flat for jewelry and high-end watches, but fashion witnessed a growth of 12 per cent in terms of absolute spend, driven in part by a surge in Nigerian spending. In addition supermarkets saw an increase of 12 per cent indicating an increase in household consumption during Ramadan.

Services generally performed well versus 2014, with professional services and government services up well over 25 per cent versus last year. These sectors, as is typical, are largely domestic spending.

Luxury redefined with Money Watches Marc Chbat, Partner and Operations Director speaks exclusively with Curiosity Middle East about Money Watches. Excerpts from the interview When, where and how did Money Watches come into existence?

The luxury market in the UAE is massive and interesting. We identified that there was an existing gap in the online market for luxury watches. This is where the first idea was conceived. As all the partners at Money Watches share a common love for luxury watches, it was a lot easier for us to align our ideas and build up something concrete.

However, before we started, we researched, learned, planned and considered all aspects of the sector to avoid the initial glitches in our business.

Finally, the business took name and shape in 2014 and since then we’ve just been growing.

What makes Money Watches different from its competition?

The thing that helps us steer ahead of our competition is our passion for watches and our dedication to delivering the best content to our consumers helping them understand in depth about their choice of timepieces. While we put everything that goes into making our business successful, it is the ‘content’ that we offer to our’ followers on top of the other trading websites. The content being instructional videos about watches delivered by watch expert ‘Arab Watch Guide.’

Are the watches at Money Watches good as collectibles? If yes, why?

Well! To be honest, the watches that we offer at Money Watches are luxury watches suitable for anyone looking to upgrade their timepiece to the next level. However, in the near future we definitely

plan to have brands that serve as good collectibles for some of our discerning customers.

Does the offline offering work even for clients based outside the UAE? In that case, how does the payment procedure work?

Yes, as a company that offers online and offline services, we ensure that our services are not just limited to the UAE. For customer outside the nation, the procedure doesn’t involve the trail service. Hence, once we receive payment in full for the watch online, we simply ship the watch to the buyer’s address.

Explain the cycle of choosing a watch to buying one at money Watches?

For many, the process for buying an exquisite timepiece is a complex process. Money Watches offer customers the easiest, most secure and most cost-effective way to buy top quality, authenticated, world-class watches. Basically when a client enquires about a timepiece, he/ she will get assistance through a relationship manager and will get more details about the item and then are offered a chance of trying the item on their wrist in order to facilitate their purchase decision.

Name the core target groups / clients of Money Watches?

UAE is one nation that is a melting point of cultures. Our target audience is mixed groups of people from varied nationalities. Primarily, the manager who is looking to reward himself for just getting a promotion or the man who wants to

celebrate his wife’s 30th birthday or the parents who want to congratulate their child for graduating are all our prospect customers. In general, all those people who are looking at celebrating their lives’ special moments or just wanting to upgrade their timepieces are our core customers.

Advise to people wanting to buy pre-owned watches We’ve often noticed that a foray into the luxury watch market can be an overwhelming journey, sometimes stressful too. With a wide range of styles, brands, functions and movements to choose from, it is easy to be misled into buying a watch that wasn’t your choice. Hence, it is essential to take your time, look around and then make your decision based on viability / affordability / investment factor and fun factor. Most importantly, you have to like what you wear.

Why should people invest in pre-owned watches rather than buying the new ones?

Pre-owned watches usually are slightly cheaper than new ones, and retain their value after purchase (the right timepieces).

What are some of the best brands that people should invest into?

While investing into a brand it is necessary to check its durability, style quotient, authorized certifications and its functions. While there are plenty of brands to choose from, Rolex, AP, Patek are all good investments.

What are the future plans for your organisation?

In one year of our set-up, we have realized that expansion is the key to any business. Hence, going forward we aim to expand our offerings to the GCC.

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movers &

shakers New GENERAL MANAGER at ROYAL ROSE ABU DHABI City Seasons Hotels have appointed George Demitry as General Manager of their recently opened hotel in the capital: Royal Rose Abu Dhabi.

George moves in from City Seasons Muscat where he was general manager for the past 2 years, and successfully placed the property in the top list of hotels in Oman.

New Director of HR at Grand Millennium Dubai Mohamed Abbas Elaraki, the newly appointed Director of HR, is a seasoned professional who has been associated with a number of five star hotels based in the UAE for over a decade. Just before joining the Grand Millennium Dubai, he was working with Rotana Hotels – Dubai. In the past, he was associated with Crowne Plaza Hotel – Dubai, and Hilton Corniche Residence – Abu Dhabi.

Hailing from Egypt where he started at Intercontinental Hotels, George carries a bachelor degree in Science and is a certified Hotel Administrator by The American Hotel & Lodging Association- US. He brings along more than 17 years in the hospitality management spanning 8 local and international brands of which 3 were Hotel openings. A long stint in Vancouver Canada had seen him overlooking Regional Operations for a North American Hotel chain.

George's posting in Abu Dhabi is the second one after a previous tenure where he oversaw the

Peter pointed out that the management has also decided to establish the Colleagues Welfare Committee of Grand Millennium Dubai. In order to setting up the group, the management is looking for active participation from various departments.

“I believe that successful Hotel management is an inevitable consequence of a systematic balance between efficient customer service, positive return on investment and employee development,” he said.

At Royal Rose Abu Dhabi, George will oversee the 5-star property’s operations, while working on its F&B expansion and positioning in the capital. The 355-room hotel is the first 5-star property managed and owned by City Seasons Hotels and the flagship of the group.

Fabien, a French national who spent the last four years as General Manager of Mövenpick Hotel Doha, will oversee the overall management and set strategic directions for continued growth and development.

Peter Mansourian, General Manager of Grand Millennium Dubai, welcomed Elaraki to the team and said that he is known for effective planning and managing human resources programmes for promoting and implementing human resource values, nurturing the team and staff retention.

He added, “Elaraki’s extensive experience and unique ability to apply proactive HR practices and develop policies to ensure that qualified candidates are selected for relevant posts certainly play an important role.”

opening and re-branding of City Seasons Al Hamra Abu Dhabi, in 2010.

New General Manager of Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai announced the appointment of Fabien Chesnais as new General Manager of the five-star hotel.

Originally starting his career in food and beverage operations, he has worked in Africa, the Middle East and Europe. He spent seven years with Hilton as Food & Beverage Manager of various hotels and resorts in Egypt, before joining Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea in Jordan as Executive Assistant Manager in 2007. He was already Hotel Manager for two years by the time he accepted the General Manager role in Doha.

Fabien holds a Hotel Management Diploma in Finance, Sales and Marketing from France and speaks fluent Arabic, English and French. He was an advanced squash player, is a basketball fan and likes to practice judo.

New F&B Director at Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Kristofer will be responsible for leading both the service & culinary teams that cover 10 venues & banquet with meeting space. Driving the overall strategy, increasing offerings to both existing & new clients and delivering guest experiences beyond expectation, Kristofer will report to Stuart BIRKWOOD, Le Méridien Abu Dhabi General Manager.

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Kristofer joins from the legendary Sheraton Hotel Stockholm, Sweden, where he has had various roles since 2010 and was in charge of the F&B and banquet operations. Kristofer is also a keen sportsman and was previously a cyclist from 1992 to 2001 competing three years mainly in Belgium & France and was also part of the Swedish National Cycling Team from 1998 to 2000.

international experience to his role, whilst having worked for five continuous years in the most prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants in Germany.

Known for his interest in fusion cuisine and creativity in the kitchen, Chef Michael, a Germannational, began his culinary journey in 1989.

New Executive Chef at Kempinski Hotel Ajman Kempinski Hotel Ajman announces the appointment of Michael Kreiling as its new executive chef. Chef Michael brings 26 years of

Throughout the years, he has been living in Tokyo and running a successful four-week German culinary promotion there, and also worked in a fine-dining restaurant on a cruise liner. The chef himself likes to highlight the four-year time period that started in 2005 in Cologne when he was the head chef of a gourmet restaurant and together with the team, he won a lot of awards.

Known for his interest in fusion cuisine and creativity in the kitchen, Chef Michael, a German-

national, began his culinary journey in 1989.

Throughout the years, he has been living in Tokyo and running a successful four-week German culinary promotion there, and also worked in a fine-dining restaurant on a cruise liner. The chef himself likes to highlight the four-year time period that started in 2005 in Cologne when he was the head chef of a gourmet restaurant and together with the team, he won a lot of awards.

For the past two years, Chef Michael held the position of executive chef in the Hyatt Regency in Belgrade, and prior to that, he spent three years in London with a prestigious luxury restaurant that was awarded with 3AA Rosettes when he was the executive sous chef. Chef Michael has also contributed to numerous culinary books, worked in the Relais & Chateaux Hotel where he cooked for many dignitaries and ministers and in 2007 was featured on a German culinary TV show. luxury property through its 3rd consecutive year as leading 5 star hotel in Sudan at the World Travel Awards.

Senior VP, Operations appointed at Aiana Hotels & Resorts In line with its commitment to strengthen presence across key markets in the Middle East region, Aiana Hotels & Resorts, a global hotel management company has announced the appointment of Murlidhar Rao as Senior Vice President, Operations. The new appointment demonstrates Aiana’s commitment to create a globally respected hospitality brand that embodies the best of Indian hospitality by innovating fresh service, design and operating concepts.

A seasoned hospitality professional with three decades of industry experience, Murli will be based at Aiana Hotel & Resorts’ regional headquarter in Qatar Financial Centre, Doha.

In this new leadership role, Murli will be utilizing his extensive global expertise in strategic planning, luxury project development, design, management and operations for bringing to life Aiana’s unique ‘Hospitality 2.0’ promise that is aimed at offering innovative service in a smart, stimulating environment and delivering an intuitive hotel management model that resonates with the next generation of travelers.

New Director of Sales and Marketing at Corinthia Hotel Khartoum Luxury hotel brand Corinthia Hotels announces the appointment of Hamza Shishani as Director of Sales and Marketing for its hotel in Khartoum.

Hamza joins the management team at Corinthia Hotel Khartoum consisting of hand-picked local and expatriate managers that have led the 5-star

Hamza, a Jordanian national has a vast and colorful background with extended experience in real estate, hospitality business and hotel management. He has occupied several senior sales and marketing positions in a number of international hotel chains including Hyatt, Kempinski and the InterContinental Hotels and Resorts. Hamza's extensive past experience has prepared him for his new role at Corinthia Hotel Khartoum, where Hamza will drive strategies to maximize sales and profitability.

Nicholas Borg, General Manager of the hotel commented, “I am very pleased to welcome Hamza Shishani as one of the managers in our Executive Team. His versatile experience and style of leadership will certainly bode well with the qualities of the sales and marketing team to keep developing the market across all segments and keep attracting the right level of customers seeking reliability and world class hospitality in a hotel offering unparalleled facilities and services.’’

New Director of Sales and Marketing at Jumeirah Emirates Towers Jumeirah Emirates Towers has appointed Nadia Beaulieu as the new director of sales and marketing. Nadia, a Scottish national, joins Jumeirah from Marriott International, where she was director of sales and marketing at a number of properties, including the London Park Lane Marriott.

Previously, she led the sales and marketing team at the Fairmont Towers and Heliopolis hotel in Egypt. She has also worked at the Cairo Marriott and Omar Khayyam on the river Nile and the JW Marriott Cairo and Renaissance Cairo Mirage City. In her new role, she will oversee all sales and marketing activities for Jumeirah Emirates Tower.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 135

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

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

No. of Rooms & Suites: 189 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 813 5550

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No. of Rooms & Suites: 328 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Bay Central Dubai Marina, Dubai Tel: +971 4 446 6777

InterContinental Dubai Marina October - November 2015 Curiosity 137

No. of Rooms : 346 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Vienna Street , Ras Al Khaimah Tel: +971 7 2035555

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah 138 Curiosity October - November 2015

No. of Villas: 32 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Near Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi Tel: +9712 5066 222

Zaya Nurai Island October - November 2015 Curiosity 139

Movenpick Hotel Riyadh

No. of Rooms: 438 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: King Fahad Road, opposite the Ministry of Interior, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 11 457 9999

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Danat Residence No. of Rooms & Apartments: 186 Hotel Rating: 4 Star Location: 115 Dhafeer St. between Sultan Bin Zayed The First St. and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St., Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 695 4400

October - November 2015 Curiosity 141

in

focus

Grand Millennium Dubai's Popular Pan-Asian Restaurant Toshi is Back with a Bang!

A select group of A-list diners, VIPs and media were in attendance at the launch party of Toshi, the signature Pan-Asian Restaurant at the Grand Millennium Dubai. A magnet for Asian food lovers, Toshi has undergone a complete revamp with stunning new interiors that have been designed to offer customers a distinctive experience. Here, surrounded by sweeping views of the city's spectacular skyline, guests can indulge in pure gastronomic pleasures with five different cuisines under one roof.

Pictures by: Omar Abdelrahman

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Malta's Independence Day celebrations 51st Independence day of Malta was celebrated On Thursday 21st September 2015 at Burj Al Arab. It was graced by the Hon'ble Minister for Economy of Malta who travelled to UAE for the event. Some 300 guests from diplomatic community, Maltese living in UAE & top business leaders of the region attended the event.

Pictures supplied.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 143

Left Bank at Madinat Jumeirah gets an exciting revamp Head on over to Left Bank as it unveils its fabulous new persona!

Dubai’s ever-popular bar & restaurant has revealed a whole new look, complete with a tantalising new menu and an exquisite new ‘Botanical Garden’ gin bar that houses an exceptional array of boutique gins from the recently launched collection by MMI. Pictures supplied.

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Monsoon Rain Dance Party at Kempinski Hotel Ajman On 4 September, Kempinski Hotel Ajman organised a ninehour, non-stop musical thunder with more than 3,000 people.

It was the biggest Monsoon Rain Dance Party ever held in Ajman in partnership with MAC World Events. The Rain dance entertained its guests with the hottest tunes by RJ/DJ Abhijeet and RJ/DJ Deep from Radio 4, DJ Shadow, DJ Zubair, DJ Scorpio, DJ Manoj, DJ Jacky, DJ Sash, DJ Moody and DJ Alina.

Kritika Rawat, celebrity and radio show host, made a special VIP appearance and warmly welcomed her fans to the stage.

Pictures supplied.

October - November 2015 Curiosity 145

‘Unfolding’ by Linda Hollier Linda Hollier’s opening reception of her iPhoneography art called ‘Unfolding’ took place on September 9, at Origami pre-function area of Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai. More of her works are printed on canvas as well as the extraordinary pieces are printed on wood.

Linda is known for doing successful shows in Italy, Germany and the United Arab Emirates. She has now returned to exhibit her work, for the second time, in Dubai.

Pictures supplied.

146 Curiosity October - November 2015

CROWD FASCINATED BY THE RAVISHING NAYANTARA AT GRT JEWELLERS Paying tribute to the city of gold and commemorating GRT’s successful journey of 50 years, the brand launched Dubai’s first, 1KG gold earrings in their store in Al Karama. In the gracious presence of the stunning actress Nayantara, three sets of the magnificent creations were unveiled for the patrons and public. The evening also acknowledged the winners who took part in the promotions initiated by GRT Jewellers earlier this year.

Pictures by: Omar Abdelrahman

October - November 2015 Curiosity 147

CITYSCAPE 2015 Cityscape, the premier global brand serving the real estate industry through exhibitions, conferences, awards functions, publications, media and other information platforms, was held at Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE from 8 - 10 September 2015. More than 300 exhibitors at Cityscape Global displayed their projects as the three-day event in Dubai.

Pictures by: Omar Abdelrahman

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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 340-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.

'ODS2' Puts Up an Impressive Show at Telecoms World Middle East 2015 Ms Rabab Al Tajir, the first Emirati woman navigator and driver to participate in national and international car rallies, inaugurated ODS2 booth at Telecoms World Middle East 2015. She was accompanied by Mr Gurpreet Jajj, COO of ODS2 and Ms. Amar Judge, Director of Business Development at ODS2.

ODS2 is a leading global technology provider and a Silver Sponsor for the Telecoms World Middle East 2015. The company specializes in building customized business software solutions for a multitude of different industries and has over two decades of expertise in the Telecom space. The exhibition, a flagship industry event, was held at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC in Dubai from 14 to 15 September and was attended by MENA region's biggest telecom companies and operators.

Pictures by: Omar Abdelrahman

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 halal-friendly, 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, Coral Hotels & Resorts, Corp Hotels, EWA Hotel Apartments and ECOS Hotels.

Our Brands

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The Destination where Heritage meets luxury

Armed Forces OfďŹ cers Club & Hotel | Abu Dhabi, U.A.E Tel : +971 2 4415900 | Fax: +971 2 4973341 | www.afoc.mil.ae

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