Times of Oman - February 3, 2016

WEDNESDAY February 3, 2016 24 Rabi Al Thani 1437 AH

6 085010 120010 FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

On the occasion of the 29th National Day, 1999

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ We urge the international community to work wholeheartedly to find solutions to all problems that are distressing the world and endangering peace. These solutions must relieve the oppressed from tyranny, establish security and stability, harmony and co-operation among all nations; God will help us.

Founded 1975 . Volume 40 No. 293 | 40 Pages . Baisas 200 . Subscription OMR63 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company | Chairman/Editor-in-Chief: Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali | Printed & Published by Muscat Media Group

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Indian school student injured in accident

FAHD RECEIVES UN CHIEF His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers, received in his office on Tuesday Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nations. -ONA See also >A2

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A student of Indian School Seeb has been admitted to Khoula Hospital after a bus accident on the campus.>A2

OMAN

Two new hospitals start operations

Now orange and

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Two new hospitals have started operation in Dhofar in an effort to provide better healthcare. >A6

white taxis can only drop-off passengers at the airport, picking

MARKET

up will land them a

Consultant to forecast power demand sought

fine from the police

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Oman floated a tender seeking proposals on power capacity to meet future demand. >B1

ERIK PRINS FAHAD GHADANI

erik@timesofoman.com fahadnews@timesofoman.com

From waiter to owner of restaurants MORNING MINUTE

Airport taxis get monopoly on arrivals

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MUSCAT: Airport taxi drivers will soon have the monopoly they wished for as the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has started fining orange taxis for picking up passengers on their turf, according to Salim Al Ghammari, a Municipal

Council member. The move came after several complaints from airport taxi drivers working fulltime at the airport.

“This rule was there earlier without being enforced, but the authorities concerned are now imposing it now very strictly,” said Al Ghammari.

The orange taxi drivers can drop passengers at the airport but they are not allowed to pick them up from there.

“This is the only source of in-

come we have and it is not fair that orange taxi drivers compete with us,” said Abdullah Al Shibli, an airport taxi driver. He added that they have raised the issue with the authorities concerned.

“Orange taxis are working openly here. They even bargain with passengers inside the airport,” he said.

An aviation expert told the Times of Oman that such issues should be considered in the light of the opening of the new terminal of Muscat International Airport. He added that traffic to the airport should be given limited access when entering the premises.

Hussein Al Rahbi, the owner of an orange taxi, said that orange taxis should always be given the chance to work at the airport, either to drop off passengers or to pick them up at arrival.

He added that passengers should have the chance to choose between an airport taxi and an orange taxi.>A6

M I N A S U LTA N Q A B O O S WAT E R F R O N T P R O J E C T

Omran to emulate Cape Town’s waterfront in Oman RAHUL DAS

rahuldas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: To give tourism a major boost, Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) plans to emulate Cape Town’s charisma in its Mina Sultan Qaboos Waterfront project.

The Victoria and Alfred (V&A) Waterfront in Cape Town has some of the amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Table Bay Harbour, the City of Cape Town and the Table Mountain.

The V&A Waterfront attracts more than 23 million visitors every year.

Situated in South Africa’s oldest working harbour, the 300 acre area has been developed for mixed-use, with both residential and commercial real estate. “There are a lot of similarities between these two places so we are trying to create a similar thing here,” a senior official from Omran said.

Salah Salim Al Ghazali, chief investment officer, Omran, said he will be flying to Cape Town very

soon. “A picture is worth a thousand words. Unless I show what we want, people will not believe it,” he said, at an event organised by the Oman Real Estate Association on Monday evening.

“The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront Project in Cape Town is an urban regeneration project that has successfully transformed the previously under-utilised part of the Port of Cape Town into the city’s premier tourist, retail, entertainment, commercial and residential destination,” he said. >A6

AMAZING SIGHT: A file picture of the Cape Town waterfront.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016 The visit provided the company team with a clear picture about the facilities at the port and allowed us to review available services and facilities at the port Mahdi bin Mohammed Al Abdawani, CEO, NFC

OMAN DIPLOMACY

Sayyid Fahd receives Czech Republic’s foreign minister MUSCAT: His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers received in his office yesterday Lubomir Zaoralek, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.

The guest conveyed the greetings of the leadership in his country along with best wishes to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said and his government continuous success.

After Sayyid Fahd welcomed the guest and his accompanying

delegation, the bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and means of enhancing cooperation between them in several fields were reviewed. In addition a range of issues and current developments in the regional and international arenas were reviewed.

The Czech Republic’s Minister of Foreign Affairs highlighted the importance of this visit at the level of exchanging visions on cementing joint cooperation between the two sides.

TRAGEDY

Student injured in Indian school bus accident in Seeb REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: A Class III student of Indian School Seeb has been admitted to surgical department in Khoula Hospital following an accident on the school campus on Sunday afternoon.

According to the parents, the child was dragged by a bus for around 1.5 meters as he was trying to enter bus and fell accidentally.

Dragged “His bag got tangled with the bus.

He was dragged for a few meters.

The driver was not aware of it.

However, his brother ran to the front of the bus and alerted the driver who stopped the bus,” Abdul Latheef, father of the injured child, told Times of Oman.

The child has suffered cracks on his pelvic bones and is facing difficulty in passing urine.

“It seems we are going through a tough time. While rushing to the hospital in ambulance, we had an-

The child has suffered cracks on his pelvic bones and is facing difficulty in passing urine

He affirmed his country’s appreciation of the balanced policy being pursued by the Sultanate in its ties with countries around the world.

He also commended outcomes of his meetings with officials, expressing satisfaction over the march of the growing ties between the two countries, as well as the mutual keenness to promote them.

The meeting was attended by Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs. -ONA

BOOSTING TIES: Sayyid Fahd welcomed the guest and his accompanying delegation and stressed the

need for enhancing cooperation in several fields. – ONA

No intention of altering dollar peg: CBO head Nothing changed.

We are committed

other accident as the ambulance hit another vehicle and we were all thrown away from the seat inside the vehicle. The injured child got shaken too,” Latheef said.

to the peg with

Recovering Meanwhile, an official from the school said it was purely an accident and the child is recovering.

Last Thursday, six people, including three Indian school Nizwa Class II students, a teacher and two Omani drivers lost their lives in an accident in Nizwa.

Another child from the same class in the school, is still undergoing treatment for his injuries.

not changed, said

the US dollar. The interest rate has Central Bank of Oman Executive President Hamood Sangour Al Zadjali

Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman remains committed to the peg of its rial currency against the US dollar, the head of the central bank said on Tuesday, after the rial dropped to its lowest level in the forwards market for a decade.

One-year dollar/rial forwards - deals that will be settled in 12 months’ time - jumped on Monday as high as 1,500 points, their highest since 2006, according to a Reuters report. That implied the rial would depreciate about 4 per cent from its peg.

Forwards came down slightly to 1,400 points by Tuesday afternoon, but currency dealers said the market’s move this week showed some bankers were identifying the Omani rial as the most vulnerable currency in the sixnation Gulf Cooperation Council, the Reuters report added.

Posted deficit The government of Oman posted a $11.7 billion deficit last year and has forecast another sizeable deficit this year despite spending

Rial’s weakness in the forwards market might be partly due to the strength of the US dollar globally Hamood Sangour Al Zadjali CBO executive president

cuts. The plunge of the Brent oil price to near $30 a barrel, from around $100, 18 months ago has created some unease about all the Gulf Cooperation Council currencies. But the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait have hundreds of billions of dollars of overseas assets.

Saudi Arabia’s riyal has come under pressure in the forwards market but that pressure has eased since Riyadh warned banks not to speculate against its currency and threatened to mobilise its huge reserves against speculators.

Central Bank Executive Presi-

dent Hamood Sangour Al Zadjali told Reuters on Tuesday that Oman had no intention of altering its currency peg.

“Nothing changed. We are committed to the peg with the US dollar. The interest rate has not changed,” he said, adding that the rial’s weakness in the forwards market might be partly due to the strength of the US dollar globally. Keen to boost economic growth, the Omani central bank has so far resisted pressure to raise its official interest rates in line with the US Federal Reserve, which hiked rates by 0.25 percentage point in December.

D I WA N O F R O YA L C O U R T

Second phase of Sharakah launched Times News Service MUSCAT: Public Private Partnership Taskforce (Sharakah) celebrated launch of its second phase of work at Al Wahat Club in Uthaiba under the patronage of Sayyid Khalid bin Hilal Al Busaidi, Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court yesterday.

Acknowledging the role of participants in the first phase of Sharakah’s work, the Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court thanked the members from the government and private sectors for their efforts that led to the successful realisation of Sharakah’s objectives. He also welcomed the new members of the private sector and invited them to actively participate in Sharakah and build on the achievements of the first phase.

Concrete steps He pointed out that since it was launched, Sharakah has been taking concrete steps following His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s – May Allah Protect Him -direction to enhance the role of the private sector and its involvement in socio-economic development efforts. He highlighted the significance of the harmony and constructive dialogue between the representatives of the government and private sectors during the first round of Sharakah’s work, which established a solid foundation for action. This resulted in launching of many initiatives that contribute to achieving the national priorities of partnership including, economic diversification, job creation for Omanis, regional development, and building national capabilities.

Efforts at all levels He stressed that the social and economic development process requires comprehensive and integrated efforts at all levels through an organised participation process such as Sharakah, to achieve ambitious national targets. He added that all nations seek to create corporate entities, legislation and systems to support and activate the partnership between the government and private sectors with the aim to achieve and subsequently boost development.

N F C I N I T I AT I V E

Pilot voyage to Iran’s Chabahar operated MUSCAT: A pilot voyage from Sultan Qaboos Port to Chabahar Port in the Islamic Republic of Iran on board the ferryboat “Hormuz” was operated by the National Ferries Company (NFC).

During the voyage, the NFC team comprising its chief executive officer, engineers and technicians studied the marine features of the route from Sultan Qaboos Port to Chabahar Port.

Operational plans Mahdi bin Mohammed Al Abdawani, CEO of the NFC met with the Chairman of Chabahar Free Commerce and Industry Zone.

The two sides reviewed the future operational plans for the ferries, the administrative and technical requirements for operating Muscat – Chabahar route whose 150 nautical miles can be crossed in three and a half hours.

The two sides reviewed the requirements at Chabahar Port, the official documents needed by the

Omani travellers to Chabahar.

The Iranian side made a visual presentation on the operational route of the port, the current and future commercial and tourism projects especially the port is the first one on the Sea of Oman towards the Arabian Gulf.

Clear picture “The visit provided the company team with a clear picture about the facilities at the port and allowed us to review available services and facilities at the port, such as the arrival terminal, the domestic transport at the port, the parking lots and other facilities, which ensure convenience of travellers,” Al Abdawani further said.

He pointed out that the two sides will jointly draft the proposals to operate this marine route and fix its tariff.

The NFC has also operated pilot voyages to Bahman in Qeshm Island and Bahonar in Bandar Abbas. -ONA

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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For detailed coverage log on to www.timesofoman.com

Fascinating fragrances of Oman Traditional Arab fragrances are in great demand from people of different regions

MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Muscat Festival is a great platform for showcasing the essence of the country and it is also an opportunity to showcase Omani fragrances to permeate the rest of the world.

At the entrance of the Heritage Village at the Al Amerat Park, visitors are welcomed with the traditional fragrances of Oman and are treated to a variety of frankincense from across the world.

According to the traders, demand for this traditional Arab fragrance is evoking a great response from people of different regions.

“People are very keen to buy perfumes and other items,” an Omani trader told the Times of Oman.

“I have been dealing with these products for more than two decades and at the Muscat Festival from its very beginning,” said another trader at the Heritage Village.

“What is amazing for me is that more youngsters are getting fascinated with the smell of oud and at-

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tar (Omani perfumes) and luckily we are having good business here,” she added.

Arab life is closely intertwined with the compelling fragrance of traditional ‘oud’ and ‘attar’ and it has been transferred from generation to generation.

“I think we are very fond of oud and attar and they play a major role in our life; I think it is inevitable in our life,” Mohammed said.

Prices of varieties of oud and attar have being displayed at the Heritage Village in the Amerat Park. Oman has a long history and tradition of perfumes and oud.

Agarwood is reputed to be the most expensive wood in the world.

“It really smells good and I think none of the branded perfumes can match this and I think I will lose all my money buying this,” Arran, a British tourist said.

GOOD RESPONSE: Oman has a long history and tradition of perfumes and oud and is know the world over for its frankincense.

– AR Rajkumar

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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OMAN

From waiter to arbiter of taste

PERUVIAN CEVICHE

Latin American culinary delight coming to Oman Times News Service

Hamza Al Lawati, who acquired knowledge of chocolates from chocolatiers in Belgium, decided to fill the void in the local market with

NEW CONCEPT: The restaurant is the first of its kind in the country to serve made-in-Oman praline truffles, according to Hamza Al Lawati. – OK Mohammed Ali

MUSCAT: Master Chef Bruno Andres Santa Cruz will be visiting Oman and will be at the Grand Hyatt Muscat’s John Barry Bar, where guests will be given an opportunity to meet and cook with the Peruvian and sample some of his ‘ceviches’ ahead of the official launch of the Back-2-Business (B2B) networking event.

“Peruvian Ceviche,” is a delicacy known to have originated in Peru, where chefs use only the freshest products and ingredients available within the season.

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HASAN SHABAN AL LAWATI

hassan@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Starting out as a waiter, who also used to clean dishes in Australia’s coffee shops, Omani chef Hamza Al Lawati has recently launched his second posh eatery in Shatti Al Qurum, where he blends Belgian cocoa with Melbourne’s diverse food and culture.

“I thought of introducing something different to impress foodies in Oman, fusion food, décor and a limited but yet varied menu were the magic words (that came to mind),” Al Lawati told the Times of Oman ahead of the grand opening of his restaurant in March.

The S&H Chocolate Lounge was first opened four years ago as a small 80 square metre (sqm) coffee shop, with both sweet and savory items, inspired by Theobrama, an Australian brand.

The concept was initially developed by Al Lawati, a lawyer by trade, and his brother Salman.

Al Lawati acquired knowledge of chocolates after taking courses from chocolatiers in Belgium. The

young entrepreneur then decided to fill the void in the local market with offerings of world class premium chocolates. “I invited more than 20 influential people following my soft opening and am planning to promote my business by inviting popular Omani social bloggers,” said Al Lawati, while talking about how networking has helped him attract more foodies.

While traditional forms of networking are considered to be a major factor behind successful small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Sultanate, Al Lawati said social media celebrities can provide a very strong platform for marketing.

Bigger and better The 260 sqm restaurant is the first of its kind in the country to serve made-in-Oman praline truffles, according to Al Lawati.

He cooks and supervises the

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staff himself. To boost his business, Al Lawati was recently invited to attend a B2B (Back-to-Business) event, the biggest business networking event in Oman.

Being organised by representatives of non-profit business councils in Oman, including the Oman American Business Centre, the British Business Forum, Australian Business Group Oman and the European Business People Group, its objective is to bring the business community a great opportunity to reach small to large companies, meet new clients, potential business partners and possibly make new friends.

Oman’s SMEs are expected to be involved this time. Around 400 to 500 participants are expected to attend the networking event, which is an important platform as people can network with businesses active in different communities. B2B will bring together firms working in sectors such as government, oil and gas, construction, transport, infotech, hospitality, finance and more.

Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al Rowas, Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan for Cultural Affairs with UN official on Tuesday. -ONA

Advisor to HM receives UN official MUSCAT: Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al Rowas, Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan for Cultural Affairs received in his office on Tuesday Jeffrey Feltman, Undersecretary-General of the United Nations (UN) for Political Affairs who is currently visiting the Sultanate.

The two sides reviewed the activities carried out by the UN, in addition to the regional and international topics of common concern. -ONA

Currently working at the Hyatt Regency Istanbul in Turkey, Cruz is bringing the Latin American culinary craze to Oman for the first time.

Exotic offerings The ceviches on the menu at the John Barry Bar will include seabass in tiger milk, yellow fin tuna with mango and tumbo, octopus and black olives, scallops with pomegranate, and shrimps with orange and avocado.

A ceviche master class is slated to take place on February 17, which will aim to provide guests

with an exclusive opportunity to learn the tricks of creating the perfect Peruvian dishes.

Looking forward “We are really looking forward to this remarkable experience. ‘Peruvian Ceviche’ combines unique ingredients, such as limo chilli, tiger’s milk, and the aji verde spicy sauce,” said the Director of Food and Beverage, Dirk Holscher.

In addition, Chef Cruz will be flying in two days earlier to participate in the B2B event this year, which will take place on February 9 in the hotel gardens.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

OMAN

All helicopters are able to do both jobs. We are able to carry up to 2.2 tonnes on our medium helicopters. Anything heavier than that will need our heavy helicopters Jamie Bowden, representing CHC

Canadian firm plans helicopter service in Oman CHC’s ambition is to start operations

H E A LT H C A R E

Two new hospitals begin operations in Dhofar SALALAH: Two new hospitals started operation in the Governorate of Dhofar on Tuesday as part of the Ministry of Health’s efforts to provide better health care to people.

The ministry began operation at the two new buildings of Madinat Al Haq Hospital in the Wilayat of Taqah, as well as Tawi A’teer Hospital in the Wilayat of Mirbat.

The new hospitals’ operation

comes as part of the ministry’s drive to support and modernise the health institutions in the various governorates of the Sultanate.

The two new hospitals started receiving patients as the ministry has completed all the necessary arrangements to provide service to the patients with the first day of opening the hospitals.

The two new buildings include the basic diagnostic and

treatment, like clinics to patientexamination, laboratory services, radiology, pharmacy and dental clinics.

In addition to immunisation and care services for pregnant women, as well as providing equipped rooms for treatment and observation, there are in-patient male and female wards, and fully equipped hall for delivery in both hospitals. -ONA

in Muscat and offer K E E P I N G TA B S

air transportation

Chances of Zika spreading to Oman low: Health ministry

services depending on Oman’s needs

TARIQ AL HAREMI

NEW PLAYER: Transportation to offshore oil and gas platforms is the main service offered by CHC. – Supplied picture

Times News Service

tariqh@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Omani skies could potentially be filled with a lot more helicopters as CHC Helicopters Canada hopes to make a mark in the Sultanate’s industrial sector, mainly, by partnering up with Ali Al Aufi Trading Co. LLC. CHC’s ambition is to start operations in Muscat and offer air transportation services depending on the Sultanate’s needs, such as Medevac (air ambulance), transporting passengers to oil fields and industrial zones, as well as starting VIP and tourism flights.

The Canadian company showcased their services as part of the first helicopter symposium held at the Public Authority for Civil Aviation.

Oman’s mountainous regions have a series of ongoing projects, such as in Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams, so use of helicopters for transporting materials can cut time as trucks take more time climbing up mountains.

Since the CHC helicopters are more in tune with transport passengers’ needs, Jamie Bowden, representing CHC, when asked

whether it is possible for the helicopters to carry heavy loads, he aid, “All helicopters are able to do both jobs. We are able to carry up to 2.2 tonnes on our medium helicopters.

Anything heavier than that will need our heavy helicopters.”

The main services CHC offers is transportation to offshore oil and gas platforms. They plan to establish their base operations in Muscat, Duqm and Salalah and provide Agusta Westland AW139 utility helicopters to support the energy and utility sector.

Omanisation plan CHC has already drafted a plan to recruit Omanis as CHC pilots and crew members during the time it operates in the Sultanate.

The plan discussed involves an initial crew made up of expats, while Omanis will be trained during the first year of operations. As of the second year, trained Omanis will be eligible for a co-pilot position, and that of a winch operator and wiremen.

“Just like any other aviation company, co-pilots need to rise

through the ranks to become a captain,” explained Bowden.

“However, if we see that he is well suited for a captain’s job during the first year, we will give it to him,” he added.

He also added that full Omanisation can be achieved within three years “and likely within two.”

Omanisation is also based on the assumption of a developed Omani rotary wind experience through the armed forces.

“We will use Omani staff where at all possible,” said Bowden, adding that candidates should be fully prepared to serve a long term partnership.

Bowden further explained that CHC mainly offers services to the industrial and energy sectors, but it is possible to use their helicopters for tourism purposes.

He said if tourism was the case, they would need to provide a platform for operations in Zighy Bay in Mussandam as it is a hotspot for tourism.

Helicopters would be able to fly from Muscat to Mussandam, land and fly back.

MINISTRY OF MANPOWER

331 workers caught for violations MUSCAT: In its weekly report, the joint inspection team of the Ministry of Manpower pointed out that the number of workers violating the Labour Law between January 24 and January 30, stood at 331, including 276 commercial workers, 31 farm workers and 24 housemaids and their equivalents.

The inspection teams had caught 321 workers, including 130 absconding workers, 178 astray workers and 13 workers for other violations. The Governorate of Muscat saw the largest number of workers violating the law at 168, followed by the Governorate of North Al Batinah with 56 workers found guilty of such violations.

Competent authorities at the ministry have initiated legal procedures against the guilty.

On the other hand, the Manpower Ministry statistics showed that (226) expatriate workers were deported for violating provisions of the Labour Law and the ministerial decisions executing the law. -ONA

MUSCAT: At present, the possibility of the Zika viral disease spreading in the Sultanate is very low, Oman’s Ministry of Health (MoH), said in a statement.

The disease is still confined to the Americas and some adjacent islands, as travel is associated with sporadic cases reported in some other countries. So far, no local cases have been detected in any of the other continents.

The MoH is following closely the spread of the Zika virus in those countries.

Zika is a viral disease, caused by the Zika virus that is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, the same mosquito that spreads Chikungunya and Dengue.

The Sultanate has competent public health expertise and epidemiological surveillance systems to detect and deal with such cases.

Health workers employed in health institutions, as well as in the central laboratory, have been trained to test for Chikungunya and Dengue. Arrangements have been made at the central public health laboratory for Zika testing.

The ministry has taken steps to prevent its spread: Such as alerting healthcare providers and the public about the disease, mode of transmission and prevention, providing diagnostic tests at the Central Public Health Laboratory, which is expected to arrive in the Sultanate in next few weeks.

It will also support mosquito control programmes, the potential to control the insect vector and eliminate breeding areas by draining stagnant water pools or removing the water rafting, even if it is a small quantity, in the empty cans, tyres and containers of flow-

GREATER VIGIL: Zika is a viral disease, caused by the Zika virus that is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquitos. – Supplied picture

ers, etc. In 1952, the Zika virus was identified in humans in Uganda and Tanzania.

Zika outbreak Outbreaks of the Zika viral disease have been reported for the first time from the Pacific in 2007 and 2013, and recently in the Americas. In addition, a number of countries reported the Zika virus in late January, saying it has reached 27 countries.

It is transmitted to human beings by the bite of the female Aedesaegypti mosquito when it sucks the blood of an infected patient.

Symptoms of the disease may include fever, skin rashes, conjunctives, muscle and joint pain, malaise and headache. These symptoms are usually mild and last for several days. It requires no specific treatment and deaths are rare.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared that the recent Zika situation constitutes a Public Health Emergency of international concern. It also noted

B A N O N O R A N G E TA X I S

< FROM

A1 ‘Approval to full-time drivers only’ “Sometimes, we offer more flexible services than airport taxis”, he said.

Ali Abdullah, a resident of alKhoudh, told the Times of Oman that this issue needs to be settled.

“The first impression visitors to the Sultanate get from the country, are often the taxis”, he said. Settling this issue might save visitors from being ripped off, he added.

Suleiman Al Jardani, speaking on behalf of around 500 ‘orange’ taxi drivers, said that despite the ban, they are still able to drop off passengers at the airport.

“If I have a passenger from

Ruwi who wants to go to the airport, I can still take him there, no problem,” he said.

New rate Abdullah Al Shaibli, speaking on behalf of the airport taxi drivers, said the new rate starts from OMR6 and 200 baisas per kilometre. He said that customers will be able to choose between a fixed rate and the new rate, which has been implemented recently.

Municipal Council member Salim Al Ghammari told the Times of Oman that a new contract draft has been approved by the Municipal Council and it will

M I X E D - U S E WAT E R F R O N T

be referred to the Minister of Diwan for the final approval.

The new contract will be signed by the airport taxi drivers and the Oman Airport Management Company (OAMC), and will help solve “many issues” faced by Airport taxi drivers, including safety, insurance, driving times, Al Ghammari said, while adding that the contract will also have provision for a pension plan for the drivers.

He added that the contract will only allow taxi drivers who work full time and who do not work for government or private companies.

R O YA L H O S P I TA L

A1 ‘Priority to local investors’ < FROM

Regarding investors for the projects, he said Omran is primary looking for Omani investors. “We want the project to be developed by the Omanis, in Oman and for Oman,” he said, adding that he will look at investors from Gulf Cooperation Council countries only if they don’t find Omani investors. “Till now 35 investors have shown keen interest in our projects,” he added.

Sharing the success story of the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town,he said that Omran will supervise the development of the Mina Sultan Qaboos Waterfront Project, which will transform the Port Sultan Qaboos into a major tourism-based mixed-use waterfront destination.

that a marked increase in GuillainBarré syndrome (GBS) cases and foetus with microcephaly in most of the affected countries.

The WHO agreed that a causal relationship between Zika infection during pregnancy and microcephaly is strongly suspected, though not yet scientifically proven. Since there is no available vaccine or medicine for the Zika disease, the preventive measures require pregnant women to postpone travel to infected countries for their safety, as well as for their baby’s safety.

In case of emergency travel, travellers should protect themselves by avoiding mosquito bites by doing the following: wearing long-sleeved clothes that cover as much of the body as possible, using insect repellents that can also be used by the pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers and using permethrin treated clothes, including boots, pants, socks, tents and mosquito nets. One should also avoid sleeping outdoors.

He said that the size of the total investment of the company, including its partners, reached approximately $8 billion.

He added that the biggest projects being implemented by the company represented in the development of Sultan Qaboos Port and Al Irfan City Project.

Al Ghazali said that the infrastructure work of the first phase of Al Irfan City Project was completed.

He added that this phase include Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, which is currently being constructed, the commercial centre, Business Complex four 5 star hotels including JW Marriott, and 4-star Crowne Plaza hotel; both are cur-

rently under construction. He stressed that nearly 25 per cent of this stage was completed.

At the level of local and Gulf investments, he explained that the investment companies expressed interest in investing in all the components of this stage.

The mixed-use waterfront of Sultan Qaboos Port is expected to become a major tourist destination for Oman, offering one of the region’s most authentic and historic waterfront promenades, while promoting the historic centuries-old Muttrah harbour.

The project will also provide a welcome boost to small business owners in Muscat and will generate thousands of sustainable job opportunities. -With inputs from ONA

Nuclear medicine centre opened MUSCAT: Molecular Nuclear Medicine (MNM) and Nuclear Accelerator Centre, stretching over 2,000 square metres was opened at the Royal Hospital in the presence of Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Sa’eedi, Minister of Health and health officials.

Nasr bin Hamoud Al Kindi, Secretary General of the Royal Court Affairs patronised over the opening ceremony.

The centre, which is the first of its kind in the Sultanate, comprises of a nuclear accelerator, a laboratory, 8 injection rooms, isotope room and two rooms for molecular photography. -ONA

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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REGION

Hills of waste rise from makeshift dumps across the city and surrounding areas, including the banks of Beirut River just metres from where it meets the Mediterranean.

Syrian army threatens to encircle Aleppo as talks falter in Geneva The opposition cancelled a meeting with UN envoy Staffan de Mistura, condemned ‘a massive acceleration of Russian and regime military aggression on Aleppo and Homs’

BEIRUT/AMMAN/GENEVA: A Syrian military offensive backed by heavy Russian air strikes threatened to cut critical rebel supply lines into the northern city of Aleppo on Tuesday while the warring sides said peace talks had not started despite a UN statement they had.

UN envoy Staffan de Mistura announced the formal start on Monday of the first attempt in two years to negotiate an end to a war that has killed 250,000 people, caused a refugee crisis in the region and Europe and empowered IS militants.

But both opposition and government representatives have since said the talks had not in fact begun and fighting on the ground raged on without constraint.

ONGOING ASSAULT: Government forces chat near a tank three kilometres from the villages of Nabbul and Zahra in Syria’s northern Aleppo province which have been under siege by the IS group for three years on Tuesday. – Reuters

The opposition cancelled a meeting with de Mistura on Tuesday afternoon, and issued a statement condemning “a massive acceleration of Russian and regime military aggression on Aleppo and Homs”, calling it a threat to the political process. Rebels described the assault north of Aleppo as the most intense yet. One commander said opposition-held areas of the divided city were at risk of being encircled entirely by the government and allied militia, appealing to foreign states that back the rebels to send more weapons.

The main Syrian opposition council said after meeting de

Mistura on Monday it had not and would not negotiate unless the government stopped bombarding civilian areas, lifted blockades on besieged towns and released detainees. The head of the Syrian government delegation also denied talks had started after discussions with de Mistura on Tuesday.

Bashar Al Ja’afari said after two and a half hours of talks that the envoy had yet to provide an agenda or list of opposition participants.

“The formalities are not yet ready,” he told reporters at the United Nations office in Geneva.

He also said that if the opposition “really cared” about the lives

WORSENING CONDITIONS

WASTE MISMANAGEMENT: Garbage is seen piled near residential buildings in Wadi Al Zayneh, Chouf district, Lebanon. – Reuters

Garbage crisis: Lebanon chokes on bad air, politics BEIRUT: Lebanon’s government is so dysfunctional, Beirut stinks.

And now it’s getting dangerous.

Six months ago, the authorities shut the main landfill site for garbage from the capital, without providing an alternative. Since then, rubbish collection has halted and festering trash has piled up in the city streets, causing what researchers and campaigners now say is a public health emergency. Officials say they will resolve the crisis by paying a foreign company to ship rubbish abroad, although even the minister in charge calls the plan “crazy”.

Activists say it is proof that a governing system, set up 25 years ago to share power among feuding sectarian groups and end a multi-sided civil war, has become so inefficient and corrupt that it is no longer capable of providing even basic services. “We are not asking for an impossible thing,” said Wadih Al Asmar, organiser of YouStink, a group formed last year to protest against the rubbish crisis. “It’s obvious all countries should have a strategic plan on waste management.”

Untreated, unmanaged rubbish threatens the water supply, academics say. Hills of waste rise from makeshift dumps across the city and surrounding areas, including the banks of Beirut River just metres from where it meets the Mediterranean.

Garbage has been burnt, in-

cluding in the normally lovely forests around Beirut, filling the air with foul smoke that contains dangerous levels of pollutants.

As waste burns, carcinogens in the air increase by at least 2,300 per cent, and metals including lead and arsenic increase by 98-1,448 per cent, a study by the American University of Beirut and the Lebanese National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS) found. “In an almost closed area like Beirut with increasingly tall buildings, this leads to a kind of suffocation,” CNRS secretary general Mouin Hamza told a news conference.

“Burning waste is suicidal.”

The Lebanese system of government stitched back together after the war carefully balances the interests of various groups.

But the need for consensus in decision-making makes it easy for regional and community leaders to veto planning decisions.

And nobody wants a garbage dump in their backyard.

The government’s solution is a plan to pay a British firm to ship waste abroad.

“It’s a crazy solution in a country of crazy people,” Agriculture Minister Akram Chehayeb, placed in charge of resolving the crisis, said on national television.

The plan would cost $193 per tonne to get rid of the waste, Chehayeb told Reuters. That is more than a third more than the $140

a tonne Beirut’s waste management company Sukleen says it charged to clear away waste before the landfill closed last year.

Chehayeb expects 2,000-2,500 tonnes of rubbish a day to be shipped, which works out to up to $176 million a year.

Chehayeb told Reuters the export of new and old waste by Britain’s Chinook Urban Mining would begin on February 28. But previous deadlines have repeatedly been missed, the finance minister has criticised the programme’s cost, and anticorruption and environmental campaign groups have raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the tender process.

Chinook, which describes itself as Britain’s premier developer of technology to produce clean energy by burning rubbish, confirmed it has been awarded the contract.

It would not disclose to Reuters what it will do with the Lebanese trash or where it will ship it.

Local media have quoted Nabil Jisr, head of the Council for Development and Reconstruction, a government body, saying the rubbish would be sent to Russia.

Six months is a long time in waste management: the area produced around 3,000 tonnes of refuse a day before the crisis, according to the company that collects it, meaning around half a million tonnes of untreated trash has had nowhere to go. — Reuters

of Syrians it should condemn the killing of more than 60 people on Sunday by IS bombers in a neighbourhood that is home to a shrine.

Fierce disagreements A UN source said de Mistura had promised to present an opposition delegation list by Wednesday.

Its makeup is subject to fierce disagreements among the regional and global powers that have been drawn into the conflict.

The refugee crisis and spread of the militant IS group through large areas of Syria, and from there to Iraq, has injected a new urgency to resolve the five-year-old Syria war.

But the chances of success, always very slim, appear to be receding ever more as the government, supported by Russian air strikes, advances against rebels, some of them US-backed, in several parts of western Syria where the country’s main cities are located.

The attack north of Aleppo that began in recent days is the first major government offensive there since the start of Russian air strikes on September 30.

The area is strategic to both sides. It safeguards a rebel supply route from Turkey into opposition-held parts of the city and stands between government-held parts of western Aleppo and the villages of Nubul and Al Zahraa which are loyal to Damascus.

“The supply routes were not cut but there is heavy bombardment of them by the jets,” said a commander in the Levant Front rebel group who gave his name as Abu Yasine. “The Russian jets are trying to hit headquarters and cut supply routes.”

The Russian jets had been working “night and day” for three days, he added, and reiterated the rebels’ long-held demand for anti-aircraft missiles to confront the assault.

“If there is no support, the regime could besiege the city of Aleppo and cut the road to the north,” said Abu Yasine, whose group is one of the rebel movements that have received military support from states opposed to Assad, funnelled via Turkey.

Advancing government forces seized the village of Hardatnin some 10km (six miles) northwest of Aleppo, building on gains of

the previous day, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring body. Syrian state media also reported the advance. Another rebel commander said he had sent reinforcements to the area. “We sent new fighters this morning, we sent heavier equipment there. It seems it will be a decisive battle in the north,” said Ahmed Al Seoud, head of a Free Syrian Army group known as Division 13. “We sent TOW missile platforms. We sent everything there,” he told Reuters.

US-made TOW missiles, or guided anti-tank missiles, are the most potent weapon in the rebel arsenal and have been supplied to vetted rebel groups as part of a programme of military support overseen by the Central Intelligence Agency. But while they have helped rebels to slow advances on the ground, they are of little use against fighter bombers.

The Russian intervention has reversed the course of the war for Damascus, which suffered a series of major defeats to rebels in western Syria last year before Moscow deployed its air force as part of an alliance.

In an interview with Reuters, British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said Russian President Vladimir Putin was undermining international efforts to end the war by bombing opponents of IS in an attempt to bolster Assad. “The Russians say let’s talk, and then they talk and they talk and they talk. The problem with the Russians is while they are talking they are bombing, and they are supporting Assad,” Hammond said. — Reuters

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

INDIA

Across the world, be it organisations like the World Bank or Credit agencies, if there is one country which they see as a bright spot of growth it is India Narendra Modi, Prime minister

CONFERENCE

Pranab asks world to proscribe states sponsoring terrorism JAIPUR: President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday asked the world to proscribe nations that support or sponsor terrorism as an instrument of state policy.

Asserting there is no good or bad terrorism, Mukherjee termed it as a “cancer which must be operated out with a firm scalpel” and world, in one voice, reject all its manifestations, without distinction.

“It is imperative that the world in one voice rejects all manifestations of terrorism, without distinction, and proscribes States that support or sponsor terrorism as an instrument of State policy,” he said after inaugurating the second edition of counter-terrorism conference organised by the India Foundation in collaboration with government of Rajasthan.

Terming the 9/11 terror attack in the US as a watershed moment, the president said the country needs to carefully examine and learn lessons from the success and failures of counter terrorism strategies followed since then.

“From that single incident have flowed most of the interventions in the counter terrorism sphere that

we see happening at the international level as also at the regional and domestic levels.

“Faced with the spectre of terrorism, the Western world has undertaken a lot in terms of strategy and tactics and has achieved results also. We need to carefully examine and learn lessons from the success and failure of these strategies,” he said.

The US had carried out an operation to kill dreaded terrorist Osama bin Laden, said to be behind the 2001 attack, in Pakistan, nearly ten years after the incident.

Focus Mukherjee said the predominant focus has to be on the political management of terrorism. This includes addressing issues of ideology and dealing with countries that sponsor or support terrorism. Mukherjee said as a nation we have to strengthen plurality so that it acts as bulwark against radical ideologies and thought processes.

“Fragmentation of civil society, rather than its consolidation, is not a wise strategy. The former course leads to radicalisation,

which thereafter leads to competitive violence. Think tanks and civil society organisations have a larger role to play in this process of social integration.”

Mukherjee said a pluralistic and inclusive society like India has long presented a model for multicultural living and it is for this reason that global terror outfits have not been able to find traction in India. The president said till the end of the 20th century, terrorism had regional or national connotations.

“With the emergence of first AlQaeda and now IS, those boundaries have shattered. Non-state actors are trying to be the State themselves, spreading radical ideologies across societies, using technologies to the fullest extent to attract youth.

“In such a scenario mere political and military strategies will not suffice. We need to take social, economic, religious and psychological aspects into consideration,” Mukherjee said. The president said counter terrorism effort has to be more pointed, more focused, more objective and more professional.

“While doing so there will al-

ways be a dilemma of whether we are threatening individual liberties or human rights. We have, therefore, to be judicious in protecting larger freedoms and democratic values,” he said, suggesting concerted action to shut down the financial networks that support and sustain terrorism.

Citing Paris and Pathankot terror attack cases, Mukherjee said terrorism is undoubtedly the single gravest threat that humanity is facing today.

Global threat “Terrorism is a global threat which poses an unprecedented challenge to all nations. No cause can justify terrorist acts. It is imperative that the world acts in unison against terrorism, without political considerations.

“Therefore, there is a need to take a resolve to not justify terrorist means whatever be the reason or the source,” he said. Peace is the primary objective of rational consciousness as well as a moral universe. It is the foundation of civilisation and a necessity for economic progress, Mukherjee said. - PTI

ELATED: President Pranab Mukherjee with Chief Executive Officer and Head of the Council of the Ministers of Afghanistan, Abdullah Abdullah during the Counter Terrorism Conference 2016 in Jaipur on Tuesday. - PTI

PM rules out scrapping quota for Dalits, attacks Congress Though he did not name anyone, the Prime Minister’s attack appeared to be directed against Congress and its Vice President, who recently made two trips to Hyderabad University to join protests over the suicide of a Dalit scholar

COIMBATORE: Ruling out scrapping reservation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday made a veiled attack on Congress saying a “campaign of lies” has been let loose on the issue of Dalits under a “deliberate conspiracy” to disintegrate the country.

“Earlier they tried to instigate farmers. That did not succeed..... now in the name of Dalits, lies are being spread. Wherever they go, whenever they go, they utter lies.

They repeat the lies on top of their voice. A campaign of lies has been let loose to mislead and fool Dalits.

GARNERING SUPPORT: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Tamil Nadu BJP chief Thamizhisai Soundararajan, right, and other BJP leaders wave at a public meeting in Coimbatore on Tuesday. - PTI

“It is a deliberate conspiracy to mislead people, make them fight against each other and to disintegrate the country. They are feeling frustrated because power has been taken away from them.

“They always believed that they (Dalits) are their voters and now Modi is working for them. They fear what to do with Modi. They want to prevent Dalits from backing Modi,” he said.

Though he did not name anyone, the Prime Minister’s attack appeared to be directed against Congress and its Vice President Rahul Gandhi, who recently made two trips to Hyderabad University to join protests over the suicide of a Dalit scholar Rohit Vemula.

On Saturday, Rahul had ac-

cused Modi and RSS of trying to crush the spirit of students by imposing “one idea from the top”.

Campaign The public meeting was to kickstart BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu but Modi concentrated on national issues and made no reference at all to the state politics. He said the Opposition was worried over the NDA government taking several steps to highlight the achievements of Dalit icon B. R.Ambedkar.

Utilising the occasion, the prime minister said “lies are also being spread that Modi is going to take away reservation from Dalits, OBCs, oppressed and the

depressed. Please listen to me carefully. Dalits should progress.

I assure the nation that nobody can do away with reservation till the name of Dr B R Ambedkar remains alive.”

He listed various steps and initiatives taken by his government in commemoration of Ambedkar’s 125th birth anniversary.

Modi underlined that unity, harmony and peace were essential for the country to progress.

He also attacked the Congress over stalling Rajya Sabha saying ever since “a tea seller” came to power at the Centre, the opposition party has not been able to reconcile itself to the defeat and loss of power.

“In the last 19 months, there has

been no corruption charge against anyone. No scam. They are worried ‘what can we do with Modi’.

So they decided not to allow Rajya Sabha (to function).We will stall Modi. Several bills are pending there. What is this politics. Don’t damage the country,” he said in an apparent reference to the stalling of the GST bill by the Congress in the upper house.

The prime minister said in Lok Sabha the government was able to carry out its business and pass bills. When they came to power, the government decided to scrap 1,800 antiquated laws which were for the benefit of poor.

Modi said the Lok Sabha has already scrapped 700 laws but they are pending in Rajya Sabha.

What the Congress is doing is against the poor and deprived of the country.

He said the Lok Sabha has passed a bill to provide for higher bonus payment to poor labour but the Opposition did not allow it to be passed in the Rajya Sabha.

“But the government’s priority is to work for the welfare of Dalits, backwards, the oppressed and the depressed. From our side, we will not spare any efforts,” Modi said.

On the economic progress of the country, Modi said the government had put in place several reforms to push growth.

He said international bodies like the World Bank and IMF had projected India to be amongst the fastest growing large economy.

“Across the world, be it organisations like the World Bank or Credit agencies, if there is one country which they see as a bright spot of growth it is India”, the prime minister said. - PTI

JAMMU AND KASHMIR

PDP puts conditions for government formation JAMMU: Indian-administeredKashmir on Tuesday appeared to be headed for a longer spell of political uncertainty with both allies PDP and BJP putting the onus of forming the next government on each other as their leaders met Governor N. N. Vohra who had stepped in to break the monthlong impasse.

Vohra held consultations with PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, who was accompanied by senior party colleague Muzaffar Baig, after which he met BJP leaders, including former Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh, here to seek clarity on the issue of government formation. While Mehbooba did not spell out what she told Vohra over government formation, Singh said BJP will take any step only after PDP elects its Legislature Party leader and notifies the Governor about it.

Emerging from the meeting, Mehbooba set certain conditions to ally BJP, including confidence building measures (CBMs) by the Centre for peace and development of Jammu and Kashmir.

‘No differences’ Insisting that there are “no differences” with BJP, she said Jammu and Kashmir is different from other states and needs a “good atmosphere, space and a fillip” if a new government is to be formed.

Talking to reporters, she said her late father Mufti Sayeed, without bothering about his “political career”, had aligned with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the hope that the Centre will bring out the state from the difficult situation it is in. - PTI

MGNREGA SAMMELAN

Modi government takes potshots at UPA over rural job guarantee scheme NEW DELHI: As Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Gurantee Act (MGNREGA) completed 10 years, the NDA government on Tuesday claimed it has brought a “transformation” in the rural job guarantee scheme which was in a “pitiable” state under UPA due to frequent curtailing of funds.

Asserting that schemes are “not cast in stone” and their modification is required with the passage of time, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said MGNREGA underwent change under NDA and new initiatives were taken besides increasing the fund allocation to the scheme so that its benefits could reach the people in a better way. “...tranformation has been brought in the implementation of this scheme. When a government scheme runs for many years, an attitude of indifference develops towards it. A kind of indifference towards it was growing by 2013-14 when the scheme has entered its seventh and eight years.

“When there was a change of government in 2014-15, there was a talk in and outside Parliament on whether the scheme will be

discontinued or its fund allocation will be curtailed. But the new government not only took forward the scheme but also increased its fund,” Jaitley said, delivering his key note address at MGNREGA Sammelan here.

Rural Development Minister Chudhary Birender Singh said that in last 19 months, people availing the scheme have benefited in the true sense and were contended due to correct implementation of the scheme.

Minister of State for Rural Development Sudarshan Bhagat said the condition of MGNREGA was “quite pitiable” in the beginning of the 2014-15 when UPA was in power and claimed that it was the NDA (National Democartic Alliance) government which gave the maximum funding for the scheme.

Transformation Singh said that the attraction which is now visible for scheme is due to its “transformation in last 18 months” of the NDA rule “which did not happen in last ten years”. He also lauded Modi government for increasing the fund

MAKING A POINT: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley addressing the MGNREGA Sammelan 2016 in New Delhi on Tuesday. - PTI

allocation in MGNREGA from Rs33,000 crore to Rs36,977 crore.

The remarks by the Union Ministers came on a day when Rahul Gandhi is in Andhra Pradesh to mark the completion of ten years of UPA’s flagship rural job guarantee scheme, which was launched from there by the then prime minister Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi in February 2006.

A political slugfest on the issue

has already begun.

Congress, which had earlier accused Modi government of trying to “dilute” MGNREGA, has taunted the government after it had hailed the measure as a “cause of national pride and celebration” on Monday.

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying his government’s praise of the MGNREGA is a “shining example” of Modi’s

“political wisdom” as he only had called the UPA’s job guarantee scheme a “living monument of Congress” failure.

“After calling NREGA ‘living monument of INC failure’ Govt now hails it as cause of ‘nat pride & celebration’ !Shining eg of Modiji’s pol wisdom”, the Congress Vice President said in a tweet.

The war of words on MGNREGA comes in the backdrop of Congress accusing the government of “appropriating” its icons” and “renaming” its schemes.

Jaitley claimed that it is perhaps for the first time that the actual expenditure of MGNREGA is much more than that was provisioned for the financial year in the Budget.

There was perhaps not a time in last many years that there was no curtailment in the fund for schemes announced in the Budget, he said taking potshots at UPA (United Progressive Alliance).

Under the scheme, people in rural areas are guaranteed 100 days of work. “Perhaps there was not one occasion in last few years that the allocation made in the Budget was not curtailed,” Jaitley said adding

this always led to curtailment in the planned expenditure, which ultimately affected development.

The budget cuts in MGNREGA when P. Chidambaram was the finance minister in UPA had led the then Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh to write to him in 2013 that “huge cuts” proposed will “very severely affect these programmes particularly in states that need them the most”.

The scheme’s budgetary allocation has increased from around Rs11,000 crore in 2006-07 to Rs40,000 crore in 2009-10, and had since remained consistent at around Rs 33,000 crore till 2013-14. Next year’s budget was Rs34,000 crore, which was raised to Rs34,699 crore in 2015-16.

Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s jibe during the last Budget that MGNREGA was a “living monument” of the Congress-led UPA government’s failures, the government had hiked the scheme’s allocation from Rs 34,000 crore to Rs34,699 crore, while promising to enhance the allocation by another Rs 5,000 crore if there was tax buoyancy. - PTI

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INDIA

India and Brunei to boost defence ties; sign 3 pacts In the defence sector, the two countries agreed for bilateral cooperation through exchange of visits at different levels; exchange of experience, information, training and trainers; conduct of joint military exercises

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: India and Brunei on Tuesday decided to boost defence ties by conducting joint military exercises as the two countries signed three agreements after Indian Vice President Hamid Ansari held talks with the top leadership here.

Ansari, on the first high-level trip from India since the establishment of diplomatic ties with resource-rich Brunei, witnessed the signing of the agreements in the field of health, and youth and sports affairs, besides defence.

In the defence sector, the two countries agreed for bilateral cooperation through exchange of visits at different levels; exchange of experience, information, training and trainers; conduct of joint military exercises, seminars and discussions; and cooperation between the defence industries.

Cooperation in defence between India and Brunei already exists in the form of naval ship

PARLEYS: Vice President Hamid Ansari with Sultan of Brunei, Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah at a meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei on Tuesday. - PTI

visits, training of senior military officers in staff colleges and exchange of experience.

The framework agreement seeks to institutionalise this cooperation.

The agreements were reached on the second day of Ansari’s visit here at a ceremony also attended

by Brunei’s Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Awang Halbi, Health Minister Haji Zulkarnain and Deputy Minister of Defence Abdul Aziz.

The agreement on health aims to establish cooperation by means of pooling technical, scientific, financial and human resources and to upgrade the healthcare, medical education, research between the two countries.

The areas identified for bilateral cooperation under the agreement are exchange of doc-

tors, other professionals and experts; exchange of information on health; medical and health research development; regulations of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and cosmetics and to promote business development in these areas; and health promotion and disease prevention.

Framework In the field of youth and sports affairs, the agreement provides a framework for exchanges of sports persons and sports teams; facilitate the exchange of expertise in coaching, sports talent identification, sports management and administration and exchange of information in the field of youth affairs.

Anil Wadhwa, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs was the signatory on India’s behalf in

C O M B AT I N G T H E D I S E A S E

Centre issues guidelines on Zika virus NEW DELHI: A day after WHO declared emergency over the “explosive” spread of the mosquitoborne Zika virus, the Centre on Tuesday issued detailed guidelines for combating the disease, including a travel advisory that asks pregnant women to either defer or cancel their travel to the affected areas.

The health ministry said that all international airports and ports will display signage with in-

formation on the disease.

Travellers will be asked to report to customs if they are returning from affected countries and suffering from febrile illness, it added.

Zika virus, which is carried by mosquito and suspected to cause serious birth defects, has affected countries in the Americas.

In its guidelines, the ministry said that while the disease has not been reported in India, the

mosquito which transmits Zika virus, namely Aedes aegypti, also transmits dengue virus, which is widely prevalent in the country.

The health ministry said the overall situation would be monitored by a ‘joint monitoring group’ under Director General of Health Services (DGHS) while the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) would identify the research priorities and take appropriate action. - PTI

A9

Brunei. Ansari on Monday said India is exploring the possibility of setting up a fertiliser plant in Brunei using the gas from the country, the fourth largest producer of LNG in the world.

“We buy about a million dollar worth of oil from Brunei. They don’t have much gas for us (exporting directly) because their gas is contracted out on a long-term basis. So we are exploring with them the possibility of using their gas locally for setting up a fertiliser unit,” Ansari told reporters.

Brunei is the fourth largest producer of LNG in the world and among the largest gas exporters with 9 per cent share of the export market.

“Maybe we will discuss a little more. That should be a good proposition. We have already tried this formula in Oman where we man-

ufacture urea there and bring it to India. In terms of freight and all also it is cheaper,” he said.

More than 90 per cent of Brunei’s gas production is converted into LNG for exports with most of LNG taken up by South Korea.

Indian imports with Brunei in 2015 (up to October) stood at 642.79 million Brunei dollars while the exports figure was 29.86 million Brunei dollars.

Ansari said Brunei has been country coordinator for India with the ASEAN grouping for three years and “our experience has been very positive”. - PTI

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IS BID TO LURE INDIANS

Rajnath Singh meets top clerics, seeks cooperation NEW DELHI: Amidst increasing attempts by IS to lure Indians into its fold, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday held a meeting with top clerics and sought their cooperation to check the growing tentacles of the dreaded group among Muslim youth.

The hour-long meeting, also attended by NSA Ajit Doval and senior Home Ministry officials, apprised the clerics about activities of the terrorist group and its efforts to attract Indian youth to its fold.

The home minister sought the cooperation of the clerics, who offered all help to the government in this regard, official sources said.

The issues that were discussed included misuse of social media, sources of impetus that attract persons, specially youth, to IS, the growth of IS influence in India’s neighbourhood and the best possible law enforcement response.

Those who attended the meeting include Jamiat Ulema-eHind’s Maulana Arshad Madani, Maulana Abdul Wahid Hussain Chisti of Ajmer Sharif, Asghar Ali Imam Mehdi of Jamiat Ahle Hadees, Tauqeer Raza Khan, Rafiq Warshiq, Shia leader Maulana Syed Kalbe Jawad Qalbe Jawaid, Kamal Farooqi, Mushafa Faruqi besides others.

The need for appropriate welfare schemes for minorities, social media strategies to be followed, especially in the area of information technology were also discussed threadbare.

Remarks In his remarks, the home minister said India’s traditions and family values will overcome such nefarious designs of terrorist groups and that while the traction that IS has got in India is extremely limited, and almost insignificant in comparison to other countries, there is a need to keep up vigil on all fronts, and not let down the guard in any manner. - PTI

A 10

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

PAKISTAN FA L L O U T O F TA L I B A N AT TA C K

DEMANDING RELEASE Protesters with placards rally in front of the Pakistani embassy in Manila’s financial district of Makati on Tuesday. They are calling for the release of Pakistani human rights activist and Fisherfolk Secretary General Saeed Baloch who was arrested on January 16 by Pakistani paramilitary forces for allegedly financing gang wars in Sindh provincial capital. — AFP

Varsity administration threatens resignation CHARSADDA/PESHAWAR: In continuing criticism of the factfinding committee’s report on the attack on Bacha Khan University, the varsity administration has threatened en masse resignations if any action is taken against the vice chancellor.

The question of why no one was taken to task or held responsible over the Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu prisons breaks was also raised by the registrar.

Report criticised All employees of the university have criticised the report issued by the investigation committee, said BKU Spokesperson Syed Khan Khalil on Monday.

He said this at a meeting held at the university where the VC, registrar, teachers and deans were present. They have decided to resign and shut down the university if the vice chancellor is taken to task over the January 20 attack claimed by Taliban, said Khalil.

Vice Chancellor Dr Fazalur

Vice Chancellor Dr Fazalur Rahim Marwat said it was the responsibility of the government to provide security to educational institutes and protect their citizens

Rahim Marwat said it was the responsibility of the government to provide security to educational institutes and protect their citizens.

He added teachers, students and untrained guards cannot fight trained terrorists who are armed with heavy weapons. — Express Tribune

Two killed as PIA staff clash with security forces over privatisation SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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Police used water

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

cannons and teargas to keep the crowd representing the national airlines from approaching Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport before shots were fired

KARACHI: Pakistani security personnel on Tuesday clashed with marchers protesting government plans to privatise the ailing national airline, a skirmish that a hospital official said killed at least two protesters and injured eight.

Protesters said paramilitary forces fired after a confrontation as security forces tried to block the strikers nearing the airport in the southern economic hub of Karachi.

But a spokesman for the paramilitary Rangers force and a senior police officer denied that any of their members had fired.

The violence came as hundreds of airline employees held the latest of a months-long series of protests against the plans to privatise Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

Police used water cannons and

FURIOUS: Pakistani employees of Pakistan International Airlines shout slogans as police use a water cannon on them during a protest near Karachi International Airport in Karachi on Tuesday. — AFP

teargas to keep the crowd from approaching the city’s Jinnah International Airport before shots were fired.

“They didn’t tell us they would be using force,” Suhail Baluch, chairman of PIA’s Joint Action

Committee, a grouping of unions, said of the firings.

“Firing straight at unarmed people is unacceptable.”

One man with a gunshot wound died during treatment and the body of another had been brought

for autopsy, Kaleem Shaikh, an officer of the city’s Jinnah Hospital, told Reuters, adding that the men were PIA employees at the protest.

Eight other injured protesters had also been admitted for treatment, he said.

Senior police officer Kamran Fazal told reporters at the scene that police did not open fire.

Police had gathered bullet casings from the scene to determine the weapons used, he said.

The Human Rights Com-

mission of Pakistan (HRCP) called for a “prompt and credible investigation”.

“Every citizen is entitled to the freedom of peaceful protest,” the group’s chairperson Zohra Yusuf said in a statement.

Despite the strike in Karachi and at PIA offices across Pakistan, flights suffered no major disruption on Tuesday.

Once a source of pride for Pakistan, flights of the lossmaking carrier are now frequently cancelled and many of its aircraft have been cannibalised to keep others flying.

“Saving PIA means saving the country,” said Ali Hussain, one of the striking employees.”Tomorrow they will sell Pakistan.”

The government expressed “sadness and sympathy” for those killed or injured on Tuesday, but also warned against further protests.

“Creating problems for the public in the name of protest, creating blockages in the coming and going of passengers and destroying public property is not lawful,” an interior ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday enacted legislation that effectively restricts the airline’s employees from striking for six months, the government said.

Those convicted of infringements face prison terms of up to a year, and an unspecified fine. — Reuters

MONEY-LAUNDERING CASE

Altaf exempted from police station visits during inquiry KARACHI: In a surprising turn of events, the Scotland Yard announced on Monday that it was cancelling the bail of six men, including Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain and two other party members, in a money-laundering case.

It also said that the six men were no longer required to report to the police.

Despite the cancellation of bail, a spokesperson for the London Metropolitan Police told The Express Tribune that investigations into the allegations would continue and further action would be taken as needed.

“Bail cancellation means that these men are not required to come to the police station anymore as they were required to do so earlier during their bail,” she explained.

The three other men whose bail had been cancelled include businessmen Sarfaraz Merchant, and two individuals Yasin Haji and Latif Jiwa.

Altaf Hussain

The move came just hours before the MQM chief and party members Tariq Mir and Mohammed Anwar were due to appear at the South London police station on Tuesday (today) to seek extensions in their bail in connection with the money-laundering case dating back to July 2013.

According to a statement issued by the party, London police had notified the MQM chief of the development on Monday.

“At the time of writing, there is insufficient evidence to bring a criminal charge against Altaf

Hussain and his colleagues,” the party quoted the police notification. “There is no need for any of you [Altaf, Mir, Anwar] to attend the police station. The bail conditions currently in place are therefore removed.”

The party said Altaf had reacted to the news with relief and reiterated that he had no involvement in money-laundering.

Money-laundering investigations had been launched after a considerable amount of cash was discovered at Altaf’s residence and office on December 6, 2012, during raids in connection with the investigation of the murder case of Dr Imran Farooq, a founding member of the MQM who was stabbed to death in London in September 2010.

Later, the MQM supremo was arrested on June 3, 2014, as part of the money-laundering investigation. However, he was released on bail four days later.

Since then, his bail had been extended five times. — Express Tribune

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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Huge queues outside Guangzhou railway station in Guangzhou, in southern China’s Guangdong province on Tuesday. Tens of thousands of Lunar New Year travellers in China were stranded on Sunday at a station in Guangzhou, state media said, after snow and ice elsewhere disrupted the world’s largest annual human migration. - AFP

ARTICLE, PHOTOS W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

Vice mayor of Chinese city to be prosecuted for corruption BEIJING: A vice mayor in a key southeastern Chinese city will be prosecuted for graft after an investigation found he engaged in “superstitious” activities, abused his power and took bribes, China’s main anti-graft watchdog said on Tuesday.

Li Dongliang, vice mayor of Xiamen, took gifts in exchange for help with promotions, covered up unspecified personal issues, allowed family members to benefit from his position and “participated in superstitious activities”, the ruling Communist Party’s Central Commission for Discipline Inspection said.

He also had “abnormal relations with others”, it said, alluding to an extra-marital affair. Such activity is banned for party officials, who are meant to be upstanding members of the community.

Party members are also not supposed to believe in “superstition” in officially atheist China.

The charge is frequently levelled at fallen officials as a way of further blackening their names. In a similar example, China’s powerful former public security chief Zhou Yongkang, who was jailed for life last year for corruption, was accused of leaking undisclosed state secrets to a fortune teller. - Reuters

M YA N M A R

Travel ban fuels talk of constitutional challenge NAYPYITAW/YANGON: The party of Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi has instructed its lawmakers not to leave the capital, rank-and-file members said, fuelling speculation of a legal bid to sidestep a clause in the constitution barring the democracy champion from the presidency.

Eight new lawmakers from the National League for Democracy (NLD) said the party’s top governing body, the 15-strong Central Executive Committee (CEC), had told them to stay in Naypyitaw, where the NLDdominated parliament began its five-year term this week.

“We are not allowed to take any leave until the end of next week,” said a new NLD member who did not want to be identified.

“One of the NLD CEC members said there may be some important matters or emergency bills coming up next week.”

The directive has intensified speculation among lawmakers that the party could table legislation to suspend the provision that prevents Nobel Peace Prize laureate Suu Kyi from becoming president despite her thumping win in a historic election in November. - Reuters

Chinese envoy in North Korea amid push for nuclear curbs North Korea is believed to be making preparations for a test launch of a long-range rocket, US officials have said, after activity at its test site was observed by satellite

SEOUL: China’s envoy for the North Korean nuclear issue arrived in the capital, Pyongyang, on Tuesday, the North’s KCNA news agency reported, amid a push by the United States and South Korea for tougher sanctions on the North after its fourth nuclear test.

China’s Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Affairs Wu Dawei was expected to hold discussions with the North Koreans on the nuclear issue after his arrival there, Japan’s Kyodo news

DOUBLE-DISSOLUTION

UNDER PRESSURE: China’s Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Affairs Wu Dawei, left, arrives at Pyongyang’s international airport, in North Korea, on Tuesday. - Reuters/Kyodo

agency reported from the North Korean capital.

Neither Kyodo nor KCNA gave further details. China’s foreign ministry did not have immediate comment. North Korea is believed to be making preparations for a

test launch of a long-range rocket, US officials have said, after activity at its test site was observed by satellite. North Korea has said it has a sovereign right to pursue a space programme by launching rockets.

But the United Nations see that

activity as a missile programme in disguise. South Korea’s Yonhap news agency reported on Monday that Wu met his US counterpart, Sung Kim, last week following US Secretary of State John Kerry’s visit to Beijing.

Wu met his South Korean counterpart last month. Kerry and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi last Wednesday agreed on the need for a significant new UN Security Council resolution against the North, but there were few signs of progress on agreeing on the details. Wang rejected as “groundless speculation” remarks by US officials that China, using its influence as the North’s main economic benefactor and political backer, could do more to press North Korea and must end “business as usual”.

China disapproves of the North’s nuclear programme and says it is making great efforts to achieve denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula.

Pressure grew on China after the North detonated a nuclear device on January 6, calling it a successful hydrogen bomb test, although the claim was met with scepticism by US and South Korean officials and nuclear experts, who said the blast was too small for it to have been a full-fledged hydrogen bomb.

North Korea is already under a wide array of international sanctions for its nuclear programme.

The US House of Representatives responded to the latest test with a vote last month to pass legislation that would broaden sanctions. - Reuters

ALLEGED ABDUCTION

Australian premier China defends law enforcers as US calls weighs early elections for clarity on booksellers disappearance to break deadlock SYDNEY: Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Tuesday raised the possibility of dissolving both houses of Parliament and calling an early election to break a political deadlock that has stymied the government, officials aware of the matter said.

Turnbull, who deposed former prime minister Tony Abbott in a party coup last year, told a private meeting of his Liberal Party that he expected the government to run a full term but had not ruled out a so-called double-dissolution election. A double-dissolution election is rarely used in Australia and allows for snap elections for all the seats in both houses to break an impasse.

“He said a double-dissolution was a live option, which would have to be weighed up,” one official said, on condition of anonymity.

“Addressing the topic of timing of the election, he said that we

can reasonably expect an election to be at the normal time in the August to October period, but that is not set in stone.”

A second government official with knowledge of the briefing confirmed the account. A spokesman for Turnbull declined to comment on speculation about when the election will be held.

Attempts by Abbott to push his conservative agenda on entitlement, higher education and industrial reforms through the divided upper house Senate were blocked by independent senators and the centre-left Labour Party, helping lead to his ouster.

Turnbull held out the possibility of dissolving parliament if the Senate refuses to pass a bill reinstating an industrial relations watchdog disbanded by the Labour government of prime minister Julia Gillard, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. - Reuters

B E I J I N G/ WA S H I N GTO N : China’s Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday its law enforcement officials would never do anything illegal, especially not overseas, after the United States called on China to clarify the status of five missing Hong Kong booksellers.

The booksellers, including Lee Bo, 65, a dual British and Chinese national and owner of a publisher and bookstore specialising in books critical of China’s Communist Party leaders, are believed by many to have been abducted by mainland agents.

‘Deeply concerned’ US State Department spokesman John Kirby told a regular news briefing on Monday the United States was “deeply concerned”, and the cases raised questions about China’s commitment to Hong Kong’s autonomy under a one country, two systems framework as well as about its respect for rights.

“We urge China to clarify the current status of all five individu-

PROTEST: A demonstrator posts a portrait of Causeway Bay Books

shareholder Lee Bo and Mighty Current publishing house’s general manager Lui Bo, right, during a protest to call for an investigation behind the disappearance of five staff members of a Hong Kong publishing house and bookstore, during a protest outside the Chinese liaison office in Hong Kong, on January 3, 2016. - Reuters

als and the circumstances surrounding their disappearances and to allow them to return to their homes,” Kirby said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said Hong Kong’s autonomy was fully respected, and that as the territory

was China’s, no foreign officials had the right to interfere or offer “not really appropriate” comments about the place.

The British government is waiting for responses to its diplomatic requests for information and access to Lee, who disappeared from

Hong Kong on December 30.

Lee’s wife visited him in a mainland guesthouse on January 23 and issued a statement saying he was healthy and in good spirits, and that he was a witness in an investigation.

Four other booksellers are believed to be in mainland detention, including Swedish national Gui Minhai, who disappeared from the Thai resort town of Pattaya last October. Gui surfaced on Chinese state television last month, stating he had turned himself into Chinese authorities over a fatal drunken driving case more than a decade ago.

Asked whether China had kidnapped Gui in Thailand, Lu said Chinese law enforcers always abided by the law.

The disappearances have prompted fears that mainland authorities may be using shadowy tactics that erode the one country, two systems formula under which Hong Kong has been governed since its return to China from British rule in 1997. - Reuters

A12

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READERS’ FORUM Decision to operate budget airlines a timely choice This refers to the report ‘Budget airline to promote tourism in Oman’ (February 2). In this time of austerity the proposal to open up the sky for low-cost airlines in the Sultanate has quite a number of advantages. As Oman Air is the only airline that operates within Oman, it would be ideal to have budget airlines entered the domestic sector as well in order to attract the business community and those who travel for leisure purposes. Obviously the services from low cost carriers will be different.

Economically, it is viable and will have a lot of influence, especially in the prevailing Scan this QR code situations. As Duqm and Sohar airports are to send letters to the going to be fully operative very soon, havReaders’ Forum, ing domestically operated budget airlines containing not more than 200 words with will always be an added attraction to the full name, address residents of the Sultanate. Meanwhile, it and telephone will also help in improving the frequency number, may be sent of travel to a number of business hubs in by e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com). the region, and could avoid depending on commuting by road. It apparently helps reduce the risk of travelling. As the benefits being in multiple aspects, especially adding up more job opportunities for the talented youth, the decision to start operating budget airlines is a timely choice and even promote the naturally blessed Oman’s potential to rest of the region and world. I hope it will take shape very soon.

—Ramachandran Nair, Ruwi

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

“Insure with New India and be secure”

Tel: 24838800 | Fax: 24838899 | Email: niamct@omantel.net.om | Website: www.newindiaoman.com If you are not criticised, you may not be doing much.

DONALD H. RUMSFELD

NOAH FELDMAN

It’s easy to protect children by disregarding the rights of convicted molesters. It’s much harder to draw constitutional lines in a careful, principled way that doesn’t compromise privacy for the rest of us by setting bad precedent.

Here’s hoping the 7th Circuit takes the case en banc, or that the US Supreme Court overturns it

I

n the backdrop of conversations on education, arming teachers and the national discourse on security, let us start with three simple, but undeniable facts. First, we have a national education crisis of the grandest proportions. The manifestations of this crisis come in the form of millions of children out of school, lack of access to quality education for the masses and a fractured education system that is unable to produce graduates that society needs desperately. Second, becoming a teacher in Pakistan is not the first choice for most people.

There are few, if any, incentives to become a teacher. Paltry salaries that are often delayed by months, classrooms without resources, schools without leadership and no mechanism to professionally develop do not create a workforce that is motivated. Third, recent tragic incidents have made the element of security now an inescapable part of our education system.

Given these different but interconnected realities of a broken education system that employs teachers who are overburdened, underpaid and rarely trained, the last thing we should go for is to arm them with guns in the classroom. Asking teachers who are barely able to do their jobs to now also be security guards is beyond unreasonable. It is dangerous and morally wrong. Regardless of where one stands on gun control in the state, everyone agrees that gun safety is an extremely serious business that requires training, years of experience and focus. Lacking that, even if there is no continuous external threat, tragic incidents with irreparable consequences can still occur. Self-inflicted fatal injuries make up the bulk of gun-related casualties around the world. On top of this, expecting teachers to fight trained terrorists is as absurd as it is sad. We also cannot deny that due to a variety of reasons, including financial and social strains, our teachers routinely get their frustration out on their students. The expression of this frustration often manifests in the form of unacceptable physical abuse. The last thing one would want in the hands of a

frustrated teacher is a loaded gun!

Most importantly, in addition to the high chance of tragic incidents, arming classroom teachers will negatively impact the learning environment that is meant to be comforting, inclusive and focused on knowledge. A student, regardless of age, but particularly at a young age, needs an environment that enables her or him to be curious, to engage and to enjoy the material discussed. Decades of research have demonstrated how learning environments influence and impact learning, and the last thing one needs in a learning environment is the constant reminder of fear and danger. Students look up to their teachers and should see them with a piece of chalk, a pen or a book, not a semi-automatic.

The argument, made by many, including those in government, that our ground realities require us to arm individual teachers is fundamentally flawed. There is no debate over the fact that our security needs are complex and the need to provide safety to our educational institutions cannot be compromised. However, guaranteeing safety is the responsibility of state institutions that are trained in safeguarding life and freedom. Expecting teachers to do what the state should do, but is unwilling or unable to do, is not only a sign of miserable failure, it is also the creation of a dangerous society where sanctity of an educational institution is no longer intact. Most importantly, it squarely plays into the hands of those who are bent on destroying our values and instil a sense of fear in the hearts and minds of everyone, most of all, the next generation. And that, we should be never ready to accept.

If our recent bloody history of intolerance tells us anything, it is that our impulsive, poorly thought-out and myopic policies on education have had a devastating effect. Let us not play any more dangerous games with places of learning. An educational institution should always be a place of inspiration – a beacon for a better tomorrow and a sanctuary that celebrates our best ideas.

There should never be any space for ideas that destroy our most prized asset: Our future. - Express Tribune

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES FEBRUARY 2001 Seminar on side effects of medicines begins MUSCAT: A seminar on monitoring side effects of drugs organized by the Ministry of Health in coordination with the International Drugs Monitoring Centre in Sweden, an affiliate to the World Health Organisation (WHO), began here yesterday. The seminar is meant to highlight the importance of monitoring and classifying drugs side effects and writing required reports about them to the concerned office at the Directorate General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control.

TODAY IN HISTORY INVITATION TO WRITERS We invite our readers to write articles on topics related to Oman. The articles should not exceed 800 words.

Send us your article along with your picture to akhtar@timesofoman.com

PICTOGRAPH

NEW REGISTERED RENTAL VEHICLES IN OMAN

From September to November, 2015 September

October

520

November

468 324

1690: The first paper money in America is issued in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

1917: A German submarine sinks the U.S. liner Housatonic off coast of Sicily. The United States severs diplomatic relations with Germany.

1954: Millions greet Queen Elizabeth in Sydney on her first royal trip to Australia.

0

Source National Centre for Statistics and Information

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

A13

WORLD

The French drugmaker, Sanofi, has launched a project to develop a vaccine against Zika, the most decisive commitment yet by a major vaccine producer to fight the disease.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES: Health ministry personnel fumigate against the ‘Aedes aegypti’ mosquito, vector of the dengue, Chikungunya and Zika viruses in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, on Monday. – AFP

Africa and Asia vulnerable to Zika World Health Organisation sets up global response unit as Australia reports two cases, detects mosquitoes at Sydney airport

GENEVA/SYDNEY: The Zika virus linked to a microcephaly outbreak in Latin America could spread to Africa and Asia, with the world’s highest birth rates, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned as it launched a global response unit against the new emergency.

The WHO on Monday declared an international public health emergency due to Zika’s link to thousands of recent birth defects in Brazil.

“We’ve now set up a global response unit which brings together all people across WHO, in headquarters, in the regions, to deal with a formal response using all the lessons we’ve learned from the Ebola crisis,” said Anthony Costello, WHO director for maternal, child and adolescent health.

PREVENTING SPREAD: Municipal workers trim vegetation as part of the efforts to prevent the spread of the Zika virus vector, the Aedes aegypti mosquito, in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, on Monday. – Reuters

SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT DEADLY AFFECT: Guilherme Soares Amorim, 2, who was born with microcephaly, gets his head measured by his mother Germana Soares, at her house in Ipojuca, Brazil, on Monday. – Reuters

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

detected at Sydney International Airport, but stressed that it was unlikely the virus would establish local transmission given the lack of large numbers of the Aedes Aegypti mosquitos.

The New South Wales (NSW) health department said the two Sydney residents were diagnosed with the Zika virus on Friday after returning to Australia from Haiti.

Formal diagnosis can take several weeks and the department did not disclose when the couple were tested. It said the pair had mild cases of the virus and had recovered.

“It is very unlikely that Zika virus will establish local transmission in NSW as the mosquitos that spread the infection are not established here - although they are found in some parts of north Queensland,” Vicky Sheppeard, director of communicable diseases at NSW Health, said in a statement.

Global concern “The reason it’s a global concern is that we are worried that this could also spread back to other areas of the world where the population may not be immune,” he told a news conference in Geneva on Tuesday.

“And we know that the mosquitos that carry Zika virus - if that association is confirmed - are present... through Africa, parts of southern Europe and many parts of Asia, particularly South Asia...”

Good guidelines Costello added the WHO was drafting “good guidelines” for pregnant women and mustering experts to work on a definition of microcephaly including a standardised measurement of baby heads.

“We believe the association is guilty until proven innocent,” he said, referring to the connection drawn in Brazil between the Zika virus and microcephaly, a condition where babies are born with abnormally small heads.

“Mass community engagement” in areas with the mosquitos and their breeding grounds, and rapid

PHOTOS

Queensland state in the north of the country is on high alert for any entry of the disease from Australia’s Asian neighbours.

INSPECTION: Health agents, left and second right, and Brazilian soldiers conduct an inspection for the ‘Aedes aegypti’ mosquito as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the Zika virus, along a street in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Monday. – Reuters

development of diagnostic tools are essential to curbing the virus, as a vaccine may be years away, said Costello, a paediatrician.

Sanofi has launched a project to develop a vaccine against Zika, the most decisive commitment yet by a major vaccine producer to fight the disease.

The French drugmaker said on Tuesday its Sanofi Pasteur vac-

cines division would use its expertise in developing vaccines for similar viruses such as yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis and, most recently, dengue.

“Sanofi Pasteur is responding to the global call to action to develop a Zika vaccine given the disease’s rapid spread and possible medical complications,” said Nicholas Jackson, research head of Sanofi

Pasteur, who is leading the new Zika vaccine project.

Two Australians were diagnosed with the Zika virus after returning home from travels in the Caribbean, a state health service said on Tuesday, confirming the first cases of the mosquito-borne virus in the country this year.

Officials also said that mosquitos carrying the virus had been

Insecticides Earlier on Tuesday, the Department of Agriculture said it was imposing additional cabin spraying of insecticides on flights arriving into Sydney from Southeast Asia. The department said the step-up in procedures, which includes adding extra mosquito vector monitoring traps, followed the “recent detection” of Aedes Aegypti mosquitos at Sydney airport.

“These measures are undertaken to prevent these mosquitoes establishing breeding populations in Australia, thereby preventing the potential for the local spread of these diseases,” the department said in a statement.

Thailand Thailand public health ministry said that Thailand should not worry about the Zika virus. Thailand is the worst-hit country in Southeast Asia, with an average of five cases a year since 2012, according to the Ministry of Public Health.

Thailand has confirmed one case of the virus this year.

In addition, last month, Taiwan reported one case of Zika infection in a man from Thailand after he set off a temperature scanner at Taiwan’s Taoyuan International Airport.

“Thais should not worry. Thailand has no outbreak of this disease,” the Ministry of Public Health said in a statement.

“We have asked everyone to monitor and prepare measures to look after this disease... Thais should not panic. Mostly if patients get this disease they recover,” the ministry said.

Neighbouring Malaysia and Singapore have said they are at high risk for the spread of Zika if the virus is imported.

Thailand’s public health ministry has said there was “no technical evidence” of in-built immunity to Zika in Thailand.

“I ask you to have confidence in Thailand’s surveillance system,” Amnuay Gajeena, director-general of the Disease Control Department, said in a statement.

The health ministry has asked members of the public to help eliminate mosquitos around their homes and in their communities and has advised those travelling back from Zika-affected areas to report any symptoms. — Reuters

A 14

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

GLOBAL EYE

LIBYA: A Libyan man performs stunts on a motorbike in the square of the eastern coastal city of Benghazi on Monday during a festival organised by the city’s Motorcycle Club and Arabian Horse club.

— AFP

JAPAN: Zookeepers capture a zookeeper dressed as zebra (bottom) during a drill to practice what to do in the event of an animal escape at the Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, Japan, on Monday. About 150 zookeepers participated in the annual drill. — AFP

MEXICO: View of the Pico de Orizaba volcano at dawn, from the Izta-Popo National Park, in the Mexican state of Puebla, on Monday. — AFP

PORTUGAL: Members of the Shanxi Folk Dance and Music Troupe perform during their show at the Orient Museum in Lisbon, Portugal, on Monday. — Reuters

COSTA RICA: Taxi drivers throw eggs to colleagues who are not on strike during a protest of taxi drivers in Costa Rica’s capital San Jose on Monday. — AFP

FRANCE: Clearance divers of the French Navy work to neutralise shells from the second World War found under water off Marseille, southern France on Tuesday. — AFP

TURKEY: The sun sets behind Sisli business district, which comprises leading Turkish companies’ headquarters and popular shopping malls, in Istanbul, Turkey, on Monday. — Reuters

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

A15

WORLD Iowa primary upends US politics as Cruz wins, Hillary scrapes through

by just four delegates

vember election, should she be the Democratic nominee.

“People realised on the Republican side that we cannot afford - this country cannot afford - to lose this election, and that I give the party the best chance not just to unify our party but to grow it,” Rubio told ABC’s “Good Morning America” show.

The Midwestern state of Iowa has held the first nominating contest in the country since the early 1970s, giving it extra weight in the electoral process that can translate into momentum for winning candidates as they head into months of state-by-state battles.

DES MOINES (IOWA): Relishing victory in the first Republican nominating contest of the US presidential election, Senator Ted Cruz called his defeat of Donald Trump in the Iowa caucuses a tribute to “conservative grass roots.”

Cruz also said the result from Monday’s contest was a rebuke to what he called President Barack Obama’s liberal agenda and a win for “Judeo-Christian values.”

“This is the power of the conservative grass roots,” the senator from Texas told CNN on Tuesday.”One of the greatest lies POWER OF GRASS ROOTS: Republican presidential candidate Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), joined by his wife Heidi Cruz, speaks at a caucus that gets told on the airwaves over night rally on Monday in Des Moines, Iowa. — Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images/AFP and over again is that this country has somehow embraced Barack He vowed to “carpet bomb” the strongly attacked Clinton’s cam- finish and establishing himself Obama’s big government. gelical support at the launch of That’s not true. This is a center- the nominating process to pick the extremist IS group into oblivion paign from the left, declared the as the mainstream alternative to right country. parties’ candidates for the Novem- in a speech in December in which result a virtual tie after he had the two front-running rivals in said, “I don’t know if sand can trailed the former first lady in the race to be the party’s presidenThis is a country built on Judeo- ber 8 election. tial nominee. glow in the dark but we are going opinion polls for months.

Christian values,” he said. to find out.”

Cruz won the Republican Iowa Get-out-the-vote effort Latino vote On the Democratic side, former Now gone caucuses with 28 per cent of the His strong get-out-the-vote effort vote compared with 24 per cent helped counter the enthusiasm Secretary of State Hillary Clinton “I think the significance is for folks The son of Cuban immigrants, Rufor businessman Trump, whose from large crowds that have shown won by a razor-thin margin against who did not think Bernie Sanders bio hopes to win back some of the US Senator Bernie Sanders of Ver- could win, that we could compete Latino vote that the party has lost aggressive and unorthodox cam- up for Trump’s boisterous rallies.

A first-term senator and fis- mont, the closest in Iowa Demo- against Hillary Clinton, I hope in recent years as it toughened its paign has been marked by conthat thought is now gone,” Sanders stance on immigration. troversies ranging from his calls cal conservative from the Tea cratic caucus history.

Iowans who supported RuClinton, 68, prevailed by only told CNN. to ban Muslims temporarily from Party movement that emerged For the Republicans, Marco Ru- bio at the caucuses said they reentering the United States to his on the right of the Republican four delegates, according to bio, 44, a US senator from Florida, sponded to his positive message pledge to build a wall along the US- Party six years ago, Cruz has pre- party figures.

Sanders, 74, a self-described came in third with 23 per cent, and viewed him as the best cansented himself as a strong foreign Mexican border. democratic socialist who has making a stronger-than-expected didate to beat Clinton in the NoCruz, 45, was buoyed by evan- policy hawk.

Humbled Trump An uncharacteristically humbled Trump, 69, congratulated Cruz and said he still expected to win the Republican nomination.

Opinion polls show Trump leading nationally and in New Hampshire, which holds the next nominating contest next week.

“I’m just honoured,” Trump said.

Usually a prolific user of Twitter, where he has often issued scathing criticism of his rivals, Trump was silent on the social media site on Tuesday morning.

The 2016 election is shaping up to be the year of angry voters as disgruntled Americans worry about issues such as immigration, terrorism, income inequality and healthcare, fueling the campaigns of Trump, Sanders and Cruz.

Republican establishment candidates more traditional than Rubio did not fare well in Iowa.

Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush took 2.8 per cent, Ohio Governor John Kasich took 1.9 per cent, and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie took 1.8 per cent.

Two White House hopefuls, former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, who had trouble gaining any traction in the Democratic race, and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, a Republican, suspended their campaigns after doing badly in Iowa. — Reuters

Non-mainstream Republican Ted Cruz upsets Donald Trump as democraticsocialist Bernie Sander loses out to the former first lady

SPECIAL DEAL

RISK FINES

EU’s proposed plan includes Italy cracks down on smokers as tough law comes into effect all of Cameron demands CHIPPENHAM (UK)/BRUSSELS: European Council President Donald Tusk set out a plan on Tuesday for keeping Britain in the European Union to a mixed reception which underlined the challenges Prime Minister David Cameron faces convincing Britons they should stay in the bloc.

Cameron mounted a strong defence of membership of the 28-nation bloc after Tusk released details of his plan following weekend talks, though the British leader added that the EU was far from “perfect and unblemished”.

If the terms worked out with Tusk are accepted and some improvements are made, Cameron said, they will offer the “best of both worlds” for Britain.

Cameron has promised a referendum which could happen as early as June.

But with Eurosceptics branding the talks “trivial” and some of Cameron’s allies questioning whether the package of measures will be enough, a summit of EU leaders that is due to discuss the proposals on February 18-19 looks likely to be difficult.

“Sometimes people say to me if you weren’t in the European Union would you opt to join the European Union,” Cameron told reporters and workers at a manufacturing plant in Chippenham, southwest England.

“Today I would give a very clear answer: If I could get these terms for British membership I sure would opt in to be a member of the European Union because these are good terms and they are different to what other countries have.”

Tusk’s draft text addresses all four areas where Cameron has demanded reform and officials claimed victory in winning concessions to stem migration and to boost British sovereignty.

Watered down demands Cameron rejected criticism that he had watered down his demands, saying improvements to the deal could be made.”This is

ROME: Tough anti-smoking laws came into effect in Italy on Tuesday, imposing large fines for several offences and making it illegal to smoke in a car carrying children or pregnant women.

The laws require cigarette packs to carry stark pictures of people

AGENDA: A letter sent by European Council President Donald Tusk to European Union (EU) leaders after it was released to the media, is seen in Brussels, Belgium February 2, 2016. Proposals to protect Britain and other non-euro zone countries from deeper euro zone integration do not grant London the right of veto over decisions, Tusk told EU leaders in a letter on Tuesday. — Reuters

This is not a done deal yet, there is a lot more work to be done over these next couple of weeks David Cameron Britain’s Prime Minister

not a done deal yet, there is a lot more work to be done over these next couple of weeks,” he said.

Despite the prospect of further brinkmanship until the summit, financial markets and some business leaders took heart that a deal now appeared more likely, easing some uncertainty.

Sterling jumped by almost half a US cent to $1.4425 after

the outline of the proposed deal was released.

Stuart Walker, director general of the Institute of Directors, a business organisation, welcomed Tusk’s proposals.

“The deal on the table is better than we expected,” he said in a statement.

Reformed EU Cameron has spent months trying to get a deal so he can campaign to stay in a reformed EU at the referendum he promised in 2013 to try to put to rest the divisive subject of Europe that has dogged his Conservative Party for decades.

The stakes are high.

The referendum will not only determine Britain’s future role in world trade and affairs, but also shape the EU, which has struggled to maintain unity over migration and financial crises, by ripping away its second-largest economy and one of its two main military powers.

Officials were keen to show Cameron had won agreement with Tusk on two areas of the renegotiation - on stopping EU legislation it opposes and on curbing migrants’ benefits. — Reuters

who suffered from the effects of smoking, including one of a woman coughing up blood and another of a man who died of a heart attack being zipped up in a body bag.

Those caught smoking in cars with children or pregnant women risk fines of up to 500 euros ($546).

Smoking will also be prohibited outdoors near schools and hospitals. Tobacconists caught selling cigarettes to minors risk fines of up to 3,000 euros or losing their license. Throwing cigarette butts on the pavement could cost an offender up to 300 euros. — Reuters

A 16

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Nine migrants drowned off Seferihisar coast in Turkey At least 80 busloads of migrants stranded on Greek border with Macedonia due to protests of farmers and taxi drivers

ISTANBUL/POLIKASTRO: Nine people, including two babies, were found drowned off the coast of western Turkey on Tuesday after a boat carrying people to Greece partly capsized, the coast guard said.

The fibreglass vessel partially capsized before dawn off the coast of Seferihisar in Izmir province, close to the Greek Island of Samos. Two people were rescued swimming to the shore, the Turkish coast guard said.

A crackdown on illegal crossing and the dangerous winter conditions have failed to deter tens of thousands from boarding flimsy boats and attempting to cross the Mediterranean in the first few weeks of the year.

Toll More than 360 people died in the Mediterranean in January including more than 100 over the final weekend, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Tuesday.

In January, 60 children died trying to get to Greece in this way, bringing the total number of minors drowning on this route to 330 over the past five months.

IOM said more than 67,000 had arrived in Greece and Italy, the vast majority in the former, compared with 5,000 in the same month in 2015.

FOR DANGEROUS JOURNEYS: Life jackets, inner tubes of tyres and woolie hats are on sale at a store, in Kumkapi district of Istanbul, on Monday. More than 360 people died in the Mediterranean in January including more than 100 over the final weekend. – AFP

Meanwhile, at least 80 buses packed with migrants, many of them women and children, were backed up short of the Greek border with Macedonia on Tuesday, stranded by protests on either side of the frontier.

Taxi-drivers on the Macedonian side have blocked the railway line between the two countries, protesting over the fact that police give priority first to trains and buses to take the migrants north to Serbia en route to western Europe. On the Greek side, farmers had parked dozens of tractors on the roadside leading to the bor-

der crossing at Idomeni, part of a protest over a planned pension reform by the Greek government to satisfy international creditors.

At least 80 buses stood on the Greek side. A camp at the frontier was at full capacity with some 700 people. “We’ve been here for a few days now,” said a Macedonian taxi-driver, who gave his name as Goran. “The railway is blocked, the aim is to get the authorities to talk to us about an agreement that will allow us to transport refugees to Tabanovce,” on Macedonia’s northern border with Serbia.

More than 1 million people flee-

ing poverty, war and repression in the Middle East, Asia and Africa reached Europe’s shores last year, most heading for Germany.

Temperatures in the Balkans, having dropped below freezing in January, were back up into the teens, easing the journey for a growing proportion of women and children.

“From one in 10 who were children, now we are looking at a significant proportion of women and children, up to 60 per cent,” Sarah Crowe, a spokeswoman for the UN children’s fund UNICEF, told a news briefing in Geneva.

Aid agencies and authorities erected tents along the route to the border, but many male migrants slept outside on the ground, lighting camp fires against the morning chill. “It’s not possible to get all these people into tents,” said a refugee who gave his name as Sardar and said he was from Iraq.

“There aren’t enough facilities so we spent the night on the ground.”

A police official in Macedonia, who declined to be named, told Reuters: “We’re working on the problem. We hope it will be resolved soon.” — Reuters

LOW-TECH SOLUTION

Dutch police training eagles to disable drones AMESTERDAM: Dutch police puzzling over how to remove drones that pose a public safety threat are testing a way to get the job done in one fell swoop - with trained eagles.

“It’s a low-tech solution to a high-tech problem,” spokesman Dennis Janus of the country’s national police said.

The idea arose because amateur use of drones has boomed and police have begun to worry about unlicensed drones flying into off-limit spaces around airports or above public events such as politician’s appearances.

Possible solutions the Dutch police have studied include shooting nets at the offending drones, remotely hacking them to seize their controls - or taking them out with birds of prey.

“People sometimes think it’s a hoax, but it’s proving very effective so far,” Janus said.

Showing off the technique in a video released by police, a fourpropeller drone hovers in the middle of a warehouse, coloured lights flashing.

Released by her keeper, a whitetailed eagle glides straight toward the drone, clutches it easily in her talons - clack! - and drags it to the ground. Sjoerd Hoogendoorn of “Guard from Above”, the company working with police to develop the concept, said the birds must be trained to recognise the drones as prey. They are rewarded with a piece of meat after each successful foray. Their scaly talons are strong and tough enough to seize most consumer-grade drones without injury from the blades, he said.

“These birds are used to meeting resistance from animals they hunt in the wild, and they don’t seem to have much trouble with the drones,” he said.

The potential impact on the animals’ welfare is subject of testing by an external scientific research institute. — Reuters

B

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM W EDN ES DAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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Muscat 5,192.00 - 20.08 - 0.31%

Dubai 2,980.36 - 9.68 - 0.32%

Abu Dhabi 4,088.64 - 17.73 - 0.43%

Kuwait 5,132.86 + 25.71 + 0.50%

Saudi Arabia

5,874.19 - 111.53 - 1.86%

Bahrain 1,189.66 + 6.00 + 0.51%

Qatar 9,653.32 + 85.49 + 0.09%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

Type ............................Delivery...........Price

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.35 Pound ............................................1.75 Indian Rs ............................. 175.62 Pak Rs ....................................267.95 Bangla Taka......................200.92

Indian Rs ...................................176.50 Pakistan Rs .............................272.30 Sri Lanka Rs ............................ 371.75 Bangla Taka........................... 203.20 Phil Peso ................................... 123.20

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......14.45

Oman Crude............. (Spot) .........$30.31 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) .........$29.81 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) ........ $32.97 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........$29.26 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) ........$32.95

* Rates as of Feb. 2 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

* Rates are as of Feb. 2 Source: Bank Muscat

West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........$30.82

Oman seeks consultant to forecast power demand Project management tender for Ibri, Sohar IPPs floated

Consultant will advice the Oman Power and Water Procurement Company on how to expand capacity within the main

Times News Service

interconnected system areas, which serve over 736,000 electricity customers A E JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman floated a tender on Tuesday,seeking proposals from international consultants to provide technical advisory services for competitive tendering to secure an economic expansion of power capacity to meet future demand in 2021 and beyond.

The consultant is expected to advice the Oman Power and Water Procurement (OPWP) Company on how to expand capacity within the main interconnected area (MIS)—governorates of Muscat, Buraymi, Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Sharqiyah North, Al Sharqiyah South and Al Dha-

hirah—which serve over 736,000 electricity customers.

This procurement will be by using the current established process and contract structure.

OPWP, a member of the Electricity Holding Company (called Nama group), is responsible for procuring new electricity generation capacity and water in Oman.

Oman’s average annual growth in power demand for the next five years within the areas of main inter-connected system (MIS) is projected to grow by 10 per cent to 5,023 megawatt (MW) in 2020, according to a seven-year outlook for power demand released by OPWP a couple of years ago.

However, peak demand growth, under the demand forecast, is

– Times file picture

expected to be about 11 per cent per annum, up from 4,455 MW in 2013 to 9,133 MW in 2020.

The consultancy’s tender documents for technical advisory services will be available for purchase between February 2 and 11, while the last date of submission is March 2.

Within the Salalah region, which covers around 77,000 electricity customers, peak demand is expected to grow at 10 per cent per year, from 420 MW in 2013 to 800 MW in 2020. However, the average demand is projected to grow from 282 MW in 2013 to 553 MW in 2020.

SUPPORTIVE MEASURES

Local plastic firms call for more government support man said the government has to consider various aspects of any regulation before enforcing it as even a small change in the law may affect the whole manufacturing sector.

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Local plastic companies in Oman have called for more supportive measures by the government to help them expand their business and compete with imported products.

Azhar Hamoud Ahmed Al Hinai, deputy general manager, Bin Ahmed Enterprises, believes that more support can protect Omani companies, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Speaking to the Times of Oman at a recent exhibition, Al Hinai said competitors from outside Oman have been bringing their products to Oman and offering them at a lower price.

They are ‘killing’ the market in Oman, he said, adding that customers would prefer to buy a cheaper product even if the price difference is minimal.

Bin Ahmed Enterprises is a leading manufacturer and supplier of plastic household products in the Middle East.

It offers a wide range of plastic household products, including plastic buckets, plastic storage drums, plastic tubs and basins and plastic mugs.

It also offers microwavable products, as well as containers that can keep food for a couple of hours without it losing its temperature.

Azhar Hamoud Ahmed Al Hinai, deputy general manager, Bin Ahmed Enterprises.

— Ismail Al Farsi

Delivery Asked about other challenges facing the company, Al Hinai said Bin Ahmed Enterprises is an old and established company and does not face any big challenges, but noted that it would be good if some issues related to drivers, who are important for delivery, are resolved.

There is a lack of knowledge among some Omanis and the company has been trying to educate the staff that they have to work hard to stay in a job, he noted. Commenting on manpower regulations, the Omani business-

Community’s support Asked about the community’s support for local products, Al Hinai said that more people are becoming conscious about whether a product is made in Oman or not.

This support helps local companies and encourages them to enhance the quality of the products, he noted.

He added that creativity, new designs and products give the company an edge over other firms.

Bin Ahmed Enterprises claims its plastic products are versatile and flexible and are recognised for their great design, style, impact strength and clarity.

The company exports its products to several parts of the world, including European and African markets, Al Hinai said, adding that the company plans to expand into more markets. In addition, Dasney Pereira, commercial promoter at Polythene and Plastic Production Co. believes that the community’s support for Omani products is there, but further government support can help local companies reduce their prices so that nobody will go across the border to buy any item. > B4

DEVELOPMENT BONDS

Central bank issues OMR100m worth bonds MUSCAT: Oman’s central bank has announced the new issue of government development bonds (GDB).

The size of the new issue is fixed at OMR100 million with a maturity period of five years and will carry a coupon rate of 3.5 per cent per annum.

The issue will be open for subscription on February 7 until February 14, 2016 while the auction

will be held on Tuesday, February 16, 2016.

The issue settlement date will be on Monday February 22, 2016. Interest on the new bonds will be paid semiannually on August 22 and February 22, every year until maturity date on February 22, 2021.

Investors may apply for these bonds through the competitive bidding process only. Investors

may submit bids through commercial licensed banks operating in the Sultanate of Oman.

Investors with applications of OMR1 million and above can, if they so wish submit to their bids directly to CBO after getting them endorsed from their banks.

The 48th GDB issue is offered to all investors, residents and nonresidents (irrespective of their nationality). — ONA

MUSCAT: A tender for selecting a company to provide supervisory consultancy services for the Ibri and Sohar independent power projects has also been floated by the Oman Power and Water Procurement (OPWP) Company. The consultant will provide project management and technical consultancy services during the construction phase, commissioning and testing of Ibri and Sohar independent power projects.

Japan’s Mitsui and Co.led consortium was awarded concession early last month to build these two power projects, which will have a combined capital expenditure of $2.3 billion.

The consortium will build two independent gas-fired combined cycle power plants, with a combined generation capacity of 3,150 MW—a 1,450 MW project in Ibri and a 1,700 MW capacity unit in Sohar, which is called Sohar 3.

The mega power plants will supply approximately 30 per cent of the electricity that will be consumed in the Muscat area once the commercial operations are underway. The contract is expected to be signed this month, and Sohar-3 plans to start operations in January 2019, while the Ibri plant will commence power generation in April 2019. Mitsui will operate the plants and sell power under a 15-year agreement with OPWP.

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......13.95 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ............135.50 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) .............128.50 * Rates as of Feb. 2 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

B2

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

MARKET CRUDE MARKET

Oil extends fall as US supply rises HONG KONG: Oil dropped for a second day before weekly government data forecast to show United States crude stockpiles expanded further from a record, exacerbating a global glut.

Futures decreased as much as 2.6 per cent in New York after slumping 6 per cent on Monday, erasing last week’s gain. Inventories probably rose by 3.75 million barrels through January 29, according to a survey before an Energy Information Administration report on Wednesday.

BP reported a 91 per cent decline in fourth-quarter earnings after Chevron on Friday reported its first quarterly loss since 2002 amid the price rout.

Oil dips 16% “The pressure is mounting on producers and someone has to turn off the taps,” David Lennox, an analyst at Fat Prophets in Sydney, said by phone. “Actual significant cuts to output are needed. There is still a surplus.”

Oil has lost about 16 per cent this year amid volatility in global markets, brimming US crude supplies and the outlook for increased exports from Iran after the removal of international sanctions.

Royal Dutch Shell had its debt rating cut to the lowest since Standard & Poor’s began coverage in 1990, and investors in Asian producers should prepare for a wave of writedowns, according to Sanford C. Bernstein.

West Texas Intermediate for March delivery fell as much as 82 cents to $30.80 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange and was at $31.16. - Bloomberg News

US companies tighten purse strings fearing slow growth all US companies is expected to grow 3 per cent to about $133 billion. Telecommunications and financial services companies — typically among the biggest spenders on IT – are expected to have flat to little growth in spending, he said.

Companies as diverse as healthcare, consumer goods and restaurants are among those tightening their belts in yet another sign that economic growth in 2016 may be weak

NEW YORK: A slump in capital spending that originated in the hard-hit energy sector appears to be spreading more widely across other United State industries.

Companies cutting or flat-lining their capital expenditures in 2016 outpace those that say they will increase spending by a factor of more than two to one, according to an analysis.

Companies in industries as diverse — and relatively strong — as healthcare, consumer goods and restaurants are among those tightening their belts in yet another sign that economic growth in 2016 may be anaemic.

For instance, McDonald’s, which saw its stock jump 26.1 per cent in 2015 and is trading at

CAUTIOUS MOVE: Drugmaker Eli Lilly is holding its capex budget flat and Verizon Communications said it plans to cut its budget from $17.8 billion to between $17.2 and $17.7 billion. – Bloomberg News

record levels now, said it would keep capex flat with 2015 at about $2 billion, the company’s lowest budget in more than five years.

Less cash flow Drugmaker Eli Lilly is holding its capex budget flat and Verizon Communications said it plans to cut its budget from $17.8 billion, to between $17.2 and $17.7 billion.

“I think companies are going to be lean and mean and are going to keep the purse strings tight and only spend where absolutely necessary, because cash isn’t coming into them,” said Kim Forrest, sen-

ior equity research analyst at Fort Pitt Capital Group in Pittsburgh.

Companies typically invest more when they feel confident that the economy is improving, so a downturn in capital spending could portend further weakness ahead. That corporate caution follows another expected decline in revenues in the fourth quarter and data showing US economic growth braked sharply in the quarter. To be sure, some well-heeled companies in healthy industries are bumping up their investments.

Medical technology company

Stryker expects to have capital expenditures as high as $450 million in 2016, up from $270 million in 2015. Facebook plans capital expenditures between $4 billion and $4.5 billion this year, up from $2.5 billion.

But even growth in information technology spending — which has been strong in recent years — appears to be off its recent peaks, according to International Data Corporation analyst Stephen Minton. “US companies will increase their spending, but not by the rate it has been over the last two years,” he said.

Hardware spending in 2016 for

Capital spending At least 43 companies plan to cut, or leave unchanged, their capital spending levels in 2016, while about 20 are increasing, according to a review of Standard & Poor’s 500 companies that have given explicit early guidance.

Not surprisingly, the collapse in capital spending by energy companies - which typically lead in capex - appears to be accelerating.

This year marks the second round of big cuts for energy companies, which have had to sharply scale back spending because of the drop in oil prices since mid-2014.

A slew of energy names have announced capex cuts for 2016 including Hess, Anadarko Petroleum, Halcon Resources, Noble Energy and Continental Resources.

The broad slump in commodities prices has hit spending by materials companies, including DuPont, which is cutting capex from $1.4 billion to $1.1 billion, and industrials such as railroads Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, both of which slashed capital spending plans for 2016. - Reuters

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D E B T R AT I N G

Shell’s rating downgraded amid slump in oil prices

DOWNGRADED: Standard & Poor’s move comes after the ratings agency lowered its 2016 oil price assumption on January 12 for Brent crude at $40 per barrel. – Bloomberg News

NEW YORK: Royal Dutch Shell had its debt rating cut to the lowest since Standard & Poor’s (S&P) began coverage in 1990, and downgrades of several other major European oil and gas companies will probably follow in coming weeks.

The long-term credit rating for the world’s third-largest oil producer by market value was reduced one level to A+, the fifthhighest investment grade, from AA-, and was placed on watch for another possible reduction, the ratings agency said in a statement on Monday. S&P also assigned a negative outlook to BP, Eni, Repsol, Statoil and Total.

Oil has fallen more than 70 per cent since June 2014. The slump accelerated after Saudi Arabia

70% Was the fall in oil prices since June 2014. The slump accelerated after Saudi led the Opec decision in November 2014 to maintain output

led the Organisation of Exporting Countries’ decision in November 2014 to maintain output and defend market share against highercost producers including United States shale drillers. Speculation that the downturn will be pro-

longed has increased as volatility in Chinese markets bolstered concern that demand will drop in the world’s second biggest crudeconsuming country.

S&P’s moves come after the ratings agency lowered its 2016 oil price assumption on January 12 for Brent crude by $15 a barrel to $40. The 52 per cent average price drop in 2015 will not be matched by most companies’ cost and spending reductions, S&P said.

Below guidelines “We now believe many major oil and gas companies’ current and prospective core debt coverage metrics are likely to remain below our rating guidelines for two or three years as the industry adjusts

to lower prices,” S&P analysts said in the report. Jonathan French, a spokesman for Shell, declined to comment. Oil producers lost more than $1.7 trillion in market value since crude prices began to slide.

The spectre of shrinking cash flow prompted more than 240,000 job cuts as drillers canceled rig contracts, slashed dividends and walked away from their riskiest, most ambitious projects.

Chevron, the world’s largest oil producer by market value after Exxon Mobil, last week posted its first quarterly loss in 13 years as crashing prices forced it to write down the value of its holdings.

More red ink is expected this week as other large producers disclose results. – Bloomberg News

MESSAGING APP

WhatsApp crosses 1b users NEW YORK: Mobile messaging app WhatsApp on Tuesday said it has crossed the one billion user milestone globally with the addition of 100 million users in last five months.

“As of today, one billion people are using WhatsApp. That’s nearly one in seven people on Earth who use WhatsApp each month to stay in touch with their loved ones, their friends and their family,” WhatsApp said in a blogpost.

In February 2014, WhatsApp was acquired by social networking site Facebook, its biggest buyout till date, for a whopping $19 billion.

In a post on Facebook, WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum said 42 billion messages were sent, 1.6 billion photos and 250 million videos shared everyday on the platform. Also, there are one billion groups on WhatsApp, he said.

Previously, WhatsApp has said its service has seen strong uptake, specially across developing nations such as Brazil, India and Russia. “In India, more photos are sent using WhatsApp than in any other country in the world. As one of WhatsApp’s largest countries, it’s no surprising that the second highest number of groups are here,” the company said.

LINE, Viber and Hike WhatsApp competes with messaging apps like LINE, Viber and Hike in India. Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg also congratulated Koum and his team.

WhatsApp’s community has

MILESTONE: WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum said 42 billion messages were sent, 1.6 billion photos and 250 million videos shared everyday on the platform. - Bloomberg News

more than doubled since joining Facebook. We’ve added the ability for you to call loved ones far away.

We’ve dropped the subscription fee and made WhatsApp completely free. Next, we’re going to work to connect more people around the world and make it easier to communicate with businesses,” he said.

Zuckerberg added that there are only a few services that con-

nect more than a billion people and this milestone is an important step towards connecting the entire world. Recently, WhatsApp had said it will stop charging $1 per year subscription fee to go completely free for its users across the world. Also, it will not introduce any third-party ads for monetisation and is going to experiment with new models to stay ad-free, it had added. - PTI

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

B3

MARKET I N V I TAT I O N T O I N V E S T O R S

Iran roadshow in Oman attract global investment Times News Service MUSCAT: After decades of isolation from international markets due to sanctions, Iran is set to hold a roadshow in Oman on February 24 to showcase various investment opportunities available in the country.

‘Iran Capital Market Roadshow’, which will take place at Ritz Carlton Al Bustan Palace, Muscat, will be addressed by senior representatives of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Economy and Finance, Central Bank of Iran,

Tehran Stock Exchange and the Organisation for Investment Economic and Technical Assistance of Iran.

On the other hand, Iran’s private sector will be represented by a range of financial entities including leading bankers and executives from Sina Bank, Sina Insurance, Sina Leasing, Behgozin Brokerage Company and Magellan Capital.

Speaking at an event in Tehran on Monday, Behzad Golkar, the chief executive officer of Sina Holding said: “Global investors are never going to see a country of this size and sophistication open

up again. Our Muscat roadshow will focus on a wide range of opportunities available to investors interested in Iran, in particular our well-developed capital markets, as well as looking at the industries, sectors and asset classes likely to deliver the strongest returns in the longer term.”

Oil reserves “This is a genuinely unique opportunity and the scale and intensity of international investor interest in our economy means that now is the time for serious investors to make

their moves,” he added Holding the world’s fourth largest oil reserves and the second largest stocks of natural gas, Iran is the region’s most diverse economy with an established capital market, a well-developed industrial base and a large population that generates a significant demand for services such as telecommunications and banking.

Gross domestic product in 2014 was around $437 billion, ranking it as the world’s 27th largest NEW OPPORTUNITIES: Muscat roadshow will focus on a wide range economy, ahead of nations such of opportunities available to investors interested in Iran, in particular as Austria.

Iran’s well-developed capital markets. – Bloomberg News

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rates unchanged for a second straight meeting as it awaits details of the federal budget, providing support for a currency battered by China-led turmoil

IN A FIX: The central bank governor is caught between a stock selloff that’s pushing the rupee toward a record low and an economy that’s showing mixed signs of strength. – PTI

MUMBAI: India’s central bank left interest rates unchanged for a second straight meeting as it awaits details of the government’s budget later this month, providing support for a currency battered by China-led market turmoil.

Governor Raghuram Rajan kept the benchmark repurchase rate at 6.75 per cent, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said in a statement in Mumbai on Tuesday.

The move was predicted by 42 of 44 economists in a survey, with two seeing a quarter- point cut.

“The Reserve Bank continues to be accommodative even as it leaves the policy rate unchanged

in this review, while awaiting further data on the development of inflation,” Rajan said. Structural reforms in the budget “that boost growth while controlling spending will create more space for monetary policy to support growth” and ensure inflation hits the target of five per cent in March 2017, he said.

The central bank chief is caught between a stock selloff that’s pushing the rupee toward a record low and an economy that’s showing mixed signs of strength. While falling oil prices give him space to join Indonesia and Japan in easing further, lower rates may jeop-

ardize his inflation target if the government reneges on its pledge to narrow the budget deficit.

The benchmark stock index fluctuated after the decision, sovereign bonds reversed gains and the rupee declined. The yield on the note due 2025 rose to 7.83 per cent as of 11:51am in Mumbai from 7.79 per cent on Monday.

“The probability of a rate change in April may have gone down a little bit because the inflation forecast is still five per cent,” said Indranil Pan, chief economist with IDFC. “To a certain extent, the cut will depend on the budget and on global currency move-

FOURTH QUARTER

Dow Chemical posts robust profit growth HOUSTON: Dow Chemical, which agreed in December to a historic merger with DuPont, reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings after its plastics business gained from the drop in oil prices.

Profit excluding some items was 93 cents, Midland, Michigan-based Dow said in a statement on Tuesday, exceeding the 69-cent average estimate of 19 analysts surveyed. Sales fell to $11.5 billion from $14.4 billion, exceeding the $11.2 billion average estimate. Dow shares rose 5 per cent to $44.70 before the start of regular trading in New York.

Profit from Dow’s plastics business, its largest unit, was a fourth-quarter record as it paid less for the oil it used as a raw material. Chairman and chief executive officer Andrew Liveris said in the statement that lower energy prices are a ‘net benefit’ and will help Dow overcome “negative investment sentiment in other sectors.”

“Costs fell faster than prices,” Hassan Ahmed, an analyst at Alembic Global Advisors, who recommends buying Dow shares, said Monday in a telephone interview. “Polyethylene demand was far better than expected, particularly in North America.”

Merger with DuPont Andrew Liveris agreed to merge with DuPont in the biggest chemical deal ever, combining the two largest US chemical makers. The merger will create a trio of businesses focused on commodity chemicals, agricultural products and specialty materials. The agriculture business will be the world’s largest, surpassing Monsanto and Syngenta in size.

Dow also said on December 11 it will buy Corning’s stake in their 72-year-old silicone joint venture, Dow Corning.

Dan Loeb, the activist investor wrote Dow’s board on December 12 asking that Liveris have no role in DowDuPont. - Bloomberg News

Don’t litter a beautiful country like OMAN. Ensure proper disposal of garbage.

ments and its implications for domestic inflation.”

While inflation is expected to be around five per cent by endMarch 2017, planned pay increases for government employees “will impart upward momentum to this trajectory for a period of one to two years.”

The RBI will adjust the inflation forecast when clarity emerges on the timing of implementation.

Growth “is expected to strengthen gradually, notwithstanding significant headwinds.”

Gross-value added growth for the 12 months ending March 2016 is kept unchanged at 7.4 per cent with a downside bias, and is projected at 7.6 per cent for the following 12 months.

The RBI separately announced steps to encourage the creation of start-ups. It proposed measures that would allow start-ups to tap foreign venture capital investment and said it is considering allowing these companies to issue innovative instruments such as convertible notes to attract foreign direct investment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is due to present its budget on February 29.

Rajan warned last week that deviating from the fiscal consolidation path could increase the government’s borrowing costs, both through a higher volume of bonds and a potential loss of credibility.

The Finance Ministry said last month it would stick with its fiscal deficit target of 3.5 per cent of gross domestic product for the year starting April 1. Even so, Standard Chartered and Citigroup predict the government will raise the target to at least 3.7 per cent to pay for mandatory salary increases without cutting infrastructure spending.

The government won’t cut spending on development activities, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in New Delhi after Rajan’s decision. Private investment is still weak, he said.

A larger shortfall risks stoking inflation, hindering Rajan’s efforts to slow consumer-price gains toward his five per cent target from 5.6 per cent in December. Most economists surveyed by Bloomberg last month foresaw just one 25-basis point cut for all of 2016, while swap traders are pricing in the possibility of a 50-point reduction. — Bloomberg News

HAVE YOUR SAY Send us your comments at facebook.com/timesofoman blog.timesofoman.com haveyoursay@timesofoman.com

C O R P O R AT E

Lafarge scraps $735m India cement deal MUMBAI: Lafarge’s Indian unit has scrapped an agreement it signed last year to sell two of its cement units, prospective buyer Birla said in an exchange filing.

As part of global measures to comply with antitrust regulations when it was merging with Holcim, Lafarge had agreed in August to sell the two factories to the Kolkata-based conglomerate for a total enterprise value of Rs50 billion ($735 million).

Birla is part of India’s M. P. Birla group and markets jute, cotton yarns and flooring materials besides cement.

Lafarge “informed their inability to proceed with the agreement,” Birla said in an exchange filing in Mumbai on Tuesday. After consultation with lawyers, the company “has decided not to accept their contention and is in the process of taking appropriate legal measures,” it said.

Vaijayanti Karande, a Mumbaibased spokeswoman for Lafarge, wasn’t available to comment.

The units in Jojobera in the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand and Sonadih in Chhattisgarh have a total annual capacity of about 5.15 million tonnes and own ‘adequate reserves’ of limestone, the raw material used to make cement, Birla said in August, adding it would fund the deal with some cash and incremental debt.

Birla shares have declined 15 per cent since the two agreed on the deal. - Bloomberg News

B4

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

MARKET OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ........................................5,210.50 ............... 5,175.21 ................... 5,192.00 ................... 5,212.07................-20.07 .................. -0.39 Financial Index .................................... 6,430.28 .............. 6,353.20 ....................6,380.11 ...................6,434.39............... -54.28 .................. -0.84 Industrial Index ....................................6,539.69 .............. 6,525.39 ...................6,528.20 ................... 6,538.14.................. -9.94 .................. -0.15 Services Index ...................................... 2,896.92 .............. 2,882.10 ................... 2,896.79 ...................2,886.62.................. 10.17 ................... 0.35 MSM SHARIAH INDEX....................... 815.36 ..................812.00 .......................812.42 ...................... 815.90.................. -3.48 .................. -0.43 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 28,925,840................. 7,526,292 ..................1,133 ............... 15,535,052,709 .................. 9 ......................19 ....................24 .........................52

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2 ISIN ......................................SECURITY NAME ..................................................................VOLUME..... TURNOVER............TRADES ......OPEN PRICE......HIGH ............. LOW ........ CLOSE PR. ...PREV. CLOSE...DIFF (RO).........DIFF % .............LAST PR.....LAST BID .............LAST OFFER ........MARKET CAP.PAR VALUE

REGULAR MARKET .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

– Times file picture

OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 131,881 ............ 24,662..................... 25 ............0.187 ........... 0.187 ...........0.187 ............0.187 ............. 0.181............ 0.006............. 3.315 ................0.187 .............. 0.179...................0.185..................266,481,759 ........0.100 OM0000004735 ...........SEMBCORP SALALAH................................................39,435 ............ 98,588........................6 ........... 2.500...........2.500 ...........2.500 .......... 2.500 .............2.450 ........... 0.050............. 2.041 ................2.500 ............ 2.500...................0.000 ................ 238,642,988 .......1.000

MSM index ends lower

OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER................................................ 131,133 ............ 25,440......................17 ............0.194 ........... 0.194 ...........0.194........... 0.194 ............. 0.191 ............ 0.003..............1.571.................0.194..............0.194...................0.197..................130,928,161 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................... 69,782 .............13,538........................4 ............0.194 ........... 0.194 ...........0.194........... 0.194 ............. 0.191 ............ 0.003..............1.571.................0.194..............0.194...................0.197..................138,594,830........0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ...........................12,000 ................1,138........................2 ........... 0.095 ........... 0.095 ...........0.094........... 0.095 .............0.094 ............0.001 ............. 1.064 ................0.094..............0.094...................0.098.................... 5,590,106 ..........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..................................... 370,000 ...........46,250......................14 ............0.125 ........... 0.125 ...........0.125 ............0.125 .............0.124 ............0.001 .............0.806 ................0.125 ..............0.123...................0.125...................36,331,378 .........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ............................... 255,207 ............48,745........................2 ............0.191 ........... 0.191............0.191 ............0.191 ............. 0.191 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.191 .............. 0.185...................0.199...................19,100,000 .........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ....................... 815,620 ............97,874........................8 ............0.120 ........... 0.120 ...........0.120........... 0.120 .............0.120 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.120..............0.120...................0.130...................11,404,800 .........0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS ........................................................... 689,916.......... 209,714........................5 ........... 0.304...........0.306 ...........0.302........... 0.304 .............0.304 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.302............. 0.300...................0.306 ..................15,200,000.........0.100 OM0000001319 ............NATIONAL ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS .................5,000 ...............1,050........................1 ............0.210 ........... 0.210 ...........0.210........... 0.214 .............0.214 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.210............. 0.202...................0.210.................... 7,184,290 ..........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT .........................................................19,747 .............18,872........................7 ........... 0.956 ........... 0.956 ...........0.952........... 0.956 .............0.956 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.956............. 0.904...................0.956..................191,200,000........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 1,077,131 ........ 107,713......................15 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.100 ...........0.100........... 0.100 .............0.100 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.100..............0.096...................0.100..................200,031,279........0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST .................................................................... 1,921,051....... 868,315........................4 ........... 0.452 ...........0.452 ...........0.452........... 0.452 .............0.452 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.452..............0.454...................0.490 .................249,893,462 .......0.100 OM0000001707 ............OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY...................................... 11,223 .............16,947........................2 ............1.510 ........... 1.510............1.510 ............1.510 ............. 1.510............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.510 ..............1.460................... 1.510 ..................135,447,000 ........0.100 OM0000003281............TAAGEER FINANCE ................................................. 393,296 ............51,128........................4 ............0.130 ........... 0.130 ...........0.130........... 0.130 .............0.130............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.130 ..............0.130...................0.143...................32,966,700.........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 2,799,430 ...... 420,771................... 139 ............0.148 ........... 0.152 ...........0.148 ........... 0.150 .............0.150............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.151 ...............0.151...................0.152..................216,216,000........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. ....................98,500 ...............5,546........................9 ............0.055 ........... 0.057 ...........0.055........... 0.056 .............0.056 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.057..............0.056...................0.057................... 16,238,916 .........0.100 OM0000003711 ............SOHAR POWER....................................................................190 .....................65........................2 ........... 0.340...........0.340 ...........0.340 .......... 0.352 .............0.352 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.340............. 0.000...................0.340 .................. 77,795,520 .........0.100

As many as 1,133 trades were executed, generating turnover of OMR7.5 million with 28.9 million shares changing hands

OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 712,220 .........456,367..................... 68 ........... 0.640 ...........0.644 ...........0.640........... 0.640 .............0.640 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.640..............0.628...................0.640 .................416,604,307 .......0.100 OM0000004248 ...........SMN POWER HOLDING ............................................83,500 .............61,790........................4 ............0.740 ........... 0.740 ...........0.740........... 0.740 .............0.740 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.740............. 0.000...................0.740..................147,730,344 ........0.100 OM0000004669 ...........SHARQIYAH DESALINATION ......................................265 ................1,179........................1 ........... 4.450 ...........4.450 ...........4.450........... 4.650 .............4.650 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................4.450..............4.460...................4.590 ..................45,478,004.........1.000 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS .................................................... 2,466 .................. 927........................2 ............0.376 ........... 0.376 ...........0.376........... 0.380 .............0.380 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.376..............0.360...................0.378...................19,950,000 .........0.100 OM0000001509............DHOFAR INT.DEV.AND INV. HOLD.................... 402,109 ..........159,193........................3 ........... 0.396 ...........0.396 ...........0.394........... 0.396 .............0.398 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.503 ...............0.394............. 0.000...................0.394 ..................97,574,400 .........0.100 OM0000003141 ............ACWA POWER BARKA ............................................. 259,407 ......... 170,037........................5 ........... 0.624 ........... 0.656 ...........0.624........... 0.656 .............0.660 ...........-0.004 ........... -0.606 ...............0.656..............0.624...................0.660 ................ 104,960,000 .......0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ................................. 359,366 ............97,579.....................20 ........... 0.273 ........... 0.273 ...........0.271 ........... 0.272 .............0.274 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.730 ...............0.271 ..............0.270...................0.272..................364,673,188........0.100 OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE ..................................................... 2,065,229 ..... 247,867.....................42 ............0.120 ........... 0.122 ...........0.120........... 0.120 ............. 0.121............-0.001 ........... -0.826 ...............0.122..............0.120...................0.122................... 37,291,793 .........0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ................ 695,791 .............76,537........................2 ............0.110 ........... 0.110............0.110 ............0.110 ............. 0.111 ............-0.001 ........... -0.901 ...............0.110 ..............0.100...................0.110 .................. 22,000,000 ........0.100

MUSCAT: Foreign selling pressure and regional cues pushed the MSM30 Index down 0.39 per cent, to close at 5,192.00 points.

The MSM Sharia Index ended at 812.42 points, down 0.43 per cent. Phoenix Power was the most active in terms of volume while Omantel led in turnover.

Up 3.31 per cent, Ahli Bank was the top gainer while Al Madina Investment was the top loser, down 5.45 per cent.

A total number of 1,133 trades were executed on Tuesday, generating turnover of OMR7.5 million with 28.9 million shares changing hands. Out of 52 traded securities, nine advanced, 19 declined and 24 remained unchanged.

At the session close, Omani Investors remained net buyers for OMR128,000 while Foreign Investors stayed net sellers for OMR79,000 followed by GCC & Arab Investors for OMR49,000 worth of shares.

Financial Index reversed course to finish at 6,380.11 points, down 0.84 per cent. Ahli Bank and Gulf Investment SerINDIAN MARKETS

Indian stocks decline; rupee slips further MUMBAI: Indian stocks tumbled the most in two weeks in late trade as investor attention turned to declines in global equities after the nation’s central bank Governor Raghuram Rajan left borrowing costs unchanged.

Tata Steel and Steel Authority of India, the largest producers, slumped the most in five months, while Vedanta Ltd., a copper producer, paced losses among metalmakers. Oil & Natural Gas Corp. fell the most in four weeks.

The S&P BSE Sensex tumbled 1.2 per cent at the close in Mumbai, with bulk of the losses coming after European equities began trading at about 1:30pm local time.

“There were no expectations on the rate cut by the RBI but what is happening on the global front is hurting our markets,” Nitasha Shankar, vice-president for equity research at Yes Securities in Mumbai, said in an interview with Bloomberg TV India on Monday.

Rupee extends losses The rupee extended its loss for the second straight day, slipping by another 14 paise to 67.98 per dollar on sustained demand for the US currency from banks and importers amid a massive fall in equities as the Reserve Bank kept its key policy rate unchanged.

The domestic unit resumed slightly lower at 67.85 as against Monday’s closing level of 67.84 at the Interbank Foreign Exchange market and dropped further to 67.99 before finishing at 67.98 per dollar, showing a loss of 14 paise or 0.21 per cent.

The rupee dropped by 20 paise or 0.30 per cent in two days. It moved in a range of 67.7700 per dollar and 67.9950 per dollar during the day. — Agencies

vices gained 3.31 per cent and 1.06 per cent respectively. Al Madina Investments, Al Izz Bank, Al Anwar Holding, Bank Dhofar and Bank Muscat declined 5.45 per cent, 3.23 per cent, 3.03 per cent, 2.81 per cent and 2.28 per cent respectively.

OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 802,936 ......1,148,605...................105 ............1.450 ........... 1.450 ...........1.430 ........... 1.430 ............. 1.445............-0.015 ........... -1.038................1.430 .............. 1.425...................1.430................1,072,500,000......0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS .............. 57,657 .............15,379........................8 ........... 0.267 ...........0.268 ...........0.265........... 0.267 .............0.270 ...........-0.003 ............-1.111 ................0.268..............0.268...................0.269 ................... 5,607,000 ..........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL................................................39,011 ...............2,728........................8 ........... 0.069 ........... 0.071 ...........0.069........... 0.070 ............. 0.071............-0.001 ........... -1.408 ...............0.070..............0.070...................0.071...................12,250,000.........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING .............10,000 ..................920........................2 ........... 0.092 ...........0.092 ...........0.092........... 0.092 .............0.094 ...........-0.002 ........... -2.128 ...............0.092..............0.090...................0.092 ...................8,280,000..........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 755,834 ......... 134,532..................... 55 ............0.177 ........... 0.179 ...........0.177 ............0.178 .............0.182............-0.004 ........... -2.198 ...............0.177 .............. 0.177...................0.178 ...................35,600,000.........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 2,583,091 ...1,103,646...................216 ........... 0.424 ...........0.430 ...........0.420........... 0.428 .............0.438 ...........-0.010 ........... -2.283 ...............0.426..............0.426...................0.428 ................ 980,900,072 .......0.100 OM0000002549 ...........BANK DHOFAR ............................................................ 130,286 ............31,520........................6 ........... 0.245 ...........0.245 ...........0.230........... 0.242 .............0.249 ...........-0.007 ............-2.811................0.242..............0.246...................0.250 .................373,824,308 .......0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 1,824,270 ...... 291,899...................120 ............0.160 ........... 0.162 ...........0.156 ........... 0.160 ............. 0.165............-0.005 ........... -3.030 ...............0.160..............0.160................... 0.161 ...................24,012,000.........0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ..........................56,910 ............... 9,160..................... 10 ............0.164 ........... 0.164 ...........0.155 ............0.161 ............. 0.167............-0.006 ........... -3.593 ...............0.155 .............. 0.155...................0.160...................20,108,572 .........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT ................................... 128,497 ..............6,722........................5 ........... 0.052 ........... 0.053 ...........0.052........... 0.052 .............0.055 ...........-0.003 ........... -5.455 ...............0.053..............0.053...................0.055................... 10,771,872 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 19,809,387......6,072,943..............948 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Industrial Index retreats Industrial Index retreated 0.15 per cent to close at 6,528.20 points. Al Hassan Engineering, up 3.13 per cent was the sole gainer. Al Jazeera Steel, Construction Materials, Oman Fisheries and Gulf International Chemicals declined 3.59 per cent, 3.45 per cent, 2.08 per cent and 1.11 per cent respectively.

Services Index closed with gain of 0.35 per cent at 2,896.79 points. Sembcorp Salalah, Al Batinah power, Al Suwadi Power and Renaissance Services gained 2.04 per cent, 1.57 per cent, 1.57 per cent and 0.81 per cent respectively. OIFC, Omantel and ACWA Power Barka declined 2.20 per cent, 1.04 per cent and 0.61 per cent respectively. — United Securities

........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......37........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PARALLEL MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING.................................. 108,500 ...............7,151........................9 ........... 0.066 ...........0.067 ...........0.065........... 0.066 .............0.064 ........... 0.002............. 3.125 ................0.067..............0.067...................0.069.................... 4,963,728 ..........0.100 OM0000001178 ............MUSCAT GASES .......................................................... 287,100...........237,717........................3 ........... 0.828 ...........0.828 ...........0.820........... 0.828 .............0.828 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.820..............0.760...................0.800 ................. 24,840,000 ........0.100 OM0000001301 ............DHOFAR CATTLE FEED .......................................... 280,727 ........... 59,233........................2 ............0.211 ........... 0.211............0.211 ............0.211 ............. 0.211............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.211 .............. 0.215...................0.000 ..................16,247,000 .........0.100 OM0000001400 ...........OMAN FLOUR MILLS ............................................... 510,413 ......... 208,249........................3 ........... 0.408 ...........0.408 ...........0.408........... 0.408 .............0.408 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.408..............0.408...................0.000 ................. 64,260,000 ........0.100 OM0000001426............OMAN REFRESHMENT ............................................ 16,772 .............37,234........................3 ........... 2.220...........2.220 ...........2.220 .......... 2.220 .............2.220 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.220 ............ 2.200...................2.220 .................111,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000001590............MUSCAT FINANCE.................................................... 2,247,659 ......280,965........................6 ............0.125 ........... 0.126 ...........0.125 ............0.125 ............. 0.125............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.126 ..............0.122...................0.126...................31,452,309 .........0.100 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE .............................. 12,441 ............... 1,369........................3 ............0.110 ........... 0.110............0.110 ............0.110 ............. 0.110............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.110 ..............0.102...................0.110 ...................11,000,000 .........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 3,086,263...... 441,301..................... 73 ............0.142 ........... 0.143 ...........0.142........... 0.143 ............. 0.143............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.143 ..............0.143...................0.144..................209,152,009........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 290,917 ............19,639......................18 ........... 0.069 ...........0.069 ...........0.067........... 0.068 .............0.069 ...........-0.001 ........... -1.449 ...............0.068..............0.068...................0.069................. 102,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ..................................................... 656,048 ............ 31,118......................14 ........... 0.047 ...........0.048 ...........0.047........... 0.047 .............0.048 ...........-0.001 ........... -2.083 ...............0.048..............0.048...................0.049 ...................5,875,000 ..........0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK.............................................. 391,885.............23,513......................21 ........... 0.060 ...........0.060 ...........0.060........... 0.060 .............0.062 ...........-0.002 ........... -3.226 ...............0.060..............0.060...................0.061...................60,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000001368 ............CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS IND. .................. 270,000 .............. 7,554......................17 ........... 0.029 ...........0.029 ...........0.027........... 0.028 .............0.029 ...........-0.001 ........... -3.448 ...............0.028..............0.028...................0.029 ...................2,380,000..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 8,158,725 ...1,355,042................... 172 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......12........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BONDS AND SUKUK MARKET ......................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000004602 ...........BANK MUSCAT CONV. BONDS 4.5 ...................... 100,250 ............ 11,128........................3 ............0.111 ............0.111 ............ 0.111 ............0.111..............0.109 ........... 0.002............. 1.835 ................ 0.111 .............. 0.110...................0.220 .................. 33,605,151 .........0.100 OM0000005971 ............B.MUSCAT COMPL. CONVR. B.B.3.5 ................... 160,589 ............15,399........................6 ........... 0.095 ...........0.096 ...........0.095........... 0.096 .............0.095 ............0.001 ............. 1.053 ................0.096..............0.096...................0.099....................31,119,515..........0.100 OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 ......................................... 696,889 ............71,780........................4 ............0.103 ........... 0.103 ...........0.103........... 0.103 .............0.103............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.103 ..............0.100...................0.110 ...................32,923,196 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 957,728 ............ 98,307......................13 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........ 3........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PERFORMANCE

LOCAL PLASTICS FIRMS

BP's profit falls on plunging crude prices, shares decline LONDON: BP reported a 91 per cent decline in fourth-quarter earnings after average crude oil prices dropped to the lowest in more than a decade. The company’s shares fell the most since August.

Profit adjusted for one-time items and inventory changes totaled $196 million, the Londonbased company said on Tuesday.

That missed the $814.7 million average estimate of 10 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg. The net loss for the year was $6.5 billion, the most in at least 30 years.

While Chief Executive Officer Bob Dudley has trimmed billions of dollars of spending, cut thousands of jobs and deferred projects in response to the plunge in crude prices, BP’s cash flow still doesn’t cover spending and dividends. The CEO said in an interview that he’s re-tooling BP to balance cash flows at below $60 a barrel. The slump has driven BP’s market value below $100 billion for the first time since the Gulf of Mexico oil spill in 2010.

“It’s very disappointing,” Ahmed Ben Salem, oil and gas analyst at Oddo & Cie in Paris, said by phone. “We were expecting lower profit from upstream, but not a loss. The dividend payout is probably safe for this year, but if oil stays around $30 then they would have to cut capex further.”

Profit has been lower year-onyear for six consecutive quarters as oil prices tumbled. The average price of benchmark Brent crude slumped 42 per cent in the fourth quarter from a year earlier to $44.69 a barrel, the lowest since 2004.

BP’s shares slumped as much as 7.8 per cent and traded at 338.65 pence as of 9:37am in

HIT HARD: British energy giant BP said on Tuesday that it slumped into a vast loss in 2015, ravaged by the dramatic collapse in oil prices. BP suffered a loss after taxation of $6.48 billion (5.97 billion euros) last year, compared with a net profit of $3.78 billion in 2014, it said in a results statement. - AFP

London, giving it a market value of $90 billion. The stock has declined 3.6 per cent this year following last year’s 14 per cent retreat. It is still the third- best performer on the eight-member FTSE 350 Oil & Gas Producers Index.

PetroChina said last week it expects 2015 profit to fall at least 60 per cent. Chevron on Friday reported its first quarterly loss since 2002, while Royal Dutch Shell said last month that fourthquarter profit is likely to drop at least 42 per cent. The European oil major is scheduled to report full earnings on Thursday.

BP started cutting costs and selling assets following the 2010 oil spill. In October, it lowered its 2015 capital-spending forecast to about $19 billion after invest-

ing about $23 billion in 2014. The company said then it expects to spend $17 billion to $19 billion a year through 2017.

Job cuts BP, which earlier said it plans to reduce its oil and gas exploration and production workforce by 4,000 people this year, will also cut 3,000 jobs in downstream businesses by 2017.

The company’s adjusted loss from the upstream, which includes oil and gas exploration and production, was $728 million in the quarter, compared with a profit of $2.2 billion a year earlier. Earnings from downstream, made up of refining, chemicals and trading, were $1.2 billion, similar to a year earlier and 48 per cent lower than the preceding

quarter. The company expects refining margins in the first quarter of 2016 to be lower than the previous three months. Refining countered declining profit from crude oil and natural gas sales for much of 2015 as demand stayed high. A mild winter has curbed demand for some fuels including heating oil, narrowing margins and putting further pressure on companies such as BP and Shell.

The company’s ratio of net debt to equity jumped to 21.6 per cent at the end of 2015, an increase of almost five percentage points from a year earlier. BP’s aim is to maintain the net debt ratio at about 20 per cent and for it to be above that level while oil prices remain weak, according to a statement.

“I’m very comfortable with 21 per cent net gearing right now,” CEO Dudley said in a Bloomberg television interview. “We’ll be flexible around the gearing levels, we’ll see what oil prices do.”

The company’s debt level is rising and BP was among several major oil producers given a negative credit outlook by Standard & Poor’s on Monday.

BP maintained its quarterly dividend at 10 cents a share and reiterated its commitment to sustain it throughout the downturn. The company’s capital expenditure last year was $18.7 billion compared with about $23 billion the previous year.

Barclays analyst Lydia Rainforth said the BP could reduce that further to $14 billion if oil stays at about $40 a barrel.

That would allow the company to balance its books by 2018 and still maintain dividend payouts to shareholders, she said.

— Bloomberg News

< FROM

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'Visa curbs hit industry'

Polythene and Plastic Production Co. is a pioneer in manufacturing plastic-related products for various household, packaging and industrial purposes.

It produces a broad range of products, including shopping bags, bakery bags, food bags, garbage bags, textile and garment bags, plant bags, polythene sheets, caution tapes for electrical, gas and water connections, stretch film and binding straps for packing of cartons, as well as disposable table sheets.

Driver issue Pereira pointed out that one of the manpower-related challenges that the company faces is the fact that some drivers leave without giving any notice in advance.

Echoing a similar view, Mariam Said Al Masroori, a debt controller at the company’s finance department, said if a driver does not show up for even two days, it means business loss for the company.

She also said some restrictions regarding the issuance of visas are affecting manufacturing activities and other things.

“Sometimes they give us two or three, but we need more,” Al Masroori further added.

Expansion Pereira said Polythene and Plastic Production Co. would be able to implement expansion plans if the regulations are relaxed and there are no barriers.

He added that there will be no point if there is a production plant and products are manufactured, but no driver will be available to deliver the products.

According to him, the company also has plans for exports, but is currently seeking to cover demand in the local market in various parts of Sultanate of Oman.

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Kia’s futuristic SUV unveiled at auto show Sophisticated and elegant, the Kia ‘Telluride’ combines breakthrough technology, rugged beauty and functionality in a full-size sport utility vehicle

MUSCAT: Kia Motors has unveiled a cutting-edge vision for a full-size SUV at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Elegant and sophisticated, the Kia ‘Telluride’ combines breakthrough technology, rugged beauty, and functionality in a full-size sport utility vehicle, says a press release.

In the words of a Kia aficionado, “The new Telluride takes Kia’s design language in a bold new direction and suggests styling of a possible future premium large SUV in the brand’s line-up. It also seems to be pushing the boundaries of technology with unique in-cabin health-and-wellness technology.

In doing so, it gives us a thrilling

glimpse into the future…”

The Telluride, a striking threerow, seven-passenger, luxury SUV concept features a modern and upright shape, muscular stance, and state-of-the-art technology to care for its occupants. Purely conceptual, the Kia Telluride is based on an existing platform and reveals the brand’s interest in potentially offering a premium SUV positioned above the current hotselling Sorento.

“The Kia Telluride makes an aesthetic statement for the Kia brand as a bold, all-new luxury SUV with an abundance of advanced technology, focusing particular attention on the experience and comfort of second-row occupants,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer. “Longer, wider and taller the Telluride allows us to envision what a full-size sevenpassenger SUV from Kia could look like,” he added.

Telluride’s front doors and rear-hinged back doors swing open 90 degrees in opposing di-

rections, creating an expansive and inviting portal into the panoramic interior space and revealing a technological showcase.

Four beautiful black-leather captain’s seats appear to float within the spacious cabin in front of a folded third-row bench. The large cabin allows the middle seats to recline nearly flat and include large foldaway footrests for sublime comfort.

All four seats include a series of precise diamond-cut openings in the seatback, each embedded with Smart Sensors to capture a passenger’s vital health information.

Once obtained, these vitals are displayed on the interior door panel screens, which then systematically synchronize with a Light Emitted Rejuvenation (LER) system. The LER system utilises a massive, wing-shaped LED panel mounted beneath the oversized sunroof that displays a pattern of therapeutic light to treat ‘desynchronosis’ (jetlag) and improve the passengers’ energy levels.

UNIQUE CONTEST

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Another unique technology introduced in Telluride is Swipe Command – a thin, touch-sensitive, interactive band mounted to the second row centre console – which allows rear-seat passengers to quickly scroll and select desired media by simply swiping their hand. The selected media is then played either through the seven-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system, or via a set of portable Harman Kardon headphones that wirelessly charge when stowed in the console. Up front, a compartment in the centre stack allows for wireless cell phone charging, and Kia’s first use of 3D-printed components add a distinct, modern design element to the dashboard, door panels, and steering wheel.

With an innovative combination of cutting-edge technologies, the Telluride’s powertrain is a near-future, no-compromises propulsion system, offering both power and efficiency. While there are currently no plans to bring the Telluride to production, Kia has a history of delivering production vehicles that bear strong resemblance to preceding concepts, and Kia’s large SUV is anything but a utopian fantasy.

Reliable International Automotive (RIA), the distributor for Kia in Oman provides a rewarding ownership experience for customers. Excellent product attributes and unmatched facilities easily ensure their absolute satisfaction, every mile of the way.

CONQUERING HEIGHTS

Two Al Seeb International School students complete paragliding solo flight course

MUSCAT: Two students from Al Seeb International School, Syed Ali Raza, Grade IX A student and Syed Haider Raza, Grade VII A student, have successfully completed paragliding solo flight course.

This is a first not only for the school but also for Oman as an 11-year-old has managed to set a record for being the youngest paraglider in Oman. He managed to fly from a height of 250 feet at Al Nahda Dunes, says a press release.

Earlier, the children had volunteered to do the ground handling training on a beach in Seeb for two days, learning how to handle and control the glider.

Once the instructors were confident that they could handle themselves and the glider, they were taken to Al Nahda Dunes.

From there they took their first solo flight from a height of 250

feet. They took off one by one and stayed in the air for several minutes, before landing softly back down.

This gave the children a boost of confidence that they can achieve anything as long as they set their mind to it.

Al Seeb International School provided the platform for the children by offering various activities for the first time in Oman.

The students have set an example for the youth of Oman to be more adventurous and not be afraid to try new sports.

This will also help tourism in Oman as it could become an air adventure destination because Oman has a lot to offer in terms of climate, landscapes and friendly people.

Falcon Adventures trained the boys in making their first solo flight in Oman.

E-LEARNING TRAINING TOOL

seaPearls launches special Valentine’s Day campaign MUSCAT: Leading jewellery brand seaPearls aims to bring the sparkle of love with an enchanting ensemble of rare gold and diamond jewellery collection this Valentine’s Day. seaPearls’ campaign from February 1-14 allows customers to get a free gold coin on every purchase worth OMR300, says a press release.

Adding to the celebration, customers can take part in a unique contest where participants have to take a ‘Selfie’ with their favourite seaPearls gold/diamond/pearl jewellery, post the picture on the official Facebook page - https:// www.facebook.com/seapearlsjew-

elleryom and then share it with their friends and family. The person with the maximum ‘Likes’ on their picture will stand a chance to win a ‘You&Me’ diamond pendant from seaPearls.

P. A. Riyas, general manager of seaPearls Gold and Diamond Jewellery, said: “We at seaPearls strive for customer satisfaction and retention and we aim at offering some of the best to our patrons.

This season of love is a great occasion to spread and share happiness. We are delighted to add a touch of exclusivity to the celebrations by offering them dazzling offers making our customers’

celebration grand.” The You&Me diamond collection is inspired by the universal symbol of love and commitment. Each design in the collection is undeniably elegant, intertwined by an invisible thread of creativity, a certain charm, an inimitable spirit that is embodied by the lovers across the world. The collection consists of pendants, earrings, couple rings in 18-carat that traces the outline of love that is strong and daring. seaPearls as a brand specialises in the combination of precious and innovative materials and distinctive designs creating glamorous and exciting styles that fuses classic and contemporary.

S P E C I A L PAC K AG E

Atana Hotels offer special rates for local residents MUSCAT: Atana Hotels, Oman’s leading leisure hotel brand, is celebrating the spirit of the New Year with special rates for local residents of the Sultanate.

Launching the special package, Leon Salinel, the Corporate director (Sales & Marketing) at Dhiaffa - the company that manages Atana hotels at Musandam and Khasab, said: “As a completely Omani venture, Atana Hotels Group always believes in giving back to the community. It is keeping with this guiding principle that we have designed attractive special rates for the benefit of local residents. Our esteemed guests can look forward to indulging in unparalleled luxury and comfort defined by authentic Omani culture, at fabulous rates.”

“We believe that this special offer from our side will help promote domestic tourism to a great extent. Holidaying abroad could be a costly affair, but there are lots of exciting places inside the Sultanate with great tourism potential.

Offers such as these will help boost local tourism to a great extent.

Significant "It gains special significance in the prevailing atmosphere of austerity engendered by slump in oil prices, when people think twice before embarking on their holiday travels abroad,” he added.

Dhiaffa manages Atana properties at Khasab and Musandam, situated on the northern tip of the Musandam Peninsula, just 10 min-

utes from Khasab airport, and 2 hours from Dubai. It is 45 minutes and 5 hours from Muscat by flight and ferry respectively.

Atana Musandam features 110 elegantly furnished suites and duplexes that reflect traditional Omani style. A strict non-alcohol policy and large individual units make Atana Musandam a familyoriented destination.

With 60 luxurious rooms, superb restaurants, a beautiful pool and state of the art meeting facility, Atana Khasab is a contemporary, licensed, waterfront leisure hotel that is versatile enough to cater to corporate clients. Guests can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, mountain safaris, dhow cruises and cultural sites visits.

MoT hosts 'Stars of Oman’ travel agents from France MUSCAT: The Ministry of Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman recently hosted travel agents from France as a reward for successfully completing the online ‘The Stars of Oman’ training programme, giving them an opportunity to experience the Omani hospitality and get acquainted with the local culture.

Les Etoiles d’Oman (‘The Stars of Oman’) is an e-learning training tool for travel agents and tour operators internationally, piloted in partnership with Oman Air. The programme aims to equip travel agents with knowledge about tourism in Oman and develop their skills such that they can better sell the destination.

The programme was launched in France on the occasion of IFTM Top Résa Travel & Trade Exhibition in 2014, says a press release.

Thirteen travel agents, who have completed the theory part of the module, were selected from

different regions of France to discover the natural and cultural heritage of Oman on a six-night trip. The trip covered all the must visit places in Oman, including a trip to the beautiful village of Birkat Al Mawz, followed by a journey up the curvaceous road to reach Al Jabal Al Akhdar.

The visitors spent time in the villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of the old houses) and Al Aynthat dot the landscape to get a spectacular view of the dramatic peaks, gorges and wadis.

Some of the other to-do things on the itinerary included, a visit to Nizwa to see the famous Round Tower Fort and the souq; dune driving at Al Sharqiya sands; exploring Sur and its various mesmerising beaches and wadis and gaining insights into the Omani history while in Salalah.

The travellers also got to enjoy an opera performance ‘Lucia Di Lammermoor by Gaetano Doni-

zetti’ at the Royal Opera House Muscat, visit to the exquisite Grand Mosque and discover what goes into the making of traditional frankincense.

Speaking about the initiative, Asma Al Hajry, deputy director general at International Tourism Promotions, said, “Seeing is believing and we wanted our travel agents internationally to explore Oman and experience the hospitality of our warm people.

“We are sure our visitors are going back with tonnes of memories, something they would love to share with their friends and clients. Such initiatives serve as a catalyst in bringing more tourists into the country.

“We are fortunate to count upon our partners Oman Air, Zahara tours, Grand Hyatt, Alila Jabal Ahkdar, Rotana Salalah, Shangri La, Al Bustan, Sahab Hotel, Sur Plaza and Crowne Plaza Salalah for their support.”

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

ROUND-UP Online ‘SUV Carnival’ launched by Best Cars Once a user clicks the ‘Best Carnival’ banner on the Best Cars website, it takes them to the best deals currently available on SUVs. There are a host of attractive deals on various models in the SUV segment

MUSCAT: Without as much as stepping out of their homes, customers can now celebrate the ‘SUV Carnival’ with Best Cars.

According to a company spokesperson, “This is a wonderful opportunity from Best Cars specially for all our SUV customers. We have launched an online activity named as the ‘Best Carnival’.”

Once a user clicks the ‘Best Carnival’ banner on the Best Cars website, it takes them to the

best deals currently available on SUVs. New arrivals are updated on a regular basis. There are a host of attractive deals on various models in the SUV segment, says a press release.

The smartly spruced and updated Best Cars website ‘www.bestcarsoman.com’ is a treat for the eyes and a very convenient way to search for a dream car. For example, without moving from the desk, a customer can surf for the required vehicle, be it a PC, CV, 4WD, etc either brand-wise, model-wise, model year-wise or budget-wise.

Furthermore, if one wants to sell a pre-owned vehicle, an easy form is provided, just fill and click send.

Best Cars representative promptly contacts the customer.

www.bestcarsoman.com has been tastefully designed and features a logical, user friendly flow which naturally leads the customer to the information area of choice. Not only is the navigation extremely easy, the site is packed with updated information – a boon for buyers and sellers, alike.

“Once you decide, it is just a matter of driving down and making a deal – either to buy or to sell,” was the response from one of the first customers who approached Best Cars through the website.

An added advantage for those who don’t immediately find the car of choice is that once they register their requirements, they will get an alert through mail whenever the right vehicle becomes available.

‘OMAN INSURER OF THE YEAR’

Apart from the website, Best Cars has a landmark main showroom in Muscat, as well as 13 branches located across Oman.

At any given point of time all over Oman, Best Cars offers a choice from popular brands including Lexus, Toyota, Ford, Kia, Daihatsu, to name a few.

Models are prominently displayed with price and features of every single vehicle - ready for test-drive and sale.

Best Cars also provides financing facilities for customers who want to purchase pre-owned vehicles on instalments.

Daily new arrivals are updated on ‘www.bestcarsoman.com’ on which a customer can log-in and view all details along with the vehicle’s photograph. Customers can also register their requirement and once the required model arrives, they promptly get the reply mail along with personalised, courteous services of the sales staff.

“All our cars are fully checked by our trained team of professional technicians, giving customers the confidence that they are making a good investment.

“With these added benefits, it’s no wonder that more people are turning to Best Cars,” added the spokesperson.

“In short, buying a car at Best Cars offers complete peace of mind. So just log in and make the right choice now.”

COFFEE CHAIN

Caffé Vergnano 1882 launches special Valentine’s Day offer MUSCAT: Caffé Vergnano, the globally famous coffee chain known for its unmatched quality of coffee brews, is offering a special deal to all its guests.

Anyone ordering an exclusive hot chocolate will be getting one free chocolate drink for his or her Valentine. The promotion will run from February 7 till February 14, says a press release.

Caffé Vergnano was founded

by Domenico Vergnano in 1882.

Their first outlet was in the medieval city of Chieri situated at the foot of the hills surrounding Turin in Italy. Subsequently their success in serving excellently brewed coffee led to them spreading to all the major cities of Europe and subsequently branching out to other major cities all across the world.

Caffé Vergnano is famous for serving the prestigious Arabica Coffee. Vergnano Arabica is a product with a delicate flavour and smooth aroma which is created by the low roasting of only the very best varieties of Arabica from Central and South America.

The low roasting of Vergnano Arabica Espresso makes it perfectly balanced with a medium, rounded flavour and sweet aroma.

Today, Caffé Vergnano at Assarain Complex adjacent to SPAR in the tranquil environs of Madinat Sultan Qaboos, Al Hail North

Anyone ordering an exclusive hot chocolate will be getting one free chocolate drink for his or her Valentine

and Oman Avenues Mall has emerged as the preferred place of coffee connoisseurs for intimate rendezvous, business tête-à-tête, or private musings, a place where one can sit back and savour the relaxed — yet contemporary — European ambience complete with WiFi connectivity and designer interiors.

VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY S P E C I A L

Al Madina Takaful wins at Malabar Gold unveils ‘Hearts MENAIR Insurance Awards of Love’ jewellery collection MUSCAT: Malabar Gold & Diamonds launched a special edition of diamond studded jewellery collection named ‘Hearts of Love’ to celebrate the season of love.

Diamonds are a symbol of eternity and a timeless interpretation of love. As the demand for heart shaped jewellery boosts during this season of love, the jewellery chain launched an exclusive collection of heart shaped jewellery to cater to the customer demand, says a press release.

This stunningly romantic collection of diamond jewellery is a unique way to express your feelings, affection and togetherness.

Each piece in this collection is

specially designed with an aura of love and is easily affordable.

Their spectacular piece of heart shaped 3 in 1 diamond pendant is a perfect gift to express true emotions to your loved ones.

This pendant is available in different colours like white gold, yellow gold and rose gold at a special promotional price of OMR185.

Limited edition They have also unveiled limited edition of twin-heart and tripleheart pendants sparkling with diamonds ranging from OMR65 to OMR275. They are also offering multiple number of amazing diamond jewellery sets to celebrate

this season and each set comprises beautifully crafted pendant, pair of earrings and finger ring.

These sets are available from the affordable price of OMR200.

To add more delight to this occasion, the customers can also avail a branded Esprit or Westar watch absolutely free with this limited edition jewellery.

Malabar Gold gives you the chance to give that special someone a token of your love that she will cherish for the rest of her life.

These promotional sets will be available at their outlets in UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Singapore & Malaysia until February 14.

FA S H I O N S H O W

MUSCAT: Al Madina Takaful has become the recipient of yet another coveted award in the insurance industry in the Middle East.

The company was named ‘Oman Insurer of the Year’ at the MENAIR Insurance Awards 2016 held recently in Dubai. The awards are judged by an independent panel of experts and recognise excellence of companies and people in the industry, says a press release.

The award is one of the most reputed and respected recognition in the industry. Al Madina Takaful was named finalist in three categories and won the Oman Insurer of the Year beating competition across both Takaful and conventional insurance seg-

ments in Oman.

Al Madina also was the only insurance company from Oman to be recognised at this year’s awards programme.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Gautam Datta, CEO, Al Madina Insurance Co., said: “Winning the Oman Insurer of the Year award is remarkable, as this the first time we are being recognised in the larger insurance industry, beyond the Takaful segment we operate in.

This is a milestone achievement for the organisation beating both local and regional players operating in Oman, and comes at a time when the industry is facing tough challenges. It’s a great reward for the hard work and commitment

of our team, business partners and clients. A huge thank you to all.”

Speaking on the success, Usama Al Barwani, deputy CEO, Al Madina Insurance Co. added: “It gives us immense pride to be chosen as Oman Insurer of the Year. This is a coveted platform, and we are excited to be chosen to represent the industry in this stature. It inspires us further to meet and exceed customer expectations and excel in the way we do business.

We extend our thanks to all stakeholders, and the CMA for their continuous support.”

Earlier, the company bagged the General Takaful Company of the Year Award at the Middle East Insurance Industry Awards 2015.

Suvarna crowned ISC, Salalah ‘Mrs Valentine’ SALALAH: The Ladies Wing of Indian Social Club Salalah celebrated ‘Mrs Valentine’ fashion show recently. Ladies dressed in red wholeheartedly participated in large numbers and made the event memorable and colourful.

The event was judged by renowned personalities Vandana and Poonam Malhotra. The evening was filled with early bird lottery along with lots of interesting spot prizes. To add on to the celebration Anne and Shuba performed sizzling solo dances and entertained the audience, along with melodious voices of Tripti, Geeta and Pooja. The event was

anchored by Rachna Medappa assisted by Geeta and Shivani, says a press release.

However, much awaited evening concluded with the crowning of the winners. ‘Mrs Valentine’ title was won by Suvarna, the second runner-up was Manjari Sharma and the third runner-up was Sarla Ingle.

The crowning was done by Manpreet Singh, chairman Indian Social Club, Salalah in the presence of other ISC, committee members. Generous sponsorship by Malabar Gold, Al Raud, Manza Boutique, Rania, Kairath Al Janoob, Haridas Nancy and Sweets of Oman facilitated in organising the event.

PROMOTION

Nabil biscuit launches new range of innovative snacks MUSCAT: National Biscuit Industries Ltd, makers of the brand ‘Nabil’ range of biscuits and snacks, are pleased to usher in the new year with a double delight.

January saw the launch of ‘Nabil Salaam’, a range of innovative snacks with five different combination of exciting flavours and shapes such as the Nabil Twistz: Sour Cream & Onion, Nabil Shellz: Salad Snax, Nabil Grillz: Mexican Spicy, Nabil Ringz: Chilli and Salaam Wheelz: Ketchup, says a press release.

To further delight its patrons, Nabil biscuits has also announced the immensely rewarding Scratch ‘n’ Win contest. As a part of the promotion, consumers will find scratch cards in the multipacks of Nabil Ghalia, Nabil Kuku and the newly launched Nabil Salaam range. The contest is on till March 31. Winners will be rewarded with as many as 20

iPhone 6, and a host of other exciting prizes like Sony PlayStation 4, gold coins, Sony PlayStation Vita, Samsung LED TV, etc.

Commenting on the occasion, Unnit Mankodi, head of Sales and

Marketing at National Biscuits said: “Most consumers have grown up eating Nabil biscuits and this is a homegrown and much loved brand. Nabil is proud to give back the love and patronage through the

introduction of such innovative and tasty snacking products like Nabil Salaam, as well as through such promotions as Scratch n Win. We urge the consumers to rush to their nearest outlet and buy the

multipacks of Ghalia/Kuku and Salaam to win the exciting prizes.”

National Biscuit has, for the past three decades, been producing a wide range of biscuits and snacks.

Brand Nabil is exported every year

to over 40 countries worldwide.

With the continued patronage of its loyal consumers, it has always maintained a number one position in the biscuit segment and is truly the pride of month.

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alizz provides innovative personal finance solutions The personal finance portfolio of alizz

The personal finance portfolio is a crucial component of this journey and we are always looking at avenues to enhance these services

Islamic bank consists of two segments, financing of goods ‘Goods Murabaha’ and

Moosa Al Jadidi

financing of services ‘Services Ijarah’

MUSCAT: alizz Islamic bank continues to provide innovative and Sharia compliant personal finance products that meet the requirements and needs of its customers.

The personal finance portfolio of alizz Islamic bank consists of two segments, financing of goods ‘Goods Murabaha’ and financing of services ‘Services Ijarah’ which are based on the principle of ‘Ijarah’, says a press release.

In the case of goods financing the customer applies for funding for specific goods by providing a quotation price in the name of alizz Islamic bank from the merchant. The purchased item is then sold to the customer by Murabaha Sale Contract of deferred instal-

ment payments which consist of the original selling price (cost) plus an agreed profit. Knowing the bank’s profit mark-up and instalment at the time of signing the deal allows for immediate possession and ownership of the goods.

Customers can avail these competitively priced personal finance services for all their needs and requirements, be it acquisition of furniture, utilities, electrical appliances, other household items and much more.

Through ‘Service Ijarah’ customers can acquire a variety of services at the most competitive prices. Here the bank has agreements with various service providers, whereby the bank leases the services required by the customer directly from the provider and sub-leases it to the customer on the basis of ‘Ijarah’ helping them meet all their needs whether they

Deputy director general and head of Retail Banking

have to cover unexpected medical expenses, or secure the tuition fees for their children, or are preparing for marriage.

Moosa Al Jadidi, deputy director general and head of Retail Banking, said: “The personal finance products of alizz Islamic bank have many advantages, first and foremost is their availability for both Omanis and residents at competitive profit rates through which a customer can buy any kind of Sharia compliant goods with financing of up to 100 per cent of the value of the goods. As part of the bank’s principle of transparency the customer is informed of the cost, profit margins and the total sale price before signing the

contract. Another key advantage is that this type of financing only requires simple documentation and procedures and the approval process is quick and catered to the customer’s needs.”

Al Jadidi added: “alizz Islamic bank believes in enriching our customers’ lives and putting their needs first and their service foremost as part of our commitment towards excellence and leadership in the Islamic banking sector. The personal finance portfolio is a crucial component of this journey and we are always looking at avenues to enhance these services.” alizz Islamic bank is one of the first dedicated Islamic banks in Oman.

RECRUIT QUOTES Greatness is sifted through the grind, therefore don’t despise the hard work now for surely it will be worth it in the end.

— Sanjo Jendayi My grandfather once told me that there were two kinds of people: those who do the work and those who take the credit. He told me to try to be in the first group; there was much less competition.

— Indira Gandhi If your dream is a big dream, and if you want your life to work on the high level that you say you do, there’s no way around doing the work it takes to get you there.

— Joyce Chapman

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N E W S TAT U S

Vision Auditing changes its name to MGI Vision Chartered Accountants MUSCAT: Oman based assurance, tax and consulting firm Vision Auditing has changed its name to MGI Vision Chartered Accountants to reflect its new status as a member firm of MGI Worldwide, a Top 20 ranked international network of independent audit, tax, accounting and consulting firms with some 5,000 professionals in over 300 locations around the world and also 12th the largest in the Middle East.

This change means that the firm can now provide a level of international expertise normally only found in very large accounting firms but delivered with the same personal service and high level of partner involvement of a smaller firm, says a press release.

Abdul Majid Al Abri, partner at the firm, said: “We are very excited about the potential possibilities not only for our firm but also for clients considering new business opportunities in the Middle East and beyond. It means we can continue to support them as they grow and that is of great benefit.”

This change also demonstrates the firm’s commitment to providing a quality service for their clients. Al Abri continues, “By being part of a global network, our clients are assured of adherence to international quality standards and that is reflected in our new name. While a lot is being talked

about promoting local firms, in our sector, when it comes to hiring services, even government prefers international firms. With this development, we aim to upgrade ourselves to provide similar quality assurance as of international firms.”

MGI Vision Chartered Accountants can now offer clients a new world of opportunity.

Here are some of the benefits: • Support from a worldwide team – more than 5,000 accounting professionals • Access to international advice — at the end of the phone for tax, corporate and financial matters • Potential to explore new opportunities — within the Middle East and Worldwide • Ability to speak to a specialist — from a pool of experts around the world.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

ROUND-UP

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Urban adventure gets even more exciting with all-new Subaru XV Restyled and recharged, the new Subaru XV blends functionality and form — it captures and captivates instantly

MUSCAT: The new Subaru XV with its exciting looks, a confident stance and engaging driving experience is all set to make your urban adventure even more exciting.

Restyled and recharged, the new Subaru XV blends functionality and form — it captures and captivates instantly. At 220mm of ground clearance, the XV features serious off-roading and wading capabilities. The excitement increases as you take the road less taken, or choose to create your own trail with this capable vehicle, says a press release.

The Subaru XV combines the high ground clearance of an SUV, with low centre of gravity and balance of a sports sedan, and Symmetrical AWD. Mated to the Subaru

Boxer engine for a near-perfect symmetrical layout, the Symmetrical AWD delivers gratifying power with exceptional traction, providing balance and stability for total control in ever-shifting road conditions.

The horizontally opposed Boxer engine, with a flat profile, lends the powerplant and the whole car, a low centre of gravity and more balanced weight distribution, and significantly reduced vibration. The result is a vehicle that gives you peace of mind and driving confidence.

A bold new look backs up the XV’s lively performance,made clear by numerous visual refinements, including a stylish new grille, bumper and headlamps. The face of the XV has been updated, new headlights, wider grill, and bolder trim around the fog-lights, further accentuate the sporty stance of the XV. The vibrant crossover gets a major facelift on the inside too, with defined interior panels, added soft touch materials, and steering with new switch gear that is easier to use and houses more practical functions.

The XV features many innovations to put the occupants at utter ease. The seats are thoughtfully designed for long-term comfort with supportive, vibration-absorbing cushioning.

is ready to take your life to new heights. The wait is just about to get over…Get ready Tech specifications include: Models: 2.0i, 2.0i Premium Dimensions: L x W x H: 4,450 x1,780 x 1,615 mm Engine: Horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve petrol Capacity: 1,995 cc Max output: 110 kW (150 PS) / 6,200 rpm Max torque: 196 Nm (20.0kgfm) / 4,200 rpm Transmission: Lineartronic, AWD The centrally located touchscreen is a useful way to select your music. Simply connect the smartphone through Bluetooth or the USB systems for added ease, and choose the options right on the touchscreen.

With the ceiling-mounted microphone added, the available Bluetooth hands-free system also automatically connects compatible mobile phones for convenient, handsfree talking. It also enables wireless audio streaming audio from the compatible Bluetooth devices and reading emails.

The high grade multi-function display shows all the needed info including time, temperature, selfcheck maintenance alerts, and

10TH EDITION

gers and pack five carry-on suitcases at the same time. 60/40 split rear seats mean the Subaru XV has the versatility to hold a rear occupant and a bike at the same time.

With 1,200 litres of cargo volume, a nearly square rear gate and flatfolding rear seats, it’ll take on your latest urban or outdoor excursion with utter ease.

Drive it to the office or have fun with the gravel on weekends,the Subaru XV is the most perfect partner for the urban jungle flair, with great looks, high ground clearance, and proven Subaru AWD. There’s little that can stop you from having a good time when you drive the Subaru XV. Daring and yet unassuming, the Subaru XV

The features include: Fog lamps, roof-rails, power glass sunroof, HID headlamps with auto level, keyless access and push-button start, dualzone automatic air-conditioning system, rear armrest with cup holders, and Cruise control.

Subaru is a Japanese automotive brand founded in 1953, and headquartered in Ebisu, Tokyo. Subaru cars are known for their boxer engine layout and the Symmetrical All Wheel Drive drive-train. Subaru also offers turbocharged versions of their passenger cars, such as the Impreza WRX and STI. The OTE group is the official representative of Subaru in Oman, having a country wide presence with 13 showrooms.

TA S T E O F K E R A L A

Dar Al Atta’a contest to showcase creative writing skills of students MUSCAT: Dar Al Atta’a Association launched the 10th session of its writing contest that comes as part of the activities carried out by ‘Let’s read’ programme sponsored by the association.

The contest aims to contribute to the development of writing skills of school students between the ages of 11-18 years old, says a press release.

The competition gives the opportunity to these students to show their talents in creative writing by presenting a story with a maximum number of 500 words where the events of the story take place in the Sultanate of Oman; the story must be accompanied by coloured images and can be presented in English or Arabic language to children between the ages of 5-7 years old.

The last date of accepting entries is March 31.

safety information such as Vehicle Dynamics Control monitoring.

Featuring more hand-free options than ever before, the XV also has Voice Recognition and the optional Siri Eyes Free integration, allowing Apple users to link and make hands-free calls, play music, check emails and search the web.

To bring the entertainment alive, the XV features premium 6-speaker 180 watt audio system, with the speakers specially tuned for the XV’s acoustics, resulting in a rich sound that enraptures the senses. Two additional speakers are integrated into the instrument panel, further accentuating the mids and highs for a fuller sound.

The XV can carry five passen-

Al Zadjali, chairperson of Dar Al Atta Association said: “There is no doubt that the ‘Let’s read’ programme has a positive role in strengthening the human personality and opens the doors of knowledge and joy.

The Evaluation Committee will select the winners based on certain grounds: The most important is that the story should contain an interesting character, the story must be of good context.

The narration must present interesting details of the events, the time, place and characters.

The work will also be judged on the language, putting in consideration the correct spelling and construction of the sentences.

In this regard, Mariam bint Issa

Passage to India unveils Vadakkan Food Festival

Encouraging children “And from this concept the association encourages children to read and write stories, and here I invite all children to contribute with their creations as they will be published and printed in a special book prepared for the publication of the winning stories, the invitation is open to all children in all public and private schools of the Sultanate between the ages of 1118 years old.

“The association will award the winners in the ‘Grand Reading Festival’ during the month of May of this year.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

KR continues to provide support for educational infrastructure in Sumail MUSCAT: The KR Group continues to provide support for educational infrastructure in the wilayat of Sumail as part of ongoing efforts aimed at community development.

From the construction of portacabins to landscaping shades and donating smart TVs the company has been actively involved in assisting this town’s government schools in order to make Oman’s Dakhiliyah region become a modern, self-sustaining microcosm, says a press release.

Commenting on the company’s initiatives, Nailesh Khimji, director, KR said: “At the KR Group we are passionate about community building and support.

Over the years we have been reaching out to communities across

different regions in Oman by giving them the tools to become more self-reliant, progressive and self-sustaining. Our partnership with the wilayat of Sumail goes back many years where

we’ve been working with local authorities to improve educational infrastructure in the region.”

To date the KR Group has constructed entrance shades for the Saih Al Rasiyat School, Sayja and Al Gaylah Schools. The last two were donated to children with special needs, wherein they sheltered a garden called ‘challenging horses’ for the Sayja School which opened at the beginning of 2015.

The company also contributed porta-cabins for Sayja School and Saleh bin Al Mutawkil School last year. Additionally, KR donated 15 smart TVs to Al Gaylah Scool, Saih Al Rasiyat and Sumail Al Jadeeda schools. Each school received five television sets to aid education of children with special needs.

AUTHENTIC KERALA CUISINE: The menu has been carefully crafted by reputed Chef NazeerKa, former head chef of Calicut Paragon Restaurant that has branches in Kerala and Dubai, who has been specially flown in for the event. – A. R.Rajkumar/ TIMES OF OMAN

MUSCAT: Passage to India (PTI) restaurant is organising a gastronomic journey into Kerala cuisine wherein a multitude of both non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes will be prepared that will give a glimpse into the diverse preparations across the 14 districts of the state.

There will be two live counters set up in the restaurant’s courtyard reminiscent of street stalls in Kerala, serving appam and stew and Malabari paratha, says a press release.

The menu has been carefully crafted by reputed Chef NazeerKa, former head chef of Calicut Paragon Restaurant that has branches in Kerala and Dubai, who has been specially flown in for the event. The preparations will incorporate famous naadan curries, green pepper fish and whole sardines with rice. For the health conscious food lovers, some of the fish preparations are

water grilled which makes for cholesterol free food.

Mouth-watering delicacies Other mouth-watering delicacies will include chicken, fish, lobster, mutton and vegetable preparations as well as Keralastyle biryani. There will be more than 50 dishes listed in a separate menu especially designed for the festival that concludes on February 15. During this festival only the restaurant will be in service from 12pm - 4.30pm and 6.30pm -12am. The service staff will be dressed in traditional ‘mundus’ and all food will be prepared and served in authentic ‘chatty’ dishes especially brought in from Kerala to lend authenticity to the entire promotion.

“Passage to India has always attempted to provide an opportunity for customers to enjoy authentic preparation of their favourite dishes. After the success of the

Punjabi food festival, we decided to take it a step ahead and provide the most popular preparations of Kerala in the ongoing food festival to cater to the huge presence of the Malayali community in Oman as well as introduce the food to others who have not had a chance to savour authentic Keralite food.

By the end of the year, we would be looking at getting another renowned chef for a Fusion Food Festival that will present another gastronomical feast,” Araj Mohandas, PTI owner’s representative, informed the media.

Passage to India, located in Wadi Adai, is renowned for high food quality complemented by the finest accompanying beverage offerings. The restaurant prides itself on being a provider of fine Indian cuisine for residents of Oman as well as visitors for 15 years. Orders for parties and outdoor catering services are also part of the portfolio.

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RAINA TO CAPTAIN GUJARAT, HODGE NAMED AS COACH >C2

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Al Amerat Challenge set for February 13 host it successfully for many years to come,” he said.

Organisers of the Al Amerat Challenge Race, the first AIMSsanctioned event to be held in Oman, are determined to make the third edition a grand success

Sports Reporter MUSCAT: Despite the reluctance of the sponsors to come out with full backing, Excellence Performance is all set to organise the third edition of Al Amerat Challenge Race on February 13.

The organisers, after hosting a successful inaugural event in 2014, received the recognition from Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) for their second edition a year later.

That AIMS-sanctioned event attracted a lot of attention as well as well-known runners from across the world leading to the Challenge becoming a great success which in turn helped the organisers to project the Sultanate as an ideal tourist destination.

But this time around, owing to slump in oil prices and the resultant austerity measures, not many sponsors have come forward to support the event.

Like last year, a lot of international runners have shown interest. But unfortunately we don’t have enough sponsorship to welcome them Rashid Al Kindi Excellence Performance chief

However, the organisers are determined to continue with their good work and do their bit in promoting Omani sports as well as the Sultanate as a tourist destination.

“We are very proud of what we have done so far... not just Al Amerat Challenge but also other sporting events,” Excellence Performance chief Rashid Al Kindi said referring to two other championships they launched last year, Oman Girls Cross Country Championship and Oman Skate Championships.

“Our endeavour has always been to provide opportunities for the Omani youth to practice sports

they love and to compete with the best in the world, to promote sports and healthy living as well as the Sultanate. So it is disappointing not to get proper backing from the sponsors, especially after the second Challenge has been such a big success,” he said.

“Like last year, a lot of international runners from within the region and beyond have shown interest. But unfortunately we don’t have enough sponsorship to welcome them,” he added.

“However, we don’t want it to be a one or two-year affair. We are determined to take it further and

Huge interest However, Al Kindi also took the opportunity to thank those sponsors who came forward to support this year’s event, saying ‘without them it would have been extremely difficult to organise the Challenge’.

This year Oman Cables Industry has come forward to be Gold Sponsors while the list of Silver Sponsors includes Zubair Automobile Company, Tanuf, Oman Riders and Al Safa Company.

Meanwhile, Excellence Performance chief said ‘there is no lack of interest from the runners’.

“There are a lot of enquiries from various quarters, including students,” Al Kindi said.

“There will be some Oman national athletes, from security services as well as students from both government and private schools participating in the run. We are expecting more than 1,300 participants this year,” he added.

Like previous years, there will be the 9km main race for both men and women, and a 1.8km fun race.

The winners of main race will receive $1,000 and a medal. The second and third placed runners will get medals as well as $800 and $500 respectively. Fourth place winner will get $250. The first 100 finishers in fun race will receive medals.

Last year’s Challenge attracted runners from within the Gulf region as well as those from far off countries like Tanzania, Morocco, Kenya, Ethiopia, India and Iceland.

In 2015, Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Al Joud won the men’s title while Kenya’s Naomi Jepkosgei Maiyo triumphed in the women’s race.

INSIDE LIFESTYLE

LOVE IN THE CITY OF LIGHT >C5

FOOTBALL

OFA plans four coaching courses MUSCAT: The Oman Football Association (OFA) will organise four coaching courses in the coming days with an aim to develop coaches at the grassroots levels.

According to information received from the Sultanate’s soccer governing body, the courses to be organised in February and March, will benefit grassroots coaches and teachers, coaches of football schools and academies as well as women coaches.

“These programmes are aimed at coaches working in Grassroots Football and Club Skill Development Academies and for women coaches and schoolteachers both in Grassroots Girls Football and Futsal. There will be no charge for any of these courses for OFA Clubs and their affiliated community clubs, as part of the OFA commitment to develop grassroots football,” an OFA statement said.

“These courses include Beginners Coaching Course, Goalkeepers Coaching Course and Physical Fitness Course.”

The first of these courses will be at the Seeb Centre from February 7 to 10 under the supervision of Jamie Houchen, an UEFA/ AFC Grassroots Expert and is open to community club coaches.

The course will help the coaches to ‘understand better the needs of young players, and to organise a series of practices and fun games that allow children to make their own decisions and be fully included within all sessions’.

“Limited places are available to coaches at community clubs, including those in Muscat, Sohar, Suwaiq, Nizwa and Salalah.

Successful coaches will then be invited to conduct OFA L’aeeb sessions within their community

clubs,” the statement added.

Development Workshop The first part of a workshop titled ‘Academy Talented Player Development Workshop’, will be conducted by Torsten Spittler, the OFA Talent Development Expert, and OFA Technical Director Jim Selby on February 13 and 14 at Seeb Sports Centre.

The workshop is designed to support OFA Club Skills Development Academy Coaches who are currently training eight to 12 year old players. This workshop is compulsory for all coaches at OFA Club Skills Development Academies to attend.

Courses for women The OFA will also organise two courses to help teachers at university and schools to upgrade their coaching knowledge in football and futsal.

The first one OFA Youth Coaching Course will be held from February 14 to 17 while the second one Futsal Coaching Course is scheduled for February 22 to 25. Both the courses will take place at GUtech University.

The OFA Technical Department will organise a beginners coaching course in Salalah from February 15 to 18. The course, which has attracted 30 participants, will be conducted by Mohammed Ofait Al Hadhary.

Haroun Al Bartmani, an experienced AFC and FIFA accredited coach and coaches instructor, will conduct a goalkeepers trainers course from February 20 to 26. The fitness course, which will be conducted from February 26 to March 1 by Dr. Mahmoud Bayat and Ricardo Silva.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

SPORTS

Triumph Down Under has ‘given us extra edge’ Sursh Raina said

Raina to captain Gujarat Lions, Hodge is coach

irrespective of the strength of the opposition, India came out

NEW DELHI: Middle-order batsman Suresh Raina, who played a pivotal role in India’s 3-0 cleansweep over Australia in the recent three-match T20 series, feels the triumph has given the side an “extra edge” going into next month’s World Twenty20 Championships.

Australia fielded a second string side against India with top players like Steve Smith, David Warner and James Faulkner playing only one of the three matches.

Raina said irrespective of the strength of the opposition, India came out stronger from the series.

“Whichever opposition you play, it was important for us to beat Australia on their home turf.

Also since we beat them 2-0, we are now the No.1 ranked T20 team in the world. The win was a testi-

NEW DELHI: India limitedovers specialist Suresh Raina is to captain the new Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise in Rajkot, the team announced on Tuesday, while confirming Australian Brad Hodge as the side’s coach.

Pune and Rajkot were unveiled as the new teams in the lucrative Twenty20 competition in December, replacing Chennai and Rajasthan, who were handed two-year suspensions for their involvement in an illegal betting scandal.

“Suresh Raina is a remarkable player with an impeccable record in all formats of the game,” franchise owner Keshav

mony that we prepared well. We will have an extra edge going into the World T20. Credit should be given to the captain and the support staff,” Raina told mediapersons at the unveiling of the Rajkot

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SET TO ROAR: Suresh Raina and owner Keshav Bansal.

Bansal said in a statement, announcing the team would be called the Gujarat Lions.

“His extensive experience combined with his great

IPL team ‘Gujarat Lions’.

His match-winning unbeaten 49 in the third T20 International came while batting at No 4 while he has mostly placed at No.3 for Chennai Super Kings. “Batting up the or-

leadership skills will help us in putting together a winning strategy for the team.”

Having played for three IPL teams, Hodge is familiar with the popular tournament.

Back home, the 41-year-old captained Adelaide Strikers in this year’s Big Bash League (BBL), while also taking on an assistant coaching role.

“We finalised Brad Hodge as the team coach on the basis of his successful contribution to the Australian national team and his excellent stint in the IPL,” Bansal said.

“I am confident that our team will benefit immensely from his guidance and mentorship.” - Reuters

der in T20 is important as it helps you plan and execute your targets.

I have played at No.3 for CSK but the team is almost set for the World T20s,” the UP left-hander stated. — PTI

C O M M E N TA RY

One of the finest performances by an Indian team overseas

I

ndia’s dominating performance in the just concluded T20 series with Australia and the manner in which its experienced players came to the party in the nerve tingling final game makes it the favourites to win the ICC world T20 tournament which starts next month.

There was a sense of déjà vu when Yuvraj Singh making a comeback to the Indian team after almost 2 years struggled to put bat on ball but not for nothing has the ‘Yuvraj’ of Punjab been India’s man of the match on innumerable occasions in the past.

With 17 runs needed off six balls he put the issue to bed with a boundary and a six off the first two balls took a single and left the final flourish to another prodigious T20 talent Suresh Raina who scorched the winning hit to give Australia its first comprehensive defeat in 141 years.

Chasing nearly 200 is never easy but the Indian openers got the team off to a flying start and showed once again if proof was needed that at the international level Shaun Tait does not scare anybody as the Aussie media likes to think.

If anything his extra pace is just what the batsmen are looking for to whip the ball around.

While Virat Kohli has been batting in a manner that is out of this world, Rohit Sharma also has been sweet talking the ball to the boundary and beyond.

Their partnerships in this series is what has taken

India to big totals.

A batting performance like India’s does tend to overshadow the bowlers efforts but no praise can be too high for the way the Indian bowlers restricted the Australian batsmen in the first two games.

The spinners came into their own and with Bumrah and Nehra keeping the lid at the start and then again at the end the runs were choked away.

In the final game though there seemed to be different approach which almost backfired but for the batsmen coming to the rescue.

Bumrah bowling round the wicket from the first ball to the left handed batsmen is a tactic that didn’t work and why it is being persisted with despite its continued failures is beyond understanding.

Then Jadeja bowling low full tosses which were gleefully deposited into the crowd by the powerful Watson was another strategy that didn’t and will never work.

Still these are just minor hiccups in what has to be celebrated as one of the finest performances by an Indian team overseas.

As Dhoni said maybe a tweak or two to the squad for the ICC World T20 will do the trick and its a trick all Indian supporters are anxiously waiting to see. - PMG

WORLD T20

Sammy disappointed by contract snub, but committed to Windies BRIDGETOWN: Twenty20 captain Darren Sammy has spoken of his disappointment at not being offered a retainer contract by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).The former Test captain was one chopped from the 15man list announced recently by the WICB for the period running from October 1 last year to September 30, 2016, reports CMC. “It’s the first time in the last seven or eight years that I’ve not been given a retainer by the WICB. It’s quite disappointing, but cricket has not been about Darren Sammy, it’s for the West Indian people,” Sammy said.

“I am disappointed that I never received a contract from the WICB, but it’s not my decision.

I’ve played the two limited-overs formats for West Indies on a reg-

ular basis and performed the role I was asked. It’s very disappointing, particularly as I am the T20 captain, but life goes on.”

Sammy has been a key figure in the West Indies cricket over the last five years and played a significant role in leading the Caribbean side to the capture of the Twenty20 World Cup in Sri Lanka four years ago.

The 32-year-old, who now campaigns extensively in the various domestic T20 leagues across the globe, said he remained committed to representing the West Indies in the shorter formats.

“I guess they (WICB) are more focused on Test cricket, which I’ve retired from, but I’m fully committed to the One-Day and Twenty20 format for West Indies if selected,” Sammy said. — IANS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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SPORTS India are Lara’s favourites to clinch World T20 crown Batting legend Brian Lara also thinks the

I think India will win in home conditions. Their players know the pitches and they’re playing good cricket against the best teams in the world at present in that version of the game. I would definitely give them top billing

West Indies, who will be packed with all their international stars after selecting a strong squad last week, can be a threat if they can avoid

Brian Lara

the inconsistency

West Indies batting legend

that has plagued them in the past

DUBAI: Batting legend Brian Lara has tipped India to win the Twenty20 World Cup but says the West Indies can be a threat if they can avoid the inconsistency that has plagued them in the past.

While the West Indies will be packed with all their international stars after selecting a strong squad last week, Lara said India would enter the tournament with the edge because of home advantage, reports CMC. “I think India will win in home conditions,” the former Test captain said following an outing at the Abu Dhabi Invitational golf pro-am here on Monday.

“Their players know the pitches

and they’re playing good cricket against the best teams in the world at present in that version of the game. I would definitely give them top billing.”

“But I must talk about the West Indies. I hope they can pick the best possible team because if they do, every other nation will be worried,” he added.

The West Indies have selected the core of the side which stunned hosts Sri Lanka in the final of the

2012 Twenty20 World Cup at the R. Premadasa Stadium.

The squad will be led again by all-rounder Darren Sammy and includes the likes of global superstar Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell — all familiar faces in the major T20 leagues across the world.

Lara believes once the side can gel and play consistent cricket, they would be genuine contenders at the March 8 to April 3 tournament.

C S R I N I T I AT I V E

Bank Muscat Green Sports registration for 2016 ends MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the pioneer of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the banking sector in Oman, has concluded the registration phase of its annual Green Sports programme.

The bank will shortlist teams who have met the required criteria for field visits by a special committee, leading to the final selection of beneficiaries.

Marking the fifth year of the unique CSR initiative, the bank will support the development of 15 football fields in 2016 in line with the ‘Let’s Do More’ vision and partnership to promote Oman as a sporting nation.

The Green Sports initiative launched by Bank Muscat in 2012 has gained momentum with a total of 49 teams across the Sultanate benefiting from it till date, of whom 19 teams have received funding for natural or synthetic greening, desalination equipment, and floodlights.

The football fields developed

as part of the Green Sports initiative are also serving as a meeting place for children and youth to be engaged in gainful activities.

The fields are used to host various activities such as Ramadhan nights, group weddings and other celebrations. Such community activities are helping children and youth develop strong positive character traits.

Bank Muscat is committed to

its ‘Let’s Do More’ vision for the economy, community and environment and is proud to have led the way in contributing to sustainable development in Oman with various initiatives. As the nation’s leading financial institution, Bank Muscat aims to provide the momentum for youth to excel in all arenas and thereby contribute to the development and progress of Oman.

“Chris Gayle, Darren Bravo or Kieron Pollard, all these guys when they come together, there’s a certain chemistry,” the 46-year-old pointed out.

“I can tell they want to be together and pull together.

“But on occasions, we know the West Indies can be very inconsistent. We can still have the best players and be out in the first round. You never know with the West Indies.”

The West Indies have been drawn in Group 1 alongside England, South Africa and Sri Lanka, along with a yet-to-be-determined qualifier.

They will undergo a preparation camp in Dubai later this month before flying to Kolkata for the two official warm-ups against Australia and India. - IANS

Don’t litter a beautiful country like OMAN. Ensure proper disposal of garbage.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

SPORTS Fear of missing out drives English clubs’ spending Six clubs at the

Cahill keen to stay at Chelsea after ‘positive’ talks

bottom of the table accounted for more than half of all Premier League spending. That £90 million, out of an overall figure of 175 million, compared to 20m paid out by the bottom six in January 2015 when they made up less than 20 percent of the total

LONDON: Fear of missing out on English soccer’s biggest ever payday drove the Premier League’s relegation-threatened clubs on a spending spree in January, with Championship sides hoping for promotion also splashing the cash.

An analysis by business consultants Deloitte of the transfer window that closed on Monday showed that the six clubs at the bottom of the table accounted for more than half of all Premier

LONDON: Unsettled Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has held “positive” talks with interim manager Guus Hiddink about his future and said he was keen to stay at the club.

A source close to the player said last week that the 30-year-old centre-back feared he might miss out on this year’s European Championship if he was not playing more regularly.

The England vice-captain has played more than 170 games for Chelsea but has made only 12 league appearances this season as Kurt Zouma and John Terry have become preferred starters.

The frustration was such that the player, who signed a new four-year contract in

League spending. That £90 million ($130 million), out of an overall figure of 175 million, compared to 20 million paid out by the bottom six in January 2015 when they made up less than 20 percent of the total.

Next season will see Premier League clubs share more television revenue than ever thanks to a record-breaking £5.1 billion deal with broadcasters Sky and BT that runs from 2016 to 2019.

December, felt he might have to leave.

“I did have a good chat with him, he was very approachable and it was beneficial, very posi-

That has increased the rewards of staying up while clubs battling for promotion have more of an incentive to spend.

“This January’s spending has been driven in large part by clubs in the bottom half of the table,” said Dan Jones, a partner in Deloitte’s Sports Business Group.

“The promise of the new broadcast deal for Premier League clubs from next season onwards and the threat of missing out through

tive. Obviously I want to be at the club,” Cahill said.

“I signed a four-year contract a couple of months ago so that shows I want to be here,” Cahill added.

“But ultimately, I feel like I need to play football matches.

I’ve always been that way; it’s always been in my makeup to play a high percentage of games.

“I realise sometimes things go well, sometimes they don’t, but it’s very important for me to play football matches.”

Chelsea, who are 13th in the standings but unbeaten in nine games in all competitions, will look to continue their climb up the league when they face 10th-placed Watford on Wednesday. - Reuters

relegation is contributing to clubs investing in an attempt to stay in the league.”

Spending by second-tier Championship clubs in the January transfer window was around £35 million, with promotion hopefuls Middlesbrough paying a reported nine million for Scotland striker Jordan Rhodes.

Clubs in the top six positions accounted for 70 percent of second tier spending.

No Premier League club received less than £64 million when the money was shared out last season with Aston Villa, who narrowly avoided the drop in 17th place, taking 68.6 million.

Winners Chelsea received 99 million, according to Premier League figures.

Biggest spenders Under the Premier League agreement, half of the UK broadcast revenue is split equally between the clubs with 25 percent paid in merit payments and the remainder coming in ‘facility fees’ based on television exposure.

Newcastle United (18th), Norwich City (17th) and Watford (10th) were the Premier League’s biggest gross spenders in the window and accounted for about 40 percent of the total.

Newcastle spent a reported 12 million on Tottenham Hotspur winger Andros Townsend and the same on Swansea City’s England midfielder Jonjo Shelvey.

Sunderland (19th) made a clutch of signings while Bournemouth (16th) and Swansea City (15th) were busy, but Villa, last and seemingly doomed to relegation with 10 points between them and Norwich, spent nothing.

Deloitte’s said January also saw the highest ever total spend by Premier League clubs on players from overseas, the total of 110 million pounds comparing to 65 million in the same period last year.

The amount of business between Premier League clubs fell, accounting for just 26 percent of gross spending. - Reuters

FOOTBALL

FIFA wants two-year ban for Korea’s Kang Soo-Il ZURICH: FIFA has appealed for a ban on South Korean player, Kang Soo-Il, to be increased to two years, the second increase after he was banned for 15 games then six months for failing a doping test last year.

Kang apologised to fans and blamed a moustache-growing cream after he failed a test for the anabolic steroid methyltestosterone on June 11.

He was with the South Korean national team at the time and was pulled from the squad immediately.

Soccer’s world governing body is under pressure to show it can police the game and officials after a World Cup corruption scandal involving bribes and kickbacks to sell media and marketing rights for soccer tournaments and matches.

The Korea Football Association (KFA) imposed a six-month ban on August 12 but the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Tuesday that FIFA had appealed for more.

“In its appeal to the CAS, FIFA seeks to increase the player’s suspension to two years,” CAS said in a statement.

Two years is considered the standard sanction for unintentional doping under FIFA’s antidoping regulations.

CAS will hold a hearing in Shanghai, China, on Friday.

Kang was initially handed a 15-game ban by the Korean league and his club, Jeju United, were given a warning for a lack of oversight. - Reuters

CYCLING

Froome claims of warning UCI against mechanical doping MELBOURNE: Two-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome has said he warned authorities about possible mechanical doping in cycling and wants them to intensify bike checks to catch offenders.

After decades of struggling to combat illegal drug use, cycling’s image suffered a fresh blow on Sunday when stewards at the world cyclo-cross championships found an electric motor in Belgian teenager Femke Van den Driessche’s bike.

Den Driessche has maintained her innocence since the discovery but Briton Froome said he had heard whispers about mechanical doping before and shared them with the International Cycling Union (UCI).

“It’s a concern that I’ve had, something I’ve brought up with the UCI independent commission when I sat down with them and said, ‘listen, from my point of view there are these rumours, it would be my advice that the UCI implements controls and measure to start checking bikes more

CONCERNED: Chris Froome

regularly’,” Froome told reporters on Tuesday.

The UCI has promised to step up testing for motorised doping and Froome welcomed the decision.

“I think they are taking the threat seriously and hopefully this will mean that they only increase the number of checks that they do on the world tour level,” the Team Sky rider added.

On a personal level, the Kenyaborn rider said he was happy to make his physiological data public to quash constant speculation about his improved performances in the last few years.

“I’ve been really happy with how that all turned out,” the 30-year-old Froome said ahead of the Herald Sun Tour in Victoria starting on Wednesday.

“I mean, people were asking for my data and, knowing that I have nothing to hide, obviously I went and did the tests and offered that data up publicly to everyone and I’m really happy how that went down.

“I mean, not to say that every athlete should do the same thing but it’s everyone’s personal prerogative if they want to do the same or not.” - Reuters

C

SECTION

LIFESTYLE

Leisure WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

Paris remains a beacon for tourists, a place where life is venerated and celebrated.

F

or centuries Paris has been known as the La Ville Lumière — City of Light — but on November 13, 2015 more than 120 flames of its greater luminescence were cruelly snuffed out.

As shocking and tragic as those events were (we purposefully won’t recount in detail) Paris, and its people, were determined that their great city should shine on.

Their way of honouring those whose light had been taken from them? Refusing to alter their lifestyle, continuing to go about their lives with the same bon viveur and joy for life that has attracted millions of visitors to their city.

And so today, despite what is going on in the world, Paris remains a beacon for tourists, a place where life is venerated and celebrated.

In fact, perhaps because of all the horrible things happening around the globe, maybe there has never been a better time, a more important time, for us as travellers to visit this city of wonders to be reminded that light can prevail even in the darkest of hours.

Somehow fittingly, defiantly, my hotel in Paris was just a minute’s walk from the Arc De Triomphe, that epic and iconic monument to sacrifice, bravery and the French way of life.

From the moment one arrives at the five-star Sofitel Arc De Triomphe the property neatly over-delivers on that French sense of style and sophistication expected of Paris. It’s location, in 14 Rue Beaujon (important to ask taxi drivers for the street), is almost directly off the Champs Elysées and its exterior, which dates back to the 1800s (designed by GeorgesEugène Haussmann for architecture buffs), grounds you immediately in the historic beauty that defines and dominates the wider city. It seems almost trivial to wax lyrical about the street in which it sits, but being tucked away in a snug little side street yet moments away from such a major tourist attraction gives the visitor the perfect ‘pied-àterre’ in Paris.

For all its historic beauty from outside, the Sofitel Arc De Triomphe is a picture of modern Parisian chic on the inside. The undoubted jewel in the hotel’s crown is its rooms. Wherever you travel in the world the common elements which make up the classic five-star hotel room are often not very different.

You’ve often got strong use of deep quality wood (to reinforce the feeling of luxury), some muted tones contrasted by equally deep furnishings, rich fabrics to again hammer home the ‘this is five-star’ message.

However this is Paris, and Sofitel go in a much more memorable and unique direction.

Here clean white lines dominate the rooms fixtures and fittings, crisp white linen, a huge white sofa, the white pendant lamp, all offset with a sort of subdued-neon blue.

Totally unexpected perhaps, but this modernity perfectly offsets the medieval architecture outside. It’s just oh so cool, and again is a reflection of that joy of life that the French possess, embracing the unexpected.

To complete the juxtaposition the hotel is staffed by a traditional liveried team possessing the calm air of competence and hospitality which fivestar properties aim to achieve worldwide.

Every time you step out you are reminded that hotel location can mean everything in Paris, and here within minutes you are on the Champs Elysées, to your right staring at the Arc, to your left the achingly-long promenade down into the city beckons, while ahead one can plough into the back streets to emerge 30 minutes later, crossing the Seine to reach the inspiring Eiffel Tower.

While I’m not a huge fan of organised city bus tours, one of the first things that will greet you when you emerge from your hotel’s side street is a number of official stops for such services.

Here in Paris this is actually not such as bad idea, so large and so grand is the city, a two-hour hop-on hop-off circular run through the main sights helps give you a sense of how to prioritise what you want to see and explore in however much time you have, and how ‘touristy’ you want to be.

If you do choose the bus tour you will inevitably end where you started by the Arc De Triomphe. In peak season trying to visit this landmark will be a crowded, queuing nightmare, however at this time of year you’ll find fewer people and a hike up its ancient winding stairs to the summit is rewarded by some fine views (cue the classic ‘I’m holding the Eiffel Tower in my hand’ picture).

A walk along the Champs Elysées whatever the weather or the season remains one of the simple joys of Paris, no matter however times you have visited. The tree-lined promenade, populated by boutiques and outrageously-priced restaurants, sweeps down from the Arc’s hill and provides a stroll of epic proportions if you have your walking shoes on.

Sticking pretty much to a straight line your feet can find the stunning Le Palais de L’Élysée, the Place de la Concorde with its statues and Egyptian obelisk, the picturesque 17th century Jardin des Tuileries which leads through to the obigatory Louvre Museum (if only from the outside to take a photo of the infamous glass pyramid). If you’ve the energy, keep going and to your left you can find the Le Centre Pompido, to your right the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris.

Rather continue to list attractions as this city possesses too many to name in one article, this writer will return to where he started, and that is on the importance of choosing to visit this astonishing city. There have always been reasons not to explore our world, sometimes it is too far, sometimes it is too expensive, but fear, or indeed the fear of fear, should not stop you from travelling. The spirit that imbues this city will reinvigorate you and choosing to visit Paris is choosing life, it’s as simple as that.

—scottarmstrong@timesofoman.com

Visit sofitel.com for more information about the Sofitel Arc De Triomphe

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUA RY 3, 2016

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

C6

PRAYER TIMINGS

FIND-IT-ALL @BAHJA

@MGM

Cast :Sidharth, Trisha Krishnan 6.45 PM

@SOHAR

CITY CINEMA Contact (10 am to 6PM) 24567664 | 68 www.citycinemaoman.net facebook.com/citycinemaoman SHATTI Alvin & the Chipmunks:The Road Chip (2D) (Animation ) (PG) Voice over: Jason Lee, Jesica Ahlberg.

2:30, 4:30, 6:30 PM American Hero (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Stephen Dorff, Eddie Griffin, Bill Billions 2:45, 8:15, 11:45 PM Ride Along 2 (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Ice Cube, Kevin Hart, Tika Sumpter 11:30 PM Standoff (2D) (Thriller) (12+) Cast: Thomas Jane, Laurence Fishburne.

5:00, 10:00, 11:30 PM Concussion (2D) (Biography) (12+) Cast: Will Smith, Alec Baldwin, Albert Brooks 6:30, 8:45 PM Sisters (2D) (Comedy) (18+) Cast: Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph 4:45 PM Ocean 14 (Arabic) (2D) (Drama) (15+) Cast: Amr Mostafa Metwally, Nermine Maher.

7:00 PM Airlift (2D) (Drama) (12+) Cast: Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur 9:00 PM MUSCAT GRAND MALL The Finest Hour - 3D (Action) PG12 Cast: Christopher Whitelaw, Caleb Casey 9:30 PM Gold Class -11:00 PM Concussion (Biography | Drama | Sport) 12+ Cast : Will Smith, Alec Baldwin, Albert Brooks 3:00& 9:15PM Gold Class -8:45PM Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip (Animation) PG Voice over : Jason Lee, Jesica Ahlberg.

12:00, 1:45, 3:30 & 7:15PM Gold Class - 5:15PM American Hero (Action | Sci-Fi) 15+ Cast : Stephen Dorff, Eddie Griffin, Bill Billions 1:00,9:30 &11:30PM

Standoff: (Thriller) cast:: Thomas Jane, Laurence Fishburne 4.00, 8.00, 10.00 & 11.55 PM CP No: 138 (12+)

Brooklyn (Drama) TBC Cast : Saoirse Úna Ronan, Emory Isaac Cohen 5:15PM

Gold Class - 3:30,7:00 & 8:45PM Brooklyn (Drama) TBC Cast : Saoirse Úna Ronan, Emory Isaac Cohen 5:15PM Ride Along 2 (Action | Comedy) 15+ Cast : Ice Cube, Kevin Hart, Tika Sumpter 7:30 &11:30PM The Good Dinosaur-3D (Animation) U 5:15PM

The Finest Hour - 3D (PG12) Action | Drama | History Cast: Chris Pine, Casey Affleck, Ben Foster 9:25 PM

Cast: Stephen Dorff, Eddie Griffin, Bill Billions 5:15, 11:45 PM 2 Countries (Malaylam) – 2D (PG12) Comedy Cast: Dilip, Mamta Mohandas, 7:00 PM Aranmanai 2 (Tamil) – 2D (15+) Horror Cast: Sidharth, Trisha Krishnan.

6:45, 9:15 PM

Exposed (Drama)(2D)(12+)-VIP LOUNGE 11:00 PM American Hero (Action, Comedy)(2D)(15+) Cast : Stephen Dorff, Eddie Griffin, Bill Billions 4:30, 7:00, 11:45 PM American Hero (2D)(15+)-VIP LOUNGE 3:30, 9:00PM Airlift (2D)(12+) Cast : Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur 2:45, 6:15, 8:45, 11:15 PM The Revenant (Adventure, Drama)(2D)(12+) Cast : Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy 8:45PM

PANORAMA MALL The Finest Hours 3D (Action, Drama)(PG12) Cast: Chris Pine, Casey Affleck, Ben Foster 9:15 PM Alvin & the Chipmunks – The Road Chip (MX4D)(PG) Voice over: Jason Lee, Jesica Ahlberg.

3:00, 5:00, 6:45, 8:45, 10:30PM Alvin & the Chipmunks – The Road Chip (2D)(PG) 2:30, 5:15PM Concussion (Biography, Drama)( (2D)(12+) Cast: Will Smith, Alec Baldwin, Albert Brooks 2:30, 7:00, 11:30 PM Concussion (12+)-VIP LOUNGE 6:30 PM Exposed (Drama)(2D)(12+) Cast: Ana de Armas, Keanu Reeves.

5:00, 9:15 PM

RUWI Screen 1 Airlift (Action / Thriller) –12+ Cast: Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur 3.30, 9.30 PM Saala Khadoos (Drama / Sports) –12+ Cast: R.Madhavan, Nasser, Radha Ravi 6.30 PM Screen 2 Saala Khadoos (Drama / Sports) –12+ Cast: R.Madhavan, Nasser, Radha Ravi 4.00, 9.45 PM Airlift (Action / Thriller) –12+ Cast: Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur 6.45 PM Screen 3 Wazir (Action / Thriller) – PG12 Cast: Amitabh Bacchan, Farhan Akhtar 3.45, 9.45 PM Aranmanai 2 (Tamil) (Horror | Comedy) – 15+

AZAIBA Saala Khadoos – 2D (12+) Drama/ Sport Cast: R Madhavan, Nasser, Radha Ravi 2:30, 4:45, 7:00, 9:20, 11:30 PM Airlift – 2D (PG12) Drama/ History/ Thriller Cast: Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur.

2:45, 4:40, 6:55, 9:10, 11:30 PM Standoff – 2D (12+) Thriller Cast: Thomas Jane, Laurence Fishburne.

3:15, 10:00, 11:45 PM Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip – 2D (PG) Animation Voice over: Jason Lee, Jesica Ahlberg.

2:45, 5:00 PM American Hero – 2D (15+) Action| Comedy

SUR American Hero ( Action) (15+) CP# Cast: Stephen Dorff, Eddie Griffin, Bill Billions.

9.55, 11.35PM Airlift - (Hindi)( Drama ) ( 12+ ) CP# Cast: Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur, 7.40PM Aranmanai 2 (Tamil) (Horror) (15+) CP # Cast: Sidharth, Trisha Krishnan 7.40PM Standoff (Action | Thriller) ( 12+) CP# Cast : Laurence Fishburne, Thomas Jane 10.05, 4.30, 6.10, 11.40PM Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip – 2D (Animation) ( PG) CP# Voice over : Jason Lee, Jesica Ahlberg.

4.30, 6.00PM SOHAR The Fifth Wave - 2D (PG12) Adventure Cast : Chloë Grace Moretz, Nick Robinson 4:30, 11:30 PM Airlift - 2D (12+) Drama | History | Thriller Cast : Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur 8:45, 11:15 PM 2 Countries- 2D (M) (PG) Comedy Cast : Dilip, Mamta Mohandas 6:45 PM American Hero - 2D (15+) Action | Sci-Fi Cast : Stephen Dorff, Eddie Griffin, Bill Billions 3:00, 7:00, 11:45 PM Standoff - 2D (12+) Thriller Cast : Thomas Jane, Laurence Fishburne 2:45, 5:15, 9:45, 11:30 PM Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip 2D (PG) Animation Voice over : Jason Lee, Jesica Ahlberg.

3:00, 5:00PM Sisters - 2D (18+) Comedy Cast : Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph 5:00 PM Saala Khadoos - 2D (12+) Drama/ Sport Cast : R Madhavan, Nasser, Radha Ravi 7:00 PM Concussion - 2D (12+) Biography | Drama Cast : Will Smith, Alec Baldwin, Albert Brooks 2:45 PM Ocean 14 - 2D (Arb) (15+) Drama Cast : Amr Mostafa Metwally, Nermine Maher 6:45 PM Aranmanai 2- 2D (T) (15+) Horror | Comedy Cast : Sidharth, Trisha Krishnan 8:45 PM

The Finest Hour - 3D (PG12) Action Cast: Chris Pine, Casey Affleck, Ben Foster 9:25 PM

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Arrival Operating time days

Dept time

Destination

Arrival Operating time days

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

TEMPERATURE

05:30 05:30 05:30

Maximum

Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

06:30 06:30 08:00 13:00 13:00 16.00 16.00

07:00 07:00 13:30 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00

Sohar Buraimi Buraimi Sohar Buraimi Sohar Buraimi

08:50 Daily 11:00 Daily 14:30 Daily via Ibri 15:45 Daily 17:40 Daily 18.35 Daily 20:20 Daily

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 17:30

Sinaw

SALALAH The Finest Hours (3D) (PG12) (Action ) Cast: Chris Pine, Casey Affleck, Ben Foster 9:15/11:45PM Standoff (2D) (12+) (Thriller) 2:00, 7:00, 11:55PM American Hero (2D) (15+) (Action | Sci-Fi) 11:15AM, 3:45, 7:30PM Ride Along 2 (2D) (15+) (Action | Comedy) 5:30PM Exposed (2D) (12+) (Drama) 12:45, 4:50PM Sisters (2D) (18+) (Comedy) 11:45AM, 2:40PM Concussion (2D) (12+) (Biography) 2:45, 9:15PM Airlift (2D) (12+) (Drama, History, Thriller) 8:45, 11:15PM 2 Countries (2D) (PG12) (Malayalam) 8:40PM Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip (2D) (PG) ( Animation | Adventure | Comedy) 11:00AM,1:00,5:15PM Ocean 14 (2D) (TBC) (Arabic )(Drama) 6:45PM

Nizwa Yanqul

20:50

Daily

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

25 17 0

AAYUSH SANDESH February 3, 2009

RELATIVE HUMIDITY

30-75%

07:00

Ruwi

10:25

Daily

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 17 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parents’/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to lifestyle@timesofoman.com

06:00 06:00

Nizwa Ruwi

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54)

10:20 12:30

Daily Daily

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) Sur Sur

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (ROUTE 62) 06:30 06:30

Fahud Yibal

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

20:00 20:30 23:30 07:40

Daily Daily

Marmul

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

Daily Daily

12:30 12:30

Fahud Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

LISTINGS

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

15:00

Salalah

Daily

07:00

Daily

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 07:30 07:30 13:00 13:00 15:30 15:30

Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH/SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

07:00 07:00 07:00

16:00 16.00 16.00

Fujairah Sharjah Dubai

11.45 13.30 14.00

Daily Daily Daily

Sharjah Fujairah Ruwi

16:30 18.15 23.00

Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence 24569603 Directorate General of Customs 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries 24510228 Public Relations Admin 24560099 EMBASSIES IN OMAN

Daily Daily Daily Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (ROUTE 102)

07:00

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 06:00 06:00 13:00 13:00 15:00 15:00

10:45 19:00

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101)

SALALAH TO DUBAI (ROUTE 102) 15:00

Ruwi Ruwi

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100) Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

06:00 14:30

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

10:30 11:15

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (ROUTE 100) 07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

2 Countries( Mal) ( Drama/Comedy) Cast : Dileep & Mamta Mohandas 3:00, 6:30 & 10:00 PM Cinema Main Irudhi Suttru ( Tamil) (Sports/Drama) Cast: R.Madhavan, Ritika Singh & Nassar 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30PM Cinema - 2 Aranmanai 2 (Tamil) (Horror/Comedy) Cast: Sidarth, Trisha & Hansika Motwani 3:45, 6:45 & 9:45PM Cinema -3 Airlift ( Hindi) ( Act/Thriller) Cast : Akshay Kumar & Nimrat Kaur 6:45 & 9:45PM Cinema- 4 Soggade Chinninayana ( Telugu) ( Drama/ Comedy) Cast : Nagarjuna & Ramya Krishna 3:45PM Cinema -4 NEXT CHANGE: ADI KAPYARE ( Mal) GHAYAL ONCE AGAIN ( HINDI), BANGALORE NAATKAL (TAMIL) Programmes are subject to change

Minimum

ROYAL OMAN POLICE 07:30 14:30

Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

0

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54) 08:00 08:00

08:55 Daily 11:40 Daily 20:20 Daily via Ibri 14:55 Daily 17:40 Daily 19:20 Daily 22:15 Daily

STAR CINEMA

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52)

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54) 14:30 14:30

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

Daily Daily Daily

Standoff: (Thriller) cast:: Thomas Jane, Laurence Fishburne 4.00, 8.00, 10.00 & 11.55 PM CP No: 138 (12+) Exposed: (Drama) Cast: Ana de Armas, Keanu Reeves 4.00., 10.00. & 11.55 PM CP NO: 139 (12+) Sisters: (Comedy) Cast : Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph 2.00. & 6.00 PM. CP NO: 137 (18+) Ocean 14: (Arabic / Comedy) Cast : Omar Mustafa Metwally, Nirmen Maher 2.00. & 6.00 PM CP NO: 140 (15+) Ride Along 2: (Action / Comedy) Cast: Ice Cube, Kevin Hart, Tika Sumpter 8.00 PM CP NO: 112 (15+)

WEATHER

15:00 15:00 15:00

16:30 18:00 19:30

Film information 24540856 / Advance Booking 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

WITH LOVE

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (ROUTE 36) Quriyat Sur Jaalan

BAHJA CINEMA

BURAIMI Standoff – 2D (Thriller) (12+) 5:00, 7:00, 11:30PM Exposed– 2D (Drama) (12+) 3:45, 7:30PM Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip – 2D (Animation) (PG) 3:15, 5:45, 8:45PM American Hero – 2D (Action/Sci-Fi) (15+) 3:15, 7:15, 9:30PM The Finest Hours– 3D (Action) (PG12) 11:30PM Airlift – 2D (Drama, History, Thriller) (12+) Cast: Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur 5:00, 9:00, 11:15PM Aranmanai 2– 2D (Horror/Comedy) (15+) Cast: Sidharth, Trisha Krishnan.

8:45PM

LONG DISTANCE BUS TIMINGS (OMAN NATIONAL TRANSPORT COMPANY SAOC) *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI) Destination

12.26pm 3.36pm 5.59pm 7.12pm 5.30am

CHILDREN BELOW THE AGE OF 3 YEARS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE CINEMA | BOX-OFFICE COUNTER OPENS 30-MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCREENING OF THE FIRST SHOW

CINEMA SCHEDULE

Dept time

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

Daily Daily Daily

Afghanistan Algeria Bahrain Bangladesh Brazil Brunei China Cyprus Egypt France Germany India Indonesia Iran Iraq Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya South Korea Kuwait

24698 791/4 24605 593 24 605 074/133 24 698 660 24640100 24 603533 24 696782 24 699815 24 600 982/411 24681 800 24835000 24684500 2469 1050 24 696 944/7 24603642 24693727 24 601 028 24692760/1/3 24 692418 24 697664 24 691490 24 699628

Lebanon Libya Malaysia Morocco Nepal Netherlands Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Senegal Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Switzerland Syria Tanzania Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE United Kingdom United States Yemen

24 693208 24603466 24698329/643 24696152/3 24696177 24603706 24603439 24601312 24605335 24 691 153/2/4 24602894 24601705 24694139 24697977 24647300 24691101 24697841/2 24697875 24603267 24697904 24601 174 24 602684/5 24603486 24697050/1/2 24400000 24609000 24643400 24600815

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi 24783334

Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi Salalah Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya Muscat, A Seeb Market Muscat, Al Khuwair Muscat, Al Hail South Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah

24782666 24702542 23291635; 24503585 24787766 24421691 24485740 24537080

23291635

HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre 24485052 Atlas Hospital Ruwi 24811743/ Ghubra 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi 24563641 Azaiba 24499269 Sohar 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre,

Hamriya 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb 24420740 Ceregem National Raak 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic 24563217 Elixir Health Centre 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre 24472274 Lifeline Hospital Salalah 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital 24760100 24 Hrs Emergency 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar 26751128 MBD 24799077 Al Khuwair 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC 22004000 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours) 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot 24704455 Air Arabia 24700828 Air France 24562153 Air India 24799801

Air New Zealand 24700732 Biman Bangladesh Airlines 24701128 British Airways 24568777 Cathay Pacific 24789818 Egypt Air 24794113 Emirates Air 24404400 Ethiopian Airlines 24660313 Gulf Air 80072424 Indian 24791914 Iran Air 24787423 Japan Airlines 24704455 Jazeera Airways 23294848 Jet Airways 24787248 Kenya Airways 24660300 KML Royal Dutch Airlines 24566737 Kuwait Airways 24701262 LOT Polish Airlines 24796387 Lufthansa 24796692 Malaysian Airlines 24560796 Middle East Airlines 24796680 Oman Air 24531111 Pakistan International Airlines 24792471 Qatar Airways 24771900 Qantas 24559941 Royal Jordanian 24796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines 24789485 Singapore Airlines 24791233 Shaheen Air 24816565 SriLankan Airlines 24784545 Swiss International Airlines 24796692 Thai Airways 24705934

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

LIFESTYLE

Wonders of Wadi Musawi

Location: 22°27’52.5”N 59°23’21.1”E

Have you been able to capture the beauty of an off-the-beaten-path destination in Oman? Send your pictures with a caption & geo-locator to: shafeeqe@timesofoman.com

IN THE NEWS

Emirates goes non-stop Dubai-Auckland Emirates has announced that it will start its first non-stop service from Dubai to Auckland on 1 March 2016, bringing many of its 38 European destinations and cities within just one-stop range of New Zealand through direct connections in Dubai. The new service will be in addition to the award-winning airline’s existing flights, meaning that Emirates will then have five services daily into New Zealand — three A380 double-decker services to Auckland via Australia, a daily Christchurch service with a Boeing 777-300ER, and the new non-stop service operated with a Boeing 777-200LR.

The new service will bring New Zealand much closer than at present, with an estimated flight time of just under 16 hours from Dubai to New Zealand and 17 hours, 15 minutes in the other direction, cutting journey times by almost three hours each way.

“Having just one stop on the long haul to New Zealand will make the journey quicker and more comfortable. This will be a boon

to many business people, tourists, expatriate New Zealanders and other travellers in Europe, parts of Africa and the Middle East,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group.

“Tourists, in particular, will now have more options – travelling to Auckland with a stopover in Australia on one of our three daily A380s, flying non-stop direct into Auckland, or flying to the South Island on our daily Christchurch service. New Zealand currently hosts about three million tourists a year and we want to do our part to cater for that flow.

Air Astana pact with Air France and KLM Air Astana and two of Europe’s leading airlines, Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, have deepened their cooperation by signing a codeshare agreement for flights between Astana and Paris operated by Air Astana.

Effective for flights from March 11, 2016, this three times a week service will now carry the marketing code of both KLM Royal

Dutch Airlines and Air France.

This agreement enables passengers from across KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Air France worldwide networks to be able to purchase tickets and travel seamlessly to and from the Kazakh capital. To facilitate this closer cooperation and expected growth in transfer traffic, the airlines have also executed

baggage and passenger transfer agreements; and the operations of Air Astana flights at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport have been transferred from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2A, effective March 11, 2016 for more convenient connections of passengers to the Air France — KLM network.

-lifestyle@timesofoman.com

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

LIFESTYLE

M

any travellers argue that if a place is easily reached by a nonstop flight, it’s not worth stopping there. The real pleasures lie after the

journey continues — another puddle jumper, a long drive, or a hike. The best remote luxury lodges pull off remarkable feats of style, service, and pleasure in the middle of nowhere, here are a few that should be on every adventure traveller‘s bucket list.

Desroches Island Resort, Seychelles Some 930 miles to the east of mainland Africa are the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles, where it’s always island time. Desroches is one of the newer resorts and it’s all luxury: satellite TV, spa, bar, and lavish rooms.

Guests can play tennis, go cycling or surfing, or try their hands at some of the best bonefishing in the world.

The Garvault Hotel, Scotland The hotel, located between two huge private hunting reserves in the Scottish Highlands, overlooks Lock Rimsdale . Guests can trek, fish for salmon or trout or go bird-watching, then get warmed up around a traditional peat fire.

The Beach House at Manafaru, Maldives This Indian Ocean joint is owned by the Waldorf Astoria, so it has some pretty high-end amenities, like a spa, infinity pools, an art gallery and a handful of restaurants. But those desolate, powdery-white beaches are the real pull.

WHERE TO GET LOST Jules Undersea Lodge, Florida Guests take the plunge–literally. Scuba dive 21 feet to your room in the former underwater laboratory, and sip your favourite beverage and look out the window onto the undersea world.

Bloomfield Lodge, Cairns Australia To get to Bloomfield Lodge — located in the Daintree Rainforest and near the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland — one must charter a plane, drive a few hours through the Outback, and then cruise down a river. What makes it all worth it: the solitude, the hikes through rainforests, the desolate beaches, the fishing, sailing, and the end of the day massages.

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W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M W E D N E S DAY, F E B R UA RY 3, 2 0 1 6

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CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

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VACANCY

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CARGO

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*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

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W E D N E S D AY, F E B R UA RY 3 , 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE FOR RENT

*Tourist visa arranged

Luxury flat for rent in Bareeq Al Shatti building Spacious 2 BHK with sea view, split A/Cs, fixed wardrobes, kitchen appliance.

Near Opera Gallery.

Rent RO.900/- negotiable.

Contact - 94084335 / 96920789

FOR RENT

Flat for rent in CBD area - Ruwi Two rooms and a large hall

RUWI : Ware House - 630 M2 SPACIOUS -2 B H K FLATS

•Office spaces for rent in Al Hail on the main road On the same building of Al Khamis Shoes at Al Hail

NEAR AL FALAJ HOTEL: FURNISHED DELUXE 1 B/RM WITH 2 bathrooms, SPLIT A/C, BUILT IN ARDROBRE, PRIVARE TERRACE.

•2 bed room flats in Qurum 29 for rent next to ABA New building -split AC - Good location

Contact No: 96177505

Brand New 4-Bedroom Ground Floor House for Rent in Al-Ansab (Bousher) . Easy access to main road. House is constructed with high quality finishing and elegant doors design. 4 Bedrooms with in-situ bathrooms. Marble floor.

Specious kitchen. For rent @ 600 OMR/Month (Negotiable).

Please contact Mr. Ali 92755663.

We have staff accommodation in Bowshar 30 to 40 people can stay easily commercial building.

Contact: 93782735/ 99208033 We have 150 sqm offices in Ghubra prime location already partition done rent 650/- O.R. Contact: 93782735/ 99208033 2 Bedroom centrally air conditioned flat in CBD prime location.

Contact: 24714625 / 93527328

Contact : 24 70 30 60

RESTAURANT AVAILABLE FOR RENT

FLATS FOR RENT

Of area 500 Sq mts with well equipped kitchen and dining facility on Ground Floor at DARVESH Building, Near Royal Hospital.

1 BHK and 2BHK Flats with Split ACs Opp. to MOD Near Lulu Darsait

Contact Person Mr.Mudassir :99314330 Mr.Joao Pereira: 99435952

CONTACT :

93202733

We have 2BHK flat in Ghubra near Indian School 325/- R.O Contact: 93782735 / 99208033 We have shops for rent in Ghala.

Contact: 93782735 / 99208033

We have 2 BHK flats, office available in Ghala, Azaiba new building.

Contact: 93782735 / 99208033 Flats for rent at Mawaleh near Omantel main office opposite Lulu bandar comprises 3 rooms, 2 toilets and one kitchen OMR 250/- Per month.

Contact: 93131497 or 99203435

We have 1 BHK, 2BHK flats for rent in Mabela 7, 1BHK 175 RO, 2 BHK 200/- RO, new building.

Contact: 93782735 / 99208033

3 & 2 Bedroom Townhouse with Swimming pool, free Wi-Fi for Rent near British Council in Madinat Sultan Qaboos. #92197959 / 92502497.

Two bedroom flat in Al Ghubra near Oman Oil of 18 November street. OMR 330 Monthly.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955.

One bedroom flat with big balcony in al Ghubra near Oman Oil of 18 November street. OMR 280 Monthly. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955

Villa is composed of 5 bedrooms and sitting toilets and 5 living room, kitchen and Seeb (North Al Hail). Contact: 91130875 Flat with 3 bed rooms, sitting room, dining room, store, kitchen, 3 toilets Al Ghubra, opposite Chedi Hotel. Contact: 99321264

W E D N E S DAY, F E B R UA RY 3, 2 0 1 6

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DAILY GUIDE

USED VEHICLES FOR SALE 1. Toyota Land Cruiser. Model 2008 in good running condition.

Vehicle regularly serviced by authorized service dealer.

2. Hino 7T Tipper. Model 2010 regularly serviced and in running condition 3. Toyota Yaris. Model 2006 regularly serviced and in running condition Place of inspection: Barka.

Last date of submitting the quotation: 4th February 2016 Interested buyers may please contact on Phone: 26883543, Mobile : 99440306

CONTRACT BUSES REQUIRED FOR TRANSPORTATION OF WORKMEN

QSR OUTLET FOR SALE Capital Area in a well known Mall.

Interested buyers may contact

One of the leading construction companies in Oman requires 65/30 seater buses on contract basis for transportation of their workmen from camps to various sites located in Muscat region. Those interested may please contact within one week from the date of this advertisement.

Contact Number : 97970935, 94306683

on 99077960 or 94306216

High quality Warehouses for rent at Mizfa 550 sqm to 3400 sqm.

FOR RENT PDO APPROVED PORTABLE OFFICE FACILITIES ON SALE PORTA CABIN OFFICE

– 1200 SQ.M – 32 SECTIONS

PORTA CABIN OFFICE

– 900 SQ.M – 24 SECTIONS

PORTA CABIN OFFICE

– 700 SQ.M – 16 SECTIONS

PORTA CABIN OPEN HALL – 500 SQ.M – 14 SECTIONS

Contact Person - S. Sundaram- 00968 93221934 - Viral Desai - 00968 93221397 FOR RENT

STORE FOR RENT 500 sqm store with 200 sqft office & 200 sqm covered shed for rent at Mabella Ind No-11 on main road, direct from owner.

CONTACT - 99278002 Perfect 5 BHK villas in Azaiba RO 800/-. Contact: 94232344 2BHK flat at Darsait nearby Indian School RO 290/-. Contact: 94232344 4 BHK villa in AL Khuwair RO 525.

Contact: 94232344 One / two B/R , RES / Comm flat near Bank Muscat Bausher directly from owner.

Contact: 92158031 Office for rent located in Prime location of Azaiba Main Highway.

Contact: 92197959 / 92502497.

1BHK Mumtaz R.O 250/-.

Contact: 92144045 2 BHK Ghubra R.O 300/-.

Contact: 92144045 1,2 BHK Darsait. Contact: 92144045 1BHK Wadi Kabir R.O 200/-.

Contact: 92144045 Flat in Hamriya. Contact 99341112 1000sqmtrs industrial land for rent in Ghala suitable for warehouse workshop etc.

Contact 24700120 / 92584715

FOR RENT 3 BHK @ Ghobrah -18th November St 2 BHK @Bousher - Bousher Shabia Studio Flat - Alkuwair 33 Shop for Rent 156 SQM Bousher Shabia

GSM: 99 014 885 / 92 871 744 3 Bedroom flat in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact 95755953 / 95555162 Family flats in Wadi AL Kabir, Hamriya, Muttrah, Al Khuwair, Ghubrah, Bowshar, Al Hail North & Al Seeb.

Contact: 95250300 / 92125648

New Deluxe 1, 2 BHK Flats in Darsait near Indian School & Ruwi.

Contact: 99369081 2 BHK in MSQ opposite Al Fair with split AC. Contact: 96708000 2 BHK in Bareeq Al Shatti with split AC. Contact: 96708000 2 bed rooms flat with hall, 2 bathrooms in Darsait near Muscat Municipality.

Contact: 92584715 / 24700120 Available in Haima two shops with 500 SQMTR work shop at the back facing main road next to Zawawi Service Centre. Contact : 99087329 / 96228586

2 Bedrooms Flat for rent located in Prime location of Al Khuwair.

Contact: 92197959 / 24527852.

1& 2 BHK flats for rent at Hamriya Wadi Adai, Al Khoud, Mabela & shop at Al Khoud & land line Contact: 24834644 GSM 93994401/02/03 3 lines

Four bedrooms villa in Al Athaiba 300 m away from Shell Petrol Station in an excellent condition.

Contact: 97755586

Villa 2 room, 1 sitting room, 1 lobby, 2 bathrooms at South Mawalleh behind Discount Supermarket.

Contact: 92757673 / 99388138

Brand new deluxe flats located near Seeb flyover on the right hand side the main road coming from the Seeb palace round about, 2 bedrooms family, hall, kitchen, 3 toilets & split unit. Contact: 97755586

Flat in Wadi Al Kabir 2 bedrooms, 1 living room, 1 family hall, kitchen & 3 bathrooms. Contact: 99277787 Flat for rent in Al Ansab 1, 2 rooms, living room, kitchen & A/C. Contact: 91256340

1,2,3 BHK. Contact : 92144045 Shop / office nr Oman house & Khimji H.O Muttrah.

Contact: 99233116 Flat for rent in Wadi Al Kabir next 5 Al Hassan company, 2 bed room & 3 toilets. Contact: 99210008 02 BHK Commercial / Residential (with split AC) flat at Honda road.

Contact: 99342733 / 99795241

Flats shops & store for rent in Ruwi MBD Honda road.

Contact: 92433127 / 97293708

Villa in Al Khoud for staff accommodation, like nurses or teachers can accommodate 30 to 35 people.

Rent RO.1200/-.

Contact - 91178282

FOR RENT 1&2 BHK flat in Walja.

Contact: 98218279 Commercial flats of 3 & 2 BHK in Al Ghobra North 18 Nov street RO.650/- & 450/- #91776665 600 M2 showroom or office in Bousher in front of Dolphin complex. RO.3.5 per m2.

Contact – 91776665 Brand new 4 BHK villa in Al Fai compound Al Khoud. RO.475/Contact – 91776665

2BHK flat for rent Darsait near ISM. Contact: 95158570 / 99102255

Luxury villa of 5 BHK in Al Khuwair 33 RO.650/Contact – 91776665

Single room attach bath with kitchen in Muscat 100/- R.O. Contact: 95094028

Villa of 3 BHK and sitting area in Al Ghobra North. RO.525/Contact – 91776665

Villa for rent in Al Khuwair.

Contact: 96571151

Luxury and brand new semi furnished 2 BHK flat in Remalbowsher. RO.550/- Contact – 91776665

02 BHK Residential flat opposite to Al Nahdha hospital.

Contact: 99342733 / 99795241 Flats for rent in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 99376454 1BHK flat near Star Cinema 220/Contact 99358589 /95570288 Flats shops & store for rent in Ruwi, MBD area & Honda road.

Contact: 92589235/ 94579531 Flats two bed room for rent in Al Khuwair. Contact: 96571151 New flats for rent at Darsait near to ministry of sports, Mumtaz area the flats include 1 living room, 2 Bedroom, kitchen, 3 toilets every room with split A/C & high Quality finishing, rent per flat is R.O 340/-.

Interested candidates please Contact: 00968- 92225523 3BHK flat for rent in Ghubra.

Contac: 99328070

3 BHK flat near Darsait ID medical.

RO 420/- Contact – 99358589 / 97079146 / 95570288

New flat in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 98185135

1000 sqm industrial land with compound wall & two rooms at Misfah. Contact: 99342733 / 99795241

2 bedrooms, kitchen, toilet, car park R.O 220/- & 1 bedroom, kitchen, toilet R.O 140 in Al Khuwair. Contact: 95154331

Contact

96046951 / 99332291

Spacious 1 BHK flat in Al Wattaya with all split A/C’s and parking.

RO.300/-Contact – 91776665 Flats in Darsait.

Contact - 94051789-97201688 Flats in WadiKabir.

Contact - 94051789-97201688 Fully Furnished apartments in Boucher (35) Contact - 94051789-97201688 Offices in Qurum opposite City Center. Contact - 9405178997201688 Brand new villas in Al Ansab.

Contact - 94051789-97201688 Offices & Showrooms in Muttrah.

Contact - 9405178997201688 Mini Furnished Apartment in Qurum. Contact - 9405178997201688 Duplex villa in Qurum 29.

Contact - 94051789-97201688 Offices & Showrooms in Al Khoud. Contact - 9405178997201688

FOR SALE Expat leaving household items for sale, 3 ACS, fridge, gas cylinder, 5 computer tables & sofa bed and other. Contact: 94412557 Used supermarket shelvings .

Contact: 97752395 / 97752395 3BHK flat for rent / sale at Dar Al Maha (Greater Muttrah).

Contact: 99321792 Running family restaurant for sale / rent in Wadi Kabir with party hall, total capacity around 200 people around 300 sq mtrs. # 95061994 Excavation contracts worth RO 2 million + Big Volvo Excavators & 2015 Astra 5 tippers for sale.

Contact: 99120532 / 98867530 Restaurant & Coffee Shop for sale in Ghala area. For details contact 99072003 Well running Ayurvedic clinic for sale, Ruwi. Contact: 97312231 Well running restaurant with 100 mess for sale at Misfa.

Contact: 95212017 / 99608600 Porta cabin for sale in Misfa.

Contact: 99442438 / 96578799 Marble factory for sale location Misfah. Contact: 98586828 Restaurant items for sale.

Contact: 96772479 /98428507 Supermarket for sale in Amerat (5) for part-time workers does not have required 35/000 retractable negotiate. # 96656972 / 99719973

ACC. AVAILABLE Furnished room available for Executive bachelor in Ruwi area.

Contact: 99054542 Furnished room for an Indian in Al-Khuwair33 - 95234062

CONTD ON PG 5

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W E D N E S D AY, F E B R UA RY 3, 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

Senior Management Executive An Omani Road Construction Contracting Company Seeks GM/ Senior Contract Manager.

Mail : info@anwaarfahud.com GSM 94293031

REQUIRED PROJECT MANAGER For an Infra/ Bldg project in Duqm/Oman Graduate Engineer with 20+ years experience preferably in Oman/ GCC with valid D/L and transferable visa, computer literate.

Send CV to Email :

omanproject2011@gmail.com

ADMIN Required urgently a Legal Consultant/ Lawyer for reputed law firm in Sohar, Muscat. Candidates should have 5-7 years experience as a Legal Consultant/ Lawyer with good knowledge of Computer & should be fluent in English both written & spoken.

Email C V to shejaanil66@gmail. com or Contact 99153620 between 8am to 1pm & 2pm to 5.30 pm on Sunday to Thursday

Wanted female GP, female Gynecologist, female Staff Nurse, female X- Ray Technician With MOH license for Al Saadi Specialized Medical Centre in Musanna.

Contact -91262604 Email: chillapalli76@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED Well reputed Marble Company looking for

3 SALESMEN Requires minimum 3 years experience and valid Omani driving license.

Interested candidates please Fax your CV to 24601724 or Email on saab2803@gmail.com

Leading Medical Services Company in Oman is looking for the following staff:1. General Practitioners (Male & Female) 2. Nurses (Male & Female) 3. X Ray Technician

4. Lab Technician 5. Insurance Coordinators 6. Omani Receptionist

Preference given to candidates in Oman with MOH/Oman prometric for medical openings. Interested candidates kindly forward your resume to

athira@babylon-om.com, athirababylon@gmail.com, info@babylon-om.com.

Contact :24613069 for further details.

URGENTLY REQUIRED A well reputed British Company in Oman, looking for an experienced

“CIVIL PROJECT MANAGER” preferably for an Indian nationals having minimum 10 years’ experience as a Civil Project Manager for commercial & residential buildings with B-tech/BE. Attractive salary for the right candidate, Arab speaking will be a preference but not necessary.

Only serious applicants, who hold above criteria in related field, may apply:

recruitmentmep1@gmail.com MEDICAL

SALES / MARKETING

Wanted General Practitioner and Lab Technician (Prometric qualified or willing to appear for Prometric Exam, Preferably female) are required for a polyclinic at Sohar Area. Interested are requested to apply at: medicoopportunities@gmail.com

Experienced Sales Executive required for Restaurant Marketing.

Send CV : Deepak@jashnoman. com, call 96500750

BEAUTY Beauty expert required to work in Salon in Al Amerat.

Contact : 93336061

CATERING Chinese / Arab/ Grill, Cooks.

Contact: 95529970

DOMESTIC HELP Urgently required House Boy for an Indian Business Family.

Call for Interview-99471085 Housemaid required for Keralite family. Contact 95405033 Indian family urgently needs a full time Housemaid who knows cooking. Should be skilled in preparation of Non-Veg dishes.

Preferably from Hyderabad, India.

Company visa, good salary + bonus, air –ticket for leave travel provided by company. Contact 99349924 Small family looking for part time House maid. Contact: 96725168

Urgently required for a Medical Centre in Muscat & Salalah GP Doctor, Pediatrician (male / female) Gynecology, Nurses (male / female) with or without MOH license, salary negotiable. Send your CV : moc.hrd2015@gmail.com or contact 92681842 Wanted female Ayurvedic therapist with or without MOH. Contact: 97263637 / 93309131

MANAGER Required Manager who has experience in printing press call 92673716 or send ur CV to ishaq_alsalmi@yahoo.com

Employee marketing company engaged in the design, promotion and advertising is required.

Contact: 96656972 / 99719973 Urgently Required: Aluminum Doors & Windows Salesman with an experience in aluminum products, MUST have Oman driving license, and immediately join.

Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com .

Urgently Required Steel Fabricated Products Salesman with an experience in steel fabrication, MUST have Oman driving license, and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com Salesman for a printing press Whatsapp Only. Contact: 95955729

SITUATION WANTED

DRIVER MISCELLANEOUS Required a Filipino private/ Family Driver With Omani driving license, Age 27-40.

Contact 94446669 Wanted Driver. Contact 91025698

ENGINEER/TECH/MECH Urgent Staff Requirement for a Construction Company in Muscat (QA/QC Engineer & Diesel Mechanic) Cont. 93207116 Wanted: HEAD OF QA/QC & SALES ENGINEERS : Candidates with Minimum 5-7 Years Experience in one of the leading manufacturing company in Sohar Industrial Area, suitable candidates send their CV to the below email : soharcreative@gmail.com Wanted A/C Technician with local experience. Contact : 95779616 Require LAB TECHNICIAN ,The desired candidate must be a graduate/diploma in Civil Engineering with minimum experience of 3 to 5 years as Lab Technician having Experience of testing construction materials on Building/ Road projects. Send your CV to: rakesh@uniqueom.com.

MEDICAL Required X RAY Technician, Lab Technician, General Practitioner, Gynecology, Staff Nurses.

Contact: 95133572 Email: kunoozghala@gmail.com Wanted urgently lady Doctor GP or DGO for immediate appointment. Contact : 99310590 Email: tjmaluke@gmail.com

Indian Female Accountant, now in Oman on Visit Visa, looking for suitable placement. #94250871.

Indian female 22 years 1 year experience in Secretary & Accounting, Tally, looking for suitable job on visit visa. Contact: 97084473 Email: jumihasin10@gamil.com Relationship Manager, Indian male 28 yrs, BBA, MBA 5 year’s exp, currently working in India computer skilled. Contact: 0091 974710108 / 95071632 Part- Time Accountant, well experienced senior accountant ,doing all type of accounting works, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact : 98803439 Indian male Executive Secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seeks suitable placement. Contact : 99514286, Email : azimmohd@yahoo.co.in Sri Lankan Male, 23 years old with 3 years of Sales experience and basic accounting knowledge (AAT and Tally) Seeking for a suitable position. Contact-94864296 Indian male B.Eng. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT/ networking/ server, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/ Network/Server support.

Contact 92607532 Indian, male, 28, BBM degree holder. having 2 years experience.

1 year in banking industry & 1 year in hotel industry. good accounts knowledge also. seeking a suitable job. # 94678590, email: awesh.khokar@gmail.com

Indian female, 35 years, Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) with no experience and BSc & MA seeking suitable positions in pharmacy, pharmacy stores, hospital, polyclinic & pharmaceutical companies. Contact 90236481 Indian male, 26 years, With 7 years of experience in Sales Field in shipping company in “Dubai” , looking for suitable placement.

Experienced working in safety Marine equipment and well versed with MS Office.

Contact: 90182494 Sudanese male 31 years, 3 years Diploma in electrical engineer , 6 years and 1year in Oman experience in building construction and electrical plants, have oman drive license. Contact No : 94549609 Well-qualified Indian Female with 8 years of experience in Procurement Supply Chain from reputed Companies in Oman seeks placement. Contact 91374217 Indian Male, 26 years, With 7 years of experience in Sales Field in shipping company in “Dubai” , looking for suitable placement. Experienced working in safety Marine equipment and well versed with MS Office.

Contact: 90182494, Manojmallya999@gmail.com Indian female accountant, now in Oman on visit visa, looking for suitable placement, Contact 94250871.

Indian female 10 years exp as cook in Oman . South Indian & Gujarati special looking for part-time job. Contact 96710189

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian male MBA finance / marketing 34 yrs, 7 years experience in India Accounts / Administration / office jobs currently in Muscat on family visa. Contact: 98104991 Email: sureshkr01@gmail.com Indian male 32 yrs having 8 years experience in Oman looking for suitable placement NOC & Oman D/L available (release available if required). Contact: 98093515 Part Time Accounting, Accounts Finalization as per IFRS, Audit Preparation, Cost Control and Management, Training for Accountants, Internal Audit, Accounting System for New Companies, Contact: 96975454, email:ibfc.gcc@gmail.com Indian male having good experience in accounts and in accounting and in accounting software’s ready to join immediately #+91 9444965126 15 years experienced in finance & treasury management CPA, CMA, ACCA, MBA, qualified Chartered Accountant available for immediate joining as head of finance, financial advisor, financed consultant.

Contact: 94872345 Email: mfta27@gmail.com

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

ADMIN

Indian male - M Com and More than 5 year experience in Finance and Accounting seeking suitable placement immediately. Now in Oman on visit visa. Contact:97724457 / 99886476 nidhink85@gmail.com

Indian male, 28, Post Graduate, 6 years exp. in Oman in Sales and Credit Control , with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable placements.

NOC available. Ph: 9206 6523

Indian female, M.Tech electronics 6.5 IELTS experience as VLSI / Electronics project trainer & institute administration currently in family visa. Contact: 90195131 /24551290 Email: chinj.89@gmail.com

A young CA (ACA & ACCA qualified) with 4 years experience in one of top audit firms in UK & KSA seeks suitable placement in Oman. Contact: Kamran hkamran112@gmail.com, +44 7480 1196 74/ +968 93595050 Indian accountant professional with 3 years experience currently on visit visa looking for suitable job openings. Contact: 92390604 Email: sachinkokkatt@gmail.com M.Com & MBA finance Indian 10 years of experience in finance & accounts up to finalization currently available in Oman.

Contact: 90501642, Email: bobykkj@gmail.com Indian male, B.Com with 6 years experience as an Accountant, looking for suitable placement.

Mob: 93903458 , Email : Akkandyrijesh@gmail.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact : 94879615,Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com Presently working as Senior Accountant having 16 years experience in Oman with Oman D/L looking for new placement, NOC available. Contact : 95060390 Indian having B.Com with Computer application P.G diploma in logistics and shipping management knowledge in Tally, ERP9 having 3 years experience looking for accounts or logistics job, experience in FMCG company.

Contact: 98473905 Indian male ,34yrs B.com MBA (Awaiting result), with 8 yrs experience in accounts with license looking for suitable position. Immediate joining and NOC available. Contact -97463145 or joseph12a3@gmail.com Indian male, B.Com with 6 years experience as an Accountant, looking for suitable placement.

Mob: 93903458 ,Email : Akkandyrijesh@gmail.com Indian male 30 yrs, B. Com, 6 yrs accounts exp in East Africa & 1 yr exp in Oman, NOC available looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 94613626 Email: sharis.saheer@gmail.com Indian female Accountant B.Com P.G.D.C.A Tally 8 years exp in Oman. Contact: 93726921 B. Com Diploma Computer 3 years experience as an Accountant Indian male (25) seeking placement Accountant / Admin / sales on visit visa.

Contact: 98437731 Email: faisalcpsy@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, with 13yrs experience, 6 yrs Oman in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, capable of handling all accounting, finance, banking, L/C, import, export & finalization seeks placement. NOC Available.

Call+968-98932752, mail:jjohnmuscat@hotmail.com

SITUATION WANTED

Indian male good experienced in Accounts, ERP Tally 9 & Admin in India & Oman, presently on visit visa, looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94834687 Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa.

Immediately available.

Contact – 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com 28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement. #90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com Chief Accountant Indian male 44 years B.Com Graduate PGDVA total 13 years in GCC, 7 years in Oman & knowledge in Tally, ERP9, Peachtree MS Office having NOC seeks placement Contact: 97060826 Email: tomnedum71@yahoo.co.in Accountant MBA (finance) masters (accounting) 2 yrs Exp looking for suitable placement, having NOC & valid D/L . Contact: 92491009, Email: rasubiswas4@gmail.com Young 24, ACCA affiliate, Advanced diploma in Accounting and Business, seeking suitable placement in Accounts, Finance or audit With valid driving license.

Contact - 92430152, Email - rau_dey@yahoo.com Part time Accountant, up to finalization, looking for job after 5pm (location prefer – MSQ to Al Hail). Contact: 95694737 Finance & Accounts Indian male 35 years B.Com MBA (F) 7 years experience tally ERP9 with valid D/L family visa.

Contact: 93257426 / 95230114 Email: sibigeorgep@gmail.com Indian male B.Com with 1 year experience in Oman as Account having driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 93415880 Email: nithin_thomas1992@hotmail.com Part time accounts qualified experience accountant.

Contact: 91126314 SENIOR ACCOUNTANT-M. Com Finance-Indian with 7 years experience in Finance & Accounts up to finalization. Currently employed in Oman. Having D/L & NOC. Mob: 94122464, Email: cammk13@gmail.com Indian male, MBA (finance), 1 year experience in Oman having Oman D/L and NOC on visit visa looking for a suitable job. #94103975 Indian Male Accountant 10yrs Exp. in OMAN Retail & Furniture Co. (Release Available) GSM.92564955

ARCHITECTURE Indian female diploma in architecture having 5 years of working experience in Oman (Engg Consultancy having valid Oman driving license. Contact: 96683293

Indian male MBA 33yrs having 10 yrs of exp seeking full time suitable placement in Administration/ HR/ Operations/ Coordination/ Logistics.

Holding valid D/L. Contact - 99054786 Indian Gulf experienced in construction site admin, HR and Store keeping on visit visa seek suitable placement. Contact 92196001 Omani, male, 20 yrs exp. in PR, Admin etc. seeks suitable placement. Contact 91221773 Looking for H.R Admin Assistant post or any related position, currently on visit visa, available for immediate placement Qualification MBA H.R. Contact: 94665450 Email: paulwesleywilliaams@yahoo.com Indian female PGDHRM MSW having 5+ experience in HR Assistant Administration customer support good computer skill DOA, CIT Tally now on family visit visa looking for suitable position. Contact: 95352527 Indian female 25 years Graduates in BBM (HR) currently on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 92065248 Email: bibinnj47@gmail.com young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O , Clerk helper supervisor Admin supervisor , H.R Manager have diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license looking for H.R position or P.R.O license . Looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time. Contact: 95933288 Indian male MBA- UK 18 yrs Gulf exp in Administration/ HR & Public relationship. Fluent in Arabic/ English with D/L. Looking for suitable position. Contact - 99897280 Indian female Graduate 7 years as Secretary Office Assistant Admin seeks placement.

Contact: 99073789 Filipino male with 13 years HR and Administration managerial experience. MBA & CIPD holder.

Currently looking for job in Oman.

Interested employer pls call 97728418.

Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/ HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, Now on Visit Visa,looking for suitable position. Contact: 90196235 Indian female, Masters in HR, having 4 + years Oman experience in media management and HR, looking for openings in HR, Education, Admin, Corporate communications. Contact 98252030 Indian female 27 yrs with 5 yrs HR /Admin experience seeking suitable placement with valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 98236033

CATERING Cooks (Arabic Indian) gulf exp looking job. Contact: 99531802

W E D N E S DAY, F E B R UA RY 3, 2 0 1 6

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED DRIVER Experienced Light Duty Driver, Fluent in English, Arabic Well knowledge of Oman Areas Seeking Suitable placement Contact 97950869

EXPERIENCED TEAM TO PROVIDE TECHNO- COMMERCIAL BUSINESS SOLUTIONS, FEASIBILITY, ERP WITH BI TOOLS, ADVISE ON FINANCIAL, HR, RISK Ι GENERAL MANAGEMENT, GUIDE STARTUPS Ι RESTRUCTURING, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT. Contact – 96500729 Email: k.profitoman@ gmail.com

Light driver need job knows Arabic & Hindi.

Contact: 95145988 Looking for job driver K.S.A 7 years Oman, 5 yrs, education S.SC. Contact: 93940319 Light duty driver looking for job, 5 years exp. Contact: 97170619 Indian Keralite male 25 yrs, light driver looking for job.

Contact: 91616786 Light duty driver looking for job.

Contact : 95827886 Indian light driver having 2 years experience in Oman knowing language English, Hindi & Arabic, seeks job. Contact: 97366822 Looking job L.T.V with car, without car. Contact: 94436276 Driver, 5 years experience in Oman looking for job.

Contact : +968 99139890 Bangladeshi male 31 years, Driver fresh currently in Muscat.

Contact: 97118292 Driver with car, full time / part time job. Contact: 96320385 Driver with land cruiser, Indian seeks placement.

Contact: 99725003 Bangladeshi driver want job.

Contact: 93822195 Omani male need driver job for part time. Contact: 92296607 Light duty driver experience 4 years suitable job. Can speak English, Arabic & Hindi.

Contact 98393692 Driver with car looking for job or part time. Contact: 96023492 Light driver need job knows English, Hindi & Arabic.

Contact: 92820309 Job for driving. Contact: 98982410 27 years, 1 year experience, with D/L. Contact: 97369716 Light driver Ruwi. Contact: 95779594 Pakistani male light driver 10 yrs in UAE & 1 yr in Oman.

Contact: 93709393 Driver (light & heavy duty) valid gulf /Indian) looking job.

Contact: 95175192 Driver with new car looking for job.contact: 95873286

DOMESTIC HELP Looking full time job. Contact: 99153378

DESIGNER/DRAUGHTSMAN Civil AutoCAD Draughts man 5 years experience on visit visa.

Contact: 99759284 Email: ahmedimran945@gmail.com A lady entrepreneur with BF Tech 1st Class (Fashion Technology) since 2006 in Kerala like to make change for better. Specialized in designing, Production Management, Fashion Art, Grading, Surface ornamentation, Garment Construction.

Email: prettyjinu08@gmail.com Mobile: +919539397097.

25 years male BA. English , Qualified as mast in digital animation having 5 yrs ex in character animation specialized Auto Desk mago and motion building software knowledge, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 97917357

EDUCATION Looking for part time tutoring on Mathematical & Statistics.

Contact: 99229700 Indian : female – MBA in foreign trade ,BE Computer Science, sap trained bi/bw with one year experience seeking for job.

Contact 90228586 email:fathimasha16@gmail.com teaching also preferred.

Finance / Project/ Program Manager Professional Qualifications : MBA, PMP, Six Sigma Country Exposure Canada & Middle East, Industry any (experienced in Banks (Islamic) Telecom Transport Nationality Canadian, In Person Interview on Sundays Contact: 97203531, +923042955747

SPECIALIST AVAILABLE

IT

FOR EXPLOSIVE GROWTH IN TERM OF RESTRUCTURING ALL MODULES OF BUSINESS WITH 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, BUSINESS SOLUTIONS, MANUFACTURING, TRADING, APPLICATIONS, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT. CONTACT – 93343251 / profitoman@ gmail.com

Indian male, MCA, 15 years experience in Oracle, developer, Orion Sage ERP, 5 years in Oman working as IT In charge, with NOC release and transferable visa.

Contact: 95398567, Email: anasa4@gmail.com Hardware & networking, 2 years exp. Contact: 96244031

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. UPS Technician Electronics, Electronic technician, Solar power products 11 years experience in power electronics looking for job Oman.

Contact: 99680821 Email: joshypulikkottil@gmail.com Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine. Available NOC release. Contact: 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com Indian male Electrical Engineer with MBA (Mktg) having 4 and half years experience in technical commercial and marketing fields with valid GCC D/L, NOC available seeking placement.

Contact: + 968 96547828 Email: deva0234@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer (B.Tech) with 2 and half years experience Indian male 24 years in visit visa. Contact: 96620482 / + 91 9605423272 Email: bijumonps@gmail.com Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrsexp seeks suitable position ina reputed company. NOC available.

Contact – 96789711 Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Indian male 23 years PG diploma in Petroleum Engineering & B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering seeking employment as Entry level field engineer.

Contact: 95084905 / 95880127 Email: vijith2573459@gmail.com MEP Engineer 5 years exp in Gulf driving license NOC. Contact: 97838220 Indian female diploma in tool & die making with 1 1/2 years experience looking for suitable job. Contact : 94743992 Email: selveena054@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer , having 10 years experience in QMD (piping, steel structure, static & rotary equipments) ASNT-L-II ( UT/ RT/PT/DPT) & Visual inspection, material inspection, finalization of handing over documents, available on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Contact: 95415062 / 92838396 Indian male, 41 yrs, BE (Elect) + MBA, 20 yrs exp. in construction projects & engineering maintenance (M&E) of which more than 12 yrs in Oman. Looking for senior / suitable position. NOC available from current employer.

Contact 92393403 or 14gkr2016@gmail.com Electrical Engineer B.Tech with 4 yrs experience in India available on visit visa looking for suitable placement. Contact: 94741401 / 97239852 Email: sobinthomask05@gmail.com Indian male 5 years experience in piping (Site Engineer / Supervisor) Indian and Oman (PDO Project) & looking for suitable post currently on visiting visa, NOC available.

Contact: 94258289 Email: nidhishgopinathan@gmail.com Indian male diploma in Mechanical Engineering have 12 years experience in oil and gas in GCC on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 92932763 Email: pnpraveen@yahoo.co.in Male 38 yrs Graduate 07 years experience indoor / outdoor electronic field with D/License & NOC available (as per new rule).

Contact: 92453375 Indian male 23 years Mechanical Engineer, 1 year experience family visit, seeking placement.

Contact: 94203042 Mechanical Engineer with QA QC experience.

Email: jerrin4alex@gmail.com Networking Engineer having 10 years experience with 3 years in Oman having valid driving license and NOC, presently in Oman needs immediate placement.

Contact - 95783383 Electrical Engineer Indian (29) , 7 years exp in Oman, 33KV, 11 KV

Civil Engineer (B.Tech), Indian male 24 years with 1+years Indian experience,(Certified in Staad Pro/ Quantity Survey/ Auto Cad).Looking for a Suitable position. Available In Sultanate of Oman (Muscat) on Visit Visa.

Contact: 92835952. E-mail: mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable. Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com Civil Engineer 11 years experience in construction having driving license & NOC. Contact: 94194399 Email: shiblyrock@gmail.com Indian male 26 yrs BE- Mechanical Engineering, CSWIP 3.1 certified welding inspector + ASNT level in UT, RT, MPT, LPT with 3.5 yrs experience in QC InspectorWelding. Looking for a suitable job.

E-mail: rahmanmech2@gmail.com projects in MZEC & MEDC having CEP 1 & NOC with D/L. Contact: 99822373 Civil Engineer with 8 yrs exp in construction having license and NOC. Contact: 97986606 Telecom Engineer Sudanese on visit visa have 1 year experience in installation and have diploma in Tally ERP & excel and one year experience. Contact: 91991215 Indian female Computer Science Engineer having two years experience in teaching and programming C .CCP Java VB HTML, Sql, Php currently on visit visa seeks suitable placement. Contact: 91168733 Aeronautical Engineer with MBA in Operations Management having 4 yrs experience in reputed Aviation & Oil Companies, now on visit.

Contact 91864047 / 92791625 B.E .Mechanical Engineer Indian over 4 yrs of exp in HVAC design auto cad drafting on visit visa .

Contact 90305596. Email: shaikrizwan330@gmail.com Indian Electrical Engineer Btech, female 24 seeking job, presently in oman having 2 year experience in design and estimation of Ht &Lt projects. Contact 968 97436557, Mail id : sibinanoop1@gmail.com Civil Engineer / QS engineer, 9 years experience in Oman freelance visa, searching for a suitable job in Oman. Contact: 97299165 Diploma in Mechanical Eng piping system in AutoCAD work, 21+ years experience with Driving license. Contact: 95267113 Email: rkakkaryil@gmail.com 7 years teaching experience in Political Science at University level, 5 years experience as Intellectual property lawer 20 years experience of Arabic / English visa versa , translation / interpretation / Editing , 20 years of experience in management, Tri lingual (Arabic / English / French) Contact : 92175153 Indian female civil engineer B.Tech having 3 years experience sound knowledge of software, REVIT STAD PRO structural detailing currently on family visa seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95345591 B.Tech Civil, 25 yrs female, 3 yrs exp in qty survey have valid GCC license. Contact: 91309475 Road and Construction Engineer with 5 years exp in Oman.

Contact: 97667113 Sudanese Civil Structure Engineer, 3 years experience with residence and Omani license, good at AutoCAD Etabs Staad.

Pro looking for suitable job.

Contact: 97906770 Sr.HSE Engineer (B.E Mech+ Diploma Safety + NEBOSH+OSHA) over 10yrs. Exp, (Visa Release/Transfer Letter (NOC) available), seeking suitable placement.

Contact - 97061817, Email: jayanammu1977@gmail.com

Civil Engineer 6 years experience, 4 years in Oman, driving license available. Contact 92553263

Diploma Engineer (Civil) looking for job 7 years experience in Oman.

Contact: 93017821

Electrical Testing Engineer (B.Tech) having 7 yrs Gulf experience expertise in testing pre-commissioning commissioning of electrical systems, currently on visit visa seeks suitable job in Muscat.

Contact: 90188231

Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine. Available NOC release. Contact: 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com

Mechanical Engineer male 26 yrs, with 4 yrs of experience in manufacturing oil & gas retail, brand promoting, marketing, logistics having valid Omani D/L seeking for a suitable placement. Contact: 97098676 Email: ja237le@gmail.com Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact:97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Procurement Engineer (27 years single male with Oman Driving License) having 7 years experience (UAE 2, Oman 3) with expertise in MEP, Water, Electromechanical, Instrumentation seeking suitable placements. Contact 95852033, mail: hemal1988@gmail.com Civil Engineer 3 years diploma holder having 7 years experience, building construction & oil & gas field with driving license.

Contact: 93294965

Indian female (B.Tech/ Mechanical Engineering) 4 yrs Oman experience in project coordination in water, sewerage and infrastructure sector , Having valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement.

Local release available.

Contact: 95297449 B.Tech Chartered Electrical Engineer, AMIEI with 5 years of experience in electrical power transmission and distribution in industrial, residential & commercial sectors. Expertise in load designing BOQ, Estimations, transformer and switchgear selections. Leadership skills in project execution & management.

Contact: 94638744 Email: ceng.shaz@gmail.com Bachelor Civil Engineer 6 Years in Oman experience Valid Driving License seeks suitable placement Phone 97619722 Email – golamrob@yahoo.com Syrian Civil Engineer graduated 2012, 1 year experience in Oman.

Contact: 92967785

Diploma in Electronics, 2 years exp in telecommunication.

Contact: 94519571 Email: telecommunicationvishnumadhull @gmail.com

Mechanical Engineer with 3 Yrs experience in international Oil & Gas company looking for job Contacts: Tel: 90164236 Email: mustafaoshi-62@hotmail.com

HSE & Fire Safety Engineer 4 years experience air port operational safety, power & chemical industry. Contact: 94374241

Electrical Engineer: Indian male, 30 yrs having 5 yrs of experience in industrial automation & utility maintenance in India (MRF tyres), holding valid Oman D/L. Contact 92789995, email : akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com

10 years experience in Dubai & Bangladeshi as a BSC Engineer on structural designer & construction having Dubai municipality approval & driving license. Contact: 91206763 Future 008801758846027 Email: engr.masud.civil.@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Diploma) having 11 years experience in building construction, looking for a suitable placement , having Oman driving license. Noc available.

Contact: 95075365 Email: azharraaz@gmail.com Electrical Engineer with 18 years exp in UAE. Contact: 98148034 Email: shassalih66@gmail.com 7 Yrs Exp. PM in Mech. Engg in the field of Building Const. Oil & Gas Seeking Job.94625598 Indian female, 31 yrs, 7 yrs experienced as AutoCAD civil draftsman (2 yrs experience in Oman) currently in Oman seeks suitable.

Contact 96789441 Email: simi5304@gmail.com Indian male Diploma Civil Engineer have 1 yr. experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job (certificate attested).

Contact: 92667406 / 99210411, Email : manojgvh@gmail.com Indian Male 23 years B.Tech Civil having 2 years experience in quantity survey and site management looking for suitable placement. Contact:- 95042656 Sudanese Structure Civil Engineer 2 years experience resident Omani license. Contact: 94393880 Need job for experienced mason, electrician & welder.

Contact: 93015630 M.Tech in Manufacturing Engineering with 2 years of experience, on visiting visa looking for a suitable job. Contact: 91417949 Email: dannyrangde@gmail.com Civil Engineer (BE) having total 5 years experience in building construction looking for a suitable placement. D/L available Contact# 94450270 Mechanical Engineer M.Tech 2 years experience HVAC design & site Engg revit MEP Auto CAD. Contact: 90150913 Email: mahmanmechengg@yahoo.im

Civil Engineer 6 yrs Exp in Oman with license. Contact: 98975518 Sudanese Architectural Engineer 2 years experience in Oman, Revit, AutoCAD 3Ds max Archicad looking for suitable job. Contact: 94722356 Email: maya40999@hotmail.com Sri Lankan Engineer (27 Years old) – B.Sc Engineering (Hon) Mining / Geotechnical Presently in Muscat, 1.5 years experience.

Contact 91295802 / acmfaslan123@gmail.com Sudanese Telecom Engineer, 5 years experience, 3 years in Oman PMP certificate.

Contact: 93391008 Email: momen.awadallam@gmail.com

HOSPITALITY Hospitality/Hotel/ Restaurants Dynamic result oriented hospitality professional with 20 years of international exp. MBA in Hotel Management, specializing in Hotel/Restaurant start ups, concepts & Franchise development with proven records. Seeking for Challenging positions in reputed groups as GM/COO/CEO/Business Head. (NOC available) Contact: 96059470

IT Indian male 3 years experience in IT as Linux Administrator and 1 year experience in Amazon EC2, cloud at Wipro technologies Bangalore looking for a suitable placement. Contact: 92889678 Email: amalpathikal@gmail.com Indian Male, IT System Engineer having 4 yrs of experience in system administration.CCNA,MCSE, Linux. Looking for suitable job.

Contact :91272867 Sudanese Male 29 yrs B.Sc Computer Science, diploma computer engineering 6 yrs. experience , DBA oracle PL-SQL, Oracle SQL developer, MS sql-server ,visual studio vb, network ,driver license Oman.

Email: chastity643@gmail.com , Mob: 91415886 Network Engineer degree Computer Science CCNA, MCSA experience NOC. Content: 92346191

Sudanese Network Administrator 1 year experience with (MCSA, CCNA, CCNP) have valid driving license. Contact: 92394485

MANAGER Procurement Manager / Commercial Manager / G.M Indian male having 26 years of experience in Import, procurement, logistics, Commercial activities, Warehousing, TRD & Sales. Contact: 90502724 Email: tk.sasi@gmail.com Office Manager / personal Assistant with extensive experience in overall admin, commercial activities, purchase, accounts with driving license seeks suitable change. Local release available. Contact 99168054 Safety Manager B.Tech (safety & fire) M. Sc 8 years experience Indian 31 years presently occupied on notice period available with clean NOC, holds Oman driving license & owns car. Contact: 94616721 Email: aibelg19@gmail.com Camp Supervising 6 years looking for a good job. Contact: 98178804 / 96703816 Stone Incharge / Store keeper 8 years experience in Oman, NOC & release is available looking for good job. Contact: 98178804 / 96703816 Indian female having 17 years of Dubai work experience in Business Process Management & Quality Assurance (ISO 9001) is looking for job in Muscat (Full time/Part time/ Consultant). Experienced in developing, training & implementation of business process documentation, leading the organization to ISO 9001 certification, Quality Audits and Business process improvements & controls.

Contact: 97903127. Email : ravichandran.mangala@gmail.com The Business Development Manager, Iraqi, Experience 15 Years Inside and outside Oman following activities: construction(Very strong and qualified to bringing business for civil work Or any type of the construction work for many million per year with a good experience in pricing and collect payment and cash management of the company & marketing projects & investments& tenders & real estate. Contact 92385033 MBA (marketing) with 17 years experience in freight forwarding/ logistics industry in GCC & Oman.

Presently working as branch manager in Muscat. Looking for a suitable position. Release and NOC available. Contact: 99856331 The Business Development Manager, Iraqi, Experience 15 Years Inside and outside Oman following activities: tenders& real estate& construction & marketing projects& investments & transportation & Marine services& companies management& develop business.

Contact :- 92385033 Indian male, with experience in operations management, information security, purchase & stores mgmt, hold UAE driving license, on visit visa, seeks suitable job.

Contact 91904541 Email: naushers@yahoo.com

MEDICAL Female Nurse Indian, total 15 yrs experience, 6 yrs in KSA, prometric passed with 66% ready to join immediately. Contact: 95525004 / 98146565 Indian lady Pediatrician available immediately, Oman prometric exam (>60%) passed Indian Kerala lady pediatrician available immediately for appointment. now available in Muscat.MOBILE NO. 96276347, 94769455 EMAIL : nadakkavil1984@gmail.com Indian male GP Doctor looking for suitable post. Dataflow & prometric completed. Contact: 90377433 An experienced Sudanese female Dentist with MOH license looking for job. Contact 96436517 /97396088

D6

W E D N E S D AY, F E B R UA RY 3 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED MEDICAL Indian female BDS with MOH license looking for job.

Contact 95347894

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Female, 24 Years - MSc Biotechnology. Worked in International Crops Research Institute For The Semi Arid Tropics for project work as trainee. Looking for suitable job. Mobile: 92619048, Email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com A Filipina lady having experience in call center, airline booking and reservations, secretarial and real estate is now looking for a job in any fields. Contact: 93839304 Filipina lady very urgently looking job only in boutique, release available ready to join immediately.

Contact: 97122152 / 91240759 10 years experience in Oman in logistics / purchase have Oman D/L looking for suitable placement.

Contact- 96410767 Email: harishkts@yahoo.com Indian female on visit MBA (International Business- Marketing & Logistics), BE (Computers & Science Engg.) Trained in SAP-BI/ BW with 1 year experience seeking for job Contact: 90228586 Email:fathimasha16@gmail.com Graduate, computer literate, experienced in sales, credit control, accounts, Omani D/L , seeks suitable placement.

Gsm 98805474 Looking for job with car education O level exp 6 yrs English, Arabic & Hindi. Contact : 99640986

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE A dynamic professional, female,MBA,8 yrs MNC exp in Purchase, Secretary, Sales Coordination, Office Assistant, Logistics, Petty Cash, Stock, Dispatch, Project management, Documentation, residing in oman with valid NOC from current company, looking for suitable job, ready to join immediately. Email- shiji4123@gmail.com, Contact - phone:-94157662

SALES / MARKETING Indian male 32, MBA (Marketing & Finance) with 10 years experience in Marketing of Banking Products & Insurance Industry. Seeking for a Job in Oman. Contact: 93576980, 97750460 Email: senthil.cbe83@gmail.com Indian sales marketing professional highly experienced in business development in ME India and Africa seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 97897611 Indian female, MBA in Garment Manufacturing Technology, having over 8years exp in Merchandising & Marketing, worked for brands Zara, H&M, DKNY, Even & Odd, Soya Concept & many more, now on family visa looking for a suitable position.

Pls contact: 95604511. email: richagandhi25@gmail.com A dynamic professional, Female, with 8 years of experience in PURCHASE,SALES COORDINATION ,OFFICE ASSISTANT, residing in Oman with valid NOC from current company,looking for a suitable job, Ready to join Immediately”.

Contact:-shiji4123@gmail.com Phone:- 94157662 MBA with 18 years of experience in Procurement, 2 years in Sohar, Oman driving license, looking for suitable position.M:94047501, ahmed16071974@gmail.com Indian male plumbing sanitary ware & building materials experience in outdoor sales (9 years) with valid D/L UAE. Contact: 98723456

SALES / MARKETING

MISCELLANEOUS

Indian male diploma in logistics management looking for an opening, presently in Oman on visit visa. Contact: 93373421

Pakistani Male having 6 years Experience Valid Omani Driving license working as a Transport Manager looking for a suitable position. salary is negotiable. mail: mohdnaveed043@gmail.com, Mob: +96893363316 / 94202746

Indian male, MBA Marketing having 9 years’ experience in India in marketing is seeking suitable placement. Currently in Muscat on business visa. Contact: 92417523 Indian male 28 yrs having 6 years experience in Oman in Sales & Marketing & Office Administration, looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 99142314 Indian male, BBM, MBA, having 3 years experience in Sales looking for suitable job. Contact: 92796046 Indian male B. Pharm 15 years sales experience MOH Pharmacist license driving license looking for opportunities in Pharmacy or Sales and marketing can get NOC. Contact: 99694865 Indian male 26, with more than 4 years experience in Sales and Marketing having valid GCC license on visit visa seeks suitable position. Contact: 92423161 MBA graduate having 6 years exp in Sales & Marketing, 4 years with PEPSI, India, having international driving license permit seeks suitable placement. Contact : 95308167, Email : samir.pag@gmail.com Indian male, Graduate, 9 yrs experience in FMCG – UAE, valid GCC driving license on visit seeks suitable position. Contact 92419491 / 94881950, Email : pranilpp76@gmail.com 27 years old male MBA Graduate having 1.5 years experience in Marketing seeking for good opportunities in sales & marketing.

Contact: 90572132 Email: bibi4bibin@gmail.com MBA Indian male 2.5 yrs exp in marketing & sales presently on visit visa seeking immediate placement. contact :91725539.

Email: suhailahmad1489@gmail. com Indian male, MBA Marketing having 2.5 years Sales experience immediately looking for a suitable position. Contact: 91415145, Email: shariqs88@gmail.com B.Com male 2 yrs experience in sales Computer knowledge, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98371144 email: nabilnazar22@gmail.com A dynamic professional, female, with 8 years of experience in PURCHASE, SALES COORDINATION , OFFICE ASSISTANT, residing in Oman with valid NOC from current company, looking for a suitable job, Ready to join Immediately.

Contact:- shiji4123@gmail.com, Phone:- 94157662 Marketing exceutive BBA, MCOM, Tally, exp in accouting (can continue in current visa) ph : 98269281

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Mason, SH / carpenter, steel fitter gulf & Indian exp looking job.

Contact: 95175192

TECHNICIAN /MECH. Instrumentation & controls Technician with 2-3 years experience preferably in water sector and having valid driving license call Ph:+968 99450811 Send CV to shiju@spec-link.com

TOURS/TRAVELS Indian male 26, on vist visa, 2+ yrs of experience with UAE D/L, IATA-FIATA,BBA looking for any suitable job. Contact 91324567

Indian male 25 yrs, MBA (Finance, Marketing), Overall 2 yrs exp in Accounts/Finance field, On Visit Visa.

Immediately available.

Contact - 92989197/94786544. abdulqhizer2004@gmail.com Bangladeshi Male, University MA, Working as Store keeper in Muscat; searching better job.

Phone:91997605, email: mohamednazrulislam2@gmail.com Bangladeshi Male, University M.Com.Working as an Administrator cum Accountant in Oman; searching better job. Phone:94864966, email: sunrisetoiqbal@gmail.com Indian Male, 26 years, With 7 years of experience in Sales Field in shipping company in “Dubai” , looking for suitable placement.

Experienced working in safety Marine equipment and well versed with MS Office. Contact: 90182494, Manojmallya999@gmail.com IT professional, B.E. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT/ networking/server support, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support.

Contact 92607532.

Light Driver looking for job.

Contact:99594946 Sudanese Mechanical Engineer 26 years old (male) with 4 years experience as Mechanical engineer , Sales engineer and Call center agent seeking suitable placement.

Contact: +968.90644235 Bangladeshi Male, University M.Com Working as an Administrator cum Accountant in Oman; searching better job. Phone:94864966, email: sunrisetoiqbal@gmail.com MBA - (F), M.Com, B.COM. Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for part time or full time job. Presently on family visa. Contact :- 91892264.

Email:- yv.dixit@yahoo.com Bangladeshi Male, University MA, Working as Sales administrator in Oman; searching better job.

Phone:91997605, email: mohamednazrulislam2@gmail.com 9 yrs exp Site Engineer in Civil & Shade Structure. 2d, 3d draughtsman (holding Oman driving license) seeking job. Contact : 90139903 Light Duty Driver Professional, Indian male having 5 years of experience with valid Oman driving licence.NOC Available.

Contact 91652481 Purchase Executive Professional, Indian male having 6 Years of Experience in Oman Having Valid Driving Licence working as a Purchase officer, Looking for a suitable Position, NOC/LR Available.

Contact: 95132564/96456071, E-mail: naji1988@gmail.com Indian Female, BE Electronics and Communication, having oman experience looking for full time or part time job. Ready to join immediately, currently on family visa.

Contact : 92115948 / 99327912 Indian male B.Eng. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT/networking/server, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/ Network/Server support.

Contact 92607532 Indian male 34 Yrs., Dual MBA Finance and marketing With IT skills, 7+ yrs. of experience, looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com

SITUATION WANTBUSINESS ED SITUATION WANTED 22, Indian BBA graduate, 1 year experience, presently on visit visa, looking for suitable placement.

Contact 91881053

Indian male M. Com 10 years of experience looking for Part time Job can do finalization #97433387 or thodaforme@gmail.com

Highly experienced mechanical/ steel structural fabrication engineer looking for suitable placement. NOC available. Contact: 99860714, hussain20173@gmail.com.

Indian male 25yr B. Com 4 years experience in trading and contracting field in India looking for suitable accountant vacancies.

Please contact 96155921 or fysal.nellaya@gmail.com

B.Com 5yrs experience good command on tally, Excel sheet on family visa. Contact: 98002428 Email: lubnakanwal36@gmail.com B.TEC ( IT) . 24 years, 2 Years of experience in technical support, software development, networking, troubleshooting and managing. seek suitable placement.

Contact GSM- 98184170 Electronics service Technician , 4 Years experience as Electronics service engineer. Knowledge in all type of Electronics items. Looking for suitable placement. GSM- 99105043 Searching a land surveyor job fully know latest instrument of Survey GPS and Total station two year OMAN experience.NOC Available. Contact +96894144052, Email- wasifnaz 313@yahoo.com Part- Time Accountant, well experience senior accountant ,doing all type of accounting works, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact 98803439 Indian male experienced material segregation with D/L seeks suitable placement. Contact: 92715032 Email: santhoshgeorge99@gmail. com Indian male 26 years (MBA Finance) seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 92715032 Email: ajisd@yahoo.com D.M.E, Indian, 12 yrs experience in Oman, in Project Estimation, Execution, Quality & marketing working as Estimation Engineer in acid & water tanker, semi trailor company, with havin driving license & will get NOC, seeks suitable job in Oman.

Contact 98968495.

Indian male, 26 years, With 7 years of experience in Sales Field in shipping company in “Dubai” , looking for suitable placement. Experienced working in safety Marine equipment and well versed with MS Office. Contact: 90182494, manojmallya999@gmail.com Senior Accountant Indian male 35 Years with 13 Years of Experience (7 years in Oman) in Accounts & Finance having valid Omani Driving License. Looking for job in GCC Countries.

Contact: 96001918 Indian male 25 yrs, MBA in marketing on visit looking for a job in Sales and Marketing.

Contact 91270215 Email: nibuvarughese13@gmail.com

Indian male looking job part time driver. Contact: 93884951 Indian male BE, (ECE) 18 months experience in Telecom Sector as installation and Commissioning Engineer, troubleshooting the bts, 3G and LTE equipments currently on visit. Contact: 95183497 Email: v.karthi984@gmail.com 27,male,ACCA finalist, have professional experience up to finalization of accounts, statutory and internal audit, expertise in using tally, focus and oracle software, have 3.5 years experience in accounts till finalization ,seeking for permanent replacement in senior position, GSM-91324962, email-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Chief Accountant , 7 years experienced (out of 25 years experience in accounts) worked in reputed group companies. Currently procuring MBA finance and having Omani Driving License seeks suitable openings from reputed companies.

Contact : 95598477 / 98803439 Female 5 years experienced Oman as Senior Accountant. SKILLS : ERP9, MS OFFICE, SAGE, ACCPAC. GSM # 95483804 / 9986 8330.

MAIL : sararowshan344@gmail.com Indian male 25 yrs, MBA (Finance, Marketing), Overall 2 yrs exp in Accounts/Finance field, On Visit Visa. Immediately available.

Contact – 92989197 / 94786544. mail: abdulqhizer2004@gmail.com.

Bangladeshi male, University MA, working as administrator in Oman; searching better job.

Contact 91997605 mohamednazrulislam2@gmail.com Indian male having 6 Years of Experience in Oman Having Valid Driving License working as a Purchase officer, looking for a suitable Position, NOC Available.

Contact: 95132564 / 96456071, E-mail:naji1988@gmail.com Indian Male, pursuing ACCA with knowledge in C++, Java looking for accounting job.

Contact 94743462.

Email: zabinbashu@gmail.com Indian, Keralite seeks cleaning job part time. Contact: 90169048 HR Manual, Employee Handbook, Recruitment, Training, HR Consultancy. Are you looking for freelancer HR professional? Please contact on 97914669

AVAILABLE Party & Wedding equipment rentals.

Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting.

Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. ww.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

SIT.WANTED BE Mechanical Engineer / MBA Indian male 25 yrs, currently working in Qatar skills MEP designing surveying, Oracle, AutoCAD, SAP. Contact: 97474470866 & C/O in Oman 95071632 Indian male, 23 years PG diploma in Petroleum Engineering and B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering holding UAE driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95880127 / 95084905 Email: vijith2573459@gmial.com Indian Female, Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Electronics & Communication Engineering, currently in Muscat with Family Visa,1+ year experience in Teaching seeks suitable placement in Muscat. Contact 96209509 B.TECH ( IT) . 24 years, 2 Years of experience in technical support, software development, networking, troubleshooting and managing, seeks suitable placement.

Contact GSM- 98184170 Indian Male 4 years experience Chef. Indian, Chinese Cuisine seek suitable placement.

Contact: 99883019 Bangladeshi Male, University MA, 5 years experience in IT sales & marketing working as sales coordinator in Oman; searching better job. Phone: 91997605, email: mohamednazrulislam2@gmail.com Indian Male 28yr age having 7year gulf+ Indian experience in HR/Admin field, looking for suitable placement.

Contact:97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com

W E D N E S DAY, F E B R UA RY 3, 2 0 1 6

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

TOURS

TOURS

ACC. AVAILABLE Room with kitchen, bath available in Ruwi for a couple or single working lady. Contact: 91450718 / 91429608 Accommodation available at Al Hail Keralite family only.

Contact: 96234708 Big room, attached bathroom, inbuilt cuboard, next to Sagar polyclinic Al Khuwair, available from Feb 7. Contact-97311413 Furnished bedroom with attached bath and kitchen, separate entrance available for Executive bachelor for R.O 150/- per month all inclusive in a villa OPP star cinema. Contact: 99314807 Hail Independent rooms RO 140/& 160/-. Contact 95529970 A big room available for Muslim couple / small family executive bachelor near Hamriya R/A rent 130/- OMR, including water / Electricity. Contact: 99495131 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, sitting room, hall, kitchen with parking space for rent in Mawalah, behind City Centre. Contact 93930352 Fully furnished room with attached bath for Executive bachelor behind Al Meera Hyper market, Azaiba 150/- R.O. Contact: 99455735 Ghubra. Beautiful Room. Indian Lady/Couple/Bachelor. Non-cooking, Vegetarians. Contact 99283938 Spacious semi furnished room with separate bathroom for executive bachelor opposite OC centre Ruwi. Call: 92273779 Room available in Mumtaz area 1 room, 1 Bathroom, Kitchen & 1 room, common bathroom. Interested please Contact: 92680041 Mr. Altaf

BUYING Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299 Buying cars for cash.

Contact: 90202090

SITUATION WANTTOURS ED

DRIVING

RENT A CAR

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours contact 98029602, 92808636 We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898

MV SALE Hyundai Santafe 2010 model, 2.7 litres, Black Colour, Expat driven, well maintained, 86000 kms.

Contact - 93304439.

Transportation.Contact: 99099714

Hiace Toyota van for sale, model 2010. Contact: 94203204

Transportation Al Khuwair.

Contact: 92711421

NRI Flats for sale Kerala Trichur fully furnished 3BHK flat 1575 sq ft ready to occupy & ready & occupy flat, 3BHK 1600 sq ft 1No , 3 BHK 1200 sq ft 1No. at heart of Trichur N.H road frontage. Contac: 99073124 Located about 1/2 km behind Cherplasseri town bus stand (Palakkad) 8 cents or 16 cents of residential plot for sale @ 3 lakh per cent.

Contact 97375638.

One bedroom flat in Guruvayoor Kerala, 2 minutes walk to Guruvayoor temple direct owner.

Contact: 00968 99466800

GOOD NEWS FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 99250777, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133. For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit:www.islamfact.com

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation available Ruwi to Al Khuwair, Ghubra & Azaiba.

Contact: 91103909 Transportation. Contact 92015894

MANPOWER

GOOD NEWS Genuine Ayurvedic treatments & massage, Ayurvedic clinic at AL Khuwair. Contact: 24478618 / 97263637 / 93309131 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam).Contact: 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com

WANTED IELTS Coaching (academic) required nearby wadi Kabir area. Please call on mobile or msg on Whats up. Mobile no: 92927880/99012165

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver.

Contact: 99839898

D8

W E D N E S D AY, F E B R UA RY 3 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED EDUCATION/CLASSES/TRAINING/COMPUTER/WEBSITE

IELTS PREPARATION Target Band 8.0

Classes for Spoken English TOEFL / GRE / GMAT / SAT Excellent Guidance and Coaching Satisfaction Guaranteed EAGLES INSTITUTE 92325542 | 93657915 | 93657917 | Email: engominst@gmail.com

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

in Azaiba and Ruwi

• Learn in two months • Satisfaction guaranteed

Tel: 95244310 WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

Karate and self defense classes at Azaiba 18 Nov Street. RO 10 per month twice a week Monday and Tuesday 6. 30 TO 7. 30. PM. CONTACT 98294551

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SERVICES We Provide Cleaners, Office boys, Cleaning Contracts, General cleaning etc.

Al Mudakhir National Est. LLC Contact : 94277020

LEGAL SERVICE An Indian lawyer Provides all legal services in company matters.

Labour issues, contracts, agreements, LLC formation, legal help for starting new business in Oman, Civil, criminal cases,.service issues.

Ibrahim Al Massalhi.legal consultancy Sarafudheen, LLB, MBA, Legal Advisor Muscat. GSM: 97351649

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble.Contact 24793614/ 99314807

FURNITURE SHIFTING Maintenance, Dismantling, Packing, Shifting & Fixing furniture with expert technicians.

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

Contact: 99041337

Split & window A/c servicing & maintenance. Contact 93769089 / 95323517

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

Building maintenance.

Contact: 96173326

Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

A/C maintenance & servicing, fridge, washing machine & dish washer repairing, painting & cleaning services, electrical & plumbing. Contact: 99447257 / 97014234 / 24504281

Al farzdaq Al Fedi Trad and Cont Maintenance services electric, plumbing and A/C. Contact: 96524904 / 94285064 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS99320217 /24788722

Cleaning services sofa, carpet, shampoo old house or new house.

Contact: 92179395 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting,Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. Contact: 24810137, 99450130

LOST It is notified for the information that my original qualifying examination certificate secondary Examination of the year 2012-14 and roll No. 8117277 issued by CBSE has been actually lost. Name Meera Ravichandran D/O of Ravichandran Bahwan Building Materials PB 169, PC 100 Muscat S. Of Oman.