OUR FABULOUS TRAVEL ISSUE
Issue 15 MAY 2014
REGIONAL Editorial manager Jou Pabalate Editor-at-Large Hana AL Jazzar Associate EDITOR/PHOTOGRAPHER MOHAMMED DUGHAISHM Editors Bassma Al Toaimi Jala Mohamed Associate EDITOR/web admin Swalah Eshki Contributing Writers Anousha vakani AYLA DMITRIADIS Johara al mogbel Maryam Al Dabbagh MOHAMMED MIRZA Naureen SubzpUsh José Ortiz Rayan Khayat Tharik Hussain Zareen Muzaffar fashion editor/GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mazin Al Maimani Photography Tharik Hussain Contributing DESIGNER DAWI AL GITHAMI SALES & ADVERTISING RIYADH OFFICE sales@rummancompany.com +966-563578291 (9 a.m. - 10 p.m.) +966-556899914 (9 a.m. - 10 p.m.) JEDDAH OFFICE +966-12-6060291 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) GENERAL INQUIRIES drinfo@rummancompany.com DISTRIBUTION distribution@rummancompany.com
*Destination Riyadh Magazine is a Rumman Company Publication. License No. 7862 - 8/8/1431
FROM THE EDITOR HIT THE ROAD The heat is rising once more in Saudi Arabia. In a month’s time, summer break will be upon us and in Riyadh that can only mean it’s time to travel (and fix your car’s AC). This issue of Destination Riyadh is the ultimate guide to help prepare for your trips. Begin your reading journey by going around the world with our reports on cheap cruises, group tours, weirdest tourist destinations in the US and best accommodations in Europe. Be inspired to go on an adventure by following our Top 10 recommended Instagram travelers. And who would have thought there was so much to do in Saudi Arabia? Within driving distances are great road trips to spots like the hot springs at Al Lith, Farasan Islands and desert camping at Mudhayif. With this issue in hand, you’ll be traveling like a pro in no time. We have tips on packing and even surviving that 12-hour flight. We also invite you to live and dine healthy even if you’re out and about. Lastly, never cease to be a traveler in the city we call home. With Destination Riyadh as your compass, you’ll definitely discover what makes the areas around our city desert gems. Till next time, Najdis, we dare you to wander and to never lose your sense of wonder.
Destination Riyadh Team Editor@rummancompany.com
PUBLISHER
Destination Magazine UK, Coventry, CV14DH N5719
my picks this month
EDITORIAL MAY ISSUE # 15
Editor-in-Chief Enas Hashani managinG editor Rob L. wagner
Bora Bora, P. 42
Marchesa, P. 61
IHOP, P. 68
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AL KHOBAR LAKES.. Your new life style
Emaar introduces ‘rent with option to buy’ initiative for limited collection of homes - Al Nada village, the first completed residential village of the master-plan project. - A healthy and quite environment with security services around the clock. - Anchored by a charming lake and wide areas of greenery. - Luxurious villas with Arabic and Spanish styles. - Various units’ spaces start from 407 square meters. For more information, please visit www.emaarme.com.sa or Emaar sales centre located on Al Dhahran-Abqiq road.
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Khobar lakes... A luxury lifestyle community by the shores of the lake
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FEATURED CONTENT
32
Nofa Resorts
54 Boho London
42 Where to Go in 2014?
12
DR News
Ippolita Jewelry Launches Two Boutiques
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A Step Ahead in Riyadh
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Business
A Step Ahead in Riyadh Aziz Awlya: Rubaiyat Owner EMAAR: Al Khobar Lakes
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Special Places
Travel Trends
Where Young Travelers Stay in Europe Boho London
Nofa Resorts
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36
Dining Around Town
Arts & Entertainment
The Best Travelers to follow on Instagram
Guilt-Free Delights Breakfast at IHOP
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70
Explore KSA
Top 5 KSA Road Trips
42
Special Features
Where to Go in 2014 Eccentric and Bizarre Attractions in the US Top Cruise Lines Group Tour Anyone? 6
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DESTINATION RIYADH
Spirituality
Voluntourism: A New Option for Saudi Travelers Productive Muslim: Surviving a 12-hour flight
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Healthy Living Beat the Heat Medical Tourism
T H OUG H TS TO PONDER
DESTINATION: KSA Ever since the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities formally launched its tourism development plan for Saudi Arabia, we have witnessed several projects successfully completed. SCTA reports of over 500,000 jobs created in the hospitality and service sectors, doubled growth in revenues in the tourism industry and major improvements in the area of domestic transportation. A few years back, the thought of Saudi Arabia as a destination for cultural and business tourist seemed like a far-fetched dream. With SCTA consistently delivering on its promises and proving its critics wrong, it won’t be long before we see foreign tourists, not just us residents, appreciating the beauty and culture Saudi Arabia has to offer.
500,000 jobs
created in the hospitality and service sectors
Thumbs Up to Youssef Al Ruwaily for an INNOVATIVE OBESITY CAMPAIGN This thumbs up will go out to Youssef Al Ruwaily, a Saudi explorer who traveled on foot from Makkah to Al Aflaj, an oasis in Riyadh. He went on this journey to promote the motto “No To Obesity.” The journey that Al Ruwaily took inspired many people around Saudi to do more exercising and less eating. With the high rate of obesity in Saudi, we are certainly in need of such inspiration.
Saudi is the
Thumbs DOWN to POOR NUTRITION
70% obesity in Saudi
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3rd
laziest country in the world
Obesity affects more than 70 percent of the total population in Saudi Arabia. A recent study revealed that around SR 500 million annually was spent by people suffering from obesity on treatment. The basic cause of obesity in Saudi develops gradually from poor diet and lifestyle choices that involves a lot of fast food and littlie exercising. Saudi Arabia is also ranked as the third laziest country in the world. That’s a fact we don’t want to exist for long. So get out there and show the world how active Saudis can be.
Zip Code:
P.O.Box: 4113 Jeddah 21491, Saudi Arabia
Laureate Vocational Saudi Arabia is a part of the Laureate International Universities Network (www.Laureate.net), the world’s largest global education provider, with more than 780,000 students in nearly 70 institutions across 29 countries and online. LVSA has been operating in Saudi Arabia since 2009 with over 200 employees and currently operates 7 Colleges in Riyadh, Al Kharj, Jeddah, Mecca, and Rabigh. Due to expansion of Laureate’s educational activities in Saudi Arabia, LVSA is currently recruiting female and male faculty and staff for its Colleges.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Please refer in the e-mail subject to the job title when you apply
Faculty English Instructors Math Instructors Computer Instructors Information Technology & Business Electrical Engineering Fashion & Beauty Tourism & Hospitality Culinary Arts
Administrators
Student Affairs Manager IT Manager E-Learning Administrator HR Campus Administrator Housing Officer Purchasing Officer
careers@laureatevocational.sa | www.laureatevocational.sa
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CITY AND COUNTRY FACT S H EET
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DR NEWS
Emaar Introduces ‘Rent with option to buy’ Emaar has introduced a new “rent with option to buy” initiative for a selected collection of villas in its Al Khobar Lakes master-planned community. This initiative is available for a limited time.
THIS
JUST IN! IPPOLITA JEWELRY Saudi LAUNCHES TWO Fashion BOUTIQUES Designer Wins Award IPPOLITA announces the launch of its retail boutiques in the Red Sea Mall and later in Riyadh. IPPOLITA will allow customers to shop for unique and exclusive jewelry.
Arwa Alammari, a Saudi fashion designer and her fashion brand ArAm, won the Grazia Style Award 2014 in April for Emerging Talent in the Middle East.
NIVEA Wins Consumers’ Hearts The Romantic Bold This season’s symbol is a special journey among the many souls of femininity. This Spring, Coccinelle woman is independent and attractive. Her bag resembles herself, practical and has an instinct for sophistication. It mixes metropolitan allure with a cosmopolitan vocation; its style can be casual and formal, depending on the occasion and mood.
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Nivea won four awards at the Product of the Year 2014. The awards highlights the strength of NIVEA’s product innovation and consumer focus across the Personal Care, Body Care and Male Grooming categories.
Badr Jafar & Quincy Jones
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Honors Badr Jafar and Quincy Jones The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has honored Badr Jafar, CEO of Crescent Enterprises, and Grammy Award winning producer and jazz artist Quincy Jones at a ceremony in Dubai for their work to bridge cultures through music and theater.
Lutfthansa
Rolls-Royce
Lufthansa Technik last month handed over 10 Airbus A380s that will be modified with a new Business Class. The megaliner will have a Business Class featuring an integrated air-cushion system, intuitive controls, additional storage space and an entertainment system with 15-inch screens.
Rolls-Royce launches a new car inspired by the Kingdom, the Phantom “Kingdom Edition”. It is sold only at the exclusive dealer Mohammed Yousuf Naghi Motors. The design, concept, and the idea of the car were formulated by a team in the Naghi Motors Company and Rolls-Royce.
receives Airbus A380s with New Business Class
BaByliss launches Curl Secret Product The Curl Secret product was the output of extensive research extended for five years under the supervision of BaByliss Paris Company. It’s a patented technology that offers 360-degree heating to lock in curls done in a fraction of the time conventional curling irons take.
Marriott International
Becomes Largest Hotel Chain in Africa Marriott International in April became the largest hotel company in Africa. It nearly doubled its presence in its Middle East and Africa region to more than 160 hotels and 23,000 rooms as it completed its acquisition of the 116-hotel Protea Hospitality Group, based in South Africa. Marriott now operates more than 4,000 hotels in 79 countries. 14 DESTINATION RIYADH
debuts the Phantom Kingdom
Louis Vuitton Creates Tailormade Luggage for the BMW i8
Louis Vuitton created a set of luggage for the most progressive sports car – the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid. The innovative collection of luggage comprises two travel bags, a business case and a garment bag.
E v ents an d ha p p en i n g s
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Mohammed Zaza says, ‘This is Not a Coincidence’:
WHAT’S BEEN GOING ON! 03
02
Nespresso officially opens Fifth Boutique in the Kingdom: Nespresso marked the launch of the Centria Mall Boutique with an invite-only event at the new Boutique. Elie Sioufi the managing director of Alsoukya, exclusive distributor of Nespresso in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, welcomed guests and guaranteed further increase of its branches. The boutique is designed to provide coffee lovers with a personalized experience and brings the variety of flavorful blends and coffee machines under one roof.
6th Riyadh Travel Fair Attracts International Visitors: Under the patronage of Prince Turki, deputy governor of Riyadh, the 2014 edition of the Riyadh Travel Fair opened April 15 at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. It marked the sixth edition of the exhibition, which took place over four days. With an 18 percent increase in the number of exhibitors compared to last year’s event, the Riyadh Travel Fair has positioned itself as the largest tourism travel fair of its kind in the kingdom. sponsored by Curio Art Supplies. 16 DESTINATION RIYADH
Naila Art Gallery presented Mohammed Zaza’s second solo show at the Gallery, “This is Not a Coincidence,” in April. The series of paintings explores the ideas of coincidence, random encounters and arbitrary collisions. His conceptual approach is based on an attempt to understand collective consciousness. The kaleidoscope of wonder is used to ask the audiences to reassess what is perceived as planned versus random.
04
Saudi Travel and Tourism ENCOURAGES Investments: The Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market (STTIM) by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities encouraged local residents to be tourists in their own country. Through the conference seminar sessions, SCTA further encouraged potential investors and travel professionals to see Saudi Arabia as a burgeoning tourist destination. The event also featured the SCTA Excellence in Tourism Awards night, where DestinationJeddah.com was named as the best website promoting tourism in the Kingdom.
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PICK UP! bags Guiness World Records for Highest Biscuit Pyramid:
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Bahlsen has added another chapter to its newsworthy rise in the KSA market by setting a new world record in the city of Riyadh. During celebrations to mark the 125th in Hanover, Bahlsen has set a world record for the largest biscuit pyramid anywhere in the world, made entirely out of PiCK UP! Biscuit cases. The event, which saw PiCK UP! Biscuits piled to heights unmatched in history, was held at Riyadh’s Granada Mall in the presence of Bahlsen’s teams, Saudi distributors Al Abbar and a substantial crowd of spectators.
Al Othman Reveals ‘The Question/More Questions’: Riyadh-born artist Abdullah Al Othman showcased a thought provoking-experiential art exhibition at the Alaan Art Space. Launched April 4, the solo exhibition stirred excitement in the local art community with Al Othman claiming ownership of the previously anonymous #Allah street art that trended in social media. “The Question,”, which was the centerpiece of the exhibit, first debuted in Venice with critical acclaim. It featured 28 videos capturing people as they attempt to answer the questions and articulate their private thoughts.
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Saudi-International Colorectal Diseases Forum a Success: Under the banner, “Quality of Care for Colorectal Patients,” one of the most anticipated medical forums in Saudi Arabia tied up with St. Mark’s Hospital for its 1st Joint Conference at the Four Seasons Riyadh. The conference was made possible through the efforts of organizers King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center as well as the Saudi Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery. DESTINATION RIYADH 17
B US I N ESS
A Step Ahead in Riyadh
One Giant Leap for Saudi Women The Prince Sultan Ballroom at the Al Faisaliah Hotel surged with empowering energy last month. Some women 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. In its sophomore edition, A Step Ahead has once again proven itself as the event that inspires, empowers and gives hope to Saudi women across the Kingdom. Organized by Glowork and under the patronage of Prince Turki bin Abdullah, the career fair featured over 90 organizations; both local and multinational companies offering over 3,000 job opportunities. Moreover, applicants were given pep talks to boost their enthusiasm with a variety of successful women and international experts providing insights, stories and advice through different panel discussions.
Michele Lemmens, left, Jomah Hamid
Jaleh Taheris, second right, Sheikha Al Sudairy
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Monis Rahman, left, Mohammed Fitaihi
Saadia Zahidi, senior director, World Economic Forum
A Step Ahead towards the Right Direction
More importantly, it gives women the right tools to be ‘hirable.’ ”
The event kicked off with Khalid Al Khudair, CEO and founder of Glowork, noting that, “This career fair is a real implementation of the Saudi women’s empowerment initiative. Not only it aims at deeply involving them in the labor market, but also at arming them with the required means and capabilities to take part in the Kingdom’s economic and social growth, as they have proved themselves competent in various fields such as international organizations. It’s not just about giving opportunities to get hired that make A Step Ahead a crucial event.
This initiative shows itself through workshops that were simultaneously held during the career fair. It also provided session talks on teaching women how to identify their skills, market them and to not put a limit to themselves based on their degrees. One of the dilemmas faced by job-seeking women is how to fill the gap in work experience. Many Saudi women feel disheartened to pursue a career of their choice right after graduation, with companies in the past demanding for ample professional experience. This career fair encouraged women by sharing success stories of women who forged on despite the challenges and have earned their seat in the corporate world. Furthermore, another direction that A Step Ahead offered was towards taking a more entrepreneurial path.
Taking A Step with the Right Tools Ibrahim Al Moaiqel, HRDF director general
Said Baaghil, left, Jaleh Taheris
From CV writing tips, interview skills workshops and printing stations to make
Prince Turki bin Abdullah, deputy governor of Riyadh, right, Khalid Al Khudair, CEO of Glowork DESTINATION RIYADH 19
sure each applicant is armed with the things they need to land a job, A Step Ahead had it.
One of the memorable scenes we witnessed during the event is seeing Saudi women, veiled or otherwise, fresh graduates or experienced One participant, Maha Al ones seeking for a new Otaibi, said, “I received my challenge having a positive finance degree last year but mindset and gusto. It’s not about handing my university didn’t tell me women jobs, it’s ensuring as what to do after. I wasn’t well that they stay in their prepared to get work and jobs and integrate them eventually I felt scared to try. When I came here, they properly in the workforce. A were willing to help me. part of making this happen lies in making them realize They showed me what was that they need to own their wrong with my CV, how I career paths. With the need to be more confident enthusiasm the ladies of and assured me that the Saudi Arabia has shown, it companies would give me a chance—There are two is proof that they are ready banks that said they will call and willing to take on the me for the next step after my challenge, one step at a time. interview with them.”
In the end, it’s all about taking the Step For most of the women job seekers in the Kingdom, it was really just a matter of bridging the gap between them and employers. Saudi nationals, as we all know are being given priority in acquiring job opportunities.
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B US I N ESS
Light it Up Blue Understanding Autism By Jou Pabalate
What is Autism? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. Early diagnosis and intervention play an integral part in ensuring a more positive outcome in the development and growth of autistic children.
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Spearheading this year’s campaign to promote understanding about autism is King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh (KFSH & RC). The organization kicked off its campaign by joining in on the World Autism Day on April 2 with a blue-inspired kiosk in its Riyadh hospital. Healthcare professionals provided information and shared ideas about the management of Autism in both adults and youths. It also aimed to break local stigma regarding the disease and showcase the giftedness of autistic children. The “Light it Up Blue” movement also gained huge support from the social media. The online community showed their oneness with the awareness month by posting their Blue inspired images using the hashtags: # قرزألاب_اهرونand #LIUB KFSH & RC is currently the home for The Center for Autism Research, the tertiary care facility has gone through great lengths to train medical professionals as well as provide knowledge and support to parents of gifted children across the Kingdom.
Want to learn more or volunteer? Check out:
The Charitable Society for Autism Families Web: www.charitablesocietyforautismfamilies.org
The Saudi Autism Society Web: www.saudiautism.com
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR
3 May 3 TEDxPrinceSultanU Prince Sultan University Auditorium
4 May 3 - 8 6th International Exhibition for Leather Industries A leather exhibition specializes in all leather industries and technologies. Location: Riyadh Exhibition CenterAlMorooj District Web: www.SaudiLeatherExpo.com
May 4 - 6 Saudi Women’s Show A beauty exhibition that includes companies, clinics, care centers and other entities related to beauty. Location: Four Seasons Hotel Web: info@suadiwomens.com
10 13 16 May 10 - 11 6th Saudi Money Exhibition Location: Al Faisaliah Hotel
May 13 OpenERP Tour - "Discover CMS & e-Commerce" Riyadh (SA) OpenERP invites you to the presentation of its new fully integrated website builder & e-Commerce Location: Holiday Inn Riyadh Olaya Time: 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
May 16 Luxury Events 4th Anniversary Featuring MAZ JOBRAN, international comedian, Reem International Circuit Tickets are available at Munch Bakery.
May 26 - 28 Saudi Energy 2014 Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center
May 27 - 29 Gulf Environment & Sustainable Development Forum Combined exhibition and conference that brings the entire environment industry together. Location: Four Season Hotel, Kingdom Tower
20 26 27 May 20 - 22 Medicine & Law Forum 2014 The conference provides a platform for key issues to be explored and debated. Annually attended by 400600 delegates from over the GCC. Email: info@medandlaw.com RIYADH 24 DESTINATION JEDDAH
5
May 5 - 6 2nd Annual Digital Grids, Smart Cities Summit Personnel from Digital Grids and Smart Cities sector will discuss crucial issues for the smart city development. Location: Marriot Hotel
May 5 - 8 Riyadh International Exhibition Investment trade and business opportunities for entrepreneurs and established businesses. Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center International Comedian
May 5 - 6 5th Annual Middle East Rail Conference Investment opportunities in Gulf rail projects. Location: Riyadh InterContinental Hotel
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6 May 6 - 7 Euromoney Saudi Arabia Conference The oldest and biggest financial conference in KSA for all financiers and investors working in and with the Kingdom. Location: Al Faisaliah Hotel Email: neda.matar@ euromoneyplc.com
May 19 - 20 Kingdom Operational Excellence in Financial Services Location: Novotel Riyadh Al Anoud
Luxury Events
LuxuryIIIEvents
LuxuryEventsKSA
LuxuryEventsKSA
May 19 - 21 Saudi Mobile Expo 2014 The expo will be conducted by Mohammed Jubail bin Ahmad Mulla, minister of Communications & Information Technology. Location: Al Faisaliah Hotel, Prince Sultan Hall
May 19 - 21 Saudi Medicare The biggest healthcare event in KSA, featuring over 250 international and local exhibitors from 14 countries Location: Riyadh International Exhibition Center
WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS MONTH!
+
DR magazine is not responsible for any event cancellation. To add your event here, contact us at dr@rummancompany.com
DESTINATION RIYADH 25
B US I N ESS
Managing Resources Looking at the world of hotel and hospitality through the Eyes of CONSULTANT Aziz Awlya Serving pilgrims was not only Aziz Awlya’s family heritage but it’s the only job that makes him truly happy. After working in banks for many years, Aziz Awlya followed his heart and worked in the hotel and hospitality industry. This was when he fulfilled and continues to fulfill his dreams. He recently sat down with Destination magazine editor Jala Mohamed to discuss the hospitality industry’s future. Can you give us a brief insight into your background?
main services, hotel consultancy, strategic studies for international brands that I’m a sales manager at the would like to operate in the Hilton Hotel. I also run my Saudi market and thirdly, own business “Rubaiyat” real estate development. with two other partners. I Speaking of real estate carry a Bachelor’s degree in development I actually have English from Umm Al Qura a big surprise coming up. University. And I’m currently We are now working on a studying for my MBA in residential fenced compound Prince Sultan College for in Makkah. The main aim of Tourism and Business. I this compound is to provide spent my childhood traveling its residents with a friendly a lot with my parents. So I and clean community. We attended many international will provide more details schools in different countries about it very soon. including Bahrain, Italy, the UK, Turkey and most of the What inspired you to work GCC countries. in the hospitality industry? Can you provide us with a description of your business? Rubaiyat provides three 26 DESTINATION RIYADH
Coming from a family that worked as Motawifs (religious tourism) for centuries, I wanted to follow their route and carry on this
family heritage. I had the urge and need to do what my ancestors did as in feeding, sheltering and guiding the pilgrimage. Through my experience in the hotel and hospitality business, I took the international standards and tweaked it into the local market to improve the services given to pilgrimages today. What makes you different from other businesses that provide your same service? The knowledge we have is what makes us truly unique. We see the hotel and hospitality market crystal clear. We don’t promise our clients success, we guarantee them success. We reached this level of confidence
because we rely solidly on research and statistical information. Besides this, we serve our clients with genuine passion. I love my job, and so I’m always motivated and keen to see positive end results.
that the jammed and packed roads that we see on Umrah and Hajj seasons are the results of unreliable tour guides. In my early 20s I was the tour guide for a group of Turkish pilgrims. I use to take certain routes that are less crowded in Do you see Saudization certain times. I lead the as a challenge to your pilgrims in a way that business? reduced problems for them and the people around them. I believe that Saudization What I’m trying to say is, is not a challenge when more buses and wider roads it comes to the hotel and will not help much if poor hospitality industry. Makkah management continues to in particular is different than remain from the tour guides any other tourist area, and and the travel agencies side. no one can understand it better than the people who For the last several years grew up around it. Hiring we have been witnessing Saudis means less training major development and orientation since they in Islamic tourism in understand the Saudi market Saudi, yet very little very well. Put in mind that development towards the people of Makkah have non-Muslim tourism been serving people in Hajj sites. Do you see this and Umrah for around 1,400 changing? Can Saudi years from one generation expand in non-Muslim to another. But I fully tourism? understand that Saudization can be a constraint in other Yes, this is because Hajj industries. and Umrah are an ongoing demand until the last day of Today, around 2.5 million this world. The 1.5 billion Muslims visit Makkah Muslims around the world annually. do you believe will always have a burning that the infrastructure in desire to visit Makkah Saudi Arabia can handle and Madinah, which then such number, speaking of forces and motivates the the roads and health and government, hotels and safety issues ? businesses to invest more on religious tourism. Yes, I strongly believe that the infrastructure in However, I do believe that Makkah can handle such Saudi Arabia has a future numbers each year. The in a certain type of tourism main problem is not in the that I would like to call the infrastructure, it’s purely in “Green Tourism.” When the management. I believe I say green tourism I’m
talking about a country that is alcohol-free, where tourists can enjoy the nature of the country such as the sea, mountains, safaris and the Bedouin life. In other words, Saudi could be the place for tourists that want a pure and natural vacation. A place for rehabilitation. Some people argue that Makkah is becoming over commercialized. Do you agree with this statement? To an extant yes it is, and actually I’m not completely against it. This is because I know for a fact that the attitude and the nature of the pilgrims are changing. As a result, Makkah is changing as well. However, I strongly believe that a balance must remain. What are some common mistakes do you see hotels in Saudi Arabia making? There are two common mistakes that drive me crazy. The first mistake is lack of market segmentation. Segmentation is needed to identify the type of customers that the hotel is targeting they could be businessmen, pilgrims, families and so forth. The second mistake is not being proactive. Some hotels wait for wrong things to happen then fix it. Being proactive is all about fixing things before they even happen.
DESTINATION RIYADH 27
B US I N ESS
Al Khobar Lakes Emaar Middle East, the wholly-owned subsidiary of global property developer, Emaar Properties PJSC, has embarked on a mission to change the landscape of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Specialized in creating value-added, master-planned communities that meet the entire spectrum of lifestyle needs, Emaar has launched world-class developments including Jeddah Gate, Al Khobar Lakes and Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah in Saudi Arabia. A luxury lakefront development, Al Khobar
28 DESTINATION RIYADH
P ROMOTION
Lakes is located on approximately 2.6 million sq m Master Plan with serene water bodies, together with private villas, retail and leisure amenities, Al Khobar Lakes provides the perfect environment for family living. Located only 43 km from King Fahd International Airport, and in close proximity to Al Khobar City, Dhahran and Dammam, Al Khobar Lakes has launched two spectacular communities — Al Nada and Al Ghadeer villages. Perfect for families in every way, upon completion the
development features 11 mosques, including a Grand Mosque for Friday prayers and educational complexes for boys and girls. The development also has a community center, coffee shops and other amenities.
Emaar Middle East brings high-class connectivity to Al Khobar Lakes with smart units featuring the latest communication technologies, and a worldclass infrastructure network With homes in Al Nada Village in Al Khobar Lakes already handed over, Al Khobar Lakes continues to see strong investor response from within and around the Kingdom. Emaar Middle East, is currently offering a new “rent with option to buy� initiative for a selected collection of villas in its
Al Khobar Lakes masterplanned community, for a limited period of time. The new initiative enables customers who have a firm interest in owning property to first enter into a rental agreement with Emaar Middle East for a specified period. During the rental period, the customers will only have to pay the rent for their villa, and may opt to purchase the property before the tenancy expires. Tel: 920022566 Web: www.emaarme.com.sa
P ROMOTION
DESTINATION RIYADH 29
B US I N ESS
Bite Me! before somebody else does... Saudi Wejdan Ismail, co-founder and newlyappointed general manager of Riyadh’s Bite Me!, discusses with Destination writer Jo Malcolm her ideas of business concepts, men in lifts, and being (“not too”) cheeky.
“We wanted something cheeky, but not too cheeky,”
If, like me, you follow stories about Saudi Arabian women in the media, you might be thinking the Kingdom is inhabited by droves of cowed creatures with drab lives, dreadful circumstances and not much to look forward to either. But as I discovered in my recent conversation with the lively Wejdan Ismail, co- founder and general manager of Bite Me!, stereotypes rarely apply to most Saudi women. Bite Me! is a young Riyadh company that produces and delivers fresh hand-made gourmet salads, sandwiches and desserts. It also caters for walk-in customers. Ismail is 30, looks like a teenager, and bursts with energy and enthusiasm. It helps that she is easy to talk to and has an opinion about everything. We started with the name, Bite Me!, which I see on Ismail’s business card is followed by “…before someone else does.”
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“We wanted something cheeky, but not too cheeky,” Ismail laughed. Maybe more than just a bit too cheeky for the likes of Riyadh? “Well some people don’t really get it, and those that do, just find it funny.”
in KSA or the Gulf,” she said. “We use the Lulu supermarket for fresh vegetables. Some of our protein products like cheese come from abroad. “ I asked Ismail about their clients. “We have a growing customer base of expats and That was back in 2012. Saudis too, mostly from the Ismail — with experience at corporate world in central all of the catering industry — Riyadh and the Diplomatic was working with Deutsche Quarter. And we also get Bank in Riyadh at the time, bookings for conferences and was planning to leave and meetings.” Saudi Arabia to work in London. Sinan Khatib, Quite upmarket, then? “We international entrepreneur pitch our pricing between and friend of Ismail’s, came the affordable and the doup with the business concept able. Our average price for of fresh food for Riyadh, a sandwich is SR.” modeled on the Londonbased sandwich chain Pret Ismail’s career has a Manger. He asked Ismail empowered her. to join him in the venture. A Saudi financial backer “When I started out, I was was found and the business even afraid of being in a lift started. at the same time as a man but I discovered that as a “We did lots of research,” woman, I could do almost she said. “We didn’t want to anything,” she said. “People offer diet food. Saudis like have been very helpful and their food so we wanted to friendly, maybe because they make things which are fresh didn’t take me seriously. If and healthy but taste good you listen to what women too.” can and can’t do in Saudi Arabia, you wouldn’t Bite Me! began in the littleachieve anything.” known Mishkat Science Center in Riyadh and then What makes Ismail in January 2013 moved to inspiring, though, is the its current premises at the fact that she is single (she Nasriyah roundabout on also has an honors degree King Khalid Road, with a from the London School of staff of 12. Economics) and Bite Me!, unlike many Saudi female“We try to buy high quality owned companies, is not a locally produced ingredients family business
“The market here is underdeveloped and if you look at global trends, you can predict what is going to work here,” Ismail said. “Saudis travel more now, see things in places like Dubai, and want them here. “You’d be surprised at how many home-based businesses there are here, run by women who connect through social media but that’s passive,” she observed. “They need to get out and network, learn from each other. And we have no mentoring system. Young women need examples. There is a gap between home-based businesses and the actual market. There’s not much entertainment in Saudi so there’s time to develop businesses.” Ismail noted that developing a start-up business is not for the faint of heart for the novice female entrepreneur. “I wouldn’t recommend doing a start-up for someone who has just begun in the working world,” she said. “Get some work experience. Find someone you trust, copy them, learn from them. Then get to know the market, find out about what people are willing to pay or not, get your staff, have a business plan, and most of all, be able to see things through. ” Info: biteme-ksa.com
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SPECIAL PLACES
NOFA RESORTS A Hideaway transcending the levels of luxury By Jou Pabalate
The Nofa Resort easily ranks as one of the most prestigious and exquisite leisure complexes in the Arab world. While it is for the time being a hidden gem tucked in the outskirts of Riyadh, it will no doubt represent the pinnacle of luxurious tourism in the Kingdom. It was a serendipitous discovery. I was doing my research on solar energy through a hardcore journalist technique called Googling. Riyadh and resorts are two words you don’t see together often. It instantly piqued my curiosity. A few days later, the team took a little field trip 85 kilometers west of the city. The Nofa Resorts staff was gracious to give us one of the first-ever tours of this magnificent estate. (Hashtag #ilovemyjob)
This private oasis spans 18 million square meters and within its 17.5-kilometer long perimeter wall are breathtaking landscaped gardens, a man-made lake and facilities fit for royalty.
Nofa Safari Park
It’s like being transported into the heart of Africa. The 32 DESTINATION RIYADH
Nofa Safari Park is home to 500 animals of 23 species. While the park boasts of an impressive list of wildlife that includes giraffes, zebras, pygmy hippopotami, antelopes, cheetahs, gazelles, flamingoes and more; it is also involved in the breeding of the once endangered Arabian Onyx.
Nofa Equestrian Resort
Prince Abdullah bin Miteb has described equestrianism as being in the heart of the local heritage and the identity of all Saudis. The equestrian resort indeed captures the Bedouin cultural origin of horse riding in its landscape. It has a unique atmosphere of prestige enveloped by the rich hues of The Golf Resort sand dunes in it’s a horizon Designed by international and the finest Arabian golf design consultant horses in the land. Its King Barrie Gregson, the fully Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz grassed 18-hole golf course Racetrack has already hosted is a marvel that’s bound to excite and challenge even the the King Abdullah Show Jumping Festival 2013, experienced golfer. Certain areas of the course allow you which featured the best Saudi to tee off with the Safari park equestrians to date. in the yonder. Some holes are sophisticatedly integrated Entertainment Center and Recreation Parks within the King Abdullah While still under Bin Abdulaziz Race track. development (and from the The golf resort also features looks of it, these facilities a driving range, a putting will be up and running green and a clubhouse.
soon), the amenities and facilities at Nofa Resorts is jaw-dropping. Care for a hint? Skating rink in the middle of the desert, bowling alleys, cinema, adventure playgrounds, crazy golf, fully equipped entertainment rooms, gymnasium, soccer pitch, pony rides, boat rides, etc.—and this is just half of the list.
The Nofa African Resort
The 46 individual guest accommodations at the resort are designed to give you an authentic African ambience. Each unit has its own swimming pool set in a completely enclosed private garden. The resort also features a large pool for general use along with a restaurant (capacity 150), a hair and beauty salon and a variety of sitting rooms. You’ll also find an aviary close by and flamingoes in the African resort ponds. DESTINATION RIYADH 33
A Word on Sustainability
As I’ve mentioned earlier, Nofa Resorts came up while I was researching about solar energy projects in the city. Well, that’s because they’re constructing the first 1 mega-watt solar power station using Concentrated PhotoVoltaic (CPV) technology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Once it goes fully operational, the power station will supply significant portion of the resorts’ electricity needs.
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The Nofa Resorts will without a doubt exceed the expectations of even the most well travelled Saudi, residents and visitors when it formally opens later this year. Currently, the Nofa management is only accommodating a select number of corporate events and retreats.
A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Instatravel!
The Best Travelers to follow on Instagram By Hana Jazzar
How can you trot the corners of the world from the comfort of your sofa? Instagram of course. It gives us the ability to live vicariously through others, visually and mentally experiencing wild journeys and exotic destinations. We have rounded up the most inspiring and creative travel accounts you must follow, enjoy!
2- Murad Osmann
3- Tom Anderson
This Russian photographer rose to “Insta-fame” in 2013 thanks to unique photographs of his photogenic girlfriend leading him around the world by her left hand. His #followmeto shots often feature world landmarks including New York’s Times Square, Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, the Colosseum, and most recently, the Sochi Olympics.
Does the name ring a bell? He is the founder of the original social-networking website MySpace. After leaving the company in 2009, he decided to travel the world and take photos of his discoveries. From dramatic sunsets in the Philippines, to abstract shots under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. He promises to “try to create one good photo a day.” We believe he does!
@muradosmann
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@myspacetom
1- Foster Huntington
@fosterhunting
Foster quit his New York design job in 2011 to live in a van and travel — hence the hashtag #vanlife. Now, with over 800,000 followers, he shares his nomadic lifestyle as he moves through Mexico, Morocco and North America.
4- National Geographic Traveler
@natgeotravel
If you love the channel, you’re gonna want to follow the account. The official National Geographic Traveler Instagram account brings you a kaleidoscope of images. Taking you behind-thescenes of the team’s trips and capturing the essence of nature and wild life.
6- Kirsten Alana
7- Cole Rise
Kirsten is a traveler, photographer and blogger. She’s based in New York City and has worked with Expedia and Flight Centre UK. Her images have been featured in The Huffington Post, Snap! and AFAR Magazines. Follow her feed and enjoy mini blog posts full of information about her images and travels.
Photographer and pilot Cole Rise takes his 870,000+ followers around the world to breathtaking escapes. His images have landed on the covers of magazines, art blogs and CD covers. You might have even used one of the many filters he created on Instagram, such as Rise, appropriately named after him.
8- Zach Glassman
9- Liz Carlson
10- Dave & Deb
Zach Glassman is a travel documentarian and polyglot based out of NYC. His inspires his 110K followers to “explore together.” He is also founder of @passionpassport.
Liz shares her iPhone shots as she hikes, flies and swims her way through Europe, the Middle East and New Zealand.
Based out of Toronto — though rarely there — Dave and Deb have been inspiring people for six years through 80 countries on seven continents. They run the adventure blog TheplanetD.com
5-Adam & Emily Harteau
@kirstenalana
@ouropenroad
Depicting “a modern family portrait,” this family of three (soon to be four) journey South America in a Volkswagen Westfalia camper. Adam, an artist, Emily, a fashion designer, and Colette, their daughter, have gained media attention from The New York Times, TOMS and various travel outlets.
@zachspassport
@youngadventuress
@colerise
@theplanetd
follow us on and tag us Instagram! with your
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EXPLORE KSA
no better way to discover Saudi Arabia By Mohammed Mirza
There’s no better way to discover Saudi Arabia than by criss-crossing the country via its numerous highways. No matter what vehicle you drive, these classic routes ensure spectacular scenery and a remarkable experience. Saudi Arabia possesses a variety of road trip-suitable routes, from straight shots across deserts to snaking switchbacks through the mountains. Whatever type of adventure you seek, however much time you have and whatever you want to see, there’s a road out there for everyone.
It’s time to take your sense of adventure on the road and let unexpected diversions and detours (and maybe even a dirt path) add drama to your journey. So grab your family, friends and embark on a long, leisurely drive through the Kingdom with our Top 5 Road Trips. 38 DESTINATION RIYADH
1.Soaking in the Hot Springs at Al Lith
Nestled in a silent valley close to the town of Al Lith lies Saudi Arabia’s very own set of hot springs. The newly built tarmac road runs between beautiful beige colored hills with splashes of green. The charming valley at the foot of which the hot spring burbles out of the ground is verdant and houses grazing livestock. It offers scenes of a green rural idyll that are sharply at odds with the concept of a “desert kingdom.” The hot springs boast a dramatic landscape, with hills on one side and marshy ground covered with radiant green grass on the other. Part of its charm is its isolation and the fact that there has
been minimal development around it. A perfect place to relax and ease your aching backs.This hot spring with its ideal bathing temperature can be enjoyed year round. So prepare to get soaked on this road trip!
To Get There: Catch the Jeddah-Jazan Highway and after covering a distance of 215 kilometers you will come across a major intersection with a road that leads to the town of Al Lith to the west and a road that heads towards the village of Gumaygah and beyond on your east. From there set your odometer to zero and
follow the road that heads east. When your odometer clocks 49 kilometers look for a road on your left and you will see a road that heads down into the valley. Follow this road until it reaches a dead end. From there you will be a stone’s throw away from the hot springs. Photo by Ahmed Alsheme
st po art int
2. Exploring the Historic Ruins of Al Uqair
The appellation of a “Desert Kingdom” has both sagas and emptiness of infinite sand attached to it. This is by far the longest road trip on our list, but is worth the cross-country east-west travel. Plenty of highlights along the way ensure that you’ll want to take several days to explore this route that passes through basaltic lava fields, desert dunes, numerous oasis and ramshackle villages. It is believed that the ancient Arabian city of Gerrha existed at this very spot. Today, a colonial fort survives, which highlights the rich trading center the place had become in the 19th century. The fort is strategically located between the fertile oasis of Al Ahsa and the enigmatic Arabian Gulf. It formerly
acted as a gateway for traders the cross-country Jeddahto the whole of Arabia. Dammam Highway that passes through Riyadh. Approximately 265 kilometers after Riyadh you will reach the village of Judah that sits by the highway. Once you pass through Judah catch the second exit that leads towards the town of Buqayq. From the town of Buqayq Surrounded in murky history, head east and after about 100 this isolated fort is a compel- kilometers you will arrive ling place surviving the harsh at a major intersection. Take shifting desert sands for a right at this intersection centuries. Though decaying, and head straight until you exploring around the ruins of will come across an exit this historic fort of Al Uqair that reads Uqair Beach. is a fascinating experience, Take this exit and head where one can relive a bystraight on this road. This gone era. road will ultimately end at a roundabout from there you will be able to spot the To Get There: Head to Dammam following fascinating fort on your east.
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p Stoere h
3. Relishing fresh fruits at the Taif Fruit Market
taif stop
Road trippers can expect some majestic mountains and breathtaking scenery on this one. This road trip will take you to the top of the Sarawat mountain range on a road that has short, straight sections and subsequent hairpin turns. And after every hairpin, a new view reveals itself: vast, cocoa-colored mountains fading to a hazy blue, bisected by a thin gray road. Just before entering the town of Taif after you have completed your ascent to the mountain city, you’ll want to stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning views of the Hada Valley down below. At the fresh fruit market you can expect to see a myriad of colors created from the variety of fruits being
for speed demons; to truly experience the place, slow down and let your appetite guide your way.
To Get There:
offered. Fruits such as red berries, apricots, cactus fruit, pomegranates and loads of other drool-worthy seasonal fruits are offered by cordial vendors. Feel free to try samples and fall in love with an unadulterated Taif experience. This isn’t a road trip
Head towards Makkah from Jeddah. As soon as you reach Makkah catch the outer ring road. While on the ring road you will see signboards that read Taif. Follow the signs towards Taif and you will come across a highway that ascends through the mountain range. Follow this highway and after completing your ascent look towards your left and you will see the colorful fruit market sitting on the outskirts of Taif. The fruit market is about 150 kilometers from Jeddah.
4. Arabian Gazelle Spotting on Farasan Islands Well, this is a road trip of a slightly different kind. It involves transporting your vehicle via a ferry to the mesmerizing Farasan Islands, which are located right in the center of the Red Sea, standing as a partial bridge between Africa and Asia.
search of this rare breed of Gazelle. They are quite difficult to spot, so you can be assured of it consuming a considerable amount of your time before you actually come across one.
The picturesque Farasan Islands are blessed with a diverse fauna, the most prized of them being the Arabian Gazelle. Farasan Islands are one of the last places on earth that the Arabian Gazelle survives. So roam around the archipelago’s isolated white-sand beaches, pristine marshes, sleepy villages and sand dunes in
Head to Jazan preferably through the coastal JeddahJazan Highway. After traveling a distance of about 800 kilometers from Jeddah you will reach the city of Jazan. Once you enter Jazan catch the King Fahd Road that will lead you to the Jazan Port. Once at the port collect a ferry ticket to Farasan Islands. The ferry
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To Get There:
runs twice daily once in the morning and once in the afternoon. A trip on the ferry is free of charge; plus it allows travelers to take their cars along with them. This one-hour ferry ride will take you straight to the mesmerizing Farasan Islands.
5. Desert Camping at Mudhaylif The idea of camping in the desert conjures up exotic yet vague images of nylon zip-up tents with toasty sleeping bags, a glowing fire, bowls of soup and storytelling in the middle of an open desert. Surrounded by coffee-colored dunes and flyblown Bedouin encampments Mudhaylif is one of the best places in the Kingdom for camping. Mudhaylif is a small village that sits adjacent to the Jeddah-Jazan Highway. What makes camping at Mudhaylif trip feasible is that it is close remembto e r! to the highway in case of any emergencies, yet at the same time will allow you to experience desert camping to the fullest. The desert around Mudhaylif is not a flat sand dune desert;
it has bits of green splashed around and is extremely beautiful with vistas of vast emptiness. This is a place where you will realize the joy of observing the silent dancing of bright stars on a cloudless night sky.
you will see signboards that read Mudhaylif. Follow the signs and you will reach Mudhaylif. Once at Mudhaylif you can see the stunning desert surrounding the village on all sides. Pick a spot that you find feasible and set camp.
To Get There: Head south from Jeddah using the Jeddah-Jazan Highway. After traveling a distance of 320 kilometers
Beyond the Borders Road trips are not just limited to the walls of the Kingdom. Why not prolong your journey and drive beyond the borders? If you’re not bothered with long road travel, visit www.saptco. com.sa and take a look at their offerings for international bus services. They have buses departing from Riyadh to Amman, Kuwait, Aden, San’a, Bahrain, Qatar, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Khartoum and more.
They have buses departing from Jeddah to Amman, Cairo, Beirut, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Khartoum and Yemen. Buses also go to Bahrain and Qatar but with changes in Dammam. • Borders are open 24 hours a day, but go very early or very late
if you want to avoid long queues. • Make sure you have the required visas before embarking on your journeys. • Never pick up passengers or baggage near borders!
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S pecial Feat u res
Where to Go in 2014?
By Hana Al Jazzar
Planning your ultimate vacation this year? Don’t know where to go? Destination is here to save the day. Whether you’re planning to bask under the sun, jump off a cliff or simply want to soak in a little bit of history and culture, we’ve gone through the best of the best recommendations for this year so you don’t have to!
Top destinations for beachcombers Bora Bora, Tahiti, French Polynesia
This tiny yet magical island is part of what make up the French Polynesia in the Pacific Ocean Best point, the Matira Beach, evokes images of exotic lagoons, sandy beaches and tranquil waters.
The Seychelles
The Seychelles is a lot of people’s idea of paradise. The sparkling sands and turquoise waters of La Digue Anse Source d’Argent makes it one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos
On Providenciales island, nestled in the North Atlantic, lays a 12-mile stretch of powdery sand beach, stunning shades of blue waters and a long coral reef-rich in aquatic life. It was also named as the World’s Leading Beach for many years running at the World Travel Awards.
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Top destinations for adventure Mountain trekking in Nepal
Nothing screams adventure like climbing the highest peak in the world. Nepal is the perfect playground for climbers and trekkers interested in pushing themselves to the limit, both physically and mentally.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is where the bungee jump was invented in 1988, and you can still take the 43m-plunge at Kawarau Bridge. Year round, adventure seekers come from around the world for skiing, snowboarding, skydiving, hang gliding, whitewater rafting, rock climbing and abseiling. Plus, there’s hiking and biking trails throughout the local mountains and valleys. No wonder it’s considered the adrenaline capital of the world!
Dive Iceland’s tectonic plates:
Iceland’s Silfra Rift is the only place in the world where you can go for a dive, stretch out your arms and be touching Eurasia with one hand and America with the other. You can drive between two tectonic plates, which is literally the stuff that makes up the Earth’s crust. Cited by veteran divers as the clearest diveable water in the world, visibility at the Silfra Rift virtually extends to end-of-sight.
Alaska
Super-advanced ski and board hounds head to Alaska for heliskiing, the world’s most extreme winter-sports experience.
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Top destination for foodies
Paris, Rome and Tokyo may be the pillars of global cuisine, but we are praising some fresh cities toping the food destination charts
Barcelona, Spain
The city that invented tapas is gaining popularity due to its innovative contemporary Catalan cuisine. It offers a wealth of fine restaurants where food is science and chefs like Ferran Adrià and his award-winning El Bulli, the world’s (ex-) best restaurant. In addition, it is home to the largest open-air food markets, La Boqueria.
Lyon
Combining stunning views in almost every direction with fresh produce and local traditions, Lyon has elevated food into an art form. From fancy haute cuisine to traditional hearty food, it caters to gourmands of all budgets. Unique Lyonnaise restaurants called Bouchons are a must try for foodies, most popular being Chez Hugon. 44 DESTINATION RIYADH
New York, USA
Home to over 10,000 restaurants, you can find every kind of cuisine imaginable From gourmet groceries to Michelin-star restaurants, the NYC dining scene is endless. Some of the finest dining experience according to the Zagat 2014 NYC Restaurants Survey are: Le Bernardin, Per Se, Eleven Madison Park, JeanGeorges and La Grenouille just to name a few.
San Fransisco, USA
Scoring in the Top 5 for ethnic food, coffee bars and farmer’s market, the Bay Area is serving up the trendiest culinary experiences. The famous Chez Panisse in Berkeley uses local organic foods served with simplicity and style and is credited as the inspiration for “California” cuisine.
Top Destinations for Culture Lovers! Oman
If Hud Hud Travels’s luxury tented camp in the Wahiba Sands aren’t enough adventure for you, then you can look forward to two highly anticipated new hotels opening their doors in 2014. The mountainous Alila Jabal Akhdar is perched 2,000 meters above sea level overlooking a dramatic gorge, and Anantara Al Madina A’Zarqa Resort & Spa is set on a natural peninsula jutting into the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Oman. Both are a few hours drive from Muscat.
Copenhagen, Denmark
You could argue that the Danish capital became a food capital thanks to just one restaurant: Noma. Praised as the number one restaurant in the world, it serves up gastronomical Nordic cuisine by chef René Redzepi. The city overall has the most creative dining scenes in Europe at every price point. From pastry shops to hot dog stands, it’s a foodies dream come true.
Cape Town, South Africa
Elected World Design Capital 2014, Cape Town will be showcasing about 450 innovation projects focusing on social responsibility and urban renewal. The city’s offerings range from architecture open houses and fashion shows, to welcoming the public into artists’ galleries and performing studios.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Be prepared for Brazil to take over your living room with the World Cup this summer. But if you make the 14-hour trip, you might as well experience the jungles and beaches of its 8,000-km coastline firsthand. In Rio de Janeiro, take the time to visit the spectacular Sugarloaf Mountain Aerial Tram, considered one of the world’s most beautiful cable car rides.
Riga, Latvia
Not many people are familiar with the fascinating Baltic capital, stepping into the spotlight this year as the European Capital of Culture 2014. You’ll be marveling at gleaming art nouveau buildings, cobblestone streets, opera theaters and the biggest central market in Europe. Riga will be reclaiming its title as a crossroads of the continent. DESTINATION RIYADH
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S pecial Feat u res
Eccentric and Bizarre Attractions in the US By Rayan Khayat
There are the good, the bad, and the just plain strange. What makes a great vacation even better are the little perks that come along with it. From fashion and art to extra-terrestrials, the best trips have something for everyone. So if you travel to America this summer add these interesting spots to your bucket list.
01
The Prada Marfa Store, TX Every fashionista will get a kick out of this sculpture of a Prada store located on a remote highway in Texas. Using genuine Prada shoes and handbags for the art piece, two artists have cooperated in designing this amusing roadside surprise more than half a century ago.
02
Enchanted Highway, ND Roughly 20 miles from the town of Dickenson, is a long stretch of sculptures made from storage tanks and scraps of metal standing at 45 feet. 46 DESTINATION RIYADH
04 03
Roswell, NM A few decades ago, a mysterious object crashed at a ranch near Roswell. Conspiracy theorists have had a field day with the incident ever since, and the town has tapped into a new market. There’s a Museum and Research Center and an annual UFO festival.
Unclaimed Baggage Center, AL In the chance that you do not claim your luggage after 90 days of losing it, here’s where it might end up. This is a gigantic thrift shop for bags, cameras and laptops.
05
Meteor Crater, AZ About 50,000 years ago a fiery meteor shooting through the atmosphere created this natural wonder. The crater’s about 40 miles east of Flagstaff, 600 feet deep and 1 mile in diameter. There’s a Museum and Research Center and an annual UFO festival.
06
Fremont Troll, WA Situated directly below a bridge in Seattle resides this 2ton mammoth of a sculpture. Made as part of a competition promoting urban renewal, it was first found to be a subject of disagreement, but most eventually loved the new neighbor.
07
Salvation Mountain, CA Decorated with ornaments and near the Salton Sea, this beautiful installation in the California desert was made with adobe, straw, and gallons of paint. DESTINATION RIYADH 47
S p e c i a l F e at u r e s
Group Tour anyone? By Zareen Muzaffar
When was the last time you went for a group tour? We usually plan trips with our spouse, friend, family members, or children. Not that there’s anything wrong with that of course because we make some of the best memories in life with them. But at times a change is good. You shift things a little bit to bring new experiences in your life. That’s where traveling with groups kicks in. Feels a little uncomfortable? Don’t be. DJ has compiled a list of why group tours are more fun than people think. So before you plan a trip (local or international) do consider opting for a group tour to open new doors and new experiences with your family: Easy management
If you are traveling to a country for the first time chances are there may be many things related to language and culture that you could be unaware. But when we travel in groups, there’s always someone to help out, assist or guide us when we feel a little lost. Tour guides do all the heavy lifting: make hotel reservations, ensure safe and reliable transfer of luggage, set up tours at museums, historic landmarks and other tourist venues and arrange meals among myriad other duties.
Location information
Traveling alone requires carrying bulky information
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guides, asking for directions and constantly looking up information about certain landmarks. When you are traveling in a group that is all left to the guide to hand out leaflets, provide nuggets of interesting information and provide knowledgeable answers to most questions.
Cultivating new friendships
We meet interesting people everyday but sometimes we are too busy with work, education, or other duties to develop friendships. Traveling in groups is not just fun, but a great way to socialize and cultivate new relations. Undoubtedly, you will run into some people
that rub you the wrong way, but being in close quarters with the same people for up to two weeks allows new friendships to blossom.
Saving money
Group tours are not just great for personal development and socializing, but they are also easy on the pocketbook too! When tour operators book tours, airline tickets and hotel reservations in bulk, those savings are passed along to the customer. Often tours offer all-inclusive deals that include meals and transportation in the city. Some operators even take care of gratuities.
Travel Agencies or Online booking?
By Zareen Muzaffar
These days we tend to do everything online: buy movie tickets, shop for clothes, makeup, shoes, use social media to stay in touch with loved ones, and so on. When it comes to buying plane tickets, many of us stick to the tried and tested travel agencies while some us book tickets online using various portals such as Kayak, Expedia, Orbitz etc.
computer, browsing endlessly through scores of websites? Or simply calling your agent, new or existing, tell them your destination and wait for the phone call? The agent can also give you different options and the final decision is yours minus the endless clicks on the computer and the nerve-wracking experience of inputting your credit card details on a website.
Travel agencies, once thought to be going the way of the dinosaur, have made a comeback as travelers are beginning to recognize that dealing with a human being can make a difference when faced with a drastic change of plans. Travel agents usually have better knowledge about the hidden discounts for hotel rooms or the complexities involved in airline ticket prices.
With years of experience behind them, travel agencies can make recommendations suiting your needs. Sometimes you may want a brief stop over in a transit city, but if online booking offers few hours, agents can modify and make your stay longer. They can even give you hotel recommendations or information about the city you may want to stop over at.
Saves Time
What’s faster? Sitting on your
Recommendations
Solutions to Problems
We may book a flight online
and if the flight is canceled for some reason or you are unable to fly, there may be hidden costs you don’t know about if you have booked online. Moreover, some online booking sites provide no flexibility. On the contrary, your agent can change your booking; modify your itinerary and all that is just a phone call away.
Options for Business Travelers Some companies have existing relations with traveling agencies and that helps the employees find the best option for their travel needs. Agencies provide flexible and budget friendly options.
Special Packages
Travel agencies can help you book group tours or other excursions. The packages include hotel bookings, commute and tourist attractions.
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S p e c i a l F e at u r e s
Top cruise lines By Jala Mohamed
Choosing your desired cruise line on the right ship while on a budget can be a big challenge. Here are some of the top cruise lines with prices ranging from $1,500 to $9,000 depending on your selected venue.
Romantic Getaway
Light on the pocket
Description: The Crystal Serenity cruise has different entertainment programs such as dance lessons, golf teaching with professionals and art lessons. It also offers a variety of shore excursions in different locations. The fees of the cruise include fine dining meals and venues.
Description: The Royal Caribbean cruise offers bungee trampolines, suspension bridges, fitness facilities and an expanded pool deck for adventurous guests.
Cruise Name: Crystal Serenity Destination: Corfu, Greece to Venice Italy Duration: 5 Nights
Contact Information: Tel: 1.888.722.0021 Email: cruisequestions@crystalcruises.com
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Cruise Name: Royal Caribbean Destination: From Miami, to Cococay, to Nassau, and back to Miami Duration: 3 Nights
Contact Information: Tel: 800.398.9819 Web: www.royalcaribbean.com
Family Friendly
Cruise Name: Disney Magic Destination: Barcelona Spain, Villefranche (Monte Carlo, Cannes, Nice) France, Italy, and then back to Barcelona Spain. Duration: 7 Nights Description: The Disney Magic is a majestic, familyfriendly Disney cruise line ship that takes guests of all ages on exciting vacations to enchanting ports of call in the Caribbean, Bahamas and the Mediterranean. This ship blends classic beauty and grace with all the modern luxuries, technology and comforts that make cruising a pleasure.
Scenic sightseeing
Cruise Name: Regent Seven Seas Cruises Destination: Rome to London Duration: 15 Nights
Description: The Regent Seven Seas Cruises provides daytime enrichment programs, entertainment at night, and fine cuisine all the time. Also, equipped with a luxurious spa and a fitness gym. The ship has many decks and views of the sea. Each deck has a certain type of accommodations and each is at a price. Contact information: Tel: +1.954.776.612 Web: www.rssc.com
Contact information: Tel: 800.951.3532 Web: disneycruise.disney.go.com
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T R A V EL TRE N D S
Young, Wild & Free
Europe Edition! Where young travelers stay while exploring The Old Continent. By Rayan Khayat
Europe is filled with so many different cities and cultures that it takes amazing planning skills to just get even the shortest visit to them all! That’s why we gotta start young. It would also be great to be around people your own age and be able to afford your way around. So what are you waiting for? Summer’s only a month away!
Hotel Nardizzi, Rome 1. Standard Design Hotel, Paris This trendy and modern hotel is a great place for the younger crowd. It’s minimal, stylish and affordable. Centrally located in the 11th arrondissement, the hotel is in the old, historic Parisian quarter of Le Marais, and only a few steps from the Palace de la Bastille. The guests rave about the dining, the friendly staff and its great shopping location. 52 DESTINATION RIYADH
This charming little hotel is said to be authentically Italian. It’s located on the top floor of an old building close to the historical center of the city and just 500 meters from the main train station. It is lauded for its friendly staff and its great rooftop breakfast garden with a view.
Chic & Basic Ramblas, Barcelona This cool hotel is like a museum of modern art, with weird sculptures and quirky furniture all over the place. The amazingly affordable hotel is inspired by 1960s Barcelona, and exudes history and modernity at the same time. It’s also just seconds from Las Ramblas, the pulsing street that leads to anywhere, and just a few minutes from the beach.
Ku’damm 101, Berlin A cool and luxurious hotel right in the middle of the world famous Kurfürstendamm shopping district. Fabulously modern interiors, up-to-date facilities, a sauna, a rooftop breakfast and serene gardens are just some of what the Ku’damm offers. Each floor even has differently colored rooms and you can choose which color you’d like to stay in!
Contiki Holidays
Rushmore, London The Rushmore is a charming small hotel in a Victorian townhouse, chicly decorated in a modern way. Guests love the location, which is among the shops and cafes of Earl’s Court and within easy reach of the buses and the tube. Each room is uniquely decorated and breakfast is served in a cool retro atrium.
Trafalgar Tours Heralded by USA Today as one of the best European tours for young adults, this travel company offers 10-15 days vacations all over the continent. The offer includes breakfast daily, four to five dinners throughout and accommodations in deluxe hotels. The 11-day European Dream trip includes stops in Rome, Milan, St. Gotthard, Lucerne, Paris and Dover.
Contiki is the worldwide leader in tours for young adults, it’s a great choice for those with exploration and adventure in mind and also want to save money. The European Explorer vacation travels through 17 countries in 35 days, and includes a ferry ride, a Parisian evening cruise, historical visits in Athens and a four-day stay in Mykonos for some extra beach lounging.
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T R A V EL TRE N D S
BOHO London EAST END: FROM FUNKY SIDEWALK BITS TO CHIC EATS ON THE WATER
By Tharik Hussain
The coffee is from Italy, the boat was built in Worcestershire and my host is a serendipitous middleaged man called Phil with a broad northern accent that I mistake as “Geordie.” I am looking out of the Boston Belle Riverboat cafe in London’s East End. It is early spring and the sun winks at me in flashes as it reflects off the retro glasses of hipsters cycling along the towpath. The men are in skin-tight chinos rolled up to reveal their white ankles as they ride colorful single-gear bikes and the women in vintage-chic outfits elegantly peddle classic models, complete with wicker baskets at the front. It's the perfect accessory to carry home the rustic bread and vintage scarves they have just bought from the market. Some of the uber-cool Londoners stop at the exit for the “Cat and Mutton” bridge, where Phil has cleverly moored. 54 DESTINATION RIYADH
Around me interesting works of art hang on the wooden interior. Red storm lanterns gently sway from the ceiling. On the opposite bank, giant rusting gas cylinders rub shoulders with crumbling properties where huge buddleias peer from broken doors and windows; their purple flowers enjoying the view over this gorgeous little bohemian corner of east London. Local artists, musicians and the odd squatter have reclaimed many of the buildings. The ones that haven’t are a reminder of the “old East End,” where according to some ’80s American guidebooks, the capital’s cabbies would refuse to stop for fear of being mugged.
Originally from Sunderland, Phil is part of the new community witnessing an exciting change. “You get tourists, local artists, film people, musicians and other creative types along here now ... it’s a ‘hidden gem’, you see,” he says. Flanked by picnic-perfect London Fields on one side and the “boatie” community on the other, the Broadway Market in Hackney is part of a growing number of alternative spots in this once run-down London neighborhood. Nowadays organically farmed steaks are freshly grilled in front of you; giant marinated olives will be served from rustic wood buckets and all of it can be washed down with juice squeezed by a metal Victorian press.
Others continue past through the community of narrow boats that makes this stretch of London’s Regent Canal feel almost rural. “It’s amazing how easily you can forget you’re in London on the canals,” says Phil preparing one of his signature Espresso coffee pots as a pretty young couple stoop down to enter his quaint little boat. DESTINATION RIYADH 55
For bookworms, antiquated books can be bought either at the Word on the Water boat shop, in the Broadway Bookshop on the main road or any number of stalls in the heart of the little market. Many of them are also selling exciting local publications found nowhere else, like “I’ve lived in East London for 85½ years,” the delightful story of Londoner Joseph narrated through a collection of beautiful pictures. And then there is Benjamin the butterfly seller, whose specimens all died natural “ethical” deaths. The frames and little glass pendants he sells them in make for unique gifts.
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Ethics is a running theme around here.
Sabine, originally from Australia, is typical of the Broadway crowd. We chat “We deliberately try to make briefly. And like so many sure what is sold on the stalls people here, she waits to does not directly compete meet a friend. with the local shop owners,” says Andrew Veitch, the “I used to live in West Broadway Market Project’s London, and there is executive director, as we sit nowhere like this,” says the outside The Dove pub. now local art agent lured to the area by the mellow vibe. This is why Broadway is a Saturday market, says “I love this place, it has Andrew, to avoid clashing such a nice atmosphere and with other local markets that is so easy going and relaxed trade on Sundays. and when you start looking about, there is so much “We set out to create a going on.” pleasant, laid-back, social atmosphere ... we never Soon Dan arrives, Sabine’s imagined it would be as companion for the day, and successful as this.” they tell me they are heading away from the market Andrew’s company towards the little-known has worked wonders, Lime Wharf where they will the Broadway Market watch some old arty docufeels friendly, warm and film library footage about the bohemian. It also feels safe. local area. As you walk around, the smell of open fire cooking I have not been where they and the sound of myriad are heading but that it is languages filling the air exactly what the Broadway while somewhere a busker Market and its surrounding plays, it is easy to understand area is all about; being with why so many friends and interesting people exploring families see this as an ideal one of the city’s most weekend hangout; delicious interesting areas. market food in a genuinely relaxed atmosphere.
When should I go? The Broadway area is in its element in late spring or summer. Combine it with a weekend exploring here on Saturday and the area around Brick Lane and Shoreditch on a Sunday for the ultimate “boho” London experience. What not to miss? Just five minutes’ walk from the Broadway Market is Lime Wharf, on Vyner Street; a vibrant creative hub that serves the most amazing bagels and offers free arts and crafts sessions for the whole family as well as regular live music and film showings. Why Go? See a side of London few even know exists; a million miles from the clichéd sights of Tower Bridge, Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus, “boho” east end offers an exciting and alternative trip to one of the most amazing cities in the world. Who should go? The open-minded, laid back and intrepid type that have already seen “postcard London.” Those wanting to meet the hip, creative and funky Londoners of a gritty east end. How to get there? Fly to London from Jeddah all year round using any major airline. Once in London use bus number 55, 48, 26, (Hackney Road - 2 min walk) or 394,
Rail stations Cambridge Heath and London Fields (5 mins walk), underground station Bethnal Green (10 mins walk) or alternatively hire a Barclay’s Bike and cycle along the towpath to the Broadway docking station. The Author:
Tharik Hussain is a freelance travel writer, journalist and photographer living with his family in London. Tharik grew up in London’s East End and is also the director of a Sixth Form Centre and a Qualified Post 16 lecturer of Sociology and Media Studies. Follow him at Web: www. thewanderingmusulman. wordpress.com Twitter: @_TharikHussain Facebook: TharikHussainUK DESTINATION RIYADH 57
F A S HI O N & S H O P P I N G
The Art of Shopping Abroad By Jala Mohamed
Shopping overseas can be one of the greatest activities to do while traveling. In fact, some travelers get to explore the culture of a country through shopping, especially in open markets. Not to mention all your loved ones that are waiting for your thoughtful gifts when you get back home. Here are some tips that will help you shop, until you drop without any worries.
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Set a Budget The same way you set a budget for your whole trip. You also need to establish a specific budget for the shopping you will do. Keep in mind that it’s vital to consider the essential expenses first, such as: the hotel, transportation, food and emergency money. Then set a budget for your shopping.
Travel in Sales Season If you are a serious shopper, book your trip during sales season. Each country may have its own sales season period. In France, by law, sales are held only twice a year, once in January and again in July. In Italy there are two official six-weeklong sales periods every year. Although the dates vary each year, there is a winter sale that starts in early January and a summer sale that starts in July. Dubai usually runs its shopping festival from January to February. So try to consider sales seasons and festivals before deciding on your traveling date.
Avoid Shopping From Tourist Shops I strongly recommend that you stay away from tourist trap souvenir shops. At least try to look for the same items somewhere else. Let’s take Egypt as an example. Souvenir shops there charge around EGP 200 and even more for books about ancient Egypt. Yet tourists still go ahead and buy them. Not knowing that the same book can be found in many bookstores around Egypt for half the price and even less.
Duty-free Shopping Tax-free shopping territories may be available in some countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece and Turkey. Langkawi’s duty-free shopping zones are one of the main reasons of their tourist attraction. So before you travel, do a quick research to find out whether the country your traveling to has any taxfree shopping zones and where. Another point you should consider when traveling to European countries is the VAT (value added taxes), which you can then reclaim after your purchase. But make sure to keep all of the required records, such as the VAT receipts to be able to reclaim it.
Bringing All Your Shopping Back How many times did you panic after realizing that all you’re shopping will not fit in your luggage? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. A lot of people fall into this trap. Here are some tips that will help you bring all your shopping back. 1. Pack a foldable extra travel bag while packing for your trip, to bring in your entire purchases home. 2. Put the suitcase that you
packed your cloth in inside a larger suitcase, you can then use this large suitcase to put your extra shopping in on your way back.
3. When considering the purchase of a large item, ask the vendor if they could ship it to your home country. 4. If your shopping exceeds the permitted weight, you can ship your extra material back home using FedEx or DHL. DESTINATION RIYADH 59
FA S H I O N
F A S HI O N & S H O P P I N G
Packing for summer? FOR LADIES
Whether you're packing for your annual summer trip, a short getaway, your honeymoon or just a trip with your other half; mentioned here are some of the essentials to help you stay stylish (and not end up with three huge suitcases for a three-week trip... yeah I personally did that once). Add to your essentials (your favorites, also mentioning clean underwear, socks and toothbrush didn't seem neccesary). Lastly, always remember to mix‘n’match. You don't neccesarily have to own all of the items mentioned here to pull these ideas off. Take it as a reference (or just bring out your plastic and start shopping!).
T H E BACK TO BASICS: TANK-TOPS OK, so this will be something you put on when you're lazy, dressing up (layers), or just hanging around. Also, stocking up on basic colors (white and black) is always a good idea. Tanks by T by Alexander Wang, SR 300
THE GOOD OL' BLAZER Gone are the days when blazers were considered a formal wear, if you want to carry one, make sure its in a basic color, with the perfect fit so you can wear it on a tank top on a chilly morning and put it on with your dress at night. Blazer by Band of Outsiders, SR 2,800
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E S S E N T I A L S DENIM So taking one pair of jeans is an exageration (unless if you're backpacking through the jungle). Take 2-3 pairs that fit well. A boyfriend fit for the morning, a dark skinny pair for mornings/ nights and lastly the essential black skinny jeans. Tanks by T by Alexander Wang, SR 300
Fa s h i o n Ed i to r : M a z i n A l M a i m a n i
TANK-DRESSES Comfortable. Easy to repeat. Works for chilled mornings, put on some heels and a cardigan and you'll enjoy a smooth transformation from morning chill to “all-night-out” or dinner. Left: Dress by Mara Hoffman, SR 1,000 Right: Dress by Helmut Lang, SR 1,050
ALL ROUNDER HANDBAG + CLUTCH If you're a smart one; you will be taking one handbag (and a tiny clutch), if you're a normal person that loves fashion (yeah, here loving fashion is considered normal); then taking only two may seem crazy (but think of all the space you'll save for all the new bags you will be buying while on vacay!) Black bag by Givenchy, SR 8,600 (approx.) Flower embellished clutch by Marchesa, SR 7,300
ZAPATOS! Be realistic, a comfy option for daytime, a dressy heels for night-time. Add a pair of classy slippers or stylish flip-flops for those super lazy days. Clockwise: Slippers by Chloé, SR 3,200, High heels by Charlotte Olympia, SR 3,000 (approx.), Studded strapped espadrilles by Valentino, SR 3,000, Valentino X Havainas flip flops, SR 1,000 (approx.)
SUNGLASSES For protecting your eyes from the harmful rays (or just to simply hide the traces of late night partying), always keep your shades handy.
SWIMSUITS Take a quick dry swimsuit, you'll appreciate it when your time in pool is followed by sudden outings or activities. Some brands are introducing double sided swimsuits, thats a win-win.
Swimsuit by Mara Hofman, SR 750
SHOW-OFF SPECIAL OK, admit it, sometimes you love to show off. Well, take one of these along for a ride and give on-lookers something more to look at. Black clutch by Tom Ford, starting from SR 12,000 Multicolor clutch by Valentino, SR 18,600
By Prada, SR 1,370 (approx.)
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FA S H I O N
Packing for summer? F O R G U YS
OK, so now the next part is directed towards guys and their wives (who almost kind of always need rescuing with what to take and what not to take) and do not forget to load up the suitcase with fresh underwears and socks.
T H E
E S S E N T I A L S
BASIC T'S A no brainer. Load up on solids and stripes. Basic t-shirts work well with pretty much everything and help with layering when it gets cold. Tshirt by Nudie Jeans, SR 160
LINEN, LINEN AND A LITTLE MORE LINEN Nothing is as chill and stylish as a good linen shirt paired with a linen shorts. Get into the linen zone with my personal favorite Parisian brand famous for its swimwear and linen clothing. Shirt SR 600, Shorts SR 600, both by Hartford.
SUNGLASSES A classic black pair would be the best option (colored funky frames may seem exciting, but you don't want to end up with cheesy springbreak vacay photos). Sunglasses by Illesteva SR 1,110 (approx.) 62 DESTINATION RIYADH
SWIMWEAR Two is the ideal number. A lounging around, water activity suitable longer version and a pure swimming-shorter version.
Top: By Robinson Les Bains, SR 950 Bottom: By Saturdays Surf NYC, SR 440
FUN ACCESSORIES A hat to keep the head cool (also to hide post beach hair/next day true out of bed hair), some bracelets to add a little bit of style (and to have those post vacation reminising tan lines). Hat by Lanvin, SR 1,260, White bracelet by Miansai, SR 450, Beaded bracelet by Paul Smith SR 750
SHOES Sneakers are guy staples while traveling, so they're not included here (come on, everybody is gonna take either a Nike or a Converse). Consider slipper shoes, they work well for day-time and transform easily with any outfit for night-out. Gladiator inspired classic sandals are big too! Or the go-tooption of taking a cool pair of flip-flops. Slip-ons by Acne Studios SR 1,770, Sandals by Carven SR 1,700, Flip-flops by Valentino X Havaianas SR 1,000 (approx.)
SHIRTS Ditch the formal button downs, and just grab a few comfortable neat looking options. Roll the sleeves during daytime, button down for a night out. Left: Acne Studios SR 850, Right: Rag & Bone SR 1,200
JACKET Intead of the basic blazer, take a nicely fitted jacket. That adds a little style to night out outfits, also helps when the weather gets chilly. If a more casual option is required, take the ever timeless denim jacket. Denim jacket by Acne Studios SR 1,250 Navy jacket by APC SR 1,400
JEANS + SHORTS Essentials. 'nuff said. Jeans by Levis Vintage SR 1,200 (approx.), Shorts by Burberry Brit, SR 700 (approx.)
SHOW-OFF SPECIAL So guys gotta show off too right? Take along one of these (or all) to annoy your nemesis, and win with the help of high fashion. Left: Tshirt by Givenchy, SR 3,600 Right: Shirt by Saint Laurent, SR 3,200
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GADGETS
FA S H I O N & S H O P P I N G
iFans Power Bank SR 209
Olloclip 4-IN-1 lens
SR 299
Ultra slim and stylish Power Bank from iFans developed specially for hand-held devices that includes Nokia, Samsung and Apple handsets. This portable Power Bank is a backup battery pack. It works with Apple iPhone, iPad, iPods, Samsung, PSP and with Nokia handsets. It also comes with a universal USB plug. Available at dokkanafkar.com
Capture detailed images with the ingenious Olloclip iPhone 5/5S 4-in-1 Lens System. Using your iPhone 5/5S or iPod touch (5th Gen) camera, this lens kit produces a stunning array of fisheye, wide-angle and macro photos. Ideal for action sports or wraparound photos, the fisheye lens captures a 180-degree field of view for striking images. In addition, this kit comes with lens caps, a storage bag and an iPod touch (5th Gen) adapter. Available at i.zone.
 iPod nano SR 629 The redesigned, ultraportable iPod nano now has a larger, 2.5inch Multi-Touch display. Play your favorite songs, or watch movies and widescreen videos on the bigger screen. A perfect workout partner, iPod nano tracks your steps, your runs, and burned calories and syncs to the Nike + website. And with built-in Bluetooth technology, you can wirelessly connect to speakers, headphones, or car stereos. Available at i.zone. 64 DESTINATION RIYADH
Striiv Smart Pedometer SR 330 Make walking to lunch, taking the stairs and walking dogs a fun experience that motivates you to get fit. The Striiv Smart Pedometer designs personalized challenges tailored to your activity levels, and turns 10,000 steps a day into playing a game, donating to charity, and competing with friends. Available at t7abo.com
Midnight Wireless SleepPhones SR 470
SleepPhones Wireless are sleek, Bluetoothenabled wireless headphones hidden in a soft, comfortable headband that makes listening to audio in bed a dream. No bulky components. No tangly wires. SleepPhones Wireless are a simple, comfortable way to reclaim your personal audio space in bed. You must have a Bluetooth music player such as most smart phones (including the iPhone) or a computer. Available at dokkanafkar.com
LaCie Cloudbox SR 775 With the LaCie CloudBox, you’ve got everything you need for storage and backup. Just copy and paste your most important files to your CloudBox, and they will automatically be backed up online daily. The CloudBox includes a one-year online backup contract for 100GB, which can be easily renewed. Available at i.zone.
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DINING AROUND TOWN
GUILT-FREE DELIGHTS By Ayla Dmitriadis
There are two types of people in the world: the ones who eat to live, and then there are the ones who live to eat. The second type see food not just as a source of nutrition and survival, but also as an art form. As time passes, we no longer crave the deep fried, artery clogging food that we tend to regret eating later. These days good food has become healthier and greener, more about the freshness and the taste. However, even for those passionate about good food and new recipes, the few calories from here and there begin to add up and you find yourself gaining the weight you were trying to lose. Nevertheless, where there is a will there is always a way! A few simple changes could allow you to enjoy those delicious meals without a second thought:
Brettuce?
The hardest carb to remove from your diet, is bread. There are just too many options that you just have to have bread somewhere! How about lettuce? Don’t knock It until you’ve tried it!
THIS for THAT
The next time you are in the mood for a burger, get yourself around eight leaves of iceberg lettuce and use it just as you would any burger bun!
Bulgur wheat rice We often think of bulgur wheat in a tabbouleh salad, but with its tender and chewy texture, this could turn into the perfect rice alternative. INGREDIENTS:
1 cup dark bulgur wheat 1 teaspoon olive oil Salt to taste 1 small onion chopped (for extra taste) 1 cup water
Even for dips such as Hummus, use the lettuce the same way as you would use bread. Simple, delicious and guilt-free!
PREPARATION:
• In a pot, add the olive oil and salt on medium heat and sauté the onions until translucent. • Add the wheat and stir to coat in oil, add the cup of water. Once the water begins to boil, lower the heat and cover the pot allowing it to simmer for 10 minutes. • Use with any meal that requires rice! 66 DESTINATION RIYADH
With these small yet worthwhile changes, you can continue enjoying the food of your choice.
Cauliflower mashed potatoes
Zucchini pasta (2 servings)
Who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? Especially when you can add ingredients to heighten the flavor and change it around. But the carbs, oh those carbs! This savory cauliflower puree makes a perfect low-carb stand-in for mashed potatoes.
Zucchini pasta have been all the rage for quite some time, especially in the low-carb, paleo, gluten-free and weight watchers worlds. If you have not tried this, then I would suggest you get yourself a box of zucchini and get started!
INGREDIENTS:
INGREDIENTS:
8 cups bite-size cauliflower florets (about 1 head) 4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed 1/3 cup non-fat buttermilk (alternative: mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup milk) 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided) 1 teaspoon butter ½ teaspoon salt
PREPARATION:
• Place the cauliflower and the garlic in a pot of water and allow to boil until very tender, around 12–15 minutes. (You can also place them in a microwave-safe bowl with water, cover and microwave for 3–5 minutes on high.) • Place the cooked garlic and cauliflower in a food processor. Add the buttermilk, 2 teaspoons oil, butter and salt; pulse several times until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
4 medium zucchinis A julienne grater or cheese grater-Salt to taste 1 teaspoon olive oil
PREPARATION:
• Wash zucchini and trim ends. • Scrub the skin of the zucchini, and use the grater of your choice to grate the entire zucchini lengthways for pasta like strands. • Transfer the zucchini pasta to a mesh colander and sprinkle with salt. Toss to distribute and leave the colander over a mixing bowl to drain. Let it sit for around 20 minutes to allow to moisture to leave the zucchini, giving an occasional squeeze. • In a pan, add the olive oil and allow to heat. Add the zucchini strands and toss around until they are slightly cooked. However, do not overcook as they tend to get mushy. • And there you have your zucchini pasta! Add to the sauce of your choice and indulge in a guilt-free splurge! DESTINATION RIYADH 67
DINING AROUND TOWN
Breakfast at IHOP Health With JosĂŠ
We vegetarians cannot avoid having friends. And friends do not always share your taste for the vegetarian way of life. This month I ended up in IHOP, in the new restaurant complex on Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street (yes, Tahlia Street, we all know it). The restaurant is famous worldwide for their pancakes and Belgian waffles. They also offer a vast variety of dishes like omelettes, French toast, crepes, sandwiches, etc. I was keen to try the omelettes section, remembering the pleasant surprise I got in Ketchup restaurant not long ago with their vegetable omelette. The IHOP vegetable omelette comes with spinach, mushrooms, onions and Swiss cheese. A very good choice to keep an eye on the calories and even better
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if you avoid the high calorie side dishes and get the seasonal mixed fruit. It looked good, smelled good and if you are keen to forgive the fact that they undercooked the onion, it was a great choice. Especially calorie-wise, compared with the pancakes in stacks of four with maple syrup and other sauces flowing like rivers from these mountains of pancakes and Belgium waffles. That omelette accompanied by a very nice fresh squeezed orange juice and a low fat milk cappuccino coffee got me all the energy and a very reasonable intake of calories for the whole active day ahead.
1- First comes first: When packing your luggage, spare some space for sports clothes. Those are usually quite light and will take only a little space. The benefit that you get when you decide to be active and you brought your clothes with you is way bigger than the space it took in your luggage.
5- You do not want to rely on gyms and their crowd? Good news again! Anytime I travel I bring my suspension training system (www. trxtraining.com). It weighs 1.5 kg and it comes in a small pack.
2- After a long trip, you need to rest. Do not try to hit the gym or the road. Your body needs to adapt to the new place, especially when you traveled to another country or continent. 3- Ask your hotel front desk about the gym but also ask them when it is least crowded. I have woken up really early, only to find the gym crowded, all machines taken and all the treadmills in use. 4- If you are keen to try jogging, get some information about the place you are visiting. Maybe they have a jogging club that you can join while you are in the city. Some cities, like Amsterdam in the Netherlands, offer a one-hour jogging tour to visit the city (www.touristrunamsterdam. com). This site also offers you a section on running tours in dozens of other European cities
8- There are specific resorts focused on sports activities where you will feel like a kid in a candy shop. In Spain, on the Canary Island of Lanzarote, you can find the Club La Santa resort (www. clublasanta.com) Do not miss a chance to visit their website and drool over the huge amount of activities they offer. 9- If you decide to exercise outdoors, do not ever miss the weather information. It is not nice to plan for a great one hour activity and find yourself in 40 degrees Celsius. We “Jeddawis” know that all too well.
6- Join popular sports events, a fun run, a fitness marathon, a Spartan race. Any kind of activity that you might find online in the city you visit. You will meet nice and happy people and you will share a great activity together. 7- Most of the hotels, especially in the summer, offer an “entertainer” service. The hotel designs an active and fun schedule and the guests can join the activities according to their preferences: Zumba, yoga, pool games, soccer … You name it.
10- Try to share your sport activities with other people, engage your family, your kids, your friends… You will all have more fun and the fitness benefits still remain!
For advice, questions, or inquiries regarding fitness, vegan and vegetarian dining options around town, contact José Ortiz via email: mypersonaltrainer@ team966.com or Instagram: team966
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SPIRITUALITY
Voluntourism: A new option for Saudi travelers By Maryam Al Dabbagh
For many travelers, tourism is no longer enough. Visiting a beautiful place in the world to sightsee, take pictures and leave does not provide a whole experience any longer. What these people want is more – not so much enviable Facebook profile pictures they’re after, but rather a way to feel that their travels are making a deeper, longer lasting impact on theirs and others’ lives. They want to benefit locals in a more significant way than just buying souvenirs. Enter voluntourism: a way to avail the tourist’s yearning for the thrill of an adventure and to become socially responsible at the same time. As defined by voluntourism. org, voluntourism is “the conscious, seamlessly integrated combination of voluntary service to a destination and the best, traditional elements of travel — arts, culture, geography, history and recreation — in that destination.” This kind of journey has been a staple for foreign youngsters for years, and it’s increasingly a popular choice for conscientious students who aren’t just looking for just a good time around the world.
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With voluntourism, students can spend their money going to places where they are needed, spending any amount of time from weeks to months in remote spots the world over they may otherwise have never encountered. They volunteer their time and effort for projects that range from aiding in conservation projects to teaching children English, some that require a certain set of skills and others that require only a hardy work ethic and strong arms for labor.
Increasingly, this range of travel is not just limited to gap year students, but for anyone looking to go on vacation. A survey by cheaptickets.com found that 50 percent of American vacationers would consider volunteering on their next holiday, and it’s high time for the same to start applying for Saudi Arabia! Regrettably, not all aspects of voluntourism are rosy. Unskilled shortterm aid, however wellintentioned, can often backfire. Unscrupulous travel operators have begun
to exploit volunteers by deliberately keeping orphanages in a rundown state and even forcing non-orphans to live there, in order to solicit more donations. More and more, these drawbacks are – rightfully – being scrutinized, but it’s the responsibility of each and every prospective voluntourist to ensure you’re not part of the problem, but of the solution. Before traveling as a voluntourist, be sure to do your research in selecting a sustainable, responsible program that will result in long-term growth for the home society. Ask the right questions beforehand and make sure you’re wellaware of each aspect of the situation. Remember to examine your own intentions: you don’t want to be doing good for the wrong reasons. Web: www.voluntourism.org www.theguardian.com/ travel/2014/feb/17/volunteerholidays-how-to-find-rightproject
50 %
of Americans would consider volunteering on their next holiday
would you?
let us know... @Destinationryd
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SPIRITUALITY
Surviving a 12 hour flight
GAINING PLENTY OF SAWAB BY THE END OF YOUR FLIGHT
Flying time, especially if it’s more than a few hours, can be extremely boring since you’re disconnected from the world and you can’t really go anywhere. However, if you think about it, this “idle” time is actually what you’ve always wished you had whenever you get busy in your real life. How many times have we caught ourselves saying, “If only I had a bit of free time, I’d do X”?
Shaytaan is good at trying to make us waste the treasure of free time on a flight; but with some preparation and preplanning, we can convert it to the most productive time ever!
Below are 10 Productive Muslim tips to make the most of your flights:
Quran, Tasbeeh, Reading Book/Kindle, Pen & Pocket Notebook/Journal, Laptop/ iPad. Everything else should be kept in the overhead compartment.
3. Before takeoff read the
dua for traveling + write down your intentions for this journey in your pocket journal, as well as a rough plan of what you want to do when you arrive (this could
1. Try to have your wudhu before boarding the flight. This will help you avoid be for your entire journey performing gymnastics in the if you’re on vacation, or if tight airplane toilets! you’re returning home, these 2. Upon boarding the flight,
HAVE wudhu before boarding the flight take out from your bag the following:
72 DESTINATION RIYADH
could be things you need to get done in the first three days from arrival).
4. When the plane has lifted and the seat belt signs are turned off, if there’s a row of empty seats nearby,
BONUS TIP: Download all your e-mails to your desktop e-mail software before flying out, and spend one hour composing replies ready to send them out once you’re back on the ground. With the above, your long-haul flights will not feel so boring and you’ll actually feel very productive once you land, inshaAllah!
move to them. Or if it’s a packed flight, see if there are any empty seats near the emergency exits which offer more legroom. (Of course,
you need to be courteous and allow the elderly or those with children to have priority on such seats).
5. Start your flight with a bit of Spiritual Productivity and the longest, most enjoyable set of thikr you could ask for. Here’s an example: • SubhanaAllah • Alhamdulillah • Allahu Akbar • la hawla wa la quota illa billa • La ilaha illa Allah • la ilaha illa Allah wahdahu la sharika lah, lahulmulk wa lahulhamd wa huwa ala kulli shay’qadeer • SubhanaAllah wa bihamdih • SubhanaAllah AlAtheem • Astaghfurullah wa atoub ilayh • Astaghfurullah
lilmo’mineen wal mo’minaat • Allahumma Salli wa Sallim Ala Sayyidina Muhammad Each 100 times the above should take you roughly one hour.
6. Read Surat Al Baqarah
and Al Imran. This should take you three hours. You don’t have to do this in one sitting — you can spread them over three sittings, one hour each.
aim for three sleep cycles
(90 minutes/ sleep cycle) = 4 hrs + 30 minutes 7. Perform loads of Duas,
for at least 30 minutes. Remember the significance
of making dua while travelling.
8. If you’ve got a nice spot
to sleep, aim for three sleep cycles (90 minutes/sleep cycle) = 4 hrs + 30 minutes.
9. Of course, do not forget
Salah (even Witr if you want to). On some flights, you can ask to pray in a spot in the back close to the kitchen area, which has enough room to stand and pray normally – but do ask permission from flight attendants first.
10. If you do the above, you’ll probably knock out 8-10 hours. So you’re now left with a few hours which you can spend reading/ writing/eating and watching the sunset/sunrise!
Web: www.productivemuslim.com - Twitter: @AbuProductive - Facebook: /ProductiveMuslim
H E A LT H Y L I V I N G
Beat the Heat in 8 Simple Ways By Anousha Vakani
Summer is almost here and most of us are already dreading the heat, but as tempting as it is to spend the season indoors with an air conditioner, it’s no reason to let the heat get the best of you. Save yourself from turning into a couch potato by following these simple tips for beating the heat. Use Sunscreen The sun can have a negative impact on your skin, causing premature aging, skin discoloration, cancer and other types of skin damage. Make sure you’re using sunscreen every time you step out of the house. Get a Spray Give yourself a sprinkle of cold water when it gets hot, or try Vitamin C Energizing Face Spritz from Body Shop. It will keep your skin from getting oily while keeping it hydrated. For a more economical option, simply make your own spray with a mixture of plain H2O and rosewater.
74 DESTINATION RIYADH
Cool Off with Ice Whenever you find the heat to be unbearable, which it can be sometimes, soothe your neck, wrists, ankles with a plastic bag filled with ice cubes. Take Cold Showers This is perhaps one of the most effective ways to remain cool on hot days. Jump into a shower after you’ve been outdoors to help cool down. Stay Hydrated The most important point is to drink lots of water throughout the day. Water will maintain your body temperature and blood circulation so you’re less prone to heat fatigue. Save Electricity When you leave your home, don’t forget to switch off the lights. This will make your living space cooler for a longer duration of time. Wear Bright Colors Some colors absorb more heat than others, so if you want to stay comfortable outdoors try to wear light colors. Keep a Low Temperature Herbal teas, coconut water, and cold milk are drinks that lower your body temperature. Watermelons and pomegranates have a similar effect.
Healthy Tips for Travel
We all travel to new destinations for either work or pleasure or both! Now with summer approaching many Jeddawis are also getting ready to pack their bags. But bear in mind that people who travel overseas have up to a 50 percent chance of suffering a travel-related illness. While most travel-related illnesses are minor, if proper care and precaution isn’t taken, things can get nasty i a hurry! Take a note of the points listed and enjoy your holidays without falling ill:
1
5
Always carry prescriptions with you:
Keep your digital thermometer:
Make copies of your prescriptions and always carry them in your hand luggage as many countries question the medicines being carried along with the passengers. This is all the more important if you’re travelling with senior people who need to follow a rigorous schedule of prescribed medication.
2 Pack your first-aid kit:
Always travel with a medical kit. Carry motion sickness medication and pain meds, such as aspirin, ibuprofen along with cough drops, antibacterial ointments, eye drops, anti-diarrhea tablets and the ever handy Band-Aids.
3 Carry hand-Sanitizers/wipes:
There are germs and bacteria everywhere! One of the biggest challenges of air travel is to protect against colds and flu. Being on an airplane with a bunch of people coughing and sneezing is a sure way to get sick. But frequent hand washing (or use of hand sanitizer) can make a real difference and help keep you well.
4 Eat properly while traveling:
It’s highly recommended to use bottled water over public water dispensers. It’s always more safe to take thick-skinned fruit and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas and oranges. For meals, make sure your food is cooked thoroughly and eat it while it’s hot, this way majority of potential gastrointestinal problems.
You never know when you might need it! In absence of qualified medical assistance, this will tell you for sure if something’s wrong (or not!)
6 Get your shots (influenza, malaria, etc.) way before you travel:
At least three weeks before departure, especially when you are traveling to places where the risk of catching infections is high.
7 Drink fluids:
When traveling to hot places, keep yourself hydrated by having juices and water. Carry oral rehydration solutions (ORS), which has high content of salts and glucose. Also, if you are in one of those long flights, know that they can be really dehydrating. Always ask for “two orange juices with no ice” and eat lightly and avoid any coffee until the flight’s almost over.
8 Call the doctor:
If you are staying in a hotel, call the doctor if you feel ill. Most of the hotels can calls specialist doctors on emergency calls.
DESTINATION RIYADH 75
H E A LT H Y L I V I N G
Medical Tourism Crossing the Globe for Treatment By Mohammed Mirza
Citizens of many underdeveloped countries have long traveled to developed countries of North America and Western Europe seeking the expertise and advanced technology offered across medical centers in those countries. In the recent past, however, the tides have turned and patients from developed countries are traveling to developing ones for medical treatment. This new trend in medical tourism has emerged wherein citizens of highly developed countries choose to ignore care offered in their own countries and travel to less developed areas of 76 DESTINATION RIYADH
the world to receive a wide range of medical services at a more economical rate.
facilities to patients from all across the globe at very affordable prices.
Medical tourism has transformed from being a small cottage industry to become an acceptable alternative for elective care that’s safe and cost effective. It is no secret that the delivery of medical care in developed countries is plain out expensive, and is out of the reach of many, even for those with insurance deductibles.
The idea, however, may be frightening to many people, most likely because it is out of their comfort zone. Having complicated medical treatments is nervewracking under the best of circumstances, and the thought of going outside one’s home country can be stressful. But the low cost factor is causing people to get out of their comfort zone and in some cases travel half way across the world for medical treatment.
There are dozens of countries, such as Thailand, Mexico, Panama, Jordan, India, Malaysia, Brazil and Turkey, that have tapped in on the trend and are offering excellent medical care in ultra-modern
With the growth of medical tourism in recent years, many insurance plans are now offering overseas medical care options and
some even cover the cost of travel. Many hospitals in developing countries have entered alliances with leading insurance providers worldwide to ensure that they do not miss out on this new phenomenon. The most common ways patients pursue medical tourism options are through web searches, forums, specialist agencies and insurance providers. Through these sources a destination is normally finalized after considering medical facilities, travel and lodging costs and health coverage plans.
Most patients incorporate a short holiday along with their treatment, as these also tend to be cheaper than vacations in their home country. Medical tourism also gives people a chance to incorporate local therapies — Indian yoga and Ayurvedic medicine, Thai massages and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), along with their ongoing treatments. Hotels and resorts are cashing in on the trend and thus have created attractive medical vacation packages, which offer clinic shuttle service, traditional medicine
services, holistic personal cooks and luxurious accommodations designed for recovery. Medical tourism continues to present important concerns and challenges as well as potential opportunities. It is bound to have an impact on the healthcare landscape in industrialized and developing countries around the world. Although now in its infancy, medical tourism sees a bright future ahead of it, drawing patients from far and wide for a more economical treatment yet without compromising on the quality of healthcare offered.
TOP MEDICAL TOURISM DESTINATIONS
Turkey: Eye Care (Lasik Surgery) Mexico: Dental Care Panama: Cancer Treatments Brazil: Cosmetic SurgerY
Thailand: Organ Transplants and Orthopedics Jordan: Infertility and Obesity India: Cardiac, Malaysia: Orthopedics Burn and Treatments PhysiotherapY
DESTINATION RIYADH 77
Music by Big Hass of Re-Volt
1
2
Checkpoint
Jasiri X
3 Survive
L-Fresh The Lion
3 Prisoner
Arabian Knightz & Shadia Mansour
Other Albums to look out for! Bangerz
Beyonce
Miley Cyrus
Hail to the King
Beyonce
Get Well Soon: Miley Cyrus Hospitalized For Severe Allergic Reaction To Antibiotics.
Avenged Sevenfold
Apps
Get cheap flights fast with Skyscanner—the world’s best flight search app. Join over 30 million people who have already downloaded our highly-rated apps. Compare millions of flights and hundreds of airlines in seconds.
Urbanspoon
Urbanspoon for iPhone is the #1 FREE app dedicated to helping you find the best food and dining experiences at over a million restaurants.
78 DESTINATION RIYADH
Yelp
Looking for a burrito joint that's open now? A gas station you can drive to before your tank hits empty? Yelp for your iPhone or iPad is here to help. Use us to search for places to eat, shop, drink, play and read reviews.
APPS OF THE MONTH
Skyscanner
Books R E A D W H AT Y O U L O V E
It's Not How Good You Are, Its How Good You Want to Be: By Ellen DeGeneres
It's a handbook of how to succeed in the world. The world's top advertising guru, Paul Arden, offers up his wisdom on issues as diverse as problem solving, responding to a brief, communicating, playing your cards right, making mistakes and creativity, all notions that can be applied to aspects of modern life. popular & favorites
501 Must-visit Natural Wonders
By Polly Manguel
DVDs
Middle East Lonely Planet
Samuel L. Jackson tells the story in the film of his grandfather being an elevator operator. In real life, Jackson's father was an elevator operator.
WAT C H W I T H FA M I LY & F R I E N D S Must-See Movies Frozen 32 OSN Movies Box Office 2
The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug 31 OSN Movies Box Office 1 Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Steve Rogers struggles to embrace his role in the modern world and battles a new threat from old history: the Soviet agent known as the Winter Soldier.
Fox has announced that the U.S. version of X Factor will not be renewed for a fourth season.
DESTINATION RIYADH 79
A Trip To Historic Saudi Jawatha Mosque By Jala Mohamed
Jawatha mosque is in the village of Al Kilabiyah, about 12 kilometers northeast of Hofuf, Al Ahsa. It was constructed in the 7th Century by the Bani Abdul Qais tribe.
80 DESTINATION RIYADH
The Jawatha Mosque is considered to be one of the most remarkable mosques around the world. This is mainly because the Hajr Al Aswad (Black stone) was kept there for 22 years during the time it was stolen by the Qarmatians. This mosque is also believed to be the first mosque built in the Eastern Province and it’s where the second Friday congregation prayer took place. Unfortunately, only five small mud-brick arches remain from the actual mosque. Most of the mosque's original structure has been lost. Today, the mosque is renovated and it’s open for people to visit and pray.
World of Balloon Art Safwa Center Mob: +966-542233838
BOUTIQUES Baco Design Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2935633 www.bacodesign.com Balenciaga Centria Mall www.balenciaga.com Bijou Boutique Tel: +966-11-2882601 http://beautebijou.com Blank Boutique Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-2010033 Brioni Olaya St. Harvey Nichols Al Faisaliah Mall Tel: +966-11-2734444 www.harveynichols.com Hoss Intropia Tel: +966-11-4658122 Jacadi Boutique Garanada Center Hayat Mall Sahara Mall www.jacadi.us La-Boutique Al Nahda Rd. Facebook: La-Boutique Riyadh
Sada Shop (online) Tel: +966-11-4411940 www.sadashop.com Stache Tel: +966-11-4656333 Terra Eclat Jewellery by Ranyah Seraj Mob: +966-543768585 Mob: +966-542988187 info@terra-eclat.com www.terra-eclat.com The Art of Living #4 Serecon Building Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4610533 www. theartofliving1999.com
Ajlan & Bros Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4665555 www.ajlanbros.com Lomar Thobe Localizer Mall Tel: +966-11-2170094 www.lomarthobe.com
EVENT PLANNERS Lollipop Prince Mohammad Bin Abdul Aziz St. Mob: +966-508916441 Luxury Events Mob: +966-567893966
Z Boutique Garanada Center Olaya Mall
Ghala Events Tel: +966 55 5597951 www.ghalaevents.com
BRIDAL & EVENING DRESSES
FLORISTS
Al Falah Tel: 920001678 Airebarcelona Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-2884807 Basma Al-Jazaery Orouba St. Mystique Kingdom Mall Tel: +966-11-2112592 Princess Fashion Olaya St. Rusais Center Mob: +966-562289459
La Coquette Kingdom Centre
Pronovias Olaya St. Modern Us Designers Tel: +966-11-4163410 Olaya St. Rosa Clara Tel: +966-11-4612079 Olaya St. www.riyadhdress.com Tel: +966-11-4652677 Montblanc King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2111080 www.montblanc.com
Silver Dew Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-4197153
Queen of Spades Al Faisaliah Mall www.queenof spadesstore.com
CUSTOM THOBES
Al Gaba Flowers Orouba St. Mob: +966-502017058 Arawla Musaed Al Angari St. Mob: +966-508085546 Lamar Safwa Center Mob: +966-555505441 Nardeen Mob: +966-507976733 Spring Rose Tel: +966-11-2167777
ChenOne Home Olaya St. Cities Centria Mall Tel: +966-11-2180007 Dar Al Hadaya Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2155550 Hoshan Furniture Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2933939 Ikea East Ring Rd. Exit 16 Tel: +966-11-2442233 Jazira Interiors King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4632631 Jazira Projects King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4632631 KA International King Fahad Rd. Tel: 920001216 Miladora Furniture King Fahad Rd. Tel: 920003277 Morocco Line Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2816612 Razin Tahlia St. The Classics Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4611888 The White House King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4615332
Spring’s Wedding Musaed Al Angari St. Tel: +966-11-2791024
Traditionals King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2012300
Style Flower Musaed Al Angari St. Mob: +966-504237071
STUDIOS
HOME FURNITURE
FASHION & SHOPPING DIRECTORY
BALLOONS
AD Advertising Sulaimaneya St. Safwa Center Tel: +966-11-4665111
@ Room Tel: +966-11-2298457
Glamour Shots Panorama Mall Tel: +966-11-2814326
Ayar Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4612757
Souvenir Prince Sultan St. Tel: +966-11-2199919 DESTINATION RIYADH 81
RESTAURANTS DIRECTORY
AMERICAN Chili’s Tahliah St. Tel: +966-11-2934849 Grilled Bell Pepper Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2814747 Johnny Rockets Tahliah St. Tel: +966-11-2016667
Chocolate Studio Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4657476
Diwan Cafe’ Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4833595
Buffalo’s Tahliah St. Tel: +966-11-2792123
Chocoline Olaya Main Rd. Tel: +966-11-4641172
Java Cafe’ Old Airport Rd. Tel: +966-11-4773582
Burgerizzr King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4874477
Ganache Faisaliyyah Mall Tel: +966-11-2734337
Maui Wowi Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4616363
Burger Hut Al Munisiyah, Al Thumamah Rd. Mob: +966-545356463
Papparoti Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2936452
Burger King Al Ahsaa Rd. Tel: +966-11-4732506
Pardon Cafe’ Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4 160933
Elevation Burger Tahliah St. Tel: +966-11-2885859
Kalimat Thalateen St. Tel: +966-11-2885511
Outback Steakhouse La Bouchee Localizer Mall Prince Sultan St. Tel: +966-11-2174633 Tel: +966-11-2190099 Steak House Lateen Al Thalateen St. Tel: +920011999 Tel: +966-11-4649638 Le Notre Boutique The Pancake House Prince Sultan St. King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4651465 Tel: +966-11-2016816 Tony Romas Hayat Mall Tel: +966-11-4649178
La Reine Chocolate Ubadah bin Samit St. Tel: +966-11-2272000
BRAZILIAN
Patchi Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4834464
IL Terrazzo Al Faisaliah Hotel Tel: +966-11-2732222
ARMENIAN Al Mayass Oasis Complex, Orouba Rd. Mob: +966-503753333
So Thalateen St. Tel: +966-11-4629229 Synphytun Chocolate Tel: +966-11-2931813
COFFEE & TEA SHOPS
Lusin Restaurant Centeria Mall. Tel: +966-11-2939800
Areej Art Cafe’ Centria Mall Tel: +966-11-4162990
CHOCOLATES
Bateel Across Localizer Mall Tel: +966-11-2936240
Alpina Chocolate King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2013452 Cannelle Prince Sultan St. Tel: +966-11-4664491 Chocolate Dream Candy Bouquet Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4197237
82 DESTINATION RIYADH
Cafe’ Blanc Prince Mohamad Bin Abdulaziz St. Tel: +966-11-4633426 Cafe’ Pascucci Tahllia Tel: +966-11-4620555 Colony Coffee Sultan Bin Salman St. Mob: +966-597452311
Richony Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-8801062
Fatburger Bustan Center, Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2154176
Shangai Cafe’ Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2934734
Golden Saj Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-4807441
Tea Lounge Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115000
Hardee’s Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-2929900
The Diamond Cafe’ Localizer Mall Tel: +966-11-2170125 Tutti Cafe’ Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2160666 Versai Cafe ‘ Exit 4 Tel: +966-11-4703853 YmmY Riyadh Gallery Mob: +966-553333998
FAST FOOD Al Tazaj King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-2254769 Baby Burger Imam Rd. Tel: +966-11-4941129 Breakfast to Breakfast Tahliah St. Tel: +966-11-2178233
Herfy Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-4816826 Hotdog Express Al Ahsaa St. Tel: +966-11-2912565 Hungry Burger Tel: +966-11-5485999 Jan Burger King Abdul Aziz St. Tel: 920006765 Johnny Rockets Tahliah St. Tel: +966-11-2016667 Jollibee 2nd Floor, Al Rajhi Building Tel: +966-11-4057420 KFC Takhasoussi St. Tel: 920021111 Kudu Al Muhamadiyyah Dist. Tel: 920006999
Centro Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4658488
Mama Noura Dabab St., Suleimania Tel: +966-11-4628144
Cocos Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2939444 Cristal Al Faisaliah Hotel Tel: +966-11-2732222
Manoosha Localizer Mall Tel: +966-11-2190491
Elements Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115500
McDonald’s Al Ahsaa Rd. Tel: 920000001
Hediard Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2173933
My Burger Imam Mohamed bn Saud Road-Exit 9 Tel: +966-11-4503324
La Brasserie Al Faisaliah Tower Tel: +966-11-2732222
My Way Uruba St. Tel: +966-11-4643824
Living Colors Faisaliyah Tower Tel: +966-11-2734410
Panini Prince Turki Al’awl Rd. Tel: +966-11-4809909 Panino’s Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2734388 Penguin Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-4829843 Quiznos Sub King Saud University Tel: +966-11-4824741 Saj Al Balad Jaber St., King Saud University Shuneez Tahliah St. Tel: +966-11-4648989 Texas Chicken Turki bin Abdulaziz Rd. Tel: +966-11-2545454 The Sandwich Co. King Abdullah Rd. Mob: +966-558442255
RESTAURANTS DIRECTORY
Little Caesars Al Ahsa St. Tel: +966-11-4765112
Lobby Lounge Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115591
Cafe’ Lenotre Centria Mall. Tel: +966-11-2791108 L’ecluse Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4657648 Le Relais de l’Entrecote Almas Plaza. Tel: +966-11-4615058
FUSION Pizza Fusion Thalateen St. Tel: +966-11-4633329
ICE CREAM Baskin Robbins Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4801138
FRENCH
Fresh Berry Garnada Mall Tel: +966-11-2535587
Apetit Kitchen
Fresh & Tangy
Tahlia St. Hayat Mall Tel: +966-11-4656491 Mob: +966-559333344
Marble Slab Creamery Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4538746 Pink Berry Garnada Mall Tel: +966-11-2534783
INTERNATIONAL Al Bustan Sheraton Riyadh, King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4543300 Al Dana Holiday Inn Hotel Tel: +966-11-4612000 Al Diwan Al Sahara Hotel Tel: +966-11-2204500 Al Orjouan Makkah Rd., inside The Ritz Carlton Tel: +966-11-8028020
Mirage Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4834127 Oasis Grill Hilton Garden Inn Tel: +966-11-2935533 Panoramic Makarem Riyadh Hotel Tel: +966-11-2204500 Pavillion Intercontinental Hotel Tel: +966-11-4655000 Russian Corner Olaya, Abdullah Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-4658387 Senses Luthan Hotel Tel: +966-11-4807799 Sizzler House Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4661133 Spazio Kingdom Tower77th Floor Tel: +966-11-2111180
Cafe Ceramique Sahara Mall Tel: +966-11-4520677 DESTINATION RIYADH 83
The Globe Al Faisaliah Tower Tel: +966-11-2732222
La Campagna Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4624339
Rosso Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115500
Al Mansaf Al Sulamaniyya Tel: +966-11-4630345
The Lounge Sheraton Riyadh, King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4543300
La Casta Al Rahmaniya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4198016
Rossopomodoro Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2939565
Al Nakheel Al Khozama Center Tel: +966-11-4654650
La Cucina Al Faisaliah Hotel Tel: +966-11-2732222
Santino’s Hayat Mall Tel: +966-11-2057497
Al Naseem Marriott Hotel Tel: +966-11-4779300
Trader Vics Panorama Mall Tel: +966-11-2814782
La Piazza Sheraton Riyadh, King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4543300
Cafe Blanc Prince Mohamad Bin Abdulaziz St. Tel: +966-11-4633426
Waterlemon Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2194444
Liolimpo Al Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-4166222
SPAZIO 77 77th floor in Kingdom Tower-Riyadh Tel: +966-11-2111888 Tel: +966-11-2111181
IRANIAN
MBCo Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-2936506
The Windrose Al Faisaliah Hotel Tel: +966-11-2732222
Sheraz Abdullah Bin Sulaiman Bin Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-4655886
Nino Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2016662
Squisito King Fahad Rd., Across Ovotel Tel: +966-11-2160111 The Pizza Company Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4642952 Vecchia Roma Al Sulamaniyyah
ITALIAN
Z Pizza Piatto Exit 5, Northern Ring Rd. King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4881199 Tel: +966-11-2006868
Al Forno King Abdullah Rd. Mob: +966-558442255
Pizza Era King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4542233
Amore Tahlia St., Olaya Intersection Tel: +966-11-4653082
Pizza Inn Dabbab St., Opposite Medical City Tel: 920001601
Anthurium Abdulla Alhamdan St. Tel: +966-11-4661473
Pizza Roma Abdullah Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-4629032
Azzurro The Ritz Carlton Hotel Tel: +966-11-8028020
Pizza Stockholm King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-2811888
Cento Per Cento Olaya Rd., Behind Jarir Tel: +966-11-4644159
Pizzeria Napoli Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz St. Tel: +966-11-2172288
Da Pino Al Khozama Center Tel: +966-11-2732222 Il Gabbiano Olaya Dist. Tel: +966-11-4616066 L’Olivio Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4634240 84 DESTINATION RIYADH
Quattro Four Seasons Hotel Tel: +966-11-2115599 Roma Mussa Bin Nusair St. Tel: +966-11-4641133 Roma Way Al Rabwah, Othaim Mall Tel: 920000129
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
Eatzah Al Ghaz St. Mob: +966-531224433 Fairouz Garden King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2167171 Gad Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4641212 Garden Barbecue Hotel Al Khozama Tel: +966-11-2732222 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.) Mama Noura Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-4622195 Mareez King Abdullah St. Tel: +966-11-4508877
MIDDLEEASTERN
Shawerma House Prince Mamdouh St. Tel: +966-11-2191999
Abdul Wahab Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2934111
Shawermama Abdullah Bin Rawaha St Tel: +966-11-2936644
Al Haj Dawood Imam Saud St. Tel: +966-11-4943691
Sit Al Sham Prince Sultan St. Tel: 920000399
Yamal Al Sham Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4613292
Marhaba Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4622070
KOREAN:
Samurai Faisaliah Mall and Kingdom Mall Tel: +966-11-2734386
Korean Palace Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-4198878
Shogun Radisson Blu Hotel Tel: +966-11-4791234
INDIAN:
Sushi Yoshi Al Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-8120055
ORIENTAL
Aladdin Kingdom Center Tel: +966-11-2112150
Tokyo Ouruba St. Tel: +966-11-4605672
Avadh Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4654109 Copper Chandni Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4167000
SAUDI Al Sudda Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4800111
Crown Garden Suliamaniyah Tel: +966-11-4616334
Shawaya House Khalid Bin Al Waleed St. Mob: +966-557819214
Darbar Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2930249
Sheikh Al Mandy Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-4644099
Indian Garden Riyadh Gallery Tel: +966-11-2161112 Indian Style Sheikh Abdullah Al Angary St. Tel: +966-11-4561138 Indian Summer Suliamaniyah Tel: +966-11-4652328 Red Onion Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-2176644 Tamarind Prince Faisal Bin Turki St. Tel: +966-11-4738770 Tandoor Al Ahsa St. Tel: +966-11-4734531 Tulaitelah Al Wazarat Dist. Tel: +966-11-4082968
CHINESE: Canton Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4520584
SEA FOOD 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 Yummy Wok Takhasoussi St. Tel: +966-11-4889166
JAPANESE: Furusato Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4657648 Hayat Prince Mansoor bin Abdul Aziz St. Tel: +966-11-4042655 Khan’s Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al Hamdan St. Tel: +966-11-2937880 La Sani King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4655666
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 London Fish & Chips Tel: +966-11-2102480 Jasmin White Palace White Palace Hotel Tel: +966-11-4787800 DESTINATION RIYADH 85
SWEETS/ DESSERTS & BAKERIES Al Hallab Tel: +966-11-4725559 Anoosh Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4609588 Al-Rabwa Tel: +966-11-4971649 Al-Hamra Tel: +966-11-2784297 Al-Bade’ah Tel: +996-11-2679689 Khurais Rd. Tel: +996-11-2080833 Ben’s Cookies Exit 7 Tel: +966-11-2084862 Cookies N’ Cream Faisalyah Mall Crepaway Bustan Center, Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2010505 Diplomat Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-4652411 Dixie Cream Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4661192
86 DESTINATION RIYADH
Anatolia Turkish Grill Granada Mall. Tel: +966-11-2535527
Le Croissant Shop Sulaimania, Al-Ameer Mamdouh St. Tel: +966-11-4655328
Assaraya Thalateen St. Tel: +966-11-4649336
Maya Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2113311
Caravan Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4658856 Köşebaşı Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-2886418
TO ADVERTISE
Munch Bakery Abdullah Al Hamdan St. Tel: 920015010
Contact us at
Tel: +966 - 556899914 Email: drsales@rummancompany.com
Pane Piatto Al Thalateen St. Tel: +966-11-4168882 Rotiboy Arabia Jarir Mall, Omar bin Abdulaziz Road Tel: +966-11-2886546 www.rotiboyarabia.com Salehia Dates King Fahad Rd. Tel: 8004308888 Sugar Dreamin Khurais Rd. Mob: +966-553383749 Sugar Sprinkles Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2290505
Talah For Dates Oruba St. Edible Arrangements Tel: +966-11-2173303 Prince Sultan St. Tmreya Tel: +966-11-4643131 Prince Sultan St. French Corner Tel: 920000652 Dabab St. Torta & more Tel: +966-11-4645322 Al Hassan Ben Ali St. Golden Brown Bakery Tel: +966-11-2080003 Prince Sultan bin Wooden Bakery Abdul Aziz St. Intersection of Saleh Mob: +966-569337314 El Din Al Ayoubi St. Kabbani Tel: +966-11-4725559 Takhassusi St. Yummy Tummy Tel: +966-11-4816892 Takhassusi St. Kitsch Cupcakes Tel: +966-11-4538720 Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4633838 Krispy Kreme Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4610409
TURKISH
Laduree Centria Mall Tel: +966-11-2885075
Al Maktaba Bookstore Sitteen St. Al Raqeem Bookstore Olaya Main St. Al Shagrey Bookstore Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4611717
Reema Bookstore Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4705228 Tuttie Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4613976
FUN & RECREATION Alem Al Ibdaa King Abdul Aziz Rd.
My Home Flower King Abdul Aziz Rd. Occasions Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4654555 Papermoon Sahara Mall Tel: +966-11-4520393 Party Time Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4659101
Al Wataniyah Bookstore Aswaq Al Majd Tel: +966-11-4450619
The Final Touch Alfa Cassettes King Fahad Rd. Batha Commercial Center Tel: +966-11-4641023 Anamel Arts of The Gift Ceremics Thalatheen St. Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4615859 Arts Al Andalus Center
Dar Al Hdrama Jareer St. Tel: +966-11-4788510
Art Line Gallery Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4622573
Dar Al Qasem King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4092000
China Town Euromarche
Al Sharq Bookstore Al Malaz Tel: +966-11-4720538
Dar Al Minhaj for Used Books Prince Abdullah Rd. Dar Al Shawaf Library Thalatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4622667 Dar Elem Bookstore Prince Abdullah Rd. Golden Pages Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4631917 Islamic Book Center Sitteen St. Jarir Bookstore Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4626000 Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-2645807 Medical Bookstore Prince Abdullah Rd. Najd Bookstore Jareer St. Obekan Bookstore King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4160018
Cool Prince Abdullah Rd. Dar Al Maskukat Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4651166 Eastern Gift House Oruba Plaza Fantastic World Thalatheen St. Gift House Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4661316 GIft Village King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4620219 Heritage Touch Abdullah Bin Sulaiman Al Hamdan Tel: +966-11-4612930 Konouz Tahlia St. Luxury Events Mob: +966-509421214 Magic Art Sahara Mall
LIBRARIES
Al Sewaidi Sudair St. Tel: +966-11-4251263 Dar Ben Jawzi Prince Saud bin Mohammed St. Tel: +966-11-2107228 King Abdul Aziz Library King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4050188 King Fahad National Library King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4891455 The Centeral Talking Liberary Dabab St. Tel: +966-11-4020997
The Art Of Photography Abu Bakr Al Sedeeq Rd. Tel: +966-11-4944614 The Bazaar Akkariya Buildings The Orientalist House Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4634228 Tunisen Antique House Euromarche Village Gallery Thalatheen St. Wonder Castle Corporation Dabbab St. Zamani Art Gallery Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4613057 Zekrayat Frames Tahlia St.
STUDIOS Luxury Pictures Mob: +966-56595669
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTORY
BOOKSTORES
MUSEUMS & ART VENUES 7 Star Art Gallery Akkariya Buildings Art Vision Kingdom Centre Tel: +966-11-2112412 Lamsa Exhibition Al Faisaliah Tel: +966-11-2734239
DESTINATION RIYADH 87
TRAVEL DIRECTORY
AIRLINES Air Arabia Tel: 920013322 www.airarabia.com Air Canada Tel: +966-11-4772228 www.aircanada.ca
Gulf Air Tel: +966-11-4626666 www.gulfair.com
Royal Air Morocco Tel: +966-11-47741100 www.royalairmaroc.com
TRAVEL AGENCIES
Japan Airlines–JAL Tel: +966-11-4645056 www.jal.com
Royal Jordanian Tel: +966-11-2180850 www.rj.com
ABC Travel Agency & Cargo Tel: +966-11-4631600
Saudi Arabian Kenya Airways Airlines Tel: +966-11-4772228 Air France www.kenya-airways.com Tel: 920022222 www.saudiairlines.com Tel: +966-11-2885218 KLM Royal Dutch www.airfrance.com Singapore Airlines Airlines Tel: +966-11-4734102 Air India Tel: +966-11-4771026 www.singaporeair.com Tel: +966-11-4786409 www.klm.com www.airindia.com South African Korean Air Airways – SAA Air Nigeria Tel: +966-11-4658222 Tel: +966-11-4633133 Tel: +966-11-4626165 www.koreanair.com www.flysaa.com www.myairnigeria.com Kuwait Airways SriLankan Airlines American Airlines–AA Tel: +966-11-4631218 www.srilankan.lk Tel: +966-11-4625993 www.kuwait-airways.com Sudan Airways www.aa.com Lufthansa Tel: +966-11-4720040 Biman Bangladesh Tel: 8001245550 www.sudanair.com Airlines www.lufthansa.com Swiss Air Tel: +966-11-4623537 Malaysia Airlines Tel: +966-11-4789745 www.biman-airlines.com Tel: +966-11-4784039 www.swissair.com British Airways www.malaysiaairlines.com TAM Brazilian Tel: +966-11-4645550 Middle East Airlines Airlines www.britishairways.com Tel: +966-11-4633133 Tel: +966-11-4614670 www.tam.com.br Cyprus Airways www.mea.com.lb Tel: +966-11-4640391 TAROM Romanian Nas Air www.cyprusair.com Airlines Tel: +966-11-2171800 Tel: +966-11-5788935 Delta Airlines www.flynas.com www.tarom.ro Tel: +966-11-4613688 Olympic Air www.delta.com Thai Airways Tel: +966-11-4644596 Tel: +966-11-4766766 Egypt Air www.olympicair.com www.thaiairways.com Tel: +966-11-4784004 Oman Air www.egyptair.com Tunis Air Tel: +966-11-4733133 Tel: +966-11-4626165 Emirates Airlines www.omanair.com www.tunisair.com Tel: +966-11-4655485 Pakistan Turkish Airlines www.emirates.com INT’L Airlines Tel: +966-11-4000287 Ethiopian Airlines Tel: +966-11-4659600 www.turkishairlines.com Tel: +966-11-4782140 www.piac.com.pk United Airlines www.flyethiopian.com Philippine Airlines Tel: +966-11-4772228 Etihad Airways Tel: +966-11-2160530 www.united.com Tel: +966-11-4197722 www.philippine Yemenia Airways www.etihadairways.com airlines.com Tel: +966-11-4039282 Garuda Indonesia Qantas Airways www.yemenia.com Tel: +966-11-2937690 Tel: +966-11-4772228 www.garudawww.qantas.com.au indonesia.com Qatar Airways German wings Airlines Tel: +966-11-21180424 Tel: +966-11-4632004 www.qatarairways.com www.germanwings.com
88 DESTINATION RIYADH
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 Al Rasheed Awnings Factory Tel: +966-11-4059031 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 Fursan Travel Tel: 920000442 www.fursan.com.sa Haya Tour Al Nozha Dist. Tel: +966-11-4507176
My Holiday Travel & Tourism Tel: 920010087 www.myholiday.com.sa
Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel Orubah Road Tel: +966-11-2834777 Coral Gulf Riyadh King Abdul Aziz St., Ministries Area Tel: +966-11-4121000
Rixon Tour Network Corp Executive Tel: 920029993 Deira Hotel www.myrtn.com Al Batha St. Travel Port Tel: +966-11-4141500 Tel: +966-11-4163810 Courtyard Riyadh www.travelport.com Diplomatic Quarter The Orientalist Al-Hada Dist., House Abdullah bin Hothafa St. Tel: +966-11-4634228 Tel: +966-11-2817300 Top Travel Crowne Plaza Tel: +966-11-4641969 Hotel Riyadh Minha Tunisen Antique House Tel: +966-11-4825247 Village Gallery Tel: +966-11-4631089 Wonder Castle Corporation Tel: +966-11-2790482 Zahid Travel Group Tel: +966-11-4602829 www.zahidtravel.com Zahran Air Travel & Cargo Co. Tel: +966-11-4659614 Zamani Art Gallery Tel: +966-11-4613057 Zekrayat Frames Tel: +966-11-4661196
HOTELS Al Faisaliah Rosewood Hotel King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2732000 Al Khozama Hotel Olaya Rd. Tel: +966-11-4654650
Old Airport Rd. Tel: +966-11-8749200
Four Seasons Hotel Kingdom Center Tel: +966-11-2115000 Golden Tulip Andalusia Olaya Rd. Tel: +966-11-4611000 Holiday Inn Riyadh Izdihar Abdulwahab Bin Abdullah St., Unit One Tel: +966-11-4625000
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 Radisson Blu Hotel Al Mubarakiah Plaza King Abdul Aziz St. Tel: +966-11-4791234 Riyadh Marriott Hotel Al Maather St. Tel: +966-11-4779300 Riyadh Palace Hotel Ministries Area Tel: +966-11-4054444
TRAVEL DIRECTORY
Kingdom Wings Travel Agency Tel: +966-11-4625544
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
InterContinental Riyadh Al Maather St. Tel: +966-11-4655000 Luthan Hotel And Spa A Women Only Hotel Orubah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4807799 Madareem Crown Hotel King Khalid International Airport Rd. Tel: +966-11-2758888 Makarim Riyadh Hotel Near To King Khalid International Airport Tel: +966-11-2204500
DESTINATION RIYADH 89
HEALTH DIRECTORY
BEAUTY CLINICS Al Manihal Center Diplomatic Quarter Tel: +966-11-4881069 Al Safeer Tel: +966-11-2050810 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
Mayiez Medical Olaya Tel: +966-11-2169999 Pearl’s Smile Sulaimaniya Tel: +966-11-4646334 Riyadh Medical Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-4653060 Saudi Sugeons Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4653030 SSC Tel: +966-11-2335000 Uranus Medical Orouba St. Tel: +966-11-4657000
White Wing Medical Takhassusi St. FOUR Salon & Nail Spa Tel: +966-11-4834286 Diplomatic Quarter DENTAL Tel: +966-11-2014444 CLINICS www.www.four.com.sa Malesa Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4888831 Med Art Clinics Olaya Main St. Tel: 920000045
Aagi Dental Center Tel: +966-11-2080107 Dima Dental Tahlia St. Tel: +966-11-4661200
FITNESS CENTERS KIDS
My Gym Panorama Mall Tel: +966-11-42814870
MEN
Apple Fitness Tel: +966-11-4538800 Body Masters Tel: 920000626 Tel: +966-11-4875531 Fitness Time Tel: 920003131
Dallah Hospital Tel: +966-11-4720777
Up Scale Club King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-4871502
Dr. Abdul Rahman Al Mishari Hospital
WOMEN
Tel: +966-11-4657700 http://drabdulrahman almishari.com.sa
Al Manihal Center Diplomatic Quarter Tel: +966-11-4881069 Curves Olaya St. Tel: +966-11-4633219
Noble Smile Abdullah Al Angary St. Tel: +966 11 4197740
The British Center King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-2795555
Ramah Dental Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4800931
Lumiere Olaya Tel: +966-11-2169030
CLINICS
Sanaya Dental Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-2174888
Scented Tel: +966-11-2112003
ENT Center Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4802229 90 DESTINATION RIYADH
Al Jafel Hospital Western Ring Rd. Tel: +966-11-4322222 www.aljafelhospital.com
Life Fitness Tel: +966-11-2061133
Platinium Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-2097777
Czech Center Infront of King Saud University Tel: 920002737
Al Hammadi Hospital Khalid ibn Yazid Muawiyah St. Tel: +966-11-4643312 www.hammadi.com
Al-Mouwasat Hospital Western Ring Rd., Exit 114 Tel: +966-11-4455555
Gama Dental Clinic King Abdulaziz Road Tel: +966-11- 4542929 Mob: +966-534542929
Consulting Center Tel: +966-11-4555545
Al Falah INT’L Tel: +966-11-4463737 www.alfalah.com.sa
Gold’s Gym Tel: +966-11-6912077
Obagi Hospital Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4627111
Attadawe King Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-2780211
Alamal Complex for Mental Health Al Khuzami Dist. Tel: +966-11-4804548 www.alamal.med.sa
Kinetico Tel: +966-11-2815595 Mob: + 966-530034010 Luthan Hotel & Spa Tel: +966-11-4807799
Yibreen Off of Takhassusi St.
EYE CARE
Tel: +966-11-4411115
Al Hokama Mallaz Tel: +966-11-4797777
HOSPITALS
Menshaf Eye care Al Rawda Mob: +966-565869059
ABAS Medical Group Rawda-Hamra-Dabab Tel: 920000172
The Eye Center Tel: +966-11-4623094 www.eyecenter.com.sa
ADMA Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4660000
Olaya Dist.
Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Olaya Medical Complex Tel: +966-11-4622224 www.drsulaiman alhabib.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 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 King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital Oruba Branch St. Tel: +966-11-4821234 www.kkesh.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 Prince Sultan Cardiac Center Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4783000 www.pscc.med.sa Riyadh Care Hospital Tel: +966-11-4933000 www.riyadhcare.com Riyadh Military Makkah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4791000 www.rmh.med.sa 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 Specialized M.C.H King Fahad Rd. Tel: +966-11-41164000 Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City Exit 6 Tel: +966-11-5620000
PHARMACIES 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 Al Mutanabbi Jareer St. Tel: +966-11-2910981 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
Al Shamsia Jamal Center Tel: +966-11-4057296
Riyadh Corner Jareer St. Tel: +966-11-4780759
Arac Health Care Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4645107
Sara Spectrum Medical Pharmacy Akkariya Buildings Tel: +966-11-4601018
Asir Pharmacy Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4811629 Dar Al Dana Abdullah Bin Sulaiman Al Hamdan Tel: +966-11-4643373
University Pharmacy Akkariya Buildings Tel: +966-11-4191944
Mazin Pharmacy Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4624562
University (2) Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4626338
Medical & Pharmaceutical Service Dabbab St. Tel: +966-11-4629680
Wardat Al-Oroba Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4622904
Medicine Time Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4569140
Whites Pharmacy Tel: +966-11-2886877 / 4895994/ 4897750/ 4897751 www.whites.net
Mohammmed Al Hozaimi Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4628758
Zahrat Al Rawda Pharmacy Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4804935
Nabra Pharmacy Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4887329
Zahrat Sami Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4653060
Nazaar Pharmacy Al Awais Market Tel: +966-11-4541408
Al Riyadh Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4643108
NEO (Neointernational) Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4615089
Al Saggaf Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4640716
Nissah Pharmacy Al-Rajhi Five Buildings Tel: +966-11-4041573
Al Saggaf 25 Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4645274
Noorana Pharmacy Al Malaz Tel: +966-11-4785006
Al Shameeah Takhassusi St. Tel: +966-11-4880595
Olaya International Olaya Main St. Tel: +966-11-4160349
Al Teriaq Prince Abdullah Rd. Tel: +966-11-4828289 Al Thalatheen Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4623529
Shrazad Sitteen St. Tel: +966-11-4787047
HEALTH DIRECTORY
King Saud Medical City Al Imam Abdul Aziz ibn Saud St. Tel: +966-11-4355555 www.ksmc.med.sa
Prince Pharmacy Talatheen St. Tel: +966-11-4611418
0544408585
Rajaa Pharmacy 2 Oruba St. Tel: +966-11-4624942 DESTINATION RIYADH 91
Accommodations Close to the Two Holy Mosques:
RELIGIOUS DIRECTORY
MADINAH
Dar Al-Taqwa InterContinental Al Ameen Crom Hotel Off Al Siteen St. Markazeyah Al Gharbiyah Tel: +966-14-8291111 Tel: +966-14-8198000 Durrat Andalus Al Ansar Golden Hotel Few steps away from King Fahad St. Al Haram Tel: +966-14-8291114 Tel: +966-14-8290177 Green Palace Hotel Al Ansar New Place Abi Zar St. Al Siteen St. Tel: +966-14-8269040 Tel: +966-14-8207770 Hilton Madinah Al Haram Hotel King Fahad Road Abi Zar Road Few steps away from Tel: +966-14-8182300 Al Haram Tel: +966-14-8201000 AL Karam Hotel King Abdulaziz St. Hotel Elaf Taibah Tel: +966-14-8155500 Saad Bin Maaz St.
Tel: +966-14-8180050 Al Madinah Crom Markazeyah Al Gharbiyah Le Meridien Madinah Tel: +966-14-8192020 Khalid Bin El Waleed St. Tel: +966-14-8460777 Andalus Classy Hotel Marriott Madinah King Fahad St. Omer Ibn Al Khatab St. Tel: +966-14-8290000 Tel: +966-14-8180000 Andalus Dar Movenpick Al Khair Hotel In front of Al Safeya Few steps away from Bridge, Opposite Al Haram Al Haram Tel: +966-14-8181114 Tel: +966-14-8188888 Anwar Al Madinah Ramada Al Hamra Movenpick Abi Zar St. The Courtyard of Tel: +966-14-8208084 Al Haram Tel: +966-14-8181000 Ramada Al Qibla Islamic Court St. Barakat Andalus Tel: +966-14-8160008 Al Siteen St. Tel: +966-14-8208884
Dallah Taibah Hotel King Fahad St., crossing Al-Siteen St. Tel: +966-14-8290180 Dar Al Hijra InterContinental King Fahad St. Tel: +966-14-8207777 Dar AL Iman InterContinental Off Al Siteen St. Tel: +966-14-8206666
92 DESTINATION RIYADH
The Madinah Oberoi Abi Zar St. Tel: +966-14-8282222
MAKKAH Ajyad Makkah Ibrahim Al Khalil St. Tel: +966-12-5720500 Al Jaad Crom Hotel Naqa Al Sulaimaneyah St. Tel: +966-12-5705555 Al Shohada Hotel Ajyad St. Tel: +966-12-5744401 Dar Al Manasek Hotel Ibrahim Al Khalil St. Tel: +966-12-5394444 Elaf Ajyad Hotel Al Masafi St. Tel: +966-12-5722200 Elaf Al Sud Hotel Ajayad Al Sud St. Tel: +966-12-5708586
Mercure Grand Um Al Qura Al Jamaiza St. Tel: +966-12-5702212 Mercure Hibatullah Hotel Um Al Qura St. Tel: +966-12-5498855 Raffles Makkah Palace King Abdulaziz Endowment Tel: +966-12-5717888 Swissotel Makkah King Abdulaziz Endowment Tel: +966-12-5718000 Zam Zam Grand Suites Adjiad St. Tel: +966-12-5715555
Elaf Kindah Hotel Al Messyaal St. Tel: +966-12-5745555 Hilton Makkah & Towers Hijrah St. Tel: +966-12-5340000 InterContinental Dar Al Tawhid Ibrahim Al Khalil St. Tel: +966-12-5411111 Le Meridien Makkah Ajyad St. Tel: +966-12-5751111 Le Meridien Towers Hotel Rawabi Ajyad Road Tel: +966-12-5399999 Makkah Clock Royal Tower King Abdulaziz Endowment Tel: +966-12-5717777 Manazel Al Ain Mesrcure Al Azizia St. Tel: +966-12-5578000
Hajj & Umrah Visa: www.hajinformation.com
Useful websites:
1- www.biblioislam.net 2- www.tvquran.com 3- www.rasoulallah.net 4- www.islamonline.com 5- www.quranexplorer.com 6- www.islam-guide.com 7- www.islamweb.net 8- www.islamicity.com 9- www.theholyquran.org 10- www.al-mawrid.org
CAR AGENCIES
Al inma Bank Tel: +966-11-2185000 www.alinma.com
Porsche Tel: +966-11-4667788
Audi Tel: +966-11-4660044
RAM Khurais Rd. & Dabbab St. Tel: +966-11-2332222
Al Jazira Bank Tel: +966-11-4317474 www.baj.com.sa
BG Khurais Rd. Exit 30 Tel: +966-11-2300000 BMW Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-2391000
Al Rajhi Bank Tel: +966-11-4603333 www.alrajhibank.com.sa Cadillac Arab National Bank Tel: +966-11-4924048 Tel: +966-11-4029000 Chevrolet www.anb.com.sa Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-4454040 Bank Al Bilad Tel: +966-11-4971905 Chrysler www.bankalbilad.com Khurais Rd. & Dabbab St. Banque Saudi Fransi Tel: +966-11-2332222 Tel: +966-11-2899999 Dodge www.alfransi.com.sa Khurais Rd. & Dabbab St. Tel: +966-11-2332222 National Fuso Commercial Bank Tel: 8002440060 Tel: 920001000 www.alahli.com GMS Khurais Rd. Riyadh Bank Tel: +966-11-4454040 Tel: +966-11-4013030 www.riyadbank.com
SABB Tel: +966-11-2764356 www.sabb.com Samba Tel: 8001242000 www.samba.com
Renault Khurais Rd. Tel: 8002445050 Rolls Royce Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-2391000 Seat Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-2301515
COMPOUNDS Ishbilia Tel: +966-11-2406000 Mob: +966-593111389 www.ksacompounds.com Al Hamra Oasis Village Tel: +966-11-2490440 www.alhamra.com.sa
Skoda Tel: +966-11-2301515
Al Issa Compound Tel: +966-11-4918400
Subaru Tel: +966-11-2300000
Al Jazeera Bader Tel: +966-11-4921135 www.badercompound.com
Toyota Tel: +966-11-2486777 Volks Wagen Tel: 920000380 Volvo Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-4923539
Harley-Davidson North Ring Rd. Exit 5 Tel: +966-11-4554499
Unic Tel: +966-11-2300000
Honda Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-4454646
CAR RENTALS
Isuzu Tel: +966-11-2300000
Theeb Rent a Car Khurais Rd. Tel: 920000572
Al Falah Tel: 920001678
Al Moddarraj Saudi Hollandi Bank Tel: +966-11-2548500 Jeep Tel: +966-11-4779902 www.shb.com.sa Khurais Rd. & Dabbab St. Avis Tel: +966-11-2332222 Tel: +966-11-4884887 Lexus CAR Fahad Rd. Exit 9 Best Rent A Car ACCESSORIES King Tel: +966-11-4566600 Tel: 8001249955 3M Mazda Tel: +966-11-2884135 Diplomat Khurais Rd. Khurais Rd. Auto Gard Tel: +966-11-4968888 Tel: 920008008 Tel: +966-11-2924343 Mini Cooper EuropCar Llumar Khurais Rd. Al Ahsaa St. Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-2391000 Tel: +966-11-2912929 Tel: 920000153 Mitsubishi Red Cap Khurais Rd. Faz Khurais Rd. Prince Sultan St. Tel: 8002440060 Tel: +966-11-4913212 Tel: +966-11-2912679 Mopar Solar Control Khurais Rd. & Dabbab St. iCar Khurais Rd. Tel: +966-11-2332222 Tel: +966-11-4966633 Tel: +966-11-4561099 Sajil Peugeot Unique Your Car Tel: +966-11-4666614 Mob: +966-566225544 Tel: +966-11-4935222
Al Manar Tel: +966-11-2460100 Al Mohaeya Tel: +966-11-4821222
GENERAL DIRECTORY
Bank
Al Mostaqbal Homes Tel: +966-11-4816666 www.almostaqbal homes.com Al Nakheel Residence Tel: +966-11-4704191 Al Ola No 7 Tel: +966-11-4608095 Al Rabwa Al Rabwa Area, Exit 14 close to Nahda Rd. Mob: +966-544096296 www.almutlaq.com Al Rayan Residential Tel: +966-11-2089027 Al Waha Village Villas Rossas Tel: +966-11-4864711 Al Yamama Village Tel: +966-11-4012550 www.alyamamavillage .com Arab Investment Tel: +966-11-4823444 Arizona Golf Resort Tel: +966-11-2484444 www.agr.com.sa Asasco Village Tel: +966-11-4199000 DESTINATION RIYADH 93
GENERAL DIRECTORY
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 Eid Villas Tel: +966-11-2483366 www.eidvillas.com.sa Euro Compound Tel: +966-11-4780718 FAL Compound Tel: +966-11-2490091 www.falcompound.org Granada Village Tel: +966-11-2488387 Green City Olaya - Rahmaniah Dist. Mob: +966-559623393 www.gccompound. tripod.com Jadawel Compound Tel: +966-11-2406000
ROC Compound Tel: +966-11-2412800 www.roc.com.sa
DigiNet Tel: +966-11-4192009 www.digi.net.sa
Sahara Towers Tel: +966-11-4625666
GO Tel: 8111011180 www.go.com.sa
Seder Village Tel: +966-11-2280000 www.sedervillage.com
Gulfnet KSA Tel: +966-11-4628562 www.zajil.net
Star Compound Villas Rossas Tel: +966-11-4881139
Nesma Tel: +966-11-4633100 www.nesma.net.sa
Villas Rosas Al-Wadi Nour Net Tel: +966-11-4728900 Tel: +966-11-4881139 www.nour.net.sa http://villasrosasco.com NTG National Technology Group COURIER Tel: +966-11-4763777 www.ntg.com.sa Arabian Hala Tel: +966-11-4884887 Oger Tel www.hala.com.sa Tel: +966-11-4889826 www.ogersystems.com Aramex Tel: +966-11-4160353 PrimeNet www.aramex.com Tel: +966-11-4193000 www.prime.net.sa DHL Worldwide Express Saudi Internet Tel: +966-11-4654200 Company www.dhl.com.sa Tel: +966-11-4603031 FedEx www.sol.net.sa/en Tel: +966-11-4633999 www.fedex.com/sa Saudi Net Tel: +966-11-2180300 Overseas www.saudi.net.sa Courier Service Tel: +966-11-4647193 Shabakah Net www.ocstracking.com Tel: +966-11-4193193 www.ocscouner.com www.shabakah.net.sa UPS Global Tel: +966-11-4626655 EMBASSIES www.ups.com ALGERIA Tel: +966-11-4887171 DSL Net
BRUNEI Tel: +966-11-4560814 BURKINA FASO Tel: +966-11-4652244 CAMEROON Tel: +966-11-4880022 CANADA Tel: +966-11-4882288 CHINA Tel: +966-11-4832126 CZECH REPUBLIC Tel: +966-11-4503617 DENMARK Tel: +966-11-4880101 Ext 111163 DJIBOUTI Tel: +966-11-4543182 EGYPT Tel: +966-11-4810159 Tel: +966-11-4831458 ERITREA Tel: +966-11-4801731 ETHIOPIA Tel: +966-11-4824055 FINLAND Tel: +966-11-4881515 Ext 9 FRANCE Tel: +966-11-4881255 GABON Tel: +966-11-4567173 GAMBIA Tel: +966-11-2052158
ARGENTINA Tel: +966-11-4652600
GERMANY Tel: +966-11-4880700
AUSTRALIA Tel: +966-11-4887788
GHANA Tel: +966-11-4545122
Palm Court Tel: +966-11-4850288
Arabic Computer Systems (ACS) Tel: +966-11-4763777 www.acs.com.sa
AUSTRIA Tel: +966-11-4801217 BAHRAIN Tel: +966-11-4880044
GREECE Tel: +966-11-4801975
Ranco Village Tel: +966-11-4924411 www.ranvil.com
Atheer Tel: +966-11-4198000 www.atheer.net.sa
BANGLADESH Tel: +966-11-4195300
Riyadh Village Khurais Road, off exit 36 Tel: 08111010101 Mob: +966-541362462
Awal Tel: +966-11-4600111 www.awal.com.sa CYBERIA Tel: 8001248124 www.cyberia.net.sa
Kingdom City Tel: +966-11-2750275 www.kingdom-city.com Najd Compound Tel: +966-11- 2481040
94 DESTINATION RIYADH
Advance Telecom Company (ATC) Tel: +966-11-4601877 www.atc.com.sa
BELGIUM Tel: +966-11-4882888 BRAZIL Tel: +966-11-4880018 BRITAIN Tel: +966-11-4880077
GUINEA Tel: +966-11-4881121 HUNGARY Tel: +966-11-4546707 INDIA Tel: +966-11-4884144
OMAN Tel: +966-11-4823120
IRAN Tel: +966-11-4881444
PAKISTAN Tel: +966-11-4884111
IRELAND Tel: +966-11-4882300
PERU Tel: +966-11-4822474
ITALY Tel: +966-11-4881212
PHILIPPINES Tel: +966-11-4823559
JAPAN Tel: +966-11-4881100
PORTUGAL Tel: +966-11-4826964
JORDAN Tel: +966-11-4880071
QATAR Tel: +966-11-4825544
KENYA Tel: +966-11-4882484
RUSSIA Tel: +966-11-4811432
KOREA Tel: +966-11-4882211
SENEGAL Tel: +966-11-4880146
KUWAIT Tel: +966-11-4883500
SIERRA LEONE Tel: +966-11-4643982
LEBANON Tel: +966-11-4804060
SINGAPORE Tel: +966-11-4803855
MALAYSIA Tel: +966-11-4887100
SOUTH AFRICA Tel: +966-11-4429728
London Cab Club Tel: +966-11-4966670 http://londoncabclub .com
MALI Tel: +966-11-2290753
SPAIN Tel: +966-11-4880606
SAPTCO Tel: +966-11-2884400
MINISTRIES
MALTA Tel: +966-11-4615315
SRI LANKA Tel: +966-11-4608232
KINDERGARTENS
Agriculture Tel: +966-11-4016666
MAURITANIA Tel: +966-11-4646749
SUDAN Tel: +966-11-4887979
MEXICO Tel: +966-11-4808822
SWEDEN Tel: +966-11-8806700 Ext 204
MOROCCO Tel: +966-11-4826382 NEPAL Tel: +966-11-4645170 NETHERLANDS Tel: +966-11-4880011 NEW ZELAND Tel: +966-11-4887988 NIGERIA Tel: +966-11-4823024 NORWAY Tel: +966-11-4881904 Ext 300
SWITZERLAND Tel: +966-11-4881291 SYRIA Tel: +966-11-4887481 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
My Home Mob: +966-569598011 Play House Mob: +966-556365035 Play n Learn Mob: +966-564684094 SM Nursery Mob: +966-558391591
GROUND TRANSPORTATION
Super Kids Mob: +966-564460167 www.superkidseducation center.com
AILAF Tel: +966-11-2713377
Tarbia Pre-School Tel: +966-11-4199017
Blue Connect Tel: 920004948 www.the-blueconnect .com
Tiny Tots Mob: +966-580473602
Baby Day Care Mob: +966-582657594 Birds of Hope Mob: +966-569754506 British Islamic Tel: +966-11-4649666 www.britishislamic school.com Busybee Tel: +966-11-2193900 www.busybee.com.sa Dazzling Stars Mob: +966-545682945 First Step Mob: +966-500320566 Kids World Tel: +966-11-4006000 www.kidsworldschool.net
GENERAL DIRECTORY
Little Rosas Tel: +966-11-4865128
INDONESIA Tel: +966-11-4882282
Twinkle Kindergarten Mob: +966-559268188 White Rose Play Mob: +966-563296205
Civil Service Tel: +966-11-4026900 Commerce Tel: +966-11-4012220 Communications and Information Technology Tel: +966-11-4637225 Culture and Information Tel: +966-11-4014440 Defense Tel: +966-11-4785900 Education Tel: +966-11-4042888 Finance Tel: +966-11-4050000 Foreign Affairs Tel: +966-11-4067777 DESTINATION RIYADH 95
GENERAL DIRECTORY
Hajj Tel: +966-11-4022200 Health Tel: +966-11-4012220
American INT’L Mob: +966-567990096 www.aisr.org
SOCIAL UNIVERSITIES SERVICES ORGANIZATION Al Faisal University
Higher Education Tel: +966-11-4644444
British International Aberr Charity Tel: +966-11-2482387 Society www.britishschool riyadh.com Tel: +966-11-5448654
Industry Tel: +966-11-4772722
Dar Al Maarefah Tel: +966-11-2314010
Interior Tel: +966-11-4011944
Al Bir Charity Tel: +966-11-4056666
École Française Internationale de Riyad www.efi-riyad.com
Al Nahda Tel: +966-11-4650029 www.alnahda-ksa.org
Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance Tel: +966-11-4730401
EDUCON STUDY ABROAD Al Wafa Tel: +966-11-4650029 Tel: 920001338
Justice Tel: +966-11-4057777
Elite International Tel: +966-11-4627224
Labor and Social Affairs Tel: +966-11-4771480
Fursan Al Jazeerah Tel: +966-11-5457505
Charity Committe For Orphans Care www.ensan.org.sa
Water and Electricity Tel: +966-11-4016666
Charitable Society for Memorization of the Qura’an Tel: +920011799 International Indian www.qk.org.sa Boys Section Charity Ibn Baz Tel: +966-11-4934688 Organization www.iisriyadh.com Tel: +966-11-2293333 Girls Section www.alzwaj.org Tel: +966-11-2323248
Non-Profit Organization
King Faisal School Tel: +966-11-4820802 www.kfs.sch.sa
AFTA Society for ADHD (Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit) Tel: +966-11-4815455 Mob: +966-554559086 Mob: +966-530034981
King Saud INT’L Tel: +966-11-4633180 www.ksischool.com
Municipal and Rural Affairs Tel: +966-11-4415434 Transport Tel: +966-11-4042928
SCHOOLS & INSTITUTES Al Alameen INT’L Tel: +966-11-4649666 Al Amjad National Tel: +966-11-2494188
Future Window Tel: +966-11-2063371 http://fwis.edu.sa/
Kingdom School Tel: +966-11-2755555 www.kingdomschools. edu.sa Manahel Al Elm Tel: +966-11-4770419 Manarat Al Riyadh Tel: +966-11-4509916 http://maarif.com.sa Middle East Modern Education Tel: +966-11-4622815
Al Andalus National Najd National Tel: +966-11-4936585 Tel: +966-11-4914434 Nour Al Maaref Al Khaleej National Riyadh Tel: +966-11-2012112 Tel: +966-11-4028411 Al Olaya National www.riyadhschools Tel: +966-11-4538867 .edu.sa Al Rowad INT’L Saudi Arabia www.rowad-is.com Multinational Tel: +966-11-2751751 www.mns-r.com 96 DESTINATION RIYADH
Tel: +966-11-4401626 www.alfaisal.edu
Arab Open University Tel: +966-11-2742277 www.arabou.org.sa Dar Al-Uloom Tel: +966-11-4949000 www.dau.edu.sa Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic Tel: +966-11-2580000 www.imamu.edu.sa King Saud University Tel: +966-11-4670000 www.ksu.edu.sa King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences Tel: +966-11-2521300