MONA THE EXPLORER made it to the top Riyadh’s Bakeries
NATURAL MARVELS OF THE WORLD
SAUDI BACKPACKERS FITNESS CENTERS WORLDWIDE n Hover over the co
ISSUE 27 MAY 2015
LOAD DOWNOVER DISC RACT INTE
Contouring Tips and Kits
FROM THE EDITOR
GET LOST! After a month of sandstorms, we welcome the clear skies of summer with open arms. Speaking of summer, it’s that time of the year when you start thinking of where you’ll be spending your holidays. Whether you’re up for a family vacation or a staycation, this issue is your must-have companion. This wanderlust edition was made to drive you out of your comfort zone and get lost! Be inspired by real-life explorers. Join Mona Shahab, a mountaineer on her journey to the top of the world or tag along around Japan with the Saudi backpackers. For a more relaxing but equally memorable trip, get on board the Maharaja express train and discover majestic India. Let the adventurer in you take over and put our recommended natural marvels of the world in your bucket list or discover the Kingdom like never before through our story on the wonders of KSA. The great JRR Tolkien once said, “Not all who wander are lost,” and we agree, in the same way we believe that not all who stay in Riyadh over the summer are bored. Admittedly, we have enough sojourns in these pages to keep you out and about all year long – but also, we’ve packed it with enough of Riyadh to let you enjoy being city bound. A true Riyadhi will tell you that their hometown is like any other – sometimes you want to just pack your bags and leave but the moment you’re elsewhere, you start missing everything about it. At Destination, our job is to tug at your heartstrings for the city right here and now. Riyadh is a giant adventure on its own if you have DR as your local tour guide. Till next time, dear readers… Live curiously, travel deeply and love generously.
Editor-in-Chief Enas Hashani Managing Editor Maria Mahdaly Executive Editor Bassma Al Toaimi Regional Editorial Manager Jou Pabalate Regional Editor Johara Al Mogbel Associate Editor/Photographer Mohammed Deghaishm Editors Sahrish Ali Sohila El Saadany Contributing Writers Faris Al Yahya Rob Seagreen Saud AlDrees Wided Khadraoui Zareen Muzaffar Art Director Reem Al Assal Studio Manager Mohamed Fawzy Graphic Designers Mohammed Rashad Jalila Alharith Photographers Jou Pabalate Mohammed Deghaishm Paul Abraham Reem Al Assal Online Editor Mohammed Mirza Social Media Hurreia Balouch Web Admin/Associate Editor Swalah Eshki Editorial Contribution editor@destinationryd.com Public Relations and Events pr@destinationryd.com Sales & Advertising sales@destinationryd.com Riyadh Office: Mob: +966-509752274 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) Jeddah Office: Tel: +966-12-6060291 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) Mob: +966-563578291 (9 a.m. - 10 p.m.) Distribution distribution@destinationryd.com General Inquiries info@destinationryd.com Visit Us Online www.destinationryd.com
Enas Hashani Editor-in-Chief
*Destination Riyadh Magazine is a Rumman Company Publication.
License No. 7862-8/8/1431 Mob: +966-509752274 P.O. Box 4113 Jeddah 21491
PUBLISHER Destination Magazine UK, Coventry, CV14DH N5719
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F E AT U R E D C O N T E N T
The Saudi Backpackers Tour Japan p. 32
Buy Me From Danube and Sasco Palm for Only SR 10
Mona taking high challenges on p. 24
Destination sat down with TheRemedy and got the scoop on their debut album, Indifferent Hearts.
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Business • The Saudi Women Council • Tourism in Saudi • Jobs for Travel Junkies
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Special Features • Mona Shahab, Female Mountaineer • Saudi Backpackers • Natural Marvels Worldwide
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Healthy Living • Fitness Centers Worldwide • Avoid Getting Sick While Traveling
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Spirituality • Backbiting • What it Means to be Blessed
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Travel Trends
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• Travel News: - Doha’s Banana Island Resort - Bahrain Visa Updates - Al Ahsa’s Touristic Project • Explore With Attar Travel Agency • Maharaja's Express Train
Arts & Entertainment • TheRemedy • Artist’s Corner: Ali Alabbas
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Style & Shopping • Your Summer in Style • Contouring Tips DESTINATIONRYD
DESTINATIONKSA
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Dining Around Town
Explore KSA
• Dining Scoop - Big Smoke Burger - Alreef Al Iraqi • Riyadh’s Bakeries • Eating Halal for Dummies
• Wonders of KSA • Historic Saudi: The Legendary Hatem Al Tai
Luxury starts here.
Rising from the horizon, upon a private island in the heart of The Pearl, a magnificent palace steeped in European heritage and adorned with Arabian grandeur awaits. Embrace the vivacious spirit of our enchanting retreat and feast on masterpieces at our eleven restaurants and lounges. Celebrate momentous occasions in our ballrooms or simply let waves of bliss wash over you on the private beach. Be the first to experience Doha’s new premier destination. For reservations and more information, please contact: +974 4035 5555 | reservations.marsamalaz@kempinski.com | kempinski.com/marsamalaz
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 3
COMMUNITY
If you've got something to say, send it our way! editor@destinationryd.com
New Training Opportunities for Students
The Human Resources Development Fund just launched a summer training program for students looking for a summer job. Fully aware of how difficult the search might be for a high school or college student, their system enables business owners and corporations to connect with these students to provide them with a decent- and paidlearning experience they can then use in the future when it’s time to enter the workforce. All a student has to do is sign up on hrdf.org.sa, look around for a convenient training opportunity, and then register for it! For more information, check out @HRDFnews or try the help hotline 920000713
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DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
HalalTrip: An all Around App for the Avid Muslim Traveler
CrescentRating and Halaltrip, sister companies in the travel industry, launched a new app to make traveling easier on Muslims, combining prayer time and qibla guidance with halal foodspotting and reviewing in a bevy of locations. Our favorite feature happens to be the inflight prayer time calculator, which would make salat on a plane a lot more accurate than when we use our, er, guesstimation technique. Travel on, cohorts!
Thumbs up to Traffic Laws
First Saudi Think-Tank Aims to Provide Useful Analytics to Citizens
Texting While Driving is Officially a High Level Crime Traffic laws have recently changed to include driving while using a handheld phone into a felony that affects public safety in the traffic laws and regulations. The other legal infractions drafted in the same category include driving under an influence, cutting red lights and drifting. Ergo, chronic cell phone users: Be a decent human being and save that text for later. That way, everyone around you is kept safe from your inattention and you don’t incur a fine that starts at SR 500 and the possibility of getting your vehicle impounded! It’s a win-win situation.
IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: Guess what?
The Kingdom’s first specialized, research-oriented entity to focus on governance and public sector innovation has recently been founded. An initiative of PSU, the center aims to provide powerful solutions to improve government performance, as well as producing and publishing original research on different governmental sectors for interested parties to study. Their most useful feature, however, is an interactive map of the Saudi government, from 1925 to the present. Students looking to research ministries? The days of trawling forums, official websites, and old newspaper clippings has passed! Technology has made it easy on you to do that Ministry of Agriculture research paper. You’re quite welcome. Web: innovativegov.org
The Gahwa App
Caffeine-lovers and not-morningpeople, rejoice! A new app to order coffee on the go has just debuted from the clever minds of an innovative group of girls studying in PSU. With options to pre-order and pre-pay for your cup of joe, the app is set to make your life easier. And you get to track your coffee being made, too! The app is launching this month and will include a number of known coffee shops around town.
@DESTINATIONRYD DESTINATIONRYD.COM 5
EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS
EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
1.
1. NUYU Gym opens Third Fitness Center at AlWaha
The first female fitness boutique franchise in Riyadh opened another center. Their latest AlWaha center is the biggest one yet with a 1,600 square meter workout space. The center offers favorite group exercise classes, 2. a climbing wall, RAW 2. Marriot Holds an Eventful Night studio and more. The Marriot hosted two separate events on March 31. The first one, the #Courtyard1000, celebrated the opening of the 1000th Courtyard by Marriot Hotels in Washington. The second event was a Thank You dinner party to the top business clients of the Marriott Hotels in Riyadh that was also complimented by the support of the hotel brand’s media partners, and is an annual offering conducted by the Marriott Hotels in Riyadh to its top business partners.
3. Narcissus Spa Opening
3. 6
DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Narcissus unveiled its new trademark spa with facilities for both women and men, as well as a gym and signature ‘spa rooms’ where guests can enjoy being pampered in the relative privacy of their own suite. Narcissus plans to introduce a new style of hotel luxury in the city.
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4. Arts and Heritage Forum
In honor of the Saudi Preservation and Heritage Society Chairwoman, Princess Adela bint Abdullah, a four day forum was held in Riyadh to coincide with the World Heritage Day, April 18. It included various activities such as theatrical performances, sessions and workshops for children.
4.
5. Resense Spa Unveiled at Kempinski Burj Rafal Reknowned Saudi Kempinski Burj Rafal launched the first hotel spa with an all female open-air pool. Inspired by Europe, the spa aims to add class and luxury to the typical relaxation experience. The opening included a wonderful juice bar for added health benefit.
5.
6. World Health Day
A healthy food symposium was held on April 7 at Al Habib Hospital, in collaboration with Boecker, the Diet Center, Almarai, Cleanse and Glow, Sierra Nutrition, the Ministry of Health and the General Department of Nutrition. The aim of the event was to highlight the importance of safe nutrition and the effect food has on general health, with #safefood as the highlight term.
6. 7.
7. Riyadh Travel Fair 2015
April 14 saw the opening of Riyadh Travel Fair at the Four Seasons. And with over 200 travel-related participants from over 50 countries, the fair was heavily attended, as Riyadhis plotted on what country to flood next. There also was significant presence by local and governmental tourism sectors, in accordance with the country's new aim to promote local tourism.
Don't miss out! To stay updated on all the latest events, follow us @destinationryd
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DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
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EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS
GLOWORK: A STEP AHEAD A step ahead in the right direction: Riyadh’s biggest women’s career expo. By Johara Al Mogbel and Jou Pabalate
The Prince Sultan Ballroom at the Faisaliah Hotel surged with empowering energy on April 1 – 3. Some were sashaying through the aisles of potential employers while others took on a more assertive stance and were approaching booths left and right. Either way, the message was clear for us — these Saudi women want jobs and this year, they come bearing a go-getter attitude, determined to leave the career fair employed or at least, have a bunch of interviews to go to after.
Panel of speakers.
of successful women and international experts providing their insights, stories and advice through the different panel discussions.
One of the dilemmas faced by job-seeking women is how to fill the gap in work experience. A lot of Saudi women feel disheartened to pursue a career of their choice right after graduation, with Prince Faisal bin Bandar companies in And with over 90 organizations the past demanding for ample – both local and multinational professional experience. This – offering over 3,000 job career fair encouraged women opportunities in attendance, by sharing success stories of they were bound to get at their ilk who forged on despite least a foot in the job industry. the challenges and have earned And to gently guide those their seat in the corporate who need help reaching their world. Furthermore, another goals, applicants were given direction that A Step Ahead the chance to attend pep offered was towards taking a talks to get their enthusiasm more entrepreneurial path. up to speed, with a variety 10 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
For most of the female job seekers in the Kingdom, it was really just a matter of bridging the gap between them and employers, and A Step Ahead slicked the way ahead for both the attendees and corporations to do so, in a light hearted approach. Moreover, the fair also celebrated International Women’s Day, with Femi9 distributing scarves in support and a special booth with information on women who have made their mark on the world. The event was under the patronage of Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Riyadh Province. Said Baaghil and Shahad Al Tamami
EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS
INTRODUCING CHANGE IN THE CITY
The team’s passion to live a healthy and active lifestyle and more importantly give back to the community encouraged Mashael (IT Guru), Dena (Creative Guru), Noura (Media Guru), Mona (Fitness Fanatic) and Hala (Law and Order) to bring what they have to the table, and that’s how The Empowerment Hub (TEH) was born. In March 2014, TEH brought Change to Riyadh. A funfilled outdoor day where some
12 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
of the country’s health and fitness experts came together to support the awareness of women’s health in Saudi Arabia, while giving back to the community. Working under the umbrella of Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City, the all women event was held at AlReem International Circuit where Saudi Arabia’s first ever Color Run took place, along with several outdoor fitness classes organized by some of
the best female gyms in the country. Whether you wanted to challenge yourself at CrossFit, boot camp or a 60 minute spinning class, or lounge and relax at the spa and shop at the food and beverage and retail booths, Change promised you never a dull moment. By joining hands with supportive sponsors, partners, booth renters and volunteers, Change 2014 was able to help raise funds for six non-profit organizations in the Kingdom and that’s when the team decided Change will be an annual event in Riyadh. Later that year, Zahra Breast Cancer Association came knocking on TEH’s door with a cause that hit too close to home for many. October 2014 was around the corner and Zahra wanted to venture out to the Eastern Province to raise breast cancer awareness. TEH succeeded in becoming an official entity prior to the event, and organized 3alba7ar, its second fitness event in
COURTESY PHOTO
It all started with a simple idea by five young and curious Saudi female professionals from different backgrounds, who were thirsty to work ‘Together for a Fitter KSA.’
a Productive Family, which helps unprivileged families own homes by offering zerointerest loans.
2014. 3alba7ar was held at The Sunset Beach Resort and once again with joint efforts, TEH was able to raise funds for Zahra. Thirsty for more, and knowing that 70 percent of the population in Saudi is below 30 years of age, and with the skyrocketing numbers of people diagnosed with diabetes in the Kingdom, TEH decided to expand and target the country’s youth community. Change Kids was held April 3, where boys and girls enjoyed a full day of fitness classes and activities which included a 1-kilometer Junior Color Run, spinning, ballet, karate, yoga, ziplining and more at AlReem International Circuit. Arts and crafts classes were offered where children ages 2-4 created touching letters for our Saudi troops.
The day was also filled with a variety of the best fitness classes such as anti-gravity fitness, piloxing, CrossFit, bodyART, Konga, Jagua, UGI, karate and more. Change donated a certain percentage to Bunyan Charitable Foundation in support of one of their programs, To Build
We owe it our sponsors and partners who believed in us frvom day one, our booth renters who set the bar high and never failed to impress, to our “Movers and Shakers” aka “The Future” for we could not have done it without our volunteers, and our phenomenal participants who showered us all with smiles and contagious energy. We thank each and every one of you who made Change a success! — TEH Team
Change 2015, held on April 4, was honored to host the first Electric Run in the GCC. Hundreds of women participated in a 5-kilometer race in bright neon lights and accessories.
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EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
1
4
MAY
MAY
MAY 4 – 6 MAY 1 – 2
GAMERS DAY A fun-filled two day event that brings together gamers, families and the community through video games. Location: AlFaisal University Facebook: alfaisalSDC
SAUDI WOMEN An exhibition that enhances the role of women in building Saudi society. Location: Four Seasons Hotel Tel: 92000615 Web: saudiwomens.com Email: info@saudiwomens.com @saudiwomenshow
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MAY
MAY 11 – 13 MAY 10 – 13
HR LEADERS SAUDI 2015 Listen to the experts talk about their experiences in HR. Location: Burj Rafal Kempinski Web: hrleaderssaudi.com Email: register-mea@informa.com
SAUDI POWER An annual trade exhibition for power, solar, water and lighting sectors. Time: 4 – 10 p.m. Location: Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center Web: saudi-energy.com
26 31 MAY
MAY
VISIT
www.destinationryd.com for more events and happenings around town.
To add your event here, contact us at pr@destinationryd.com DR magazine is not responsible for any event cancelation.
14 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
MAY 26 – 28
DIAA 2015 The Second Saudi international exhibition for people with disability requirements. Location: Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center Tel: +966-11-4661670 Web: diaaexhibition.com Email: info@diaaexhibition.com
MAY 31 – JUNE 2
SAUDI HEALTH FINANCE AND INVESTMENT FORUM Discussing how technology can improve healthcare in ways never imagined before.
5
6
MAY
10
MAY
MAY
MAY 6 – 12 MAY 5 – 6
THIRD ANNUAL DIGITAL GRIDS AND SMART CITIES SUMMIT A summit on city development and revamping of digital grids. Location: Burj Rafal Kempinski Hotel Web: energy.fleminggulf.com Email: sobia.jameel@fleminggulf.com
12
MAY
SAUDI DESIGN WEEK Encouraging participants to explore the notion of identity through design and the role that culture plays in design as well as the design process. Tel: +966-11-273444 Web: saudidesignweek.com Email: info@saudidesignweek.com saudidesignweek
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MAY
MAY 10 – 11
FIFTH ANNUAL KINGDOM E-GOVERNMENT SUMMIT A summit on building awareness and accelerating the integration of e-government and what it offers for businesses and citizens. Web: kingdomegovsummit.com Email: naveenkn@naseba.com
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MAY
MAY 18 – 20
MAY 12 – 13
SECOND ANNUAL KINGDOM CYBER SECURITY FORUM A forum on improving the state of cyber security on both a domestic and international level. Web: security.fleminggulf.com Email: sonika.mendjoge@fleminggulf.com
JUNE 2015
NEXT MONTH
7
JUNE
SAUDI HEALTH EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions and Riyadh Exhibition Company collaborate to launch the largest international healthcare event in Saudi Arabia. Location: Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center Web: saudihealthexhibition.com Email: info@saudihealthexhibition.com
Location: Four Seasons Web: somow.com.sa Email: info@somow.com.sa
THEMAR RAMADAN A seasonal shopping event that aims to provide a fashionable cultural experience. Location: Maison BoM Galleries, Nujoud Mall Email: info@maisonbo-m.com Instagram: @maisonbom
21 27 JUNE
JUNE 7 – 10
SOMOW SHOPPING FESTIVAL Shopping Festival specializing in the beauty and elegance of Arab Women.
MAY 21 – JULY 31
JUNE
JUNE 27 – 28 JUNE 21 – 23
FAWANEES EXHIBITION Bringing together designers from Saudi and the GCC to show their collections. Location: Al Khozama Hall Email: Fawanees2015@gmail.com
SIXTH LADIES WORLD FESTIVAL An exhibition helping to create investment opportunities for women. Location: Riyadh Festivities Palace Web: zowarevents.com Email: info@zowarevents.com
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BUSINESS
SAUDI WOMEN COUNCIL
HELPING BUSINESS GROW The Saudi Women Council facilitates the venture into the Kingdom’s business world and aspires to solve pressing work issues. By Sohila El Saadany
Saudi Women Council, headed by AlAnoud Al Ramah, is under the umbrella of Prince Sultan’s Fund for Women’s Development, which is part of Prince Mohammad bin Fahd’s projects. In order to achieve the council’s goals, Prince Mohammad bin Fahd provided it with a million riyals while Saoud bin Fahd did the same with half a million riyals.
The council enjoyed an eventful two-day visit to Jeddah. On their first day they convened for a meeting at Maria Mahdaly's office, Rumman Co. Mahdaly is the president of the Saudi Women Council's Jeddah region. The council members then headed to The Courtyard for lunch and visited Flat 6 Lab after that. They then visited Abazeer, Ahazeej and some home based businesses. The next day, they proceeded to Al Rawdah Showroom where they met the founders of Lomar. They also met with Sulafa Batarji, CEO of Doroob Al Baraka.
STAFF PHOTO/MOHAMED FAWZY
Saudi Women Council was established in January and aims at finding solutions to business issues in the Kingdom. It also assists in supplying young entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to develop their businesses. The
council encourages small and medium business endeavors and supports women who work from home as well.
16 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Louai and Mona, Founders of Lomar
During the visit to Flat 6 Lab.
The council women at A&A boutique.
Sulafa Batarji, CEO of Doroob Al Baraka
During the council’s visit to Jeddah, Al Rammah shared her insight about their goals. She said, “The council consists of 50 members from the main regions of the Kingdom such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, the Eastern Province and a lot of other locations. Our main goal is to achieve what’s best for young businesswomen and men. We try to resolve the obstacles they face and present our solutions to the people in charge.” She continued, “Among our objectives is activating a higher body specialized in small to medium projects. We discussed that with the minister of commerce as we are in need of an institution that is under his leadership and is solely for those projects. Hopefully, we will hear good news about that soon.”
Al Rammah explained that the council has four major programs:
Hulool (Solutions):
Wesal (Connections):
Nemow (Growth):
Rawabet (Bonds):
It is mainly concerned with meeting the specialized entities to discuss obstacles female entrepreneurs face and come up with solutions for them. It aims at improving the status of small to medium projects.
This program works at connecting female entrepreneurs from all over the Kingdom together. It also sets up meetings between entrepreneurs and institutions that would help them in their fields.
Nemow is responsible for nurturing talents and enriching interpersonal skills. It assembles workshops and arranges meetings with guests so participants can benefit as much as possible from different experiences.
The program arranges partnerships with specialized institutions, universities and other establishments that will open pathways for cooperation and improve business relationships.
Even though the council has only recently been inaugurated, it has already started with its plan to help those working from home. Al Rammah assured, “We have presented a study about business from home to the minister of commerce. We have founded
this study after examining different mechanisms from various countries in the Gulf and the West. We are striving to implement the structures that would facilitate work opportunities from home here in the Kingdom.”
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 17
BUSINESS
The Tourism Industry of Saudi Arabia
By Mohammed Mirza
Saudi Arabia is blessed with a combination of natural beauty, opulent history and rich heritage. Recognizing these, Saudi Arabia is focused on developing tourism as part of its overall economic diversification strategy. As per the UNWTO, over 1.138 billion tourists traveled abroad in 2014 and almost every region showed an increase in the number of tourists received; the Middle East saw a 4 percent increase in the number of international tourists.
In 2014, Saudi Arabia was the 16th most visited country in the world, with around 17.5 million visitors, most of whom were religious pilgrims.
18 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Role of the SCTA The Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) is state-run organization founded in 2000. Its activities are devoted for developing the tourism sector of Saudi Arabia with a particular focus on encouraging and supporting domestic tourism. The SCTA is also involved with the preservation of antiquities and archaeological sites to increase their contribution in the cultural and economical development.
PHOTO/ TOP LEFT: PAUL ABRAHAM
Lonely Planet’s travel guide to Saudi Arabia starts with the sentence “Saudi Arabia could be one of the great travel destinations of the Middle East.”
SOURCE PHOTO /TRADITIONAL OUTFIT: UNDERTHEABAYA.COM
STAFF PHOTO MOSQUE/ MOHAMMED MIRZA • TOP RIGHT: YASMIN OUF
Domestic Tourism In order to encourage domestic tourism in the country, the SCTA has been supporting a number of festivals in different parts of the country that include Riyadh, Najran, Buraydah, Jizan, Qurayat, Al Jouf, Taif and Tabouk, as well as organizing Souq Okaz. The festivals across the Kingdom offer recreational, cultural, social and heritage activities. The last year also saw Saudi Arabian Airlines participating in the domestic festival scene for the first time, targeting tourists by introducing a number of holiday packages for different parts of the Kingdom. In light of the growing domestic tourism industry, president of the SCTA, Prince Sultan bin Salman, said “the number of hotels has almost doubled in various regions in the past years.”
International Tourists
Employment Opportunities
With most international tourists to the country being religious pilgrims, different organizations from the public and private sectors have organized exhibitions and cultural programs for Umrah pilgrims to promote tourism to other parts of the country as well.
The tourism sector is expected to create over 400,000 employment opportunities to in the next five years. An official from the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) said in a press statement, “allout efforts are being made to train Saudis for these jobs.”
An increasing number of religious pilgrims from various countries have been taken on Jeddah tours where they go to the Balad district, Jeddah Corniche and other places around the city with their tour operators.
There are currently more than 1.1 million people employed in this lucrative sector and the number of Saudis employed in tourism and hospitality is expected to exceed the 1.7 million mark by 2020, as per the president of the SCTA.
In addition to that, a new tour program called Umrah Plus was developed by the SCTA through which pilgrims can visit the Kingdom’s tourist resorts.
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Economy
Ancient glyphs found at Ukhdood near Najran.
Tourism is a major contributor to the Saudi economy and is expected to account for as much as 6.1 percent of overall GDP by 2017. Tourism industry observers believe that Saudi travel and tourism stood at SR 170 billion in 2014
SR 70 billion SR 100 billion came from from inbound domestic tourism tourism
Future plans
Currently in the Kingdom there are 11.6$ billion worth of tourism projects underway, which well help further increase domestic and religious tourism. A good chunk of the tourism projects are hotel investments, with around 77 percent of them being based in Makkah and Madinah.
It is believed that an estimated 1.5 million people a year would come to the country on these tourist visas, providing the national economy with about SR 35 billion over five years. This was based on an estimate of each tourist spending about SR 5,000 in the country.
Gallery in Jeddah
Equestrian Club in Riyadh
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STAFF PHOTO/ HORSES: MOHAMMED DEGHAISHM • GALLERYT: YASMIN OUF • UKHDOOD: MOHAMMED MIRZA
There are plans to issue tourist visas in the near future, while in the meantime the focus of the SCTA as per a statement published in Um Al Qura, will be on “completing the infrastructure and providing proper services for local tourism needs only.”
Corner
2,865 SR
BUSINESS
BEST JOBS FOR TRAVEL JUNKIES Who wouldn’t want to be paid to see the world? We’ve gathered the top jobs that make this possible. By Jou Pabalate
TRAVEL WRITERS AND BLOGGERS
Getting paid to travel, dine and chill. These are but the perks. Pair that with being able to pursue your passion and just write. DISCLAIMER Not everyone gets paid for writing about their travels; in fact, full-time travel writing jobs are sparse and usually come after funding your own trips and developing your portfolio.
PILOT
Oh those uniforms alone are enough to convince us! How many people get to spend their 9-5 straddling on different time zones? REALITY CHECK Becoming a pilot takes time – a lot of flying time. Commercial pilots have the most hoops to get through. Luckily, there are two in the Kingdom for those wanting to get a commercial license. SAFA and the Saudi Airlines Aviation Academy.
22 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
CRUISE LINE EMPLOYEE From trainers, entertainers, translators and even on-board HR personnel, luxury cruise ships are always looking for on-board people. You’ll get to travel widely and have port stops, which gives you the time to really take in a place. Being in the front line, you’ll be sure to meet fascinating people from all over. REALITY CHECK Be prepared for long legs of seafaring.
CONSULTANTS
CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS AND ENGINEERS
Consultants or industry analysts are mysterious mythical business beings. No one knows exactly what they do. Consultants collect miles and their business trips are usually billed to the client or paid for by their company.
This is most applicable for engineers who specialize in infrastructures, urban development and road projects. The pay is apparently really good and you get to move on to different projects one after the other every couple of years.
SOURCE PHOTO/ ABOUT.ME • SHOOTFORTHESTARWARS.TUMBLR.COM • BULLFAX.COM • CRUISEMATES.COM • GLOBEDIPLOMATS.COM • THROWTHESHRIMP.COM • TRENDING.NL
REALITY CHECK Your trips can end up being a hotel-client-hotel routine. If you need to be further disillusioned, watch George Clooney’s movie “Up in the Air.”
PERKS The great thing about being asked to relocate is they usually provide you with free housing and everything else. Just ask the engineers working on the Riyadh metro.
How to get the job:
Be amazingly good/specialized iting, in the corporate domain – aud t, men age man al tion organiza ds strategy and all those big wor that get thrown around the meeting room all too often.
BE A WWOOFER
WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, an organization that matches volunteers with farms across the globe in need of the extra hand. In exchange, your WWOOF hosts provide you with free food and lodging. It’s a great way to travel deeply while being on a budget. Be prepared though, there’s nothing touristy about being a WWOOFer, it’s tough laborious work but promises to be a rewarding experience.
How to get the
job:
ion ss the examinat You have to pa ign re Fo of ry ist in through the M u’re ever country yo Affairs (or which to be an ct pe ex t n’ Do hailing from). ur country X on yo Ambassador to s ke ta lly t; it usua first assignmen ranks. e th h ug ro th g time and goin be y it; you have to And need we sa e time. th l al ct rre co politically
DIPLOMATS
One of the surefire ways to be a global citizen is to get into foreign service. You get to represent your country, learn the ins and outs of cultures and carry a cool passport and immunity, which we hope you’d never have to use. With your assignments lasting five years at a time, there’s a good chance you’ll be uprooting your family every couple of years.
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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S
Every journey is an encyclopedia on its own.
MONA THE EXPLORER
HOW ONE INTREPID SAUDI MADE IT TO THE TOP
24 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
By Jou Pabalate
Who is Mona Shahab? A child clinical psychologist by profession and an adventurer by birth. I was born the year of the monkey to parents whose love for road trips rubbed off on me a little. When I’m not on a mountain, I’m probably planning and training for my next mountain…yes, I’m a mountain junkie at heart. Also, a tennis addict, fitness fanatic and book lover who not only enjoys running, but also finds it rather therapeutic.
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A self-professed fitness addict, adventurer and social advocate, Mona Shahab tells us why being in Saudi Arabia is no excuse to test your limits and be part of the change you want to see in the world.
What got you into mountaineering? It all started with an e-mail in 2006 from a good friend of mine telling me that him and his wife were attempting Mount Kilimanjaro early 2007. I fired back an e-mail saying, “I’m in!” Little did I know that my working visa in the US would not be ready and therefore, it would be impossible for me to join. To cheer myself up, I made a pact to myself that I would climb Kilimanjaro for a cause one day. Fast forward to 2010, my friends and I are sitting in India by the sea as our feet played “Catch me if you can” with the waves and out of the blue I ask, “Kilimanjaro early 2012, who’s in?” Six mountains and counting since!
What training does climbing usually involve? Discipline is key. I worked hard on my stamina and endurance. I continued running and spinning. I increased my interval training and Bikram Yoga practice. The treadmill became my best friend, more like the treadmill and I exchanged vows. We were committed to one another till post climb do us part. I spent three to four hours, four to five times a week on the treadmill on the highest incline, in my trekking boots and carrying a backpack filled with a few liters of water and books. It was the perfect excuse to catch up on all the documentaries, movies and shows I wanted to watch. For that was the only way I
survived on the treadmill for so long. I must say though, it definitely paid off.
What is your most memorable climb thus far? A very tough question that I struggle to answer. Every journey is an encyclopedia on its own. I owe so much to the mountains for they continue to teach me lessons no textbook can. I owe it to the guides, porters and Sherpa whose permanent heartfelt smiles keep me going throughout any trip. I’ve crossed paths with some of the most inspirational people who breathe motivation, determination and passion. I made a pact to myself that each mountaintop would be dedicated to a cause. Aconcagua4Marwa is special on so many levels. I decided to climb it in memory of my friend and mountain sister Marwa Fayed. Right after trekking to Everest Base Camp together, we decided to climb Aconcagua the following year (2013). Marwa left us for a better place three days after she gave birth to beautiful Teela. Attempting a peak in memory of an inspirational friend is on a category of it’s own so imagine having to turn around because the guide tells you “I know you can make it up, but I don’t think you can make it back down.” Those were probably the harshest words I heard in a long time. Going against my gut feeling, something I rarely do, I turned around at 6,700 meters, just 260 meters away from summit. DESTINATIONRYD.COM 25
From being the executive manager for intercultural initiatives at Al Waleed Philanthropies to being part of the Empowerment Hub and climbing for certain causes; it seems you’re an all around social advocate. What’s your motivation? In simple words…I owe it to my country, my parents and myself. Nothing comes in between a person and spreading smiles and sprinkling some “kindness” confetti here and there. As Gandhi so eloquently said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” As a child, when people asked me, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I’d shrug my shoulders and say, “I don’t know but I want to save the world.” (I was obsessed with MJ’s song, Heal the World, so you see where this is coming
26 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
from). My world came tumbling down when an older lady told me “dear you need to be a little more realistic.” After endless “whys” to my poor parents, I decided to do whatever is in my hands to make a difference however big or small, and that, I owe to my parents.
What made you and your co-founders decide to put together the Empowerment Hub?
A commitment, passion and need are, in my humble opinion, our drive. We owe it to our country, community and people. We’ve been called the “Kingdom of Humanity” for a reason and we hope we own up to that. Thinking caps on, we found ourselves combining our passion for fitness, health and the outdoors with giving back to the community. That’s how the Empowerment Hub was
born. We strive to reach the mass and work hand in hand with governmental entities on female physical education in the public system. We have many ideas cooking and we look forward to sharing them with you all soon. Keep an eye (and ear) out for The Empowerment Hub!
Each and every one of us has a peak, a goal and a passion. Step out of your comfort zone and shoot for the stars. You may face obstacles and challenges, we all do. However, rest assured that you will have people cheering you on and supporting you all the way…I sure will.
What advice would you give other Saudis who want to be as adventurous as you but don’t feel empowered to do so?
It’s what we make out of the opportunities that come our way. Toss the excuses out the window please! Many of us say, “I live in Saudi, there is not much I can do.” Scratch that out for you and I both know “When there’s a will, there’s a way.” My mountaineering addiction and The Empowerment Hub chapter did not kick off when I was living in Boston for nine years. Both chapters in addition to a few others began when I returned to Saudi. @monakshahab monakshahab The Empowerment Hub Web: theempowermenthub.com empowermenthub @theempowermenthub
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 27
S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S
What started out with two students building a prototype car with a leaf blower engine turned into an inspiring story that teaches us what it truly means to be a champion of innovation. By Jou Pabalate
In 1939, two scientists at the Shell Oil Company laboratory struck a friendly wager over who can create a car that could travel the farthest on the same amount of fuel. From a simple bet came a noble innovative contest with a long-standing legacy, spanning multiple continents. Its original 28 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
challenge remaining intact, the Shell Eco-Marathon is a unique competition that challenges students around the world to design, build and drive the most energy-efficient car.
“Our first prototype looked terrible,” Rashid laughs, “but it works and our university said, ‘if they can do something like this on their own, imagine what they can do with our support.’”
The Shell Eco-Marathon is every engineering student’s dream. Hence, when Rashid Shahid and Abdulmohsen Al Babtain heard of it, they immediately presented the idea of participating through their alma mater, Al Faisal University. To make a strong case for the endeavor, they first went and created their very first car prototype, using nothing but recycled parts in a garage a friend offered for them to use.
The Al Faisal team was put together after the university signed a mutual agreement with Shell Corporation, who gave the students $10,000 to fund their project. The university built a workshop for the Al Faisal team and they proceeded to create their prototype named Faith.
It took an entire year for the students to create their ecofriendly model. Oddly enough, despite having the latest
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NOT ALL CHAMPS FINISH FIRST
Range Rovers and customized Bugattis cruising our streets, the city is scarce when it comes to spare parts. It took the Al Faisal team months to gather all the materials they needed. Finally, the month of the competition came. All those months of grueling hard work boiled down to the five days they spent in Manila, Philippines. Team Al Faisal arrived in the capital of the Philippines all hyped, pumped up to get their car ready for the races. Then the first disaster in their series of unfortunate events strikes; Faith wasn’t there yet. In fact, it didn’t arrive until the third day of the competition. “It was like being doused with a bucket of ice cold water sort of panic,” Shahid describes, “but we didn’t go all the way there to give up.” Team Al Faisal made use of their time prepping up and helping competing teams with their cars.
“By the time the car arrived, we were on full-on critical mode. The race actually begins on the fourth day but before that each car needs to go through different tests and a trial run on the course.”
It would be nice to say that once the car was in their pit stop, all went well for the Al Faisal team but unfortunately, it didn’t. Their engine blew out twice. They had to call a local vendor at some point that had to drive three hours into the city to give them a spare engine, which they ended up giving to another team in need. The Al Faisal Team managed to pass the car inspections and were a few seconds away from the starting line when a loud horn blew, which was replaced in the young men’s ear with a silent ringing as the world stopped for a few seconds and they stood still in shock. TWENTY SECONDS. THEY FAILED TO REACH THE STARTING LINE BY 20 SECONDS AND AS SUCH, DIDN’T GET TO RACE. DESTINATIONRYD.COM 29
Due to the good will they had shown towards the other teams and the perseverance others have witnessed from this first time Saudi team no one expected; people shook their hands nonetheless for putting up a good fight. Apparently, the Eco-Shell Marathon organizers felt the same way too and were quite moved by the values they witnessed from the Al Faisal Team. So moved perhaps that they gave the team an unexpected happy ending to their trip. True to their car’s name, Faith, the team kept on believing and going even when the odds were stacked against them.
They showed great resilience and managed to share what they have with other teams amidst their own crises. Hence, when they won the only offtrack award, Perseverance and Spirit of the Event, everyone knew it was well deserved and all the other participants celebrated their victory.
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Saudi Backpackers
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By Johara Al Mogbel
It’s the stuff of Oscar movies: four young Saudi men packing up their things and taking off on a trip that saw them walking 350 kilometers from one major city in Japan to another, with everything they needed on their backs. Backpacking, being a rarity with Saudis, the gumption of these trailblazers to forego traditional travel is a feat on its own.
Is this your first experience
backpacking?
No, it’s our third experience. We’ve had another experience prior to this one, where we trekked from the north of Japan to the south, passing by every province in the country (47 prefectures in all).
Why did you do the walk? What first brought about the idea?
We did the walk from Tokyo to Nagoya to test our endurance and increase our experiences in
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We sat down with two innovative gentlemen, Abdulrahman Baadheem and Yusuf Jamal, to get the details of their incredible journeys.
backpacking. We were walking aimlessly in the streets one day and then a friend of ours, Salman, on a whim said: “How about we walk from Tokyo to Nagoya during the holidays?” There was no reason we couldn’t, so we did.
What kind of equipment did you pack? In retrospect, is there anything you would have left or added?
Flashlight, knife, journal, pen, Canon 5d Mark II, two Go-Pros, an instant camera, chargers for all the electronics, ropes, first aid kit, an Indian stick for yoga, ukulele, a small ball, walk aids, kettle, thermos/ water bottle, speakers, cooking utensils and books to read. We wouldn’t add anything, but there are a couple of things we should’ve left out, like the ukulele, the books and the utensils (there wasn’t any time to cook).
Between the two of you, you’ve also been to the Czech Republic and Estonia on volunteer programs. Would you recommend other people do it as well?
The thing about volunteering is that the volunteer gets a lot out of it as well. For us, embracing nature and going back to the basics opened a new juncture in our lives. We shepherded animals, helped with farming, took care of a forest, learned how to be independent and lived without electricity. The experience carried on
Saudi Backpackers at Nagoya finish line.
to our daily lives, where we started implementing the things we learned from those trips. We’d be doing a great injustice if we merely advise other people to go on a trip themselves. It’s an experience everyone should have, if they aren’t living that life already.
What kind of research did you have to do before your trip around Japan?
To be frank, we didn’t plan anything, aside from the main goal of visiting all 47 prefectures in two months. Each day was planned in the night that preceded it, before we went to sleep. The spontaneity of the trip was one DESTINATIONRYD.COM 33
of the most beautiful aspects of it, because we ended up living each moment as it happened.
Nagoya, Tokyo
What are you wcurrently doing?
We’re expat students in Japan. Yusuf is in his third year of college studying MIS while Abdulrahman is a second year community and social psychology student.
Was it hard to adapt to Japanese culture?
The vast difference between the environment we grew up in and the Japanese environment and the cultural subtleties were a shock to us at first and we faced a number of difficulties trying to adapt, but as soon as we made an effort to understand the mentality and culture, everything became easier.
What's your favorite part about Japan?
The peace and calmness of the country, and the ready availability of all the resources you’d need to fulfill your ideas.
What's the most dangerous thing you had to face during your trip? Accidentally taking the wrong road in our trip from Tokyo to Nagoya took us past an animal safari we had to walk by. It was in the middle of the night and it was raining. The sounds of the animals, the spots of blood and the sound of gunpowder made us push on without resting until we cleared the place.
What was it like reaching the end of your 350-kilometer trip to Nagoya? It was as if we’d experienced 34 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
an entire human’s life in that trip. We lived through the weak person, the strong person, the sad one and the happy one, the brave challenger and the remorseful human filled with regrets. It was incredible knowing the limit of our endurance and finding out that we were much more capable of dealing with hardships than we thought.
Were your families supportive of your travels? Our families were worried about the experience and concerned for our safety, but at the same time they were encouraging and active with the updates we gave them.
What would be your advice to other Saudis who'd like to have the same experience? Volunteer trip
To set yourself free and just do it. Backpacking has a special sort of enjoyment to it that you’ll start to feel as early as the packing stage.
Do you have any future plans? Other countries you’d like to visit?
We’ve starting working on a new project together called Futari Jin. Futari Jin revolves around the lifestyle we’re living right now including health, fitness, religion, our journeys, art, our social interactions and the experiences we have. We have a trip planned for the summer. We’re not sure where we’re going yet, but we have high expectations for what we’ll get out of it. @futari.jin
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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S
Our world is full of wonders and no matter how much of it you’ve seen, it continues to present something new, unlike anything you could’ve ever cerebrated. Our list is surely going to cater to all your nature cravings.
By Mohammed Mirza
36 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
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RAINBOW MOUNTAINS, CHINA
This technicolor wonder seems like it was made of sweeping pastel brush strokes on nature’s canvas. Colors of blue, red, white, brown, yellow and orange on curvaceous cliffs and unusual rock formations form this unique landform. These polychrome peaks have been formed from different layers of sandstone compressed together over 24 million years. Located in Gansu Province, this distinct landform known as the Danxia formation is found only in China.
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NATURAL WONDERS YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF
JEITA GROTTO, LEBANON
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DARVAZA GAS CRATER, TURKMENISTAN
Deep in the Karakum desert an open pit of fire 75 meters at its widest point lights up the night sky. The burning spectacle was actually a result of drilling blunder back in 1971. A drilling rig was made when gas was found on the site, but the rig eventually collapsed and large amounts of methane gas began to be released. Considering the poisonous gas as a threat to nearby villages, scientists decided that the most efficient way to solve the problem would be to burn off the poisonous gases - it was expected that all of the gas in the crater would be burnt off within days. But it never stopped and to this very day the gas continues to burn. GRAN SALAR DE UYUNI, BOLIVIA – A SEA OF SALT
The Gran Salar de Uyuni features far-flung plains of shimmering white salt. The landscape is entirely oblate bar for a few small islands, which only accentuates its hypnagogic beauty. Located in the southwest of Bolivia near the crest of the Andes, this salt flat spans an area of 10,582 square kilometers making it the worlds largest. The salt flat was formed as
Located 20 kilometers north of metropolitan Beirut, this 9,000-meter long compound of crystallized grotto boasts countless stalactites and stalagmites. The grotto also provides an escape route for an underground river on which today boats filled with tourists flow. These marvelous set of caves houses one of the biggest stalactites in the world measuring 8.2 meters and accommodates a huge hall totaling 108 meters from the ceiling till the water level.
a result of transformations between several prehistoric lakes. The crust of the flat serves as a source of salt and covers a pool of brine exceptionally rich in lithium, which according to some estimates accounts for close to 70 percent of the world’s lithium reserves. On top of that, within the vast plains of the salt flat, a hotel made entirely from salt accommodates tourists.
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Spread over an area of 300 square kilometers, the stone forest is a prodigious landscape of limestone formations over 270 million years old. The Stone Forest displays unprecedented karst features and landscapes seen nowhere else in the world. Over the millennia seismic activity and water and wind erosion have carved the present-day limestone formations. Since almost all the typical pinnacle karst types can be identified in the Stone Forest, the park is acclaimed internationally the "Museum of Stone Forest Karst." EYE OF THE SAHARA, MAURITANIA
Sometimes, the most stunning of structures can be found in the vast plains of the empty desert. The stupefying Eye of the Sahara is no exception. The bare rock peeks of the geological wonder spring out from a sea of sand, forming a beautiful landmark in the barren Sahara. Initially interpreted as an asteroid impact because of its high degree of circularity, it is now argued to be a highly symmetrical and deeply eroded geologic dome laid bare by erosion. This ecological dome measures a massive 40 kilometers in diameter and can be seen from space.
CAVE OF CRYSTALS, MEXICO
Discovered rather recently in the year 2000 close to the country’s famous Naica mine, this limestone cavern crammed with crystals of outlandish sizes became an international phenomenon. For millennia these crystals were submerged in water and only when the chamber had been pumped free of its waters for mining operations were these glittering beams found. A thousand feet below the earth’s surface within a hot and humid chamber these pillars of light thrive. This place is surely a geology enthusiast’s dream.
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STONE FOREST, CHINA
WAITOMO GLOWWORM CAVES, NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand boasts an abundance of limestone caves but the Glowworm caves are in a league of their own. In this set of caves a natural starry wonderland lights up the ceiling. The light is given off by Glowworms - tiny bioluminescent creatures that are exclusively found in New Zealand. A boat ride in the Waitomo River through this miniature galaxy of tiny living lights is mesmerizing.
HILLIER LAKE, AUSTRALIA
Situated on Middle Island in the Recherche Archipelago, this preternatural pink lake continues to flummox onlookers. Giving the image of a large bowl of sharbat (drinks), the picturesque lake is surrounded by a rim of sand and dense forest of paper bark and eucalyptus trees. Separated from the southern ocean by a slender strip of shore, it makes the lake look even more exceptional. The color of the lake is permanent and does not change when the water is taken in a container. And to this day, the source of the pink color has not been definitively proven.
VALLEY OF FLOWERS, INDIA
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The contrast of colorful flowers on nature’s canvas is like an impressionist painting. At a height of over 3,000 meters above sea level, the valley is famous for its kaleidoscopic meadows of endemic alpine flowers and miscellany of flora. The equable landscape of the Valley of Flowers complements the craggy mountainous region of Nanda Devi National Park to the east. Together, they encompass a transition zone between the lower mountain ranges and the Great Himalaya. DESTINATIONRYD.COM 39
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THER E M E D Y TheRemedy is on a mission to raise the bar in the local music industry and teach everyone a thing or two about DIY success regardless of when and where you start.
James Paul
STAFF PHOTO/ MOHAMMED AL DEGHAISHIM
Ahmed Hakeem
40 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
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By Jou Pabalate
At first glance, Ahmed Hakeem, Ehab Medhat and James Paul look like your typical accomplished band of gentlemen. Coming from different cultural backgrounds and influences, the three found a common ground in their love for music and their desire to share it with the world. Hakeem, who is the lead vocals and songwriter of the group, was in a musical hiatus when he came across Medhat, drummer qua producer and Paul the bassist in a local function.
Ehab Medhat
They decided to do a jam session and it revealed a strong chemistry that catapulted them to independently produce their debut album, Indifferent Hearts.
Grosse at The Mix Room to have the album mixed in Los Angeles, and mastered by the great Scott Hull at Masterdisk in New York City.
The road towards creating a self-produced title is tedious at best for emerging artists these days. Imagine if you’re a band who have nine to five jobs and are happily married.
And truly, when Indifferent Hearts was released in February, it was a clear indication that the TheRemedy has set the bar high for other artists in the country. Instead of going the mainstream route of signing up with a record label, the band chose to independently produce their album.
Indifferent Hearts plays like a mix tape. It leaves an “I can’t quite put a finger on it” feeling when you listen to it for the first time. All 11 tracks can fall under different genres but are still able to come together to bring the album’s title to light. “In life, literature or even movies, you always get to see this battle between good and evil. So as it is, you always have this notion of people who have good hearts and bad ones. However, we think there’s a third kind, which is far more dangerous, indifferent hearts—those who don’t make their intentions known, those who are apathetic and live emotionless. This album reveals this or the victimization that comes out of it.”
It’s no secret that the local music industry in Riyadh is yet to be fully developed. Hence, TheRemedy achieved an amazing feat for recording their album exclusively in Saudi Arabia. One would not think that the songs were crafted in a small studio the group fondly call the Happy Ending Machine. With sheer spunk, the band was able to tap world-renowned desk gurus Paul Pavao and Ben
When asked where they plan to go from here on out, the band confidently replied, “We’re planning to release six more albums, all of them sounding different from each other. Our aim is to go international in promoting the album. We’ve even contacted Ellen and the late night shows!” Bands like TheRemedy deserve a pat on the back for pushing the limits and attempting to go beyond their immediate territory.
Their message is simple yet profound: “We want to show that together, above all things, we can do something great if we focus on what’s common.” Web: the-remedy.me TheRemedy @theremedytweet
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A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T
ARTIST’S CORNER MEET THIS MONTH’S EMERGING ARTIST It’s the golden age for the art scene in Saudi Arabia so we’ve taken it upon ourselves to uncover some of the hidden gems and present them to the world! Or, well, Riyadh to begin with. By Johara Al Mogbel
NAME: Ali Alabbas I do art to make people smile, to make myself smile sometimes. It’s just very self relieving.
Is your work the result of sudden inspiration or longterm planning? How do you think up your concepts?
Some of my work is almost long-term planning like the pieces I do with coffee or the Nerds candy. The other pieces I do are results of everyday life situations, music, conversation with friends, cartoons that I like or simply how I feel at the time I’m drawing.
What is, in your opinion, the best thing you’ve ever created and why?
I don’t necessarily have a favorite piece, but I would say that I love the moments when I first started to reveal my work to the public through social media. I was getting so much positive reviews that kept me going to this day. I thank Allah everyday for my talent. 42 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
AGE: 25 MEDIUM:
Sharpies, Nerd candy, everything awesome. What do you think of the art scene in Riyadh? Anything you’d like to see changed? I think there is so much more art in Saudi Arabia than people actually realize. But I see art more recognized in Riyadh than anywhere in the country, which is good. What I’d like to change if I could? Probably older people’s perception of art here. I feel like art is a little bit underrated in our country.
Who are your role models? My role model is my father and the good I see coming from other people.
What does being creative mean to you?
Creativity is not a word we can look up in the dictionary and we’d understand what it really means. Being creative can be
PHOTO / REEM RIFAIE
Why do you do art?
as simple as a kid looking up to the sky telling you "Look at that cloud! It looks like a smiley face." To me that thought is creative. Being creative could mean: to create something that would make a person think or to spark somebody’s mind to do something positive.
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Favorite piece of artwork by someone else.
I don’t have a favorite art piece but when I was little I saw the Mona Lisa painting and it was one of my favorite experiences in my life. I also love Abdullah Jaber’s comics and sketches. @i_3liii
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A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T
MARWAH AL MUGAIT'S SIGH EXHIBITION
44 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
By Wided Khadraoui
Marwah Al Mugait’s short film, “Oudah” is the crux of the entire exhibition, Sigh. “Oudah” commands a viewer’s attention without relying on normal narrative devices. The video embodies the exhibition’s complex and multilayered exploration of reconciliation and healing. The installation piece showcases sequences of an individual floating underwater; disconnection from the blurry footage forces the audience to examine the human body’s aesthetic dimensions.
The video, projected in a water tank set up in the empty and dimly lit gallery space provides a vaguely ominous context for the entire exhibition’s tone. Raha Moharrak, the first Saudi woman to scale Mount Everest, is featured in the video. The womb-like sound track in the video installation helps fortify the exhibition’s almost foreboding tone. Moharrak is a metaphor for healing in the film; out of focus but still unavoidable. The atmospheric video appeals to the concept of the exhibition of exploration and healing.
STAFF PHOTO / MOHAMMED DEGHAISHM
This space is a modest attempt to help further cultivate, develop and engage with the art scene in Riyadh. It will be my regular compilation of the thoughtful, complex, beautiful and infuriating. This comes from a genuine spirit of inquiry.
What’s Art Critiquing?
It is in essence an act of translation from the visual to the linguistic. While it is true that artistic taste is relative, there are certain characteristics of artwork that can be assessed as means of measuring the artist's success at conveying the intended message. This is the fine line this article will attempt to navigate. Critiquing art is finicky and subjective, but I leave you with this: if something speaks to you, makes sense to you in any way, ignore everything anyone else says and love it unabashedly without any reservation.
“Embrace it... embrace it all” captivates as its title suggests.
“I Surrender” sentimentality invoked amidst anonymity.
the wall. The prints highlight the element of obscurity in the video and further the concept of anonymity. “It will be ok, it will be ok;” with the human figure lifelessly floating in the water, the edges of the figure are murky, evoking an ephemeral sense of sentimentality. Despite the technical complexity of the water tank piece, the mirror artwork, Secrets to God, in its overall simplicity is arguably the most dramatic piece. It takes over an entire gallery wall, measuring more than 300 centimeters across and 250 centimeters up. The mirror piece, whose embodiment of self-reflection is both blasé as well as confronting, is stupefying in its enormous scale.
The art pieces are organized sparsely, taking advantage of the gallery’s white space to force the viewer’s full concentration. Also dispersed throughout the gallery is inclusion of the artist’s own poetic texts, which also act as exhibited objects. It is Al Mugait’s straddling Al Mugait’s work is reminiscent of not only two worlds but of the Japanese artist, Tadasu also two different modes of Takamine, whose artwork communicating: verbal and Water Level and Organ Sound visual. The poetic texts are is currently on display in the a superfluous diversion but Yokohama Museum of Art. the exposed vulnerability is Takamine’s work is notoriously an appreciated element to the strong with controversial overall exhibition. Experimental statements. Al Mugait’s muted video installation utilizes the same and avant-garde art in the medium in a more subtle way, to Middle East is still relatively new and Sigh is a contemporary evocatively play with fragility, finding its potency in its starkness. manifestation of the art form. Stills of captured motions from “Oudah” make up another component of the exhibition. Eight acrylic prints of stills taken from the video are mounted on
ART.PIZZA.RESPECT
For any recommendations on up and coming artists, exhibitions, coupons for pizza or anything else you think I should pay attention to, send me a note. Email: wided@destinationryd.com DESTINATIONRYD.COM 45
A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T
ALBUMS
TO LOOK OUT FOR! by Big Hass of Re-Volt
Lost Notes - Moh Flow
BBC Radio 6 Music’s Alternative Jukebox BBC Radio 6 Music is an interactive digital radio station for people who are passionate about music. Its awardwinning presenters are constantly bringing a wealth of fresh tracks to the airwaves from both new and established artists. This album is perfect to discover unforgettable tracks.
GAMES
BISA - Blitz the Ambassador, Nneka & TY
Yesterday - Sandhill
Ministry of Sound The Annual 2015
Now That’s What I Call Music 90
Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag Become Edward Kenway, a charismatic yet brutal pirate captain trained by Assassins. Edward can effortlessly switch between the Hidden Blade of the Assassin’s Order and all new weaponry including four flintlock pistols and dual cutlass swords. Available on PS4, SR 199
46 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015 ADVERTORIAL
Lego: Marvel Super Heroes
The Crew Limited Edition
Available on XBox ONE, SR 279
Available on PS4, SR 279
MOVIES
NEW ON DVD
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
Interstellar
If you’ve ever looked across a crowded hotel lobby and could have sworn that a woman wearing sunglasses was Jessica Alba, don’t be so quick to doubt your eyesight. 1. Start in the parking lot. Look out forblack cars, SUVs, long buses or other unusual vehicles. 2. Watch out for men in black standing in the halls.
SIGNS SOMEONE FAMOUS IS AT YOUR HOTEL
3. Keep your ears open. Think the valet is talking kind of funny? He or she may be speaking in code. 4. Don’t expect hotel staff to answer your questions.
BOOKS Dive the Red Sea By Guy Buckles SR 75
This definitive guide features detailed coverage of more than 125 dive and snorkel sites along the length of the Red Sea.
501 Must Visit Islands By Emma Beare SR 64
If you like taking tropical vacation trips this is a good guide to show you many places you may didn’t know existed. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Thailand
SR 114
This book is your indispensable guide to this beautiful part of the world. The fully updated guide includes 3-D cutaway illustrations, floor plans, and reconstructions of the must-see sights, plus street-by-street maps of major cities and towns. This new, expanded edition also is packed with photographs and illustrations leading you straight to the best attractions Thailand has to offer.
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DESTINATIONRYD.COM 47
STYLE & SHOPPING
Spyeonurd
r e m m Su Style in
By Iman Linjawi
Chic Beach
Roberto Cavalli, SR 2,800
Melissa Odabash, SR 1,298
Chloe, SR 15,000
Hammamas, SR 577
Aquazurra, SR 1,732
Miu Miu, SR 990
48 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Maison Michel, SR 1,413 Lavett and Chin, SR 93
Mark Cross, SR 6,880
Etro, SR 1,298
Kenneth Jay Lane, SR 217
Sophie Hulme, SR 3,679
Marysia, SR 1,012
Tory Burch, SR 1,562
Christian Louboutin, SR 3,778
Dolly (beach towel fabric Abaya) Aurelie Biderman, SR 2,381
@dollybrand
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 49
Summer Calling
Junya Watanabe SR 1,123
Orlebar Brown SR 1,244
Steven Alan SR 391
Dolce and Gabbana SR 1,092
Valentino SR 1,987
Raf Simons SR 489
Illesteva SR 660 Paul Smith SR 440
Saint Laurent SR 3,030
50 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Missoni SR 728
Missoni SR 1,124
Armando Cabral SR 856
Oliver Spencer SR 905
Master and Dynamic SR 1,955
Aesop SR 196
Arm Candies Fendi SR 4,700 Anya Hindmarch SR 6,950
Cecilia MA SR 1,000
M2Malletier SR 5,900 Cecilia MA SR 980
Pierre Hardy SR 4,400
Charlotte Olympia SR 5,000
Chloe SR 4,600
Iman Linjawi Law graduate from London but fashion addict at heart. Travels the world and gets inspiration from street markets to runways. Studied design and styling with London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martin. Email: iman.linjawi@gmail.com
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 51
Augmented Reality enabled here STYLE & SHOPPING
CONTOURING TIPS
You don't need to splurge on contouring kits in order to get "the look." Chances are you already have all you need, so here's how to get started.
By Zareen Muzaffar
Prep Your Skin
Never forget to moisturize. On certain humid days you can replace the moisturizer with a primer and create the perfect canvas to work on. Primer helps ease out any lines on the face and serves as a buffer between your skin and makeup application.
52 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
DOWNLOAD • DISCOVER • INTERACT
INFORMATION SOURCE/ BEAUTY BLENDER SPONGE: DIARYOFALIFELOVER.COM • BLOGDAPAULINHA.COM.BR
Apply the contouring powder or cream along the edges of your forehead, under the cheekbones and edges of the nose line.
Concealer Application APPLY LOOSE POWDERS FLAWLESS FINISH
Contouring Basics and Tools
The basics you need for contouring include a concealer, foundation (if needed), highlighter, illuminating cream and good quality brushes (I recommend Sigma or Real Technique brushes). And then there’s the Beauty Blender sponge which is great for blending. But some of us are comfortable and proficient using fingertips so go ahead by all means.
Available at Whites, Wujooh, Maison BoM
COVER DARK CIRCLES
BLEND CONCEALER
Foundation
People choose different foundations based on their needs (full coverage, sheer or medium coverage). During the day it’s best to opt for a sheer natural look, especially in hot and humid weather conditions. • Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Ultra-Light Skin Perfecting Makeup SPF 15 • Dior’s Diorskin Nude Skin-Glowing Makeup SPF 15 (Available at Sephora)
Contouring Kit
Contouring kits will contain shades a tone or two darker than your foundation. You will be applying the contouring powder or cream along the edges of your forehead, under the cheekbones and edges of the nose line. Although there are many contouring kits available, Makeup Forever’s sculpting kit and WOW by Wujooh’s contouring palette will definitely give you the desired effect. MAC has also got a variety of contouring creams available. If you want to opt for a powder kit, Marc Jacobs has one called the Light Filtering Contour Powder Kit.
Don’t think concealer is just for under eyes. While preparing your skin for contouring, make sure you apply the concealer liberally. After using it under the eyes, dab and pat it around the nose, any blemishes on the skin, between the eyebrows and a little on the eyelids to neutralize the complexion. • Dior Skin Flash Radiance Booster Pen • Makeup Forever’s HD Invisible Cover Concealer (Available at Sephora)
Illuminating Powder or Cream
This is the magic ingredient that provides the glowing effect so make sure you apply it in all the places you want to accentuate. For a youthful effect, apply the cream liner (in off-white, silver or golden) to the inner corner of the eyes, cupids brow (just above the lips), bridge of the nose and chin. Blend well for the right effect and glowing complexion. For the highlighter, you can’t go wrong with Benefit’s High Beam that will give the dewy natural afterglow and Makeup Forever’s Uplight Luminizer Gel that contains 70 percent water for a fresh lightweight texture. Apply on the apple of your cheeks for a radiant glow. • Makeup Forever and Benefit products (Available at Sephora)
• Makeup Forever and Marc Jacob’s (Available at Sephora)
• Mac Store
(Riyadh Gallery, Kingdom Mall, Sahara Mall and Al Qasr)
Hover HerOeUR
NT FOR A CO TOUR DOWNLOAD • DISCOVER • INTERACT
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 53
STYLE & SHOPPING
brought to you by
Tea Buttons Set SR 34.99
Keep your tea bag from falling into your hot cup of tea. These silicone tea buttons stick on to your mug with a strong suction cup and allow you to wrap your tea bag string around it. Set of 6 red buttons.
Grendizer 9-Inch Vinyl Figure SR 370
Created by legendary anime producer Go Nagai, the Grendizer featured on the classic 1970’s anime series UFO Robo Grendizer. This Grendizer features multiple articulation points and can assume a variety of poses. This is one super-robot that no fan of the genre will want to miss.
Polaprints Magnetic Frames SR 89.99
With the Polaprints, you will be able to give any of your photos a trendy style. These magnetic photo frames follow the latest trends. Jazz up your fridge decor while showing off your favorite snapshots with a set of fun, brightly magnetic frames.
54 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015 ADVERTORIAL
Keynote Key Hanger SR 89.99
Whether you’re a rocker or a bass-hunter, adjust the dials to your favorite tune and make sure you’ll never get those keys mixed up again. Splendid. Six magnetic, moveable dials stick to the easy-hang backplate.
Keychain & Bottle Opener SR 27.99
Now this is one crazy opening act, keychain doubling as bottle opener, shaped as a vinyl turntable deck. Includes small metal chain for ease of use. Silicone body with metal opener. Assorted red and yellow.
ADVERTORIAL
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 55
DINING AROUND TOWN
THE CANAD IAN POUTINE, which is fries w ith gravy and cheese cu rds, was good at the to p. But it gets really boring an d extremely soggy midway through the plate.
DINING SCOOP By Saud Aldrees
Big Smoke Burger
Is there truth to the hype?
I went and tried Big Or is it just another Smoke Burger even though burger joint? I went there with extremely low expectations based on my family and friends who tried it before and compared it to frozen beef patties. They offer 6-ounce burgers and a double up, as well as 3-ounce burgers. All their burgers come in either chicken or beef and also have a veggie option. They have 13 burgers, which makes choosing the correct one for your own taste a bit of an adventure. We settled on the Crazy Beef Burger, the Spicy Beef Burger and the Canadian Poutine as a side.
MCDONALD’S LAUNCHES ‘YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW’ McDonald’s has a new interactive platform that enables customers to ask McDonald’s anything they would like to know, from their brand to their food.
56 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Service: 4/5
mayonnaise with the They were on time (I had onions. In my humble opinion, they should’ve a timer on to check). gone with either the caramelized onions or the Presentation: 2.5/5 The burgers looked as if mayonnaise, not both. they were ashamed of them. They were covered The Crazy Burger turned in big lettuce and sauce. out to be spicier than the Spicy Burger with a lot of sauce dripping on Price: 3/5 the plate. 3-ounce: SR 19 - 29 6-ounce: SR 29 - 45 Both Burgers had a Sides: SR 10 - 32 problem with the buns; Drinks: SR 7 - 15 they were too small. The Milkshakes: SR 19 beef patty was good and light for both burgers. Taste: 3/5 The Spicy Burger had hints of spiciness but that’s about the end of it. We liked the caramelized onions, but didn’t really dig the “spicy” chipotle
Overall: 3.1/5
Comparing them to others within the same range, Big Smoke Burger is an average burger joint.
Tucked Away Alreef Al Iraqi
By Faris Al Yahya
I ate so many dry kababs in my lifetime in Riyadh that this hidden place with their special handmade kabab rejuvenated my love for the dish. The way they prepare it is so simple: All they add is salt, onions and red bell peppers mixed in with meat fat. That’s it. They rely on the quality of the lamb meat and the way they cook it.
K OF THE M
We decided to try Clair Desserts this month. We tried the 2-kilo and a half tray of mixed desserts (around 48 pieces). The ordering system was confusing but delivery was prompt. The tray looked presentable,
and the decoration of the tray. Also, you’re was professional. responsible for delivering We liked the the tray back. Oreo cheesecake, the basboosa, Note: The business the chocolate cheesecake owner’s house is in and the halqoum. The Rabwah. date cake, strawberry cheesecake and cinnamon balls in cream cheese were very mundane.
R E A L IT Y
TH
INSTAG
M
PIC
ON
RA
Served in a plate with grilled onions, tomatoes and parsley with raw onions and pickled goods, it’s accompanied with fresh saj bread.
I personally like to eat this kabab in particular on its own with my hand. It tastes much better. They also have good megalgal. The place has barely lit shabby floor seating and an interesting sign that says “May Allah not let any bachelor leave this place without marriage in his near future.” Um... Thanks but I just came here to eat.
Bottom line? It’s too pricey for the quality presented. And we hated that they made you pay for the rental
ex p e c t at
io n s
Price: SR 390 (SR 300 desserts + SR 20 rental fee + SR 70 insurance) Delivery: SR 50 Rating Overall: 2.5 Instagram: @clair10000
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 57
58 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
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DINING AROUND TOWN
BREAD TALK
AROUND THE WORLD IN RIYADH’S BAKERIES Who needs a hot air balloon or a train to go everywhere? Just eat your way through the globe!
60 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
By Johara Al Mogbel
We’re kind of lucky, us Riyadhians. We get the whole world delivered to our city. Best Lebanese food? We have it. Buckets of Italian food? Yes. Indian? Yes. Chinese? Yes. Indonesian? Japanese? Korean? American? Armenian? Filipino? Brazilian? Yes, yes, and yes. As it is, you can stay in Riyadh and still eat your way around the globe.
If there’s one thing Hong Kongians know how to do, it’s making carbs. There’s nothing better than to sit at a ‘dairy company’ in Tsim Sha Tsui and eat a breakfast comprised of fried toast soaked in condensed milk, trust us. Luckily, Bread Talk opened up recently to fulfill our cottonsoft cheesecake and honey milk bun cravings. And they even have spicy floss buns! (Although we recommend you stay away from those). Overall, Bread Talk is a most excellent substitute for anyone suffering from a case of HK carb withdrawal. Plus, they have rainbow toast. Here’s to more options opening up in the city! Because we really need condensed milk French toast, okay? Don’t judge. Location: Othman bin Affan Rd., Alta’awun Neighborhood Extra Recommendations: None. It’s a work-in-process… We’re looking at you, Toastbox.
PIDE
The Turkish carb scene is definitely one to follow. Add in the Turkish propensity for fresh cheese and you have winning combination. And newcomer Pide is pretty much capitalizing on all of that. With a fresh outlook in terms of design and packaging, it’s pretty much become the new it place for Turkish pastries. Try the cheese pide for standard comfort, or -if you’re feeling a little wildthe four seasons pide. Location: Khaleejiah Plaza, Izdihar Dist., off Othman bin Afan St., Exit 7
BLUE RIBBON BAKESHOP
With a whole street in Al Suleimaniah dedicated to Filipino food, we’re kind of not surprised there’s a bakery as well. It’s cheap, very cheap. It’s basically your go to place for cheap Filipino bread. And since Filipinos have a very colorful background, it’s like a crossbreed of Spanish and Chinese delicacies. Try the Spanish bread, which is basically dough wrapped in sugar with a coconut filling. The ensaymada is also awesome. They also have egg pies! And Chinese empanadas. Location: Al Suleimaniah, near National Guard Military Hospital
LULU HYPERMARKET
Oh, boy. The mother load of them all. We don’t even know where to start. Lulu’s isn’t just the representative of one country; it’s somehow managed to be a representative of them all. Except maybe Vietnam. And Russia. And Bolivia. And possibly a few other countries. Bottom line is, Lulu’s bakery is a melting pot of cultures, and the best place to get most types of South Asian foods in a pinch. Hankering for some gulab jamun? Lulu’s. Punjabi samosa? Lulu’s. Paneer paratha? Lulu’s. Cherry Pies? Lul- no, we’re just pulling your leg, don’t go for the cherry pies. Stick to the gulab jamun. Gulab jamun is glorious. Location: Prince Faisal bin Turki St., Almurabaa Neighborhood
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 61
FRENCH CORNER
Look. We get that it’s almost impossible to capture the exact brilliance of Paris’s boulangeries, okay? But it hasn’t stopped the city from trying and we have a dozen French bread makers in town. Our favorite for both flavor and price has got to be French Corner. Practically vintage, French Corner has been around for a while and offers most patisserie favorites, from baguettes to éclairs. We particularly love the éclairs, there isn’t a hint of French delicateness in them but you’ll be hard pressed to find a more satisfying chocolate cream filling for three riyals anywhere in the country. Location: Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St., Sulaimaniyah Extra Recommendations: French Bakery (general atmosphere), Fauchon (la-di-dah éclairs), Paul (galette du fromage).
CHIMNEY CAKE
Budapest is a city of art, culture, history… and kürtőskalács. What are kürtőskalács, you ask us? Marvelous little pieces of awesome sauce that induce happiness and prosperity and- er, they’re a traditional Hungarian pastry made from sweet yeast dough that is wrapped around a baking spit and then baked over charcoal. The original is only covered by sugar, but other toppings can be added, like cinnamon or chocolate. And, Riyadhis, they’re now in the city! Seems like the guys behind Chimney Cake were as equally impressed as we were, as they’ve opened a shop dedicated to this amazing dessert. A little Hungary never hurt anyone, eh? Location: Exit 15 on Sa’ad Bin Abdulrahman Alawal St.
62 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
ALKA’AKI BAKERY
Alka’aki isn’t just a bakery. It’s practically an institution. One of the oldest Lebanese eateries in town, it’s the first place to come to mind if you ask anyone about Beirut-inspired food. Almost everything is recommended, but the cheese pies and the regular samooli especially so. The bakery has been updating their menu now and offer trending sweets like mini kitkat or bounty cakes, but as we always say with traditional food: Stick to the basics. You’ll never go wrong with what the bakery has been making for years. Location: Sultan bin Abdulaziz St., towards the old airport Extra Recommendations: Wooden Bakery’s spinach fatayer are marvelous.
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DINING AROUND TOWN
Don’t automatically assume all baked goods are Halal. A lot of nonhalal ingredients find their way into those foods. Read more at halaltrip.com
EATING HALAL FOR DUMMIES Your guide to eating halal on your trips abroad.
For some odd reason, there are a number of misconceptions regarding what Muslims can or cannot eat while traveling, and a lot of the confusion happens over very clear-cut matters. Mostly it happens because in Saudi Arabia, we never really have to worry at all, so our
64 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
knowledge of the subject gets kind of rusty. But food is a pretty large part of enjoying a trip abroad, and all it takes is a few special precautions to merrily eat your way through any city you visit! Here’s a simple guide to, well, guide you on your way to a sin-free meal.
SOURCE PHOTO / FRANCESCOTONELLI.COM
By Johara Al Mogbel
1- Know What Is or Isn’t Halal For most countries where the religion is predominately Christian or Jewish, then you’re given a free ticket, because Islam permits Muslims to eat from the meat of ‘Ahl Alkitab’, or the People of the Book. Ostensibly, it’s because their religions ask them to slaughter livestock in a manner similar to ours. Should you be in a restaurant that advertises the fact that it only uses meat killed by the inhumane method of stunning them, then all bets are off the table and we’d recommend passing on the steak.
2- Do Your Research Beforehand
If you find yourself in a country where religions follow idolism, or one that is expressedly atheist, this is where you’ll need to be very careful. This includes countries like India, Thailand, or China, for example. Coupled with the fact that a lot of Far East countries make a habit of using lard or pig fat while cooking, we recommend that you make a list of halal, seafood, or vegetarian restaurants before you embark on your trip, and schedule your tours around them. It will save you a mountain of trouble and this way, you won’t miss out on authentic food you’d love to try but can’t. And with the recent surge in vegetarianism, you’re guaranteed at least one very good meal.
Tip: Most monasteries that are considered tourist havens have some type of vegetarian eatery nearby.
Our favorite blog: halalgirlabouttown.com
3- Follow Muslim Food Bloggers
Nothing’s better than getting firsthand experience. Most Muslims living abroad adhere to an only-halal direction, and with the new wave of both young bloggers who love to experiment and the modern restaurants that are now opening to cater to them, the halal food scene in a lot of major cities is getting a much needed facelift. Not to mention, these bloggers are usually knowledgeable about which hole in the walls have Muslim owners who, as a personal preference, choose to serve halal food but don’t advertise it.
4- Cook Yourself
Yes, we know vacations are normally seen as a break from chores, but every once in a while, you might find yourself wanting to eat a very hearty meal without worrying about
its contents. Especially when it comes to long-term travels. The added plus to this is that you’ll save tons of money, on both accommodations as apartments can be usually found for cheaper, and food since cooking your own meal might end up cheaper than restaurants.
Any other tips or tricks we might have missed? Drop us a line at @destinationryd on twitter and Instagram and let us know!
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 65
FITNESS CENTERS To visit on your travels Summer is always a great time of year to get away but it usually means that you lose ground on your fitness regime and come back with excess baggage. By Rob Seagreen, Fitness Director at Arena MMA and Fitness Center
That doesn’t have to be the case. Here’s a list of health clubs and gyms worldwide to help you stay in shape while you’re away.
CHOBE HEALTH CLUB AND SPA UGANDA Chobe Safari Lodge is located in Murchison Falls National Park, North-Western Uganda,
overlooking the Victoria Nile. The Chobe Health Club and Spa promises to be the ideal world of relaxation and revitalization. Web: chobelodgeuganda.com
CROSSFIT 5TH AVE NEW YORK CITY, USA
SportSetter ad Downlo and p p this a tive get ac d! abroa 66 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Reebok CrossFit 5th Ave is a world-class CrossFit box located between Bryant Park and the Empire State Building. They offer a broad training program suitable for any level of fitness. Web: reebokcrossfit5thave.com
SOURCE PHOTO/ SPORTSETTERBLOG.COM • UPFITNESS.COM.ES • JESLIAO.COM • TIGERMUAYTHAI.COM • FIRSTWORLDTOURS.COM • CHOBELODGEUGANDA.COM • STAPLEGAYLIFESTYLE.COM • ESCAPEFITNESS.COM
H E A LT H Y L I V I N G
TIGER MUAY THAI AND MMA TRAINING CAMP PHUKET, THAILAND World-renowned Tiger Muay Thai and MMA training camp is the globe’s biggest and most recognized Muay Thai training facility, professional fighters and fitness enthusiasts from across the world travel here to develop their skills and to change their lives. Web: tigermuaythai.com
ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE MARBELLA, SPAIN Ultimate Performance (UP) is a 20,000 square feet exercise paradise! The 5,000 square foot first floor interior gym is dedicated to resistance training in the manner that you’d expect of anything UP related. That’s in addition to a roof terrace with a 360 degree panoramic view of Marbella’s famous La Concha mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Web: upfitness.com.es
VIRGIN ACTIVE BARBICAN LONDON, UK With many to choose from in London, I have to highlight the Barbican. It boasts a large gym floor complimented by a 160-meter running track around it with a 20-meter swimming pool at the center of it all. Web: virginactive.co.uk/clubs/barbican
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 67
FIVE WAYS TO AVOID GETTING SICK WHILE TRAVELING Nothing can make holidays worse than getting sick while traveling. By Mohammed Mirza
2 Wash Your Hands
Frequently
This doesn’t only have to be limited to after eating or using the restroom. You may have to wash your hands more than you deem necessary. Keep a hand sanitizer in your backpack as well. 68 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
SOURCE PHOTO/ TODAYSPARENT.COM • FEDERALEMPLOYEEDISCOUNTS.COM • WASHINGTON.EDU • TORTUGABACKPACKS.COM
H E A LT H Y L I V I N G
1 Bottled Water
If you are traveling abroad especially to developing or underdeveloped countries, remember to drink only bottled water. This can drastically reduce your chances of catching traveler's diarrhea.
3 Carry Vitamin
Supplements With You
During travel your diet significantly alters and many times you fail to meet the required intake of vitamins. So it’s always a good idea to bring vitamin supplements to help keep your immunity strong.
4 Don’t Forget to Exercise
At times during a holiday you will find yourself with loads of spare time. Use it wisely and try to fit in physical exercise by any means possible during your travel.
5 Don’t Cram Your Itinerary
At the end of the day you travel not only to discover and experience new things or places, you also use it to de-stress. And by cramming your itinerary with things to do or see, you miss out on the chance to unwind and relax. You may even end up feeling fatigued by the end of your travel. DESTINATIONRYD.COM 69
SPIRITUALITY
WATCH WHAT YOU EAT! The sin of backbiting. By Sobia Javed
O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful. (Qur’an, chapter 49, verse 12)
The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said in a hadith: “It is to say something about your brother that he would dislike.” Someone asked him, "But what if what I say is true?” The Prophet (pbuh) said, “If what you say about him is true, you are backbiting him, but if it is not true then you have slandered him.” (Source: Saheeh Muslim)
Backbiting is now so common that it is sometimes the only topic of conversation in a gathering. It is now used as an avenue for people to vent anger, frustrations and jealousy. It may seem like harmless banter, but in 70 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
reality, backbiting has far reaching consequences. It causes disquiet, enmity and distrust amongst family members and if someone finds out they are being talked about behind their back, it’s very hard to forgive and forget. Try to imagine you are the one being talked about behind your back, with others pointing out your faults and laughing at you. Not so harmless now huh?
One of the most common excuses that backbiters will use is “Well, I’m not saying anything that I wouldn’t say to his/her face,” but that’s a futile argument, as it just highlights the backbiter’s feebleness for having to backbite in the first place. The Prophet (pbuh) also said: “The best of the Muslims is he from whose hand and tongue the Muslims are safe.” (Source: Saheeh Muslim)
SOURCE PHOTO/ WOMENWORKING.COM
So, what exactly is backbiting?
No doubt it will be difficult at first, especially if you haven’t spoken up against it before. It’s likely that you will also become a target for backbiting, but this should simply highlight your real friendships from those that are built solely on malicious gossip. Backbiting is a big sin and it’s something everyone must avoid. But how can this be done when it’s so prevalent in our daily lives? It’s no good saying you dislike backbiting but then taking no action to prevent it. When you feel a conversation is steering into dangerous territory, change the subject, or if you can’t, then just be honest and say that you don’t feel comfortable talking about this person when they’re not there. You may get strange
looks at first, but if you stick to your resolve, you will find that people will respect you and admire your strength in standing up for your beliefs. Even better, if you can defend the person being gossiped about then know that this is an honorable thing and is not looked upon lightly. The Prophet (pbuh) said: "Whoever defends the honor of his brother in his absence, will be entitled to Allah's protection from the Fire."
(Related by Ahmad)
Another thing to note is that when someone constantly comes to you backbiting and complaining about others, you can almost guarantee that they are probably backbiting and complaining about you to someone else! Try to focus on occupying your mind with good thoughts, and if nothing else, then remember that silence is golden. The Prophet (pbuh) also said: “He who believes in Allah and the Last Day must either speak good or remain silent.” (Source: Saheeh Muslim)
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SPIRITUALITY
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE BLESSED? What comes to mind when you hear the word blessings? Many of us get an image of material possessions or material physical aspects or worldly goods. By Dina Mohamed Basiony
Blessings are a Test Contemplating on Qur’anic verses and Prophetic ahadith clearly establishes one fact about blessings: they are a test. Being healthy, wealthy or popular is not necessarily the ultimate success. Losing that, also, is not the ultimate failure. Blessings may be a means that absorb people in their worldly life, divert them away from the remembrance of Allah or make them greedy in pursuit of more. People may also live in constant worry over the loss of that which they have been given.
Similarly, true affliction is also not necessarily a disease or loss of wealth and status, because these same conditions may be the spark that directs people to seek Allah more passionately and constantly to strengthen their bond, connection and reliance on Him. Allah says in Surat Al Fajr: “And as for man, when his Lord tries him and [thus] is generous to him and favors him, he says, “My Lord has honored me.” But when He tries him and restricts his provision, he says, “My Lord has humiliated me.” No!”
Just like an amethyst rock that does not look appealing from the outside, but is exquisite from the inside, an ordeal may beget a wonderful life lesson.
SOURCE PHOTO/ GALLERYHIP.COM
[Qur’an: Chapter 89, Verses 15-17]
The verses clearly indicate that there is one common element in blessings and hardships. They are both a trial since they reinforce the fact that what may look like good fortune from the outside is not necessarily the source of success and vice versa. You must realize that facing some sort of trial or difficulty might in fact carry in its folds far better and deeper lessons and blessings that you wouldn’t have learned or earned otherwise.
72 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
The Incredible Blessing: Patience Some people might look at this and think, “Patience? Really? What do I do with that? Where do I cash it?” Why is patience the best blessing? 1. Patience keeps you in the company of Allah in this world. Unlike blessings that can be consumed and completely used up in this life, patience is a limitless gift that allows you to remain in the company of Allah, growing more intimately connected to Him. Allah specifically assures us that He will be in the company of the patient and reward them immeasurably: “O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” SOURCE PHOTO/ FACEBOOK: @ZEINA GABRIEL PHOTOGRAPHY
[Qur’an: Chapter 2, Verse 153]
2. Patience helps you reach Al Firdaus. Just like being patient keeps you in Allah’s company in this world, you will remain closely in His company in the Hereafter and in the closes paradise to Him too. “Or do you think that you will enter Paradise while Allah has not yet made evident those of you who struggle in His cause and made evident those who are patient?” [Qur’an: Chapter 3, Verse 142]
If you are in a state of difficulty that has no other solution but for you to be patient and turn to Allah, then don’t panic. Sooner or later it will be over, and if you really attained patience through it, then you have in fact been given an opportunity for a never-ending reward.
/ProductiveMuslim @AbuProductive
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 73
T R AV E L T R E N D S
TRAVEL NEWS Doha’s Banana Island Resort
The recently opened Banana Island Resort in Doha offers a luxurious setting for relaxation. On this scenic island, guests will not only revel in beauty but also enjoy water activities along with golf and other fun facilities.
Bahrain Eases Visa Regime
The government of Bahrain announced its visa updates, which will allow business visitors and tourists to spend longer periods of time in the country. The move
EMIRATES AIRLINE’S ROUTE TO ORLANDO Emirates Airline will launch a daily service route to Orlando, Florida from the first of September. Orlando will be the tenth US destination Emirates Airline serves.
Rosewood Jeddah Offer Rates start at SR 1,630
Break away from stress and spend a luxurious weekend in Rosewood Jeddah. With acclaimed restaurants, a location in Jeddah’s fashionable northern Corniche area and a -24 hour butler service, you will definitely relax and unwind. 74 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
also facilitates access for GCC residents and visa holders. GCC residents of any nationality may be eligible to receive multi-entry visas on arrival or online.
Al Ahsa’s Touristic Project
More Tourism at Al Bujairi District
Chairman of the National Tourism Committee at the Council of Saudi Chambers, Abdulateef Al Afaleq, announced the commencement of Al Ahsa tourism project. The project, which will take up an area of two million square meters, is set to have touristic and recreational services. Al Uqair beach in the region will witness investment opportunities to become a touristic front as well. It starts in
King Salman inaugurated Al Bujairi district developmental project. The district is the gateway to the historical area of Diriyah. The project aims at enriching tourism as visitors experience the location’s cultural value. The project will encompass a center for activities and commercial services. Taif district will also be connected to the area by an overpass.
London
The Second Alila Resort in the Middle East
This is a Euro trip to remember.
Next comes a stop in the City of Lights, Paris.
EURO ESCAPE TOUR
with a guide who will take visitors to Amsterdam for a wonderful experience.
from SR 1,005
The Euro Escape is a 4-day action-packed tour.
More info: expatexplore.com
From there they will head to Belgium to spend time in Bruges and Brussels.
India in Real Life from SR 1,292
Explore exotic India and visit New Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Immerse yourself in the amazing culture for five nights. You will even experience the rush of riding an elephant at Fort Amer. More info: Makemytrip.com
Alila Hotels and Resorts have announced the signing of the second luxury resort development in Mirbat, east of Salalah, Oman. The new resort is set to launch in 2017. It will be comprised of 100 suites, 25 villas, fine dining restaurants and a spa. The resort will be the perfect combination of innovation and culture.
Ritz-Carlton Berlin
Ritz-Carlton Berlin is offering new customized services for its Middle East guests. It provides an oriental ambience along with a Qur’an and prayer rugs in the rooms. The five-star hotel even includes Arabic TV channels and daily Arabic newspapers. The Middle East traveller will be able to enjoy the Discover with You promotion with rates starting at SR 1,185. DESTINATIONRYD.COM 75
T R AV E L T R E N D S
ATTAR TRAVEL We love it… We do it Attar agency is a pioneer in the tourism industry of the country, born out of a passion for travel and facilitating tourism related services in the Kingdom.
Consistently setting new benchmarks for travel related services across the Kingdom, the journey of Attar Travel began when two brothers, Saddik and Mohammed Attar, founded the Saddik and Mohammed Attar Company in the 1940s. It became one the first registered companies in Jeddah and a founding member of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce.Operating in Saudi Arabia for over 70 years, Attar Travel is one of the most prominent travel agencies in the region. In the early days, the company’s primary business was to provide services for pilgrims traveling to Makkah and Madinah. And from one travel office in Jeddah in 1952, the company has now expanded to more than 42 offices throughout the country.
76 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015 ADVERTORIAL
In recognition of its services, Attar Travel won the award for Saudi Arabia’s Leading Travel Agency at the World Travel Awards twice in a row, in 2013 and 2014. While recently, Sarah Fareed, an employee of Attar Travel, won the Agent of the Month Award in March 2015.
With a mission to manifest, enhance and maximize the benefits of travel and tourism and a focus of developing a long-term relationship with customers, Attar Travel is all set to become the number one fullservice travel agency in KSA. To expand their reach internationally and provide more services, Attar Travel entered into a partnership with Lufthansa City Centre International (LCCI), the world’s leading travel management company
with over 600 offices in 77 countries. The company also entered into a strategic partnership with FCm Travel Solutions, which specializes in managing and organizing travel programs for some of the world’s leading corporate brands. Additionally, the long established Attar Travel’s technological partner is Amadeus, a leading provider of IT related solutions to the global tourism and travel industry.
Proud of its experienced and erudite team of employees, customers can have their vacation planned with just one call, whilst corporates can expect unrivalled professional services irrespective of their size.
Now Attar Travel has developed into a one-stop specialist travel agency that provides a range of services for corporate and leisure air travel, group travel, cruises, tours, hotel accommodation, car rentals, airport transfers, visa services, international driving license, travel insurance, weddings and honeymoon packages and much more.
Visit their website for the latest travel packages and special offers. Tel: 920017775 Web: attartravel.com attartravel.sa attartravel attartraveltv
DRAW YOUR WORLD IN THE SUMMER Destinations
Starting from
Destinations Weekends May 2015
Starting from
Australia
15 Days
SR 9,165
Abu Dhabi
SR 500
Germany
14 Days
SR 7,700
Amman
SR 540
Greece 4 Nights Athens - 3 Nights Cruise
SR 3,705
Beirut
SR 640
Hong Kong
8 Days
SR 6,700
Doha
SR 880
14 Days
SR 2,975
Dubai
SR 440
8 Days
SR 3,615
Kuwait
SR 690
Prague, Vienna, Budapest 11 Days
SR 4,885
Manama
SR 550
Singapore City
8 Days
SR 2,240
Muscat
SR 1,170
Sri Lanka
8 Days
SR 3,040
Sharm Elsheikh
SR 620
Malaysia
STAFF PHOTO/REEM ALASSAL
medical Prague Relaxing Week
Destinations Honeymoon Package Vienna – Salzburg – Zell am See - Kaprun – Vienna
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ON BOARD
MAHARAJAS’ EXPRESS TRAIN A magical journey in a mystical place.
By Johara Al Mogbel
India has been on my bucket list since forever. Every year, when we’d decide what country we’d grace during the holidays, I’d Google all the different options in the South Asian country, and then close all the tabs when we, as usual, finally settled on some part of Europe. But then this year came along. And again, I started my fruitless research when, somehow, we said yes to India. It was a magical moment, let me tell you. Where in the vast and colorful country of India could we visit in four to five days, though? There were so many places we wanted to visit. Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, Goa, Lucknow, Taj Mahal, Jodhpur, aaand…Taj Mahal. We really wanted to go to the Taj Mahal.
78 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
A few research attempts and frantic emails later and my brilliant mother had the solution. A luxury train that takes you around a tour of Rajasthan with cabins you can sleep in! Basically, an Agatha Christie novel but without the dead bodies. We hoped. There were a number of itineraries and the Gems of India suited us the most. Leaving from Delhi, it passed by Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur and then back to Delhi once again. Here’s a full account of our trip, with all the highs and lows.
Day 1
We were limited with time, yes, but what was the point of going to Delhi and not seeing the amazing Mughal history in it? Boarding the train was at 8 p.m., so we booked a hotel room at The Lodhi, slept the night, then embarked on an
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epic non-stop car trip starting with Lodhi Gardens and ending with Khan Market. It was a day spent in history and it was beautiful. By 8 p.m. we were in Khan Market and off to the Safdarjung train station we went! It was the optimal foreigner-in-India experience, with women in saris dressing you in flower necklaces and musicians lauding your entrance. A nice man then escorted us to set up chairs and explained the entire train to us. Then, it was off to the cabins. A bit small and basic, but decent, and the bathrooms were super clean. A ‘butler’ helped us with our baggage, we had a marvelous four-course dinner in one of train’s restaurants, then it was time to sleep. DELHI TIP
If you want to take in history and relax, Lodhi Gardens is free, quiet, full of history and most importantly, not overrun with crowds.
Day 2
A 6:30 a.m. wake up call, a cup of hot masala chai and an impromptu music show (as we stepped off the train) later, off we went on the arranged tour bus to the heart of Agra. We were getting closer to the Taj Mahal, and I was getting excited enough that not even the stringent security measures put me off. And then we were there. The Taj Mahal was in front of us. The train arranged the tours to be at 7 a.m. so that we could capture the monument’s reflection in the fountains properly, and look at that picture. Just look! Shah Jahan’s labor of love was even prettier in person. Then came 9:45 a.m. and we were reluctantly dragged away from the Taj Mahal’s masjids
Drummers are always the friendliest. India's answer to a real life postcard.
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and the river Yamuna to breakfast. There was a lovely set up with more music and a great view of the monument from a pavilion the train had set up for us, with a live station that made fresh dosa and had the best ginger bread pudding we had ever tried. On from breakfast, we were taken to a marble inlay factory that services the Taj Mahal now. They show you how the intricate designs are made and teach you about all the different kinds of gems and stones used. We were exhausted by then. It was time to freshen up at our temporary home, have lunch, and then set out to Agra Fort, where Shah Jahan was incarcerated by his son in his final days. If we were to choose between either the Red Fort or Agra Fort for a visit? We’d definitely go for Agra Fort. Then it was time to retire once again to our beds. That were in a train. Did I mention that?
Archways at the Diwan-i-Aam, Red Fort
Day 3
Ranthambore National Park, ah, how we loved you. We got onto an actual safari boat jeep thing and went around the large nature reserve, spotting everything from Bambi to crocs and a peacock. Our next stop was Jaipur and it takes about 3 to 4 hours for the train to reach it. The amazing Water Palace, Jaipur
The gorgeous interior of the open Jama Masjid.
TRAIN TIP
Expect to forego sleep your first night. The train jostles about a bit and the other train horns take a while to get accustomed to.
80 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
staff made sure we had snacks while we played card games and a non-ending stream of beverages was made of available. Then… it was time to embark for the pink city. The Maharaja Express offers optional excursions at a charge, but up until now we hadn’t found a reason for it.
Humayun's Tomb, Delhi
JAIPUR TIP
Don’t be afraid to bargain in the markets, but at the same time don’t push for too much. The prices are cheap as it is. Poor elephants still had paint on them and didn't look too happy.
dancing. There’s something about traditional dances that makes colors come sharper into focus, there’s so much beauty into it.
Jaipur welcoming committee, the best of them all.
Up until we realized we only had half a day in Jaipur, and with so much to see and buy and visit, we opted for our own guide and car. Our guide was, again, top notch. We started off in Amber Fort. Okay. So. Amber Fort… It’s gorgeous. Built by the Rajputs and one of the few forts left largely intact, there is so much beauty in that palace, it’s a must see.
The Maharaja Express had arranged for a dinner at the City Palace, an estate in Jaipur that doubles as both the current maharaja’s living space and a museum in the daytime. There were elephants (sad ones), horses, camels, a flutist and lots of bananas. And pre-dinner, there was more
Jaipur is most famous for its tchiktchok markets, where you can find saris, leather sandals and bangles at their absolute cheapest. We’re weak when it comes to shopping. Weak.
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After too short of a period, it was time to spend the last day in our creaking but beloved train cabin. Last breakfast, last goodbye to the staff, last card game, last everything, and we left, feeling like we spent a lifetime and at the same time feeling like we hadn’t spent any time at all. Bottom line? Take a trip to India. It’s one of the few places in the world where you see in technicolor. Rang Mahal restaurant on board
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EXPLORE KSA
Mesmerizing Saudi Arabia in all its Glory!
VfoOr thTe E
The7 wonders of
SAUDI ARABIA 1. Masjid Al Haram, Makkah – The Holiest Site in Islam In the city of the birthplace of Islam is the largest mosque in the world. Muslims face in the direction of the Kaaba, which is housed within Masjid Al Haram, while performing their daily obligatory prayers. During Hajj (annual pilgrimage) the mosque holds one of the largest annual gatherings of people in the world with Muslims flocking to it from all corners of the globe. Also housed within the premises is the Zamzam well, which has been gushing forth water for over 1,400 years from the middle of the desert.
82 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
S A U DI W ONDERS www.d estinationryd.com
SOURCE PHOTO/ UMRAHHAJIKU.WORDPRESS.COM • QURANSURAT.COM • FLICKR.COM
To present the best Saudi Arabia has to offer to the world, we conducted a nationwide campaign of picking the wonders of Saudi Arabia. And now through your votes we have the final seven.
2. Masjid Al Nabawi, Madinah – The Prophet’s Mosque Situated in the city of Madinah this mosque was established and originally built by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It is the second largest mosque in the world and the holiest site in Islam after Masjid Al Haram in Makkah. It was also the first place in the entire Arabian Peninsula to be provided with electrical lights. 4. Madain Saleh – Prophet Saleh’s Doomed City 3. King Fahd Fountain, Jeddah – The Tallest Fountain in the World Every single day a magnanimous jet of water graces Jeddah’s skyline, a view of such breathtaking beauty that it dominates the city skyline. It lofts about seven tons of water into the air at any one moment at a nozzle speed of around 200 kilometers per hour. The plume with a height of over 260 meters surpasses the renowned Jet d’Eau’s height of 90 meters by a significant margin.
Mentioned in the Holy Quran, today this infamous city stands deserted amid a series of interlocking mountains and rocky cliffs. Over 2,000 years ago this was the home of the once flourishing Nabataen Kingdom. In 2008 it became the country’s first World Heritage Site for its wellpreserved remains from late antiquity, especially the 131 rock-cut monumental tombs, with their elaborately ornamented façades, strikingly similar to the celebrated city of Petra in Jordan.
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 83
5. Historic Balad, Jeddah – The Epitome of Hijazi Architecture For over a thousand years Jeddah has been a major port of trade and served as a gateway for Muslim pilgrims traveling to Makkah and Madinah who arrived by sea. Through the constant influx of foreigners, the city became a multicultural center and overtime developed a unique architecture that we now refer to as Hijazi architecture. The historic Balad area is the epitome of Hijazi architecture and is where some of the last remnants of architecture can be found.
SOURCE PHOTO/ EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG • TRIPLES1-2.BLOGSPOT.COM
6. Habalah, Abha – The Hanging Village Sitting halfway down a cliff face about 63 kilometers southeast of Abha, this village is easily one of the most captivating places the Kingdom has to offer. When the village was inhabited the only way to reach it was by means of a rope (habel), thus the name ‘Habalah’. Remarkably it remained inhabited until about 1980, when the villagers were shifted to King Faisal village a few kilometers away from the original village.
84 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
7. Madyan, Al Bad – Prophet Shoaib’s Legendary City Located in the northwest of the Kingdom, the caves at Madyan continue to be shrouded in mystery. Many believe that this was the very same place that Prophet Shoaib was sent. Many of the fascinating rock cut dwellings at Madyan remain unexplored.
DESTINATIONRYD.COM 85
EXPLORE KSA
HISTORIC SAUDI:
ARABIA’S LEGENDARY ALMSGIVER
HATEM AL TAI
By Mohammed Mirza
Although he was considered a well-established poet in his time, today he is mostly famous for his altruism. So much so that amongst Arabs an encomium given to a generous man is to say that he or she is “more generous than Hatem.” Hatem lived in the sixth century in the central Arabian region of Hail and belonged to the Al Tai tribe. It is believed the he lost his father when he was young and was raised by his grandfather. Hatem's habit of giving away whatever happened to be in his hands to friends and strangers was a source of pride and even boasting for his grandfather at first; but as the years passed, the habit remained and his grandfather's resources decreased and so did the boasting,
86 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
There are many such stories associated with Hatem, which have been passed down from generation to generation. Eventually his legend made its way to the famed ‘Arabian Nights.’ His son Adi Ibn Hatem was a companion of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and was also acknowledged for his generosity. Today Hatem’s legend lives on and in recognition of his largesse and munificence, a street in Jeddah is named after him.
House of the poet, Jabr Al Omran
The poet’s grave.
SOURCE PHOTO/ FLICKR.COM . SHDADEEN2.COM
Renowned across the Middle East and South Asia for his extreme generosity, tales of this Arabian poet have been part of many movies, TV shows and books.
KING SALMAN BIN
ABDULA ZIZ AL SAUD
PRINCE MUQRIN BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD
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BALLOONS BALLOONS TIME Debab St., Derma Clinic Building GOODSHIP LOLLIPOP Prince Muhammad Ibn Abdulaziz Rd. Tel: +966-11-4659521 www.goodship-lollipop.com RIYADH PARTY SUPPLIES STORE Al Nakheel Dist. Tel: +966-11-4702454 WORLD OF BALLOON ART Safwa Center Mob: +966-542233838 VILLAGE GALLERY Tel: +966-11-4631089
BOUTIQUES BACO DESIGN Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2935633 www..bacodesign.com BLANK BOUTIQUE Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-2010033 BRIONI Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-211 2222 HARVEY NICHOLS Al Faisaliah Mall Tel: +966-11-2734444 www.harveynichols.com HOSS INTROPIA Tel: +966-11-4658122 JACADI BOUTIQUE Tel: +966-11-2056949 Garanada Center Hayat Mall Sahara Mall www.jacadi.us LATI Tel: +966-11-2111078 Ladies Floor, Kingdom Center Web: lati-fashion.com LA-BOUTIQUE Mob: +966-566369905 Al Nahda Rd. MODERN US DESIGNERS Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4612079 www.riyadhdress.com MONTBLANC King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2111080 www.montblanc.com
FLORISTS
QUEEN OF SPADES Al Faisaliah Mall Tel: +966-11-273 4444 www.queenof spadesstore.com
AL GABA FLOWERS Orouba St. Mob: +966-502017058
SADA SHOP (ONLINE) Tel: +966-11-4411940 www.sadashop.com
ARAWLA Musaed Al Angari St. Mob: +966-508085546
STACHE Eng. Musaid AlAnqari St. Tel: +966-11-4656333
LAMAR Safwa Center Mob: +966-555505441
TERRA ECLAT JEWELLERY Salahuddin Dist. Mob: +966-543768585 Mob: +966-542988187 www.terra-eclat.com
NARDEEN Mob: +966-507976733
THE ART OF LIVING #4 Serecon Building Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4610533 www.theartofliving1999.com
SPRING’S WEDDING Musaed Al Angari St. Tel: +966-11-2791024
BRIDAL & EVENING DRESSES
SPRING ROSE Tel: +966-11-2167777
STYLE FLOWER Musaed Al Angari St. Mob: +966-504237071
FURNITURE
AL FALAH Tel: 920001678
@ ROOM Tel: +966-11-2298457 King Abdulaziz Rd. North
AIREBARCELONA Orouba St. www.airbarcelona.com
AYAR Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4612757 Tahliah St. Intersection, Takhassusi St.
BDBA Tel: +966-11-2884807 Olaya St and Gernada Mall http://www.bdba.com BASMA AL JAZAERY Orouba St. Tel:+966-11-2790276 Tel:+966-11-4622670
CITIES Centria Mall Tel: +966-11-2180007 DAR AL HADAYA Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2155550
PRONOVIAS Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4163410
HOSHAN FURNITURE Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2933939
ROSA CLARA Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4652677
IKEA East Ring Rd. Exit 16 Tel: +966-11-2442233
SILVER DEW Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-4197153
JAZIRA INTERIORS King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4632631
CUSTOM THOBES
JAZIRA PROJECTS King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4632631
AJLAN & BROS Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4665555 www.ajlanbros.com LOMAR THOBE Localizer Mall Tel: +966-11-2170094 www.lomarthobe.com
KA INTERNATIONAL King Fahad Rd. Tel: 920001216 MILADORA FURNITURE King Fahad Rd. Tel: 920003277 RAZIN
ING COMO O S N 88 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4660931 THE CLASSICS Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4611888 THE WHITE HOUSE King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4615332 TRADITIONALS King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2012300
SHOPPING MALLS AL FAISALIYAH MALL Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-2730000 www.alfaisaliahmall.com AL QASR MALL Al Swaidi St. Tel: +966-11-4515600 www.alqasrmall.com Supermarket: Hyper Market AZIZIA MALL Tel: +966-920027707 Off of King Fahad Rd. CENTRIA MALL Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2161111 www.centria.com.sa GRANADA CENTER East Ring Rd., Exit 9 Tel: +966-11-2534990 www.granadacenter.com.sa Supermarket: Carrefour HAYAT MALL King Abdul Aziz Rd. Tel: +966-11-2057401 www.hayat-mall.com Supermarket: Danube Hypermarket KINGDOM CENTER Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-2112222 www.kingdomcentre.com.sa LOCALIZER MALL Prince Mohammed Ibn Abdul Aziz St. Tel: +966-11-2178999 PANORAMA MALL Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2814950 www.panorama-mall.com Supermarket: Danube RIMAL CENTER East Ring Rd. Tel: +966-11-2441004
Riyadh Eats App
FRENCH APETIT KITCHEN Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4656491
ANTHURIUM Abdulla Alhamdan St. Tel: +966-11-4661473 AZZURRO The Ritz Carlton Hotel Tel: +966-11-8028020
riyadh
CAFÉ LENOTRE Centria Mall. Tel: +966-11-2791108
CENTO PER CENTO Olaya Rd., Behind Jarir Tel: +966-11-4644159
eats.com
LE BIJOU BURJ RAFAL HOTEL KEMPINSKI King Fahad Road Tel: +966 11 511 7889
DA PINO Al Khozama Center Tel: +966-11-2732222
L’ECLUSE Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4657648
IL GABBIANO Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4616066
LE RELAIS DE L’ENTRECOTE Almas Plaza. Tel: +966-11-4615058
L’OLIVIO Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4634240
INTERNATIONAL
LA CAMPAGNA Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4624339
AL BUSTAN Sheraton Hotel Tel: +966-11-4543300
LA CASTA Al Rahmaniya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4198016
AL DANA Holiday Inn Hotel Tel: +966-11-4612000
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AL DIWAN Al Sahara Hotel Tel: +966-11-2204500
LA CUCINA Al Faisaliah Hotel Tel: +966-11-2732222 LA PIAZZA Sheraton Hotel Tel: +966-11-4543300
AL ORJOUAN Makkah Rd., inside The Ritz Carlton Tel: +966-11-8028020
LIOLIMPO Al Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-4166222
CAFE CERAMIQUE Sahara Mall Tel: +966-11-4520677 CENTRO Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4658488 COCOS Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2939444
OASIS GRILL Hilton Garden Inn Tel: +966-11-2935533
THE GRAND King Fahad Road Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Tel: +966 11 5117890
PAVILLION Intercontinental Hotel Tel: +966-11-4655000
ELEMENTS Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115500 EQUESTRIAN CLUB King Abdulaziz Racecourse Mob: +966-503008044
LA BRASSERIE Al Faisaliah Tower Tel: +966-11-2732222
SAZIO Kingdom Tower-77th Floor Tel: +966-11-2111180
PANORAMIC Makarem Riyadh Hotel Tel: +966-11-2204500
CRISTAL Al Faisaliah Hotel Tel: +966-11-2732222
HEDIARD Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2173933
MIRAGE Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4834127
RUSSIAN CORNER Abdullah Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-4658387 SENSES Luthan Hotel Tel: +966-11-4807799 SIZZLER HOUSE Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4661133
THE WINDROSE Al Faisaliah Hotel Tel: +966-11-2732222 TRADER VICS Panorama Mall Tel: +966-11-2814782 TSC SIGNATURE Abdullah Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-2939693
ITALIAN
MBCO Abdullah Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-2936506 NINO Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2016662 PIATTO Exit 5, Northern Ring Rd. Tel: +966-11-2006868 PIZZA ERA King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4542233 PIZZA INN Dabbab St., Tel: 920001601 PIZZA ROMA Abdullah Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-4629032
AL FORNO King Abdullah Rd. Mob: +966-558442255
PIZZA STOCKHOLM King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-2811888
AMORE Tahlia St., Tel: +966-11-4653082
PIZZERIA NAPOLI Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz St. Tel: +966-11-2172288
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QUATTRO Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115599
AL HAJ DAWOOD Imam Saud St. Tel: +966-11-4943691
AVADH Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4654109
ROMA Mussa Bin Nusair St. Tel: +966-11-4641133
AL MANSAF Al Sulamaniyya Tel: +966-11-4630345
COPPER CHANDNI Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4167000
ROMA WAY Al Rabwah, Othaim Mall Tel: 920000129
AL NAKHEEL Al Khozama Center Tel: +966-11-4654650
CROWN GARDEN Suliamaniyah Tel: +966-11-4616334
MACARONI GRILL King Abdullah Rd. Exit 5 Tel: +966-11-4158322
AL NASEEM Marriott Hotel Tel: +966-11-4779300
DARBAR Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2930249
ROSSO Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115500
CAFE BLANC Prince Mohamad Bin Abdulaziz St. Tel: +966-11-4633426
INDIAN GARDEN Riyadh Gallery Tel: +966-11-2161112
ROSSOPOMODORO Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2939565
EATZAH Al Ghaz St. Mob: +966-531224433
INDIAN STYLE Sheikh Abdullah Al Angary St. Tel: +966-11-4561138
SANTINO’S Hayat Mall Tel: +966-11-2057497
FAIROUZ GARDEN King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2167171
INDIAN SUMMER Suliamaniyah Tel: +966-11-4652328
SPAZIO 77 77th floor in Kingdom Tower Tel: +966-11-2111888 Tel: +966-11-2111181
GAD Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4641212
RED ONION Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2176644
GARDEN BARBECUE Hotel Al Khozama Tel: +966-11-2732222
TAMARIND Prince Faisal Bin Turki St. Tel: +966-11-4738770
SQUISITO King Fahad Rd., Across Ovotel Tel: +966-11-2160111 THE PIZZA COMPANY Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4642952 VECCHIA ROMA Al Sulamaniyyah Z PIZZA King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4881199
MEXICAN BUFFALO’S Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2792123 EL CHICO’S Exit 5 Tel: +966-11-4640385 FAJITA AVENUE Al Hamra Tel: +966-11-4644999 TAKO HUT Faisaliyyah Mall Tel: 920000129
MIDDLE-EASTERN ABDUL WAHAB Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2934111
ING COMO SO N
90 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
GHOUZI Al Rawdah, Khuraish St. Tel: +966-11-4934162 KARAM BEIRUT Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4161717 KOSHARY EXPRESS Jarir St. Tel: +966-11-4728881 LEBANESE CORNER Olaya (Talateen St.) Tel: +966-11-2170555 MAMA NOURA Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-4622195 MAREEZ King Abdullah St. Tel: +966-11-4508877 SHAWERMA HOUSE Prince Mamdouh St. Tel: +966-11-2191999 SHAWERMAMA Abdullah Bin Rawaha St Tel: +966-11-2936644
INDIAN ALADDIN Kingdom Center Tel: +966-11-2112150
CHINESE CANTON Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4520584 CHINESE GOLDEN PALACE Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4655127 GOLDEN DRAGON Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4645136 GULF ROYAL Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4631622 MIRAGE RESTAURANT Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-4834127 NOODLE HOUSE Centria Mall, Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2939969 PEKING Suliamaniyah Tel: +966-11-4765250 SEASONS Madina St., Exit 28 TAAL Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-2734383
JAPANESE FURUSATO Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4657648 HAYAT Prince Mansoor bin Abdul Aziz St. Tel: +966-11-4042655 LA SANI King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4655666 MARHABA Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4622070 SAMURAI Faisaliah Mall & Kingdom Mall Tel: +966-11-2734386 SHOGUN Radisson Blu Hotel Tel: +966-11-4791234 SUSHI YOSHI Al Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-8120055 TOKYO Ouruba St. Tel: +966-11-4605672 YOKARI Centria Mall, 2nd Floor Tel: +966-11-2886999
SAUDI AL SUDDA Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4800111 SHAWAYA HOUSE Khalid Bin Al Waleed St. Mob: +966-557819214 SHEIKH AL MANDY Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-4644099
SEA FOOD AMO HAMZA Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2316148 DOE King Abdullah St. Tel: +966-11-4887080 DR. OCEAN Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-4708647 FOUNTAIN FISH Al Malaz Dist. Tel: +966-11-2158888
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KENYA AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4772228 www.kenya-airways.com
AIRLINES AIR ARABIA Tel: 920013322 www.airarabia.com
KLM ROYAL DUTCH AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4771026 www.klm.com
AIR CANADA Tel: +966-11-4772228 www.aircanada.ca AIR FRANCE Tel: +966-11-2885218 www.airfrance.com AIR INDIA Tel: +966-11-4786409 www.airindia.com AIR NIGERIA Tel: +966-11-4626165 www.myairnigeria.com AMERICAN AIRLINES–AA Tel: +966-11-4625993 www.aa.com
CYPRUS AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4640391 www.cyprusair.com DELTA AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4613688 www.delta.com EGYPT AIR Tel: +966-11-4784004 www.egyptair.com
SUDAN AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4720040 www.sudanair.com
KUWAIT AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4631218 www.kuwait-airways.com
SWISS AIR Tel: +966-11-4789745 www.swissair.com
LUFTHANSA Tel: 8001245550 www.lufthansa.com
TAM BRAZILIAN AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4633133 www.tam.com.br
MALAYSIA AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4784039 www.malaysiaairlines.com
ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4782140 www.flyethiopian.com ETIHAD AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4197722 www.etihadairways.com GARUDA INDONESIA Tel: +966-11-2937690 www.garudaindonesia.com
GULF AIR Tel: +966-11-4626666 www.gulfair.com JAPAN AIRLINES–JAL Tel: +966-11-4645056 www.jal.com
THAI AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4766766 www.thaiairways.com
AL ROMAIZAN TRAVEL AGENCY Tel: +966-11-4652100 www.romaizan.com AL SARH TRAVEL & TOURISM Tel: +966-11-4941111 www.alsarh.com.sa AL SAGER TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4827979 AL SARAH TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4647480 AL SARH TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4627000 AL TASHELAT TRAVELS Tel: +966-11-4034477 AL TAYYAR TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4633133 www.altayyargroup.com AMJAD TRAVEL & TOURISM Tel: +966-11-41161737 www.amjadtravel.com
TUNIS AIR Tel: +966-11-4626165 www.tunisair.com
OMAN AIR Tel: +966-11-4733133 www.omanair.com
TURKISH AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4000287 www.turkishairlines.com
PAKISTAN INT’L AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4659600 www.piac.com.pk
UNITED AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4772228 www.united.com
HAYA TOUR Al Nozha Dist. Tel: +966-11-4507176
YEMENIA AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4039282 www.yemenia.com
KINGDOM WINGS TRAVEL AGENCY Tel: +966-11-4625544
QANTAS AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-4772228 www.qantas.com.au QATAR AIRWAYS Tel: +966-11-21180424 www.qatarairways.com ROYAL AIR MOROCCO Tel: +966-11-47741100 www.royalairmaroc.com
GERMAN WINGS AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4632004 www.germanwings.com
TAROM ROMANIAN AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-5788935 www.tarom.ro
AL RASHEED AWNINGS FACTORY Tel: +966-11-4059031
OLYMPIC AIR Tel: +966-11-4644596 www.olympicair.com
PHILIPPINE AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-2160530 www.philippine airlines.com
EMIRATES AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4655485 www.emirates.com
SRILANKAN AIRLINES www.srilankan.lk
KOREAN AIR Tel: +966-11-4658222 www.koreanair.com
MIDDLE EAST AIRLINES BIMAN BANGLADESH AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4614670 www.mea.com.lb Tel: +966-11-4623537 www.biman-airlines.com NAS AIR Tel: +966-11-2171800 BRITISH AIRWAYS www.flynas.com Tel: +966-11-4645550 www.britishairways.com
SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS – SAA Tel: +966-11-4633133 www.flysaa.com
ROYAL JORDANIAN Tel: +966-11-2180850 www.rj.com SAUDI ARABIAN AIRLINES Tel: 920022222 www.saudiairlines.com SINGAPORE AIRLINES Tel: +966-11-4734102 www.singaporeair.com
TRAVEL AGENCIES ABC TRAVEL AGENCY & CARGO Tel: +966-11-4631600 ACE TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4648701 www.ace-travel.com AL ABBAD TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4778736 AL AHMADIAH TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4656668 AL MOUWASAT TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4160580 AL NAIEM TRAVEL & TOURISM Tel: +966-11-4655698 AL RAJHI TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4566900
FURSAN TRAVEL Tel: 920000442 www.fursan.com.sa
MY HOLIDAY TRAVEL & TOURISM Tel: 920010087 www.myholiday.com.sa RIXON TOUR NETWORK Tel: 920029993 www.myrtn.com TOP TRAVEL Tel: +966-11-4641969 TRAVEL PORT Tel: +966-11-4163810 www.travelport.com ZAHRAN AIR TRAVEL & CARGO CO. Tel: +966-11-4659614 ZAMANI ART GALLERY King Abdul Aziz Rd Tel: +966-11-4613057 ZEKRAYAT FRAMES Tel: +966-11-4661196
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LUTHAN HOTEL AND SPA A WOMEN ONLY HOTEL Orubah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4807799
RADISSON BLU HOTEL Al Mubarakiah Plaza King Abdul Aziz St. Tel: +966-11-4791234
MADAREEM CROWN HOTEL King Khalid International Airport Rd. Tel: +966-11-2758888
RIYADH MARRIOTT HOTEL Al Maather St. Tel: +966-11-4779300
MAKARIM RIYADH HOTEL Near To King Khalid International Airport Tel: +966-11-2204500 MENA GRAND - KHALDIA Khazzan St. (Immam Faisal bin Turki) Tel: +966-11-2682222 MERCURE VALUE HOTEL Exit 9, Eastern Ring Rd., Close to Granada Center. Tel: +966-11-2773300 NOVOTEL ALANOUD King Fahd Rd. Tel: +966-11-2882323
RIYADH PALACE HOTEL Ministries Area Tel: +966-11-4054444 SHERATON RIYADH HOTEL & TOWERS Olaya Junction of King Fahad & King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4543300 THE RITZ-CARLTON RIYADH Hada Area, Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-8028020 VIVIENDA HOTEL VILLAS Prince Turki Street Tel: +966-11-4002200 Granada Oasis Tel: +966-11-5118000
Giordano Welcomes The Avengers Giordano’s new line ‘Age of Sport Chic’ comes in line with the highly anticipated new movie ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’. COURTYARD RIYADH DIPLOMATIC QUARTER Al-Hada Dist., Abdullah bin Hothafa St. Tel: +966-11-2817300
HOTELS AL FAISALIAH ROSEWOOD HOTEL King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2732000 AL KHOZAMA HOTEL Olaya Rd. Tel: +966-11-4654650
CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL RIYADH MINHA Old Airport Rd. Tel: +966-11-8749200 FOUR SEASONS HOTEL Kingdom Center Tel: +966-11-2115000
AL MASHREQ BOUTIQUE HOTEL Orubah Road Tel: +966-11-2834777
GOLDEN TULIP ANDALUSIA Olaya Rd. Tel: +966-11-4611000
BURJ RAFAL HOTEL KEMPINSKI King Fahad Road Tel: +966-11-5117777 CORAL GULF RIYADH King Abdul Aziz St., Ministries Area Tel: +966-11-4121000
HOLIDAY INN RIYADH IZDIHAR Abdulwahab Bin Abdullah St., Unit One Tel: +966-11-4625000
CORP EXECUTIVE DEIRA HOTEL Al Batha St. Tel: +966-11-4141500
INTERCONTINENTAL RIYADH Al Maather St. Tel: +966-11-4655000
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92 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
ENT CENTER Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4802229 MAYIEZ MEDICAL Olaya Tel: +966-11-2169999
BEAUTY CLINICS AL MANIHAL CENTER Diplomatic Quarter Tel: +966-11-4881069 AL SAFEER Al Naseem Tel: +966-11-2050810
PEARL’S SMILE Sulaimaniya Tel: +966-11-4646334
APOLLO Tel: 920027070 AYAN CONSULTATIVE King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2725555 AYMA CONSULTATIVE King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-2635555 BEAUTY CORNER King Fahad Rd. Mob: +966-543300557 www.beautycorner.co FOUR SALON & NAIL SPA Diplomatic Quarter Tel: +966-11-2014444 www.www.four.com.sa MALESA Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4888831 MED ART CLINICS Olaya Main St. Tel: 920000045 OBAGI HOSPITAL Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4627111 PLATINIUM Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-2097777 THE BRITISH CENTER King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2795555
CLINICS ATTADAWE King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-2780211 CONSULTING CENTER Tel: +966-11-4555545 CZECH CENTER Infront of King Saud University Tel: 920002737 Tel: + 966-11-4877855
THE EYE CENTER Tel: +966-11-4623094 www.eyecenter.com.sa
FITNESS CENTERS KIDS MY GYM Panorama Mall Tel: +966-11-42814870
MEN
RIYADH MEDICAL Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-4653060
APPLE FITNESS Tel: +966-11-4538800
SAUDI SUGEONS Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4653030
BODY MASTERS Tel: 920000626 Tel: +966-11-4875531
SSC Tel: +966-11-2335000
FITNESS TIME Tel: 920003131
URANUS MEDICAL Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-4657000
GOLD’S GYM Tel: +966-11-6912077
WHITE WING MEDICAL Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4834286
DENTAL CLINICS AAGI DENTAL CENTER Tel: +966-11-2080107 DIMA DENTAL Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4661200 GAMA DENTAL CLINIC King Abdulaziz Road Tel: +966-11- 4542929 Mob: +966-534542929 NOBLE SMILE Abdullah Al Angary St. Tel: +966-11-4197740 RAMAH DENTAL Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4800931
LIFE FITNESS Tel: +966-11-2061133 UP SCALE CLUB King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4871502
WOMEN
ABAS MEDICAL GROUP Rawda-Hamra-Dabab Tel: 920000172 ADMA Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4660000 ALAMAL COMPLEX FOR MENTAL HEALTH Al Khuzami Dist. Tel: +966-11-4804548 www.alamal.med.sa AL FALAH INT’L Tel: +966-11-4463737 www.alfalah.com.sa AL HAMMADI HOSPITAL Khalid ibn Yazid Muawiyah St. Tel: +966-11-4643312 www.hammadi.com AL JAFEL HOSPITAL Western Ring Rd. Tel: +966-11-4322222 www.aljafelhospital.com AL MOUWASAT HOSPITAL Western Ring Rd., Exit 114 Tel: +966-11-4455555
AL MULTAKA LADIES Tel: +966-11-4783388
DALLAH HOSPITAL Tel: +966-11-4720777
CURVES Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4633219
DR. ABDUL RAHMAN AL MISHARI HOSPITAL Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4657700 http://drabdulrahman almishari.com.sa
KINETICO Tel: +966-11-2815595 Mob: + 966-530034010 LUTHAN HOTEL & SPA Tel: +966-11-4807799 LUMIERE Olaya Tel: +966-11-2169030
EYE CARE
NUYU FITNESS www.nuyu-ksa.com
MENSHAF EYE CARE Al Rawda Mob: +966-565869059
HOSPITALS
AL MANIHAL CENTER Diplomatic Quarter Tel: +966-11-4881069
SANAYA DENTAL Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2174888
AL HOKAMA Mallaz Tel: +966-11-4797777
YIBREEN Off of Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4411115
SCENTED Tel: +966-11-2112003 SPECTRUM Mob: +966-552007897 Olaya Main St.
DR. SULAIMAN AL HABIB Olaya Medical Complex Tel: +966-11-4622224 www.drsulaimanalhabib.com GREEN CRESCENT Abdul Malik Bin Marwan St. Tel: +966-11-4644434 www.gch.com.sa KING ABDULAZIZ UNIVERSITY King Abdul Aziz Rd. Tel: +966-11-4775524 www.medicine.ksu.edu.sa
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KING FAHAD MEDICAL CITY (KFMC) Makkah Rd. Tel: 8001277000 KINGDOM HOSPITAL Tel: +966-11-2751111 KING FAISAL SHRC Al Zahrawi St. Tel: +966-11-4647272 www.kfshrc.edu.sa
AL SAGGAF 25 Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4645274
NISSAH PHARMACY Al-Rajhi Five Buildings Tel: +966-11-4041573
SULTAN BIN ABDULAZIZ HUMANITARIAN CITY Exit 6 Tel: +966-11-5620000
AL SHAMEEAH Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4880595
NOORANA PHARMACY Al Malaz Tel: +966-11-4785006
AL TERIAQ Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4828289
OLAYA INTERNATIONAL Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4160349
AL THALATHEEN Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4623529
PRINCE PHARMACY Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4611418
AL SHAMSIA Jamal Center Tel: +966-11-4057296
RAJAA PHARMACY 2 Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4624942
ARAC HEALTH CARE Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4645107 ASIR PHARMACY Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4811629
RIYADH CORNER Jareer St. Tel: +966-11-4780759
PHARMACIES
KING KHALED EYE SPECIALIST HOSPITAL Oruba Branch St. Tel: +966-11-4821234 www.kkesh.med.sa KING SAUD MEDICAL CITY Al Imam Abdul Aziz ibn Saud St. Tel: +966-11-4355555 www.ksmc.med.sa MAGHRABI HOSPITAL Tel: +966-11-4455049 www.maghrabi.com.sa NATIONAL GUARD HEALTH King Abdulaziz Medical City Tel: +966-11-8011111 www.ngha.med.sa OBIED SPECIALIZED Al Farazdaq Rd. Tel: +966-11-4767222
ADHWAA AL SEHA Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4887455 AL DIMISHQI Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4707887 AL FARABI Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4880843 AL HOZAIMI Ibn Sulaiman Commercial Center Tel: +966-11-4722054 AL JAZA Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4642072 AL LIZAM Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4655595 AL MOWASA 3 Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4568598
PRINCE SULTAN CARDIAC CENTER Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4783000 www.pscc.med.sa
AL MUTANABBI Jareer St. Tel: +966-11-2910981
RIYADH CARE HOSPITAL Tel: +966-11-4933000 www.riyadhcare.com RIYADH MILITARY Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4791000 www.rmh.med.sa
AL OLAYA Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-46411501 AL RAJA NO 2 Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4624942 AL RAWABI Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4828028
S.B.H King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4636666 SAUDI GERMAN HOSPITALS GROUP King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2685555 www.ryd.sghgroup.com.sa
G COMINN O O S
SPECIALIZED M.C.H King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-41164000
AL RIYADH Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4643108 AL SAGGAF Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4640716
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94 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
DAR AL DANA Abdullah Bin Sulaiman Al Hamdan Tel: +966-11-4643373 MAZIN PHARMACY Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4624562 MEDICAL & PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICE Dabbab St. Tel: +966-11-4629680
SARA SPECTRUM MEDICAL PHARMACY Akkariya Buildings Tel: +966-11-4601018 SHRAZAD Sitteen St. Tel: +966-11-4787047 UNIVERSITY PHARMACY Akkariya Buildings Tel: +966-11-4191944 UNIVERSITY (2) Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4626338
MEDICINE TIME Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4569140
WARDAT AL-OROBA Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4622904
MOHAMMMED AL HOZAIMI Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4628758
WHITES PHARMACY Tel: +966-11-2886877 / 4895994/ 4897750 / 4897751 www.whites.net
NABRA PHARMACY Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4887329
ZAHRAT AL RAWDA PHARMACY Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4804935
NAZAAR PHARMACY Al Awais Market Tel: +966-11-4541408 NEO (NEOINTERNATIONAL) Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4615089
ZAHRAT SAMI Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4653060
BANKS AL INMA BANK Alanoud Tower Tel: +966-11-2185000 www.alinma.com AL JAZIRA BANK King Abdul Aziz Branch Rd. An Nafal Tel: +966-11-4317474 www.baj.com.sa AL RAJHI BANK Uthman ibn Affan Rd Tel: +966-11-4603333 www.alrajhibank.com.sa ARAB NATIONAL BANK Arrwadah Tel: +966-11-4029000 www.anb.com.sa BANK AL BILAD Prince Bandar Bin Abdulaziz Tel: +966-11-4971905 www.bankalbilad.com BANQUE SAUDI FRANSI King Abdullah Rd Tel: +966-11-2899999 www.alfransi.com.sa NATIONAL COMMERCIAL BANK Prince Sultan St Tel: 920001000 www.alahli.com
SABB Northern Ring Branch Rd Tel: +966-11-2764356 www.sabb.com SAMBA Alaqiq Dist. Tel: 8001242000 www.samba.com SAUDI HOLLANDI BANK Prince Sultan St Tel: +966-11-2548500 www.shb.com.sa
AL FALAH Tel: 920001678
AL OLA NO 7 Tel: +966-11-4608095
AVIS Tel: +966-11-4884887
AL RABWA Al Rabwa Area, Exit 14 close to Nahda Rd. Mob: +966-544096296 www.almutlaq.com
BEST RENT A CAR Tel: 8001249955 DIPLOMAT Khurais Rd. Tel: 920008008 EUROPCAR Al Ahsaa St. Tel: 920000153 FAZ Prince Sultan St. Tel: +966-11-2912679 ICAR Tel: +966-11-4561099 SAJIL Tel: +966-11-4935222 THEEB RENT A CAR Khurais Rd. Tel: 920000572 UBER Application: Uber.com/app support.riyadh@uber.com
COMPOUNDS
RIYADH BANK King Abdul Aziz Road, Al Murabba Tel: +966-11-4013030 www.riyadbank.com
CAR RENTALS
AL MODDARRAJ Tel: +966-11-4779902
ISHBILIA Tel: +966-11-2406000 Mob: +966-593111389 www.ksacompounds.com AL HAMRA OASIS VILLAGE Tel: +966-11-2490440 www.alhamra.com.sa AL ISSA COMPOUND Tel: +966-11-4918400 AL JAZEERA BADER Tel: +966-11-4921135 www.badercompound.com
AL RAYAN RESIDENTIAL Tel: +966-11-2089027 AL WAHA VILLAGE VILLAS ROSSAS Tel: +966-11-4864711 AL YAMAMA VILLAGE Tel: +966-11-4012550 ARAB INVESTMENT Tel: +966-11-4823444 ARIZONA GOLF RESORT Tel: +966-11-2484444 www.agr.com.sa ASASCO VILLAGE Tel: +966-11-4199000 BARADA VILLAGE ARABIAN HOMES Tel: +966-11-4541888 www.arabian-homes.com BONITA VILLAGE Mob: +966-597721361 www.alwakkan.com CORDOBA OASIS VILLAGE Tel: +966-11-24834711 www.cordoba.com.sa DELTA - 11 ESTATE VILLAS ROSSAS Tel: +966-11-4803201 DELTA - 2 ESTATE VILLAS ROSSAS Tel: +966-11-4804084
GREEN CITY Olaya - Rahmaniah Dist. Mob: +966-559623393 www.gccompound. tripod.com JADAWEL COMPOUND Tel: +966-11-2406000 KINGDOM CITY Tel: +966-11-2750275 www.kingdom-city.com NAJD COMPOUND Tel: +966-11- 2481040 PALM COURT Tel: +966-11-4850288 RANCO VILLAGE Tel: +966-11-4924411 www.ranvil.com RIYADH VILLAGE Khurais Road, off exit 36 Tel: 08111010101 Mob: +966-541362462 ROC COMPOUND Tel: +966-11-2412800 www.roc.com.sa SAHARA TOWERS Tel: +966-11-4625666 SEDER VILLAGE Tel: +966-11-2280000 www.sedervillage.com STAR COMPOUND VILLAS ROSSAS Tel: +966-11-4881139 VILLAS ROSAS AL-WADI Tel: +966-11-4881139 http://villasrosasco.com
COURIER
AL MANAR Tel: +966-11-2460100
EID VILLAS Tel: +966-11-2483366 www.eidvillas.com.sa
ARABIAN HALA Tel: +966-11-4884887 www.hala.com.sa
AL MOHAEYA Tel: +966-11-4821222
EURO COMPOUND Tel: +966-11-4780718
ARAMEX Tel: +966-11-4160353 www.aramex.com
AL MOSTAQBAL HOMES Tel: +966-11-4816666 www.almostaqbal homes.com
FAL COMPOUND Tel: +966-11-2490091 www.falcompound.org
DHL WORLDWIDE EXPRESS Tel: +966-11-4654200 www.dhl.com.sa
GRANADA VILLAGE Tel: +966-11-2488387
FEDEX Tel: +966-11-4633999 www.fedex.com/sa
AL NAKHEEL RESIDENCE Tel: +966-11-4704191
www.DestinationListing.com DESTINATIONRYD.COM 95
OVERSEAS COURIER SERVICE Tel: +966-11-4647193 www.ocstracking.com www.ocscouner.com UPS GLOBAL Tel: +966-11-4626655 www.ups.com
EMBASSIES
ETHIOPIA
LEBANON
SIERRA LEONE
Tel: +966-11-4824055
Tel: +966-11-4804060
Tel: +966-11-4643982
FINLAND
MALAYSIA
SINGAPORE
Tel: +966-11-4881515
Tel: +966-11-4887100
Tel: +966-11-4803855
MALI
SOUTH AFRICA
Tel: +966-11-2290753
Tel: +966-11-4429728
MALTA
SPAIN
Tel: +966-11-4615315
Tel: +966-11-4880606
MAURITANIA
SRI LANKA
Tel: +966-11-4646749
Tel: +966-11-4608232
MEXICO
SUDAN
Tel: +966-11-4808822
Tel: +966-11-4887979
MOROCCO
SWEDEN
Tel: +966-11-4826382
Tel: +966-11-8806700
Ext 9 FRANCE Tel: +966-11-4881255
ALGERIA Tel: +966-11-4887171
GABON
ARGENTINA Tel: +966-11-4652600
GAMBIA
AUSTRALIA Tel: +966-11-4887788
GERMANY
AUSTRIA Tel: +966-11-4801217 BAHRAIN Tel: +966-11-4880044
Tel: +966-11-4567173
Tel: +966-11-2052158
Tel: +966-11-4880700 GHANA Tel: +966-11-4545122 GREECE
BANGLADESH Tel: +966-11-4195300
Tel: +966-11-4801975
BELGIUM Tel: +966-11-4882888
Tel: +966-11-4881121
BRAZIL Tel: +966-11-4880018 BRITAIN Tel: +966-11-4880077 BRUNEI Tel: +966-11-4560814 BURKINA FASO Tel: +966-11-4652244 CAMEROON Tel: +966-11-4880022
GUINEA
NEPAL Tel: +966-11-4645170
SWITZERLAND
NETHERLANDS
Tel: +966-11-4881291
Tel: +966-11-4880011
SYRIA
NEW ZELAND
Tel: +966-11-4887481
Tel: +966-11-4887988
HUNGARY Tel: +966-11-4546707
NIGERIA
INDIA
Tel: +966-11-4823024
Tel: +966-11-4884144
NORWAY Tel: +966-11-4881904
INDONESIA Tel: +966-11-4882282
Ext 300 OMAN
IRAN Tel: +966-11-4881444
Tel: +966-11-4823120 PAKISTAN
IRELAND
Tel: +966-11-4884111
Tel: +966-11-4882300
PERU
CHINA Tel: +966-11-4832126
ITALY
Tel: +966-11-4822474
Tel: +966-11-4881212
PHILIPPINES
CZECH REPUBLIC Tel: +966-11-4503617
JAPAN
Tel: +966-11-4823559
Tel: +966-11-4881100
DENMARK Tel: +966-11-4880101 Ext 111163
PORTUGAL
JORDAN
Tel: +966-11-4826964
Tel: +966-11-4880071
QATAR
DJIBOUTI Tel: +966-11-4543182
KENYA
Tel: +966-11-4825544
Tel: +966-11-4882484
RUSSIA
KOREA
Tel: +966-11-4811432
Tel: +966-11-4882211
SENEGAL
ERITREA
KUWAIT
Tel: +966-11-4880146
Tel: +966-11-4801731
Tel: +966-11-4883500
CANADA Tel: +966-11-4882288
EGYPT Tel: +966-11-4810159 Tel: +966-11-4831458
ING COMO SO N
96 DESTINATION RIYADH MAY 2015
Ext 204
TANZANIA Tel: +966-11-4542833 THAILAND Tel: +966-11-4881174 TUNISIA Tel: +966-11-4887900 TURKEY Tel: +966-11-4820101 UAE Tel: +966-11-4881227 UGANDA Tel: +966-11-4544910 UKRAINE Tel: +966-11-4508536 URUGUAY Tel: +966-11-4620739 USA Tel: +966-11-4801831 YEMEN Tel: +966-11-4881769
www.DestinationListing.com
THE FIRST AUGMENTED REALITY ENABLED MAGAZINE IN KSA
Look for the Destination KSA AR+ logo on magazine pages
Download Destination KSA AR+ app Available on Google play for Android devices through the below QR Code
WHAT IS AUGMENTED REALITY?
Augmented reality is an advanced technology that enhances digital information with a live video. In other words, AR utilizes an existing picture and blends new data into it. This technology can offer numerous benefits for businesses; as it helps customers experience what your product has to offer in an entertaining attractive method. Experts refer to augmented reality as an artificial environment presented through the combination of real world and digital data.
WHAT IS DESTINATION KSA AR+?
Destination KSA AR+ is a mobile application through which Desitnation magazines evolved to Augmented Reality enabled magazines. We believe that through AR technologies the perception of printed media can be altered to the best. Combining printed media with AR technologies will enhance the reader experience enormously through: - Circularity of communication - Dynamic contents
Open the application and point the camera to the page with the AR+ icon and experience the magic.
- High degree of interactivity - Active enjoyment - Multi-mediality So enabling Destination magazines with AR technologies through the use of Destination KSA AR+ will definitely revolutionize the perception of its readers. Follow the instructions below to download the application and enjoy a whole new experience of Destination magazines. Reality has been Updated.
Scan the QR code to download the application from the App Store and Google Play, Destination KSA AR+ Application is developed and powered by Zeedia platform. www.zeedia.net