Times of Oman - December 16, 2015 by Muscat Media Group

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FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

Before The Council of Oman, 2001

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ We see that it is the duty of our Government and the honourable members of the Council of Oman to spread awareness among the population in the Regions of the value of work, and the necessity to respect it. The focus should be that work is no longer a personal hobby but it is indeed part and parcel of worship, and therefore it should be performed with sincerity, perfection and honour.

WEDNESDAY, December 16, 2015 / 4 Rabi Al Awal 1437 AH timesofoman.com

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B A H R A I N , K A Z A K H S TA N

HM sends greetings MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, on the occasion of the 44th National Day of the country. In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere congratulations and best wishes to King Hamad, praying to Allah the Almighty to grant him good health, wellbeing and a long life to achieve aspirations of progress and prosperity of the people of Bahrain. His Majesty the Sultan has sent a cable of congratulations to President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan on his country’s National Day. >A6 TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Ban on clothes

Clothes containing indecent images, logos etc have been banned in Oman. >A3

MARKET

Sohar steel pipe unit

China-based ﬁrm plans to set up a $20m special steel pipes unit. >B1

LEISURE

Get the sunshine

This is an excellent time of the year for a ﬁx of winter sun. >C7

UN-sponsored Yemen peace talks start

MUDDAHA

Taking care of the underprivileged

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Expert services needed in the private

PHYSICIANS IN OMAN 5,012 Total number of physicians in Oman

8,565

hassan@timesofoman.com reji@timesofoman.com

Siyabi said, adding that Oman’s government fosters orphans and abandoned children at a dedicated centre in Al Khoudh. He urged people to be part of the volunteer groups in Oman, such as ‘Al Rahma’ which donates around OMR3 million for charitable causes each year. In coordination with a local factory, the group collects bottle caps and exchanges each ton of caps with a wheelchair, which is donated to a physically challenged child. The team was recently awarded for their community services in maintaining dilapidated houses, distributing Holy Quran among expat Muslims, providing iftar meals and school supplements.

Total: 6,217 (72.6%) Total physicians in the private sector

1,777 64 1,713

1,503

1,0 6 9

surgery could be

MUSCAT: A ban on expat doctors working in state-run hospitals from doing overtime in the private sector will hit patients in need of heart, brain and orthopaedic surgery, warn medics. In a recent ministerial decision, the Ministry of Health has said that expatriate doctors who work at the government hospitals are banned from working overtime at any private health institution. Under the new rules, only Omani medical consultants and senior consultants are entitled for a permit to work in government and private health centres and it should be registered under the Ministry of Health. “Heart and orthopaedic surgeries will be badly hit since senior consultants are generally sought from the government hospitals. We will have no other option but to refer our patients back to those hospitals,” said some medics at private hospitals. Rajagopal T. Naganathan, medical director of Atlas Hospital, warned, “Heart, neuro and orthopaedic surgeries will be affected as the expert service are generally

Total: 2,348 (27.4%)

Expats

1,530

and orthopaedic

HASSAN SHABAN AL LAWATI REJIMON K

Omanis

General practitioners

sector for brain, heart

hassan@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: In a house in North Al Batinah, ﬁve children are grappling with a mentally ill and elderly father and a physicallychallenged mother, who can’t look after them. A team of volunteers has provided them with food and other essentials, in addition to registering them. A group of volunteers decided to step in and offer help after they observed a number of orphans, jobless widows and underprivileged families in Oman, who suffer poverty and negligence. Since 2012, ‘Muddaha’ charitable group has been distributing food, clothes, furniture and study materials to families in Muscat, Bidbid, Izki, Samail and some wilayats in North and South Al Batinah. The group of 25 has helped hundreds of people in war-torn countries, including Syria and Palestine, by funding local charitable organisations. “We are currently funding 65 orphans in Oman by providing OMR35 in monthly pocket money to each of them,” said Khalid Al Siyabi, a volunteer from Muddaha. “Not every person is able to adopt an orphaned child, but everyone has the ability to support, fund and empower them,” Al

ISO 9001:2008 Certiﬁed Company

Expat doctor overtime ban sparks fears hit, say doctors

HASAN SHABAN AL LAWATI

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In addition to the 8,565 physicians, there are another 86 working as medical administrators

3,482

2,413

2,284

37 644

2,7 35

2,091

818

781

3,553

Specialists and consultants

Source: Ministry of Health Annual Report 2014

sought from the visiting consultants working at government hospitals. Now, we would be forced to refer our patients back to the government hospitals.” Expert service He said that a large number of hospitals in Oman depend on visiting consultants for expert service. “Now, it will be missed. It will not affect day-to-day business. But when expert help is needed, hospitals will be stuck. We will be forced to send our patients to government hospitals,” the medical director said. Dr Juma Al Lawati, a senior consultant, gastroenterologist and haematologist at the Royal Hospital and Medical Vision specialty private centre, said: “This move will negatively affect the private speciality health centres

4,504

Total physicians in the government

6,788 Graphics

in Oman which depend on experienced doctors who work in government hospitals to ﬁll in as part timers instead of paying high salaries to full time doctors. “We suffer from shortage of doctors and this decision will only worsen the situation. Less expatriate expertise and lack of Omani doctors in some medical ﬁelds, patients will be waiting for longer time to get appointments and surgeries,” he said. Dr Juma added that more patients will seek treatment abroad as the decision will increase delays in patients getting medical appointments. Another private hospital director said that they will be forced to refer the patients who need expert services to state-run hospitals until further arrangements are made. >A6

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Sultanate bans clothes with any offensive images Anyone found violating the provisions of this decision for the ﬁrst time will become liable to pay an administrative ﬁne not exceeding OMR500, PACP official said

Times News Service MUSCAT: Clothes that contain indecent images, logos, phrases, abusive language, or statements against religion, or related to any terrorist organisation, have been banned in Oman, according to

a recent decision issued by the Public Authority for Consumer Protection (PACP). Dr Said Al Kaabi, chairman of PACP, said this while issuing a directive, banning the import of all such items. The decision enforces strict punishment for violators.

A L B U R A I M I G OV E R N O R AT E

Anyone found violating the provisions of this decision for the first time will become liable to pay an administrative fine not exceeding OMR500. In case the offence is repeated for the second time, the violators will have to pay an administrative fine not exceeding OMR1,000. If the offence is repeated for a third time, the violators will pay an administrative fine of OMR50 for each day of the violation. Earlier, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry had banned importing such items in addition to customs that offend the Omani identity. The decision was made to prevent the promotion of such goods by any means and ban the import of military-like clothes. NCSI BOARD MEETING

Oman spatial portal project in spotlight

– Supplied picture

168 Omanis join workforce Times News Service MUSCAT: A total 168 Omanis have been employed at various private sector organisations in the Al Buraimi governorate during the last three months, the Ministry of Manpower has said.

“Local workforce is the cornerstone of this country as enforcing Omanisation by providing vacancies for locals is the ministry’s priority,” said Ahmed Khalifa Al Mukrushi, head of labour care department in Ministry of Manpower.

MUSCAT: Strategic importance of Oman Spatial Portal project was discussed by the Board of Directors of National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), at a meeting. A presentation was also made at the meeting on the national importance of this project as it will serve as a comprehensive reference for the available map services about the Sultanate. The meeting was held at NCSI headquarters under the chair of Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, secretary-general of Supreme Council for Planning and Chairman of the Centre. — ONA

OMAN

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

OMAN

300

Is the total number of rooms in Intercontinental Hotels Group new hotel.

B I L AT E R A L M E E T I N G

Fahd welcomes speaker of Iraq’s Council of Representatives MUSCAT: On behalf of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers, received on Tuesday Dr Saleem Abdullah Ahmed Nassir Al Jabouri, Speaker of the Council of Representatives in the Republic of Iraq. The Iraqi official conveyed the greetings of the leadership in Iraq to His Majesty the Sultan along with their best wishes of good health and success to His Majesty and the Omani people further progress. After welcoming the guest and his accompanying delegation, Sayyid Fahd reviewed the strong bilateral relations between the

two brotherly countries, stressing the Sultanate’s keenness under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan on supporting all efforts to maintain Iraq’s unity and the reconciliation and harmony between its citizens. Sayyid Fahd also pointed out that the Council of Oman contributes alongside the government in enhancing the march of the national work. The talks during the meeting dealt with the developments in Iraq and the efforts being made to rebuild Iraq to carry out its known role. The meeting also touched on aspects of the existing cooperation between the parliamentary councils in the two countries, as well as

various developments in the area. The Speaker of the Iraqi Council of Representatives expressed his happiness and that of his accompanying delegation over this visit, expressing Iraq’s appreciation for Oman’s continuous support. They hailed the wisdom of His Majesty the Sultan in dealing with issues of concern to the region, as well as the Sultanate’s Shura experience and its role in the comprehensive building. The meeting was attended by Khalid bin Hilal Al Ma’awali, Chairman of the Majlis Al Shura, Rashid bin Ahmed Al Shamsi, Deputy Chairman of the Majlis and Dr Amal Moosa Hussein, Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the Sultanate. — ONA

BILATERAL RELATIONS: The meeting also touched on the aspects of the existing cooperation between the parliamentary councils of the two countries. — ONA

InterContinental Hotel eyes tourists from Asia to attract new segments of people to the nation; we want to promote Oman as a fantastic destination, new senior executive of the hotel group said WARM WELCOME: David Todd (right), receives the new Area Gen-

eral Manager and Country Manager Theirry Derrot. - Supplied picture

ARTIST’S IMPRESSION: A hotel under the InterContinental Hotels Group’s Crowne Plaza brand will also be opened within a year. — Supplied picture

Staff Reporter tion; we want to promote Oman as a fantastic destination,” he added. Perrot will assume his new position from January 2016. He also said he wants to maintain the reputation of InterContinental Hotels during his tenure as the Area General Manager and the Country Manager. “I want to make sure that InterContinental maintains its name and quality, and continues welcoming guests,” Perrot stated.

According to the new AGM, a hotel under the InterContinental Hotels Group’s Crowne Plaza brand will also be opened within a year. A new property “A new property of the Intercontinental Hotels Group at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre in Seeb will be opened soon, in a year’s time,” Perrot revealed. The four-star, 300-room

Crowne Plaza Hotel is ideally positioned 10 minutes from the Muscat International Airport, and will include a two-level basement car park to accommodate 270 vehicles, a ground ﬂoor, mezzanine and six additional ﬂoors with Standard Guestrooms, Junior and Executive Suites and a Presidential Suite, in addition to a Ballroom, an executive lounge, All-Day Dining Restaurant and a specialty restaurant.

It will be the second Crowne Plaza hotel in the capital city. The newly appointed AGM was introduced to the guests, who had gathered at the Tiki Garden of the InterContinental by the preceding AGM David Todd on Monday. A farewell party for David Todd was attended by ambassadors to the Sultanate, officials from the government, and special guests of the InterContinental management.

FEMALE CLIMBERS

Message from Jebel Shams peak: ‘Our Gulf is One’ Times News Service MUSCAT: As 15 girls from GCC countries climbed Jebel Shams and ended their trek, they sought to convey a message of love and gratitude under the slogan of “Our Gulf is One.” The group raised the ﬂags of GCC countries to express the spirit of unity and nationalism within the GCC countries. Jebel Shams is the highest mountain peak in the Arabian Gulf region, with a height exceeding 3,000 meters above the sea level. The trek was similar to climbing the western Al Hajar mountains, and was organised by Hussak Adventures Corporate in cooperation with Omani Ministry of Tourism. Asma Al Hajriah, deputy director general, International Tourism Promotions, Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, said the trek gave the group a chance to introduce one of the most important Omani tourist destinations: Jebel Shams, and declare the capabilities and success of girls from the Arabian Gulf and their readiness to face any challenge. The trek began on the afternoon of December 10, with the participants gathering at a predetermined meeting point in Muscat. They then moved to the AdDakhiliyah Governorate to start their adventure, which involved trekking for 20 kilometres on a suitable trail that is good for walking and climbing. It is one of the most popular adventure destinations within the Sultanate because of its charming and unique landscape. The support from Ministry of Tourism was part of efforts to encourage eco-tourism within the states of GCC in general, and promoting and introducing adventure tourism in particular, since the Sul-

British School Muscat students excel globally Times News Service MUSCAT: Students of British School Muscat’s (BSM’s) GCSE clearly showcased quite a performance last summer, with 15 of them achieving at least three A* grades, six of them securing straight A*-A in all their subjects. However, even more impressive was that many of these students reported results that have placed them among the top students in Oman and the world.

We will continue

MUSCAT: In a bid to target Asian tourists in Oman, the InterContinental Hotel Group has appointed a new Area General Manager (AGM) and Country Manager of the group. “To attract more Asian tourists to the InterContinental and Oman is my major mission,” Thierry Perrot told the Times of Oman. “We will continue to attract new segments of people to the na-

G C S E E X A M I NAT I O N S

Special mention A special mention has to be made for Karim Halaseh, who stood second globally in GCSE Business Studies and Milly Jones and Karishma Behera, who stood ﬁrst in the global Art and Design: Fine Arts subject. BSM’s A-Level students were equally impressive: Katie Place was second in the world in AS-level English Literature and Hyeon Ko was sixth globally in the ASLevel Further Mathematics, third in the world for A-Level Mathematics and ﬁfth in IAL-Level Chemistry. BRIEFS

Majlis Al Shura holds key meeting MUSCAT: Majlis Al Shura Services and Social Development Committee held its third sitting of the ﬁrst annual session (2015/2016) of the 8th term (2015/2019), under the chairmanship of Sheikh Hamoud bin Ahmed Al Yahyaie, Head of the Committee. The Committee discussed its proposals about its action plan for the ﬁrst annual session 2015/2016, which aims at studying the service and social development policies, plans and programmes.

Oman participates in Arab tourism council meeting – Supplied picture

tanate enjoys great natural landscapes that make it distinct from other countries in this ﬁeld. Ali Hussein, manager of Husaak Adventure Corporate, said, “I was pleased so many Arabian Gulf girls participating in the challenge of climbing the peak of Jebel Shams and wanting to raise the Gulf States’ ﬂags on it. This adventure was also a chance to introduce mountaineering and push people to get out and experience a unique tourism adventure and enjoy the natural views provided by such experiences. I’m looking forward to meet more and more visitors from the GCC countries and helping them participate in such treks and enjoy the beauty of Oman, which I consider and liken to a hidden piece of jewellery in the Gulf region.” The team members in the trek included: Linda Al Muqaimi, Rumaitha Al Busaidi and Salsabeel Al Busaidi from the Sultanate, Lulu Al Awadhi, Dalal Al Omar, Sabika Al Ayyar, Noura Al Sabah, Lamia Al Ghareeb, and Aseel Al Shaheen from Kuwait, Nada Jamsheer, Hadya Al Faddalah and Fatima Al Faddalah from Bahrain, Nahid Al Dosary and Budoor Ashadawi from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Sharifa Yateem and Danah Al Ali from the UAE.

Nahid Al Dosary from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia said, “I’m proud to represent my country within the group of Gulf girls, who could with their insistence and determination, send a message from the peak of Jebel Shams, the highest mountain peak in the Gulf region, coinciding with GCC Summit Meeting held in Riyadh, a message expressing our uniﬁcation as one nation at all levels, and declaring that Gulf women and girls can overcome difficulties with their insistence and determination. I’d like to thank the Husaak team for the great efforts they made in organising this trek, and many thanks to everyone, who made the effort to give us the chance to take part in such a magniﬁcent achievement.” Noura Al Sabah from Kuwait said, “This was my target for the last three months. Preparation and arrangements for this trek included an intensive daily athletic training programme and following a special diet to prepare our bodies to tolerate rough roads on the mountain reaching the peak, taking into consideration the climate of Oman. Before the beginning of the trek, and in consideration of my previous treks with the Husaak team, I’ve tried to recall the worst memory

– Supplied picture

and the most difficult situation I’ve faced, and my abilities at that time to face myself and overcome that difficulty.” “Our trek up to the peak of the mountain began with Friday’s sunrise, with representatives from each state of the six Gulf States with the challenge of self, insistence, determination, and persistence to reach the peak of the mountain without any delays from any State representative. I believe that the biggest motive for each of us was to raise the ﬂag of their respective country on the peak of the mountain. And Praise be to Allah, we’ve achieved our goal and the cameras documented that moment,” she added. Al Sabah further said, “I’d like to thank the Husaak team for their organization of the trek, and many thanks and gratitude to the women’s team leader , Lulu Al Awadhi, and her assistants Dalal Al Omar and Sabika Al Ayyar for their support and help given to everyone— sacriﬁcing just to complete this challenge to its end with no injuries. Special thanks to my trainer Dalal Al Omar for training me for the last three months making this trek the easiest one I went on with Husaak.” Linda Al Muqaimi, who is from the Sultanate stated, “That

trek represented the best of Gulf women unity. With our love, cooperation and insistence, we could reach the peak of the mountain despite challenges and the fact that all difficulties united us as one heart. We’ve raised our flags with pride and glory. This is the Gulf woman of today. She can be whoever she wants to be.” From Qatar, Jawahir Al Motawaa and Ghaidaa Al Sroor talked about what that trek meant to them. They considered it a platform to perform their national duty and raise the Qatari flag high. It’s not only a Gulf celebration on the highest mountain peak in the Arabian Gulf region; rather, it reflected the insistence of Qatari women to prove their rank and express gratitude in the light of Qatar’s National Day celebrations. On her part, Aysha Al Mamary from the UAE, said, “The Jebel Shams trek was a great challenge for me. My aim wasn’t to reach the peak of the mountain; rather, it was a test of my current abilities, and enjoying the nature of Oman’s charming mountains, and meeting my sisters from the Gulf States.” “I was dazzled by the proficiency of the organizing company, and the professionalism and skill of the guides,” she added.

ABU DHABI: Executive Ofﬁce of the Arab Ministerial Tourism Council yesterday held its seventeenth session in the UAE. The Sultanate’s delegation was led by Sayyid A’del bin Al Murdas Al Busaidi, Advisor of Ministry of Tourism for Tourism Affairs. The meeting studied the agenda of the Arab Tourism Ministerial Meeting and the topics that will be submitted to the ministerial meeting to make decisions about them.

OCCI organises insurance seminar MUSCAT: Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) organised an insurance seminar titled “Securing Agricultural Crops, Livestock and Fisheries,” on Tuesday. The insurance forum aims to ﬁnd a system that helps farmers and other livestock breeder in order to avoid economic losses caused by various uncontrolled reasons, including destruction , climate and other natural conditions. The opening ceremony of the seminar was sponsored by Dr Ahmed bin Nasser Al Bakri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries for Agriculture. — ONA

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

OMAN N E X T S U N D AY

Function to mark Prophet’s birthday MUSCAT: A function to mark Al Mawlid Al Nabawi Al Shareef Anniversary, Prophet’s (PBUH) birthday, will be held at the College of Sharia Sciences in Al Khuwair next Sunday. The function is being organised by the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, under the auspices of His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda bin Majid Al Said. The function will include a speech by Abdul Aziz bin Masud Al Ghafri, assistant director general of preaching and guidance, a number of religious programmes and a poem by Faisal Al Farsi. It will include a video on al Qasaﬁ art to highlight this occasion, in addition to another video titled ‘ Islam in Oman’. -ONA

Patients and hospitals will be missing experts’ service Dr Rohil Raghavan, Lifeline Hospital Director

S TAT E C O U N C I L

N I Z WA

Draft budget, ninth Haitham to sponsor launch plan discussed of book on His Majesty MUSCAT: State draft budget of 2016, the 9th Five-Year (20162020) development plan, and report of the expanded committee taking into account the economic conditions experienced by the global economy in general as a result of the drop in oil prices, was discussed by the State Council members. The members also discussed the consequent repercussions in the light of the outcomes of the extensive discussions and the interpositions of the members during submission to the Council of Ministers. The meeting also adopted the

minutes of the second regular session of the 1st annual sitting of the 6th term. The members reviewed the reports submitted by the Secretariat General, in addition to some of the topics on the agenda and took appropriate decisions in their regard. The State Council held on Tuesday its third regular session chaired by Dr. Yahya bin Mahfoudh Al Mantheri, Chairman of the State Council. It discussed suggestions of the panel consisting of the Economic Committee and the heads of the standing committees of the Council. -ONA

MUSCAT: His Highness Sayyid Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Minister of Heritage and Culture, will sponsor the launch of the book titled “Qaboos, A Sultan or A Visionary Leader”, at Nizwa Auditorium at Inter-Continental Muscat on Wednesday. The 387-page book, composed by journalist Asem Rashwan in Muscat, contains 13 chapters that cover the personal resume of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the main features of His Majesty’s personality and how it made an impact within Oman and abroad. The author highlights the pillars of the Sultanate’s foreign

The 387-page book, composed by journalist Asem Rashwan in Muscat, contains 13 chapters on His Majesty the Sultan policy which is characterised by commitment to the fundamentals of peace, steady efforts to ensure independence in decision-making process and serving the national interests being the top priority. -ONA

Cunard Line’s top ships to visit Oman Cruise ships’ visits give a tremendous boost to the tourism industry in Oman

Times News Service MUSCAT: Cunard Line’s ﬂagship Queen Mary 2 and its sister ship, Queen Elizabeth, will be visiting Oman this year, according to Khimji Ramdas, one of the biggest shipping agents in the country. Speaking to the Times of Oman, M C Jose, chief executive officer of Khimji Ramdas, Projects and Logistics Group, said that while Queen Mary 2 will be visiting Muscat and Salalah, Queen Elizabeth will dock at Salalah. Their arrival will give people an opportunity to witness the ships.

Queen Mary 2 will arrive at Port Sultan Qaboos on April 20, 2016 at 8am and will depart at 8pm. It will arrive at the Salalah Port on April 22 at 7am and will depart at 6pm. The Queen Elizabeth will arrive at the Salalah port on April 20, 2016 at 7am and will sail at 6pm. Queen Mary 2 is the largest ocean liner and was built at a cost of £540 million. The dead weight of the ship is 151,400 tonnes. It is 1,132 feet long, 135 feet wide, and has a height of 236 feet and is also the fastest passenger ship in the world. The new Queen Elizabeth, named after Queen Elizabeth I, is one of the Cunard shipping company’s best ships.

Coming season For the coming 2015-2016 season, Khimji Ramdas, one of the biggest shipping agents in the country, said it alone is set to receive around 200,000 tourists from across the world. “Altogether we will be handling around 90 ships this year, which will bring about 200,000 tourists, though the exact booking number is yet to come,” said Jose. He also said people preferred cruise holidays due to the fact that there is trouble in some of the pockets of the world. “Some people are avoiding the conﬂict-torn areas and instead opting for cruising in Arabia,” he said.

P R E S T I G I O U S AWA R D S

Visitors from all over the world look to Oman as they can ﬁnd authentic Arab culture. “Only here can they ﬁnd nationals in their national dress and working in all walks of life,” he said. An official from the Port Sultan Qaboos said the visit of the cruise ships would give a tremendous boost to the tourism industry, from the hotels and tour guides, to bazaars and taxis. “Jose also said the passenger traffic is projected to grow every year. “Our goal is to put Oman on the international cruise tourism map,” he said. Khimji Ramdas, which handles liners, such as AIDA, V-Ships, Costa, TUI, All Leisure, Princess, HAL, and Seabourn, also said it is time for the locals and the residents to go on a cruise holiday. “You can enjoy travelling for seven nights from OMR400, including food and stay. Don’t think you are going to Abu Dhabi or Dubai, but think of the ship as your destination this Christmas or this New Year,” he said. BAN

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Oman Air celebrates World Travel Awards success Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman Air is celebrating its major success at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2015 after it won the “World’s Leading Airline Economy Class 2015” title for the second year in a row. The national carrier of Oman said it was awarded for paying attention to detail for its premium customers, and the airline’s lounge at Muscat International Airport was also named the “World’s Leading Airport Lounge–Business Class 2015.” The awards were presented at a dazzling red-carpet gala ceremony, held at the Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort in El Jadida, Morocco, on December 12. Welcoming the accolades, Oman Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Paul Gregorowitsch, said: “We are honoured and delighted to accept these very prestigious awards. Oman Air’s economy Class combines superb service with outstanding comfort on both long haul and short haul flights. Whether you are flying to an intercontinental destination aboard our brand-new Boeing 787 Dreamliners, or award -inning A330’s or to a regional destination

The airline’s lounge at Muscat International Airport.

aboard our state-of-the-art Boeing 737 ﬂeet, you can be sure that you are experiencing the very best in 21st century air travel.” Unparalleled comfort “Our Business Class lounge at the Muscat International Airport offers unparalleled comfort and amenities since it opened a number of years ago. However, we have recently reopened it, following a period of substantial refurbishment. The lounge now offers an even more enjoyable environment in which to relax, make the most of Oman Air’s warm hospitality and prepare for

your flight,” he added. “As Oman Air continues its programme of fleet and network expansion, we look forward to welcoming many more customers to experience our legendary Omani hospitality and award winning service. In the meantime, I would like to thank the World Travel Awards and all those who voted for Oman Air for this wonderful recognition,” Gregorowitsch said. Oman Air’s fleet currently comprises 40 aircraft, including two B787 Dreamliners, one Boeing 737-700, 18 Boeing 737-800s, five Boeing 737-900s, four Airbus A330-200s, six Airbus A330300s and four Embraer E175s. Each features spacious and comfortable Economy Class seating, with pitches varying between 30 and 34 inches, depending on the aircraft type. Oman Air’s Business Class lounge at the Muscat International Airport combines the ultimate in modern and elegant interior design with state-of-the-art materials and technology. The lounge offers dedicated dining facilities, quiet rooms, men’s and women’s prayer rooms, wash and shower rooms, a business centre, and a spa with massage rooms.

Patients

A1 will be hit “Patients and hospitals will be missing experts’ service,” Dr Rohil Raghavan, Lifeline Hospital Director, added. Another official from Badr Al Samaa hospital had a similar opinion. “Patients will miss a few expert services in hospitals,” the Badr Al Samaa official added. “Under the new rules, any Omani doctor applying for the permit must have finished at least one year as a senior consultant or two years as a medical consultant in governmental health institutions,” the decision adds. The amendments also clarifies that authorised Omani doctors can’t work in more than two hospitals at a time. The permit includes conducting surgeries, consulting, treatment and house treatment. According to the decision, a senior consultant can work for three days maximum per week while a medical consultant can work up to two days a week. Nonetheless, timings should not conflict and work quality and ethics must not be affected. The decision also adds that authorised doctors are not allowed to use any workers or medical equipment of the government hospital at the private hospital or to promote services provided at the private hospital if it is available at the government hospital. Times of Oman contacted the Ministry of Health numerous time but no one was available for comment. K A Z A K H S TA N

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HM sends

A1 greetings

In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere congratulations along with his best wishes of good health and happiness to President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan further progress and prosperity. -ONA

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015 There will be international coordination with major powers and international organisations... In terms of operations in Syria and Iraq, we can’t undertake these operations without coordinating with legitimacy in this place and the international community Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s deputy crown prince and Defence Minister

Yemen peace talks open in Switzerland The ceaseﬁre largely holds despite some minor violations as 15 killed in air strikes prior to the truce

GENEVA/DUBAI: A ceasefire took hold in Yemen on Tuesday as United Nations-sponsored peace talks opened in Switzerland in a new push to end months of fighting that has killed killed nearly 6,000 people and dragged in foreign powers, a UN spokesman said. Army commanders and residents said the truce appeared to be largely holding despite some minor violations reported by both sides. The United Nations said it was preparing to deliver medicine and food to Yemen this week, taking advantage of the sevenday ceasefire to address one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. “It is you who will decide whether peace will prevail or Yemen will be thrust further into darkness, tragedy and suffering,” UN Secretary-General Special Envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed said in opening remarks to delegates in Geneva. “Are you going to abandon Yemen and its people and lead the country into further violence and slaughter, or are you going to put Yemen first?,” he said. The war has pitted the Houthis, a northern-based movement who seized the capital Sanaa and much of the rest of the country since September 2014, against the government of President Abdrabbo Mansour Hadi. A Saudi-led coalition, mainly comprised of Arab forces and aided by the United States, inter-

NEGOTIATIONS: UN Secretary-General Special Envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, centre, with del-

egations from Sanaa at the Yemen peace talks in Switzerland on Tuesday. – Reuters/UN/Jean-Marc Ferre/Handout

vened in March with air strikes and ground troops and has rolled back some of the advances by the Houthis. Hadi ﬂed to Saudi Arabia in February but returned to loyalist-held Yemen last month. Militants are also involved in the conﬂict. An earlier round of UN-backed indirect talks in Geneva in June ended without an agreement, with both sides blaming each other for their collapse. Unlike the previous round, the current session opened with an agenda being agreed and with senior delegates meeting face-toface. The main task for the negotiations will be agreeing on how to implement a UN Security Council Resolution in April that called on the Houthi movement to quit Sanaa and other cities. Option of using force Yemeni Prime Minister Khaled Bahah said in Qatar that the purpose of the talks was to win back the state seized by the Houthis. The option of using force to achieve that remained on the table, he said. “Despite the optimism, and based on our experience, the talks won’t be easy,” Bahah said, ac-

cording to the Qatari state news agency QNA. “We are seeking to reach peaceful solutions but the stick will remain to achieve what could not be achieved in the talks.” Before the ceaseﬁre went into effect, residents said war planes struck the village of Bani Al Haddad, in northern Hajjah province on the border with Saudi Arabia, killing 13 people and wounding 20 others. Two more residents died while medics were trying to evacuate them, they said. A spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition could not immediately be reached for comment. In southwestern Yemen, coalition forces captured the Red Sea island of Zuqur, part of the Hanish Archipelago that controls the main sea route near the strait of Bab Al Mandab, Saudi state television reported, quoting the coalition spokesman. The island contains the highest mountain in the area, which gives the coalition control over the waterway. Residents also reported air strikes in Dhamar and Hodeida provinces and ground clashes in the city of Taiz, a focal point of ﬁghting between the Houthis and

S AU D I A R A B I A’ S D E C L A R AT I O N

34-state military alliance to fight against terrorism DUBAI/PARIS: A new Saudiled alliance to fight terrorism will share information and train, equip and provide forces if necessary for the fight against IS militants, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir said on Tuesday. Saudi Arabia announced earlier on Tuesday the formation of a 34-nation military coalition to combat terrorism, a move welcomed by the United States. “Nothing is off the table,” Al Jubeir said when asked whether the initiative could include troops on the ground. “It depends on the requests that come, it depends on the need and it depends on the CAMP BASHIQA

Iraq demands full Turkish troops pullout BAGHDAD: Turkey must pull all its forces out of a camp in northern Iraq, a spokesman for the Iraqi prime minister said on Tuesday after Turkey withdrew some troops from the area. The deployment of around 150 Turkish troops to a camp near the northern Iraqi city of Mosul earlier this month has strained relations between Ankara and Baghdad, which protested to the United Nations. Position “The position of the government of Iraq is still the same: Turkey must pull out this force to the international borders and not reorganise its deployment,” Saad Al Hadithi told Reuters. “The reported withdrawal of Turkish military personnel and equipment out of camp Bashiqa that should be followed by additional steps and measures, opens the door towards moving past this incident”, UN envoy to Iraq Jan Kubis said in a statement on Tuesday. — Reuters

willingness of countries to provide the support necessary,” he told a a news brieﬁng in Paris. Saudi state news agency SPA said the new coalition would have a joint operations centre based in Riyadh to “coordinate and support military operations”. The states it listed as joining the new coalition included Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Malaysia, Pakistan and several African nations. The statement cited “a duty to protect the nation from the evils of all terrorist groups and organizations, whatever their sect and name, which wreak death and

corruption on earth and aim to terrorise the innocent”. In a press conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s deputy crown prince and Defence Minister Mohammed bin Salman said the new coalition aimed to “coordinate” efforts to ﬁght terrorism in Iraq, Syria, Libya, Egypt and Afghanistan. “There will be international coordination with major powers and international organisations... In terms of operations in Syria and Iraq, we can’t undertake these operations without coordinating with legitimacy in this place and the international community,” he said, without elaborating. — Reuters

supporters of Hadi, as well as in Marib, east of Sanaa. In northern Yemen, the coalition launched a military campaign in late March to stop the Houthis from taking complete control of Yemen. The Houthis accuse the coalition of launching a war of aggression. The campaign has brought Hadi a little closer to running a united country again. A stalemate in the fighting and the rise of IS militant group in Yemen may convince the warring sides that a peace accord is the only way to end the conflict. Months of fighting have devastated the country, depriving millions of civilians of essential daily needs, including food and medical supplies. The World Health Organization (WHO) said 19 trucks, were ready in the southern port city of Aden, which is under government control, and the capital Sanaa, which is under Houthi control, to distribute medical supplies across Yemen. Some 150 metric tonnes of supplies in WHO’s warehouse in Djibouti are also expected to be shipped to Sanaa on Dec 21 or 22, he said. From there, ships will take them to other Yemeni ports. — Reuters

REGION

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

INDIA WAT E R B O R N E D I S E A S E

DEADLOCK CONTINUES

Jaitley seeks Congress support on GST bill, says India can touch 9% growth NEW DELHI: Contending that India has an opportunity to touch 9 per cent growth, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Tuesday made a fresh bid to end the deadlock on GST bill as he reached out to Congress, asking it to think about the “legacy” it would be leaving behind by opposing it. Speaking in the Lower House of the Parliament, Lok Sabha, Jaitley praised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for openly supporting GST and appealed to those opposing it that a message should not go to the world that Parliament in India is being an “obstruction”. ‘Bright spot’ He said India is being seen as a “bright spot” when other major economies have slowed down and this opportunity to realise the full growth potential should be seized. “It not difficult for India to grow at 8-9 per cent. It is not impossi-

Those who try to create impediments want to poverty to perpetuate.... By short-sighted vision, we end up hurting the poor in this country Arun Jaitley Finance Minister

ble,” Jaitley said in the Lok Sabha while replying to a debate on the second batch of Supplementary Demand for Grants of Rs 56,256 crore which was later approved.

He said the best solution to poverty eradication is enabling the country to grow faster which will generate jobs and increase resources of the government.

“Those who try to create impediments want to poverty to perpetuate.... By short-sighted vision, we end up hurting the poor in this country,” Jaitley said. He said GST (Goods and Services Tax) bill, which aims at reforming the direct taxation system in the country, can push the country’s growth by one and oneand-a-half per cent. Reaching out to main opposition party which is opposing the bill that is pending in Rajya Sabha, Jaitley said, “I would urge the current leadership of Congress party also to look at the history and legacy they want to leave behind. Support these measures so that we are able to grow faster. We have more money to get rid of poverty much faster.” He noted that GST was ﬁrst brought by the previous Congress-led government and was “unquestionably” the “collective wisdom of everybody... But today they oppose.” - PTI

1.5m children die of diarrhoea every year NEW DELHI: Out of more than 35 million Indians who are affected by water-borne diseases annually, 1.5 million children die due to diarrhoea alone, a Centre for Science and Environment report revealed on Tuesday. The latest publication ‘Body Burden 2015-State of India’s Health’ which examines the linkage between environment and health quite comprehensively said that a number of public health catastrophes arising out of environmental reasons are staring the people of India in the face. “The report informs that about 37.7 million Indians are affected by water-borne diseases annually.Around 1.5 million children die due to diarrhoea alone, and 73 million working days are lost due to water-borne illnesses each year.Estimates suggest India loses Rs36,600 crore every year due to water-borne diseases,” CSE said. Referring to the connection between water and sanitation and

malnutrition, the report says that by 2015, the ﬁgure of malnutrition should have dropped to 26 per cent as per the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) but the country fell short of the goal by seven per cent. Notwithstanding the progress, CSE said that India still cannot answer why the malnutrition rate among its children is so high. “The world’s largest programme to tackle child malnutrition, the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), has been in force in the country since 1975, much before any other country, save the US, introduced measures to tackle the problem,” points out the report. Noting that malnutrition is prevalent in comparatively richer states as well, the report indicates that higher income does not necessarily correlate with better health of children. India loses over $12 billion in gross domestic product due to vitamin and mineral deﬁciencies among its population. -PTI

Jaitley file behind CBI search, says Kejriwal The Delhi CM said the CBI team was looking for a report of the inquiry commission that had probed, on his instructions, the

DEPLOYMENT: Heavy police force deployed at Delhi Secretariat

during a CBI raid in New Delhi on Tuesday. - PTI

affairs of the DDCA which he alleged was a den of corruption

NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday took a swipe at the Centre, saying the CBI search at the Delhi Secretariat was aimed at a ﬁle connected to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and his links with the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA).Jaitley refused to comment on the issue beyond terming

Kejriwal’s charge as “rubbish”. The raid by the Central Bureau of Investigation at the Delhi government’s seat of power -- speciﬁcally the third ﬂoor where both the offices of the principal secretary to the chief minister and Kejriwal himself are located — rocked political parties both inside and outside parliament during the day. Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, K.C. Tyagi of the Janata Dal-United and leaders of Left parties came out in support of the Aam Aadmi Party government. The Congress targeted the Centre over the raid, but also attacked

Delhi chief minister for his “double standards”. Kejriwal said the CBI team was looking for a report of the inquiry commission that had probed, on his instructions, the affairs of the DDCA which he alleged was a den of corruption. “Jaitley had been involved for a long time with the DDCA,” he said. “They wanted the file of DDCA... Jaitley figures in it. They came looking for that file,” he told reporters outside the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia where AAP leaders held a meeting. Reacting to Kejriwal’s statement, Jaitley said on Tuesday

evening: “His (Kejriwal) morning statement appeared to be prima facie incorrect. But the evening one seems to be absolute rubbish. And I don’t think I need to respond to rubbish.” Earlier on Tuesday, Jaitley said the CBI raid was not against Kejriwal, but against an official who was attached to his office. “The raids have nothing to do with Arvind Kejriwal’s office or his tenure as chief minister. They relate to a period much before he became chief minister. “Now if these facts can be twisted and an incorrect argument is developed, let others outside do it because every word said in this house has sanctity,” Jaitley said in parliament. Kejriwal, however, stressed that the CBI searches were aimed at him and the allegations against his principal secretary Rajendra Kumar were just an excuse to hit at him. “Rajendra is an excuse, Kejriwal is the target,” he said, referring to the principal secretary who the CBI alleged was involved in corruption. Earlier, CBI spokesperson Devpreet Singh denied any raid at Kejriwal’s office. The chief minister said the CBI was lying because its officers did search his office. - IANS

BITING COLD

Cold wave sweeps north India, claims first life in Rajasthan NEW DELHI: A cold wave coupled with fog on Tuesday hit normal life in most parts of Northern plains, and possibly claimed its first victim in Jaipur, even as the hilly areas of Uttarakhand and Indian-administered-Kashmir came under the grip of biting chill. Several trains of North-Western Railways were running late by several hours due to the ongoing fog in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi, a railways spokesman said. Aviation regulator DGCA has also directed all schedule domestic airlines to operate only with CAT-III complaint aircraft along with trained crew during fog hours. It was a chilly day in the national capital on Tuesday with the minimum temperature settling at 8 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season’s average. The maximum temperature was recorded at 22.2 degrees Celsius, a notch below the normal, a Meteorological department official said.Visibility was recorded at 1,500 metres at 5.30am which improved to 2,000 metres at 8.30am, he said. Cold wave intensified in Kashmir Valley with Leh town in Ladakh region being the coldest place in Jammu and Kashmir as the mercury fell there to minus 14 degrees. He said the nearby Kargil town recorded a low of minus 11.4 degrees. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 0.3 degrees.

ICY COLD: Icecles hanging from the roof top of a building at a ski

resort Gulmarg after fresh snowfall on Tuesday. - PTI

Cold weather conditions prevailed on Tuesday in Haryana and Punjab with temperatures hovering below normal levels at most places. In Punjab, Amritsar was the coldest place with a minimum temperature of 2.5 degrees. The minimum temperature at Chandigarh settled at 7.4 deg C. However, the residents of the Union Territory woke up to a sunny morning on Tuesday. Severe cold wave sweeping across Rajasthan claimed the life of a middle-aged beggar in

Jaipur’s Ramganj area. He was found unconscious by passersby in the early morning in the open. Jaipur experienced the coldest night of the season with 5.3 degrees, about 6 degree less than normal. While Churu recorded the lowest temperature of 2.4 degree C. Meanwhile, due to fog in neighbouring states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and UP seven passengers’ train of North-Western Railway were running late in Rajasthan, railways CPRO Tarun Jain said. - PTI

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

INDIA

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Talks with Pakistan ‘to try and turn course of history’, says PM Addressing the ﬁrst ever Combined Commanders Conference to be held outside the national capital, the Prime Minister warned against “reckless” nuclear build up and continuing military modernisation and expansion. Modi said “our neighbourhood is most critical for our future and for our place in the world.

This is the ﬁrst time that Modi has spoken on the relations with Pakistan after the two countries announced the re-engagement under bilateral comprehensive dialogue last week

ONE FOR THE ALBUM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi poses with Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar,

three services chiefs and other officials onboard INS Vikramaditya, in Kochi, Kerala on Tuesday. - PTI

KOCHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said resumption of talks with Pakistan was to “try and turn the course of history” and to bring an end to terrorism but made it clear that the neighbouring country would be judged by its commitment on terrorism. Modi also asserted that India will never drop its guard on security as he admitted that there are many challenges and barriers on the path.

Speaking to India’s top military commanders on board the country’s largest aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, Modi said “we are engaging Pakistan to try and turn the course of history, bring an end to terrorism, build peaceful relations, advance cooperation and promote stability and prosperity in our region. “There are many challenges and barriers on the path. But the effort is worth it because the peace divi-

FROM JANUARY I

PAN now mandatory to settle hotel bills, air tickets of Rs50K NEW DELHI: PAN will be mandatory from January 1 for cash payment made to settle hotels bills or for buying foreign travel tickets of Rs 50,000 as the government tightened disclosure norms to check generation of domestic black money. The PAN requirement for nonluxury cash transactions will be Rs 200,000. However, in a relief to small investors, the requirement of furnishing PAN for making post ofﬁce deposit of over Rs 50,000 has been dispensed with. PAN will also be mandatory on purchase of immovable property of Rs1 million. This will be a relief to small home buyers as previously the government had proposed to make PAN quoting mandatory for purchase or sale of Rs 500,000. Unveiling the new norms, Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia said purchasing of jewellery or bullion, a major source of black money, quoting of PAN would be required if the sum involved is Rs 200,000 per transaction. Currently, it is required for transaction of Rs500,000 and above. PAN would also be mandatory for cash payments of more than Rs 50,000 for cash cards or prepaid instruments as well as for acquiring shares of unlisted companies for Rs 100,000 and above. It has also been mandatory for opening all bank accounts except Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana accounts, he said. The relief also includes discontinuation of requirement of PAN for installation of basic landline or cellphone connection.

In the Lower House of the Parliament, Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the government will soon issue a notiﬁcation making quoting of PAN mandatory for all cash and card transactions beyond Rs 200,000. The limit is double of Rs 100,000 that he had proposed in his Budget for 2015-16. Black money “An issue is being raised with regard to black money.... Very shortly we will be placing the notiﬁcation that if you deal in cash of more than Rs200,000, a PAN number would be necessary,” he said replying to debate in the Lok Sabha on Supplementary Demands for Grants. Adhia said a distinction has been made in case of hotel and foreign travel bills of Rs 50,000 as they are luxury spending. All other cash transactions would attract the PAN requirement if they are above Rs200,000. The Rs200,000 limit for disclosure of PAN card is an “interim measure” and ultimate goal is to lower it Rs 100,000 Adhia said. To bring balance between burden of compliance on legitimate transactions and the need to capture information relating to high value transaction, he said, the money limits have now been raised to Rs1 million from Rs500,000 for sale or purchase of immovable property, to Rs 50,000 from Rs 25,000 in the case of hotel or restaurant bills paid at any one time, and to Rs100,000 from Rs 50,000 for purchase or sale of shares of an unlisted company. - PTI

DROP IN GLOBAL OIL PRICES

Petrol price slashed by 50 paisa per litre NEW DELHI: Petrol price was cut on Tuesday by 50 paisa and diesel by 46 paisa a litre, much lower than an anticipated decrease as oil companies left cushion for the government to mop up gains accruing from global oil prices dipping to multi-year lows. Petrol will cost Rs59.98 from midnight on Tuesday in Delhi as against Rs60.48 per litre currently. Similarly, a litre of diesel will cost Rs46.09 as compared to Rs 46.55 now, said Indian Oil Corp (IOC), the nation’s biggest fuel retailer said. The rate of basket of crude oil that India buys hit a 11-year low of $34.39 per barrel on Monday, but the average for the fortnight which is taken

into account for calculating new prices, was $ 4-5 more. Acting as a counter-balance was the rupee that fell to Rs 66.99 to a US dollar on Monday as against average of Rs 66.21 of second half of November for the previous cut. Industry officials said the net impact of the two should have warranted a reduction of at least Rs 2 per litre but the oil companies have kept some cushion on cues that government may like to raise excise duty on the two fuels to mop up its revenues as it has done ﬁve times in last one year. Excise duty was last raised on November 7; on petrol, by Rs 1.60 per litre and on diesel by 40 paise per litre. - PTI

dends are huge and the future of our children is at stake. Dialogue “So, we will test their intentions to deﬁne the path ahead. For this, we have started a new NSA-level dialogue to bring security experts face to face with each other. But we will never drop our guard on security and we will continue to judge progress on their commitments on terrorism,” he said.

This is the ﬁrst time that Modi has spoken on the relations with Pakistan after the two countries announced the re-engagement under bilateral comprehensive dialogue last week. The announcement came after Modi had met his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines of the climate change summit in Paris on November 30 where the two also agreed to hold NSAlevel talks.

Difficult neighbourhood “But ours is a difficult neighbourhood with the full spectrum of security challenges. We see terrorism and ceaseﬁre violations, reckless nuclear build-up and threats, border transgressions and continuing military modernisation and expansion. The shadow of West Asian instability is becoming longer,” he said. Modi said beyond that, “our region is marked by uncertain political transitions, weak institutions and internal conﬂicts. And, major powers have also increased their engagement in our land and maritime neighbourhood,” he said. Modi said that India is also pursuing closer relations with China to harness the full potential of the country’s economic partnership. “We will aim to address outstanding issues, maintain stability on the border and develop greater

mutual understanding and trust in our overlapping neighbourhood,” he said. The Prime Minister also spoke about the relations with China and said he believes that India and China can engage constructively across the complexity of their relationship as two self-assured and confident nations, aware of their interests and responsibilities. “We will continue to strengthen our defence capabilities and infrastructure, engage our neighbours more closely and strengthen our regional and global partnerships, including in maritime security,” he said. Noting that in a world of rapid changes, India faces familiar threats and new ones, Modi said the country’s challenges cover land, sea and air at the same time. “It includes the full range, from terrorism to conventional threat to a nuclear environment,” he said. Confident He said that India is confident that its defence forces are prepared to deter and defeat any misadventure. “Our strategic deterrence is robust and reliable, in accordance with our nuclear doctrine, and our political will is clear,” the prime minister asserted. - PTI

A10

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PAKISTAN

The CPEC would prove to be the game changer. A new Pakistan is emerging due to the state of the art development projects Philip Burton, British High Commissioner

MEGA PROJECT

STARK REMINDER

Pakistani students and civil society activists gather beside a board bearing images of victims of the Peshawar massacre of December 16, 2014, the deadliest terror attack in country’s history, ahead of the first anniversary, in Lahore on Tuesday. As they prepare to mark the first anniversary of a siege that unified the country as never before in its more than decade-long battle against insurgents, the students, teachers and other staff say it must never be forgotten. - AFP

British high commissioner calls CPEC a ‘game changer’ LAHORE: British High Commissioner Philip Burton has put his country’s weight behind the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), saying that the $46-billion mega project marks a new dawn for the South Asian country. Burton, speaking during his visit to the under-construction Nishat Emporium in Lahore, said the international community was once again looking at Pakistan with conﬁdence. “I am looking at a reverse of brain drain in Pakistan,” said Burton. “The CPEC would prove to be the game changer. A new Pakistan is emerging due to the state of the art development projects.” He said the country’s security situation has improved signiﬁcantly, which helps in stabilising the country’s economy. However, he reminded Pakistani manufacturers to adhere to international conventions on human rights and labour standards for continued access to EU markets under the GSP Plus status. “We would like Pakistani companies to have the best opportunities in EU markets. More British brands are coming to Pakistan, giving a boost to the domestic retail sector.” Meanwhile, Nishat Group Chairman Mian Muhammad Mansha appreciated the keen interest and support of the British government. - Express Tribune

SUPERMODEL

Ayyan Ali moves court for removal of name from Exit Control list KARACHI: Supermodel Ayyan Ali has approached the Sindh High Court, asking for the removal of her name from the Exit Control List (ECL). Making the interior ministry and in-charge Jinnah International Airport as respondents, Ayyan’s lawyer contended her inclusion in the ECL violated fundamental rights in light of Article 18 of the Constitution. Earlier on December 1, a customs court in Rawalpindi returned Ayyan’s passport after she submitted two surety bonds worth Rs1 million each, and a document of personal guarantee. Denies charges The supermodel was arrested by customs officials from Benazir Bhutto International Airport, Islamabad on March 14 after $506,800 were recovered from her luggage. She was released from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi after almost four months in detention. She was indicted in the money laundering case but denies the charges. - Express Tribune

New telecom policy is hailed as harbinger of development Some of the core issues to be addressed by the new policy include provision of public Wi-Fi hot spots, fast tracking right of way process for telecom infrastructure, eliminating grey telephony

The telecom policy aims at facilitating the attainment of an all-embracing national agenda and to transform Pakistan into an economically vibrant, knowledgebased, middle-income country by 2025

KARACHI: The Telecommunications Policy 2015, which was approved by the government last week, addresses a large number of issues facing cellular mobile operators (CMOs) who are seeing the new policy as a positive development that will strengthen the telecom sector. “By and large the new policy is

very positive for the industry and we look forward to a level-playing ﬁeld that will further boost the sector’s growth,” said Omar Manzur, Director Corporate Communication at Mobilink, the largest CMO by subscriber base. Though the long-awaited policy document addressed most of the issues facing the telecom sector, it didn’t accommodate CMOs’ request to award them ‘industry’ status, which could help reduce their

tax obligations, such as customs duty, sales tax and income tax. To this, Manzur said negotiations with the government are a continuous process but the new policy is positive overall. The telecom sector was successfully deregulated in 2003. Since then, it has witnessed unprecedented growth in terms of teledensity, especially through mobile penetration. The country’s total teledensity stands at 66 per

cent as of October 2015, up from 4.3 per cent at the end of ﬁscal year 2003. The 2003 policy had to be revised after ﬁve years but successive governments didn’t pay much attention to it, resulting in a 12-year hiatus. In the meantime, the information and communications technology (ICT) entered an exciting and transformational era and became one of the dominant contributors to economic growth – thus needing an updated policy to address the challenges of today. “The Telecom Policy 2015 is aimed to facilitate the attainment of an all-embracing national agenda and to transform Pakistan into an economically vibrant, knowledge-based, middle-income country by 2025,” says the new policy document. “With socio-economic development through ICT at its core, this is a graduating step towards strengthening Telecommunications sector in Pakistan,” Telenor Pakistan’s Chief Corporate Affairs and Strategy Officer Aslam Hayat said in a statement. Explaining, Hayat says the new policy lays out an adequate foundation for telecom infrastructure, spectrum, Universal Services

Fund (USF), ICT, research and development funds and satellite telecommunications, which will contribute towards forming an effective framework for implementation of telecom projects and rationalising taxes. Some of the core issues to be addressed by the new policy include provision of public Wi-Fi hot spots, fast tracking right of way process for telecom infrastructure, eliminating grey telephony, establishing telecentres with USF kitty to increase coverage in under-served areas and a competition framework aimed to encourage efficient and high quality market offering and choice of services to consumers. While CMOs termed it a positive policy overall, the document doesn’t seem to cover everything concerning the industry. “We are now eagerly looking forward to the IT Policy, which will complement this Telecom Policy,” said Hayat. - Express Tribune

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BOOSTING DEFENCE

Pakistan successfully test fires Shaheen 1A ballistic missile ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday successfully test fired Shaheen 1A ballistic missile, the military’s media wing Inter Services Public Relations said. The flight test was aimed at re-validating several design and technical parameters of the weapon system, ISPR added. Shaheen1A is capable of delivering different types of warheads to a range of 900 kilometres. “Today’s launch with impact point in Arabian Sea was witnessed by senior officers from Strategic Plans Division, strategic forces, scientists and engineers of strategic organisations,” the statement added. Director General Strategic Plans Division, Lieutenant General Mazhar Jamil, congratulated the scientists and engineers for their dedication, professionalism and commitment towards yet another display of strengthening Pakistan’s defence. He said Shaheen-1A with its sophisticated and advanced guid-

BLAST OFF: Shaheen1A is capable of delivering different types of warheads to a range of 900 kilometres. - ISPR

ance system makes it a highly accurate missile system, reiterating Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are based on Credible Minimum Deterrence and desire for peaceful co-existence in the region. The successful test launch has been warmly appreciated by President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif who congratulated the scientists and engineers on achieving another outstanding milestone. Last week, Pakistan conducted

a successful ﬂight test of the medium-range Shaheen-III surfaceto-surface ballistic missile, which can deliver a nuclear payload as far as 2,750km. Pakistan testﬁred the Shaheen-I and ShaheenII missiles last year. Shaheen-I is also capable of carrying nuclear as well as conventional warheads and has a range of 900km while the Shaheen-II missile can also carry nuclear and conventional warheads up to a range of 1,500km. - Express Tribune

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

ASIA

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US official warns of arms race in South China Sea US Navy Commander Admiral Scott Swift urged nations, like China, to seek arbitration to settle maritime disputes

TOKYO: The US Paciﬁc Fleet Commander has warned of a possible arms race in the disputed South China Sea which could engulf the region, as nations become increasingly tempted to use military force to settle territorial spats instead of international law. Commander Admiral Scott Swift urged nations, like China, to seek arbitration to settle maritime disputes. “My concern is that after many decades of peace and prosperity, we may be seeing the leading edge of a return of “might makes it right” to the region,” Swift said on Monday in a speech in Hawaii, according to a copy seen by Reuters. “Claimants and non-claimants alike are transferring larger shares of national wealth to develop more capable naval forces beyond what is needed merely for self defence,” Swift said. Tensions Asked about Swift’s comments, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said: “Certain countries are exaggerating tensions in the South China Sea region, which is in reality to create confusion and meddle in the South China Sea. China is resolutely opposed to this.” China claims most of the South China Sea, through which more than $5 trillion of world trade 1 2 - D AY C E A S E F I R E

Philippine Maoists declare holiday truce MANILA: Philippine Maoist-led rebels on Tuesday declared a 12day ceaseﬁre to mark Christmas, ordering guerrilla units to halt offensive operations against military targets and businesses from construction and mines to plantations. The unilateral cessation of hostilities will run from December 23 to January 3, rebel chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni said in a statement on the rebels’ website. “This ceaseﬁre order is being issued in solidarity with the Filipino people’s traditional celebrations of Christmas and New Year holidays,” said Jalandoni, a former Catholic priest based in the Netherlands. He said the truce would also allow rebels to gather to mark the 47th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, which has been waging protracted guerrilla warfare for 45 years with the aim of overthrowing the government. There was no immediate response from the government of President Benigno Aquino. — Reuters

MAKING A POINT: Commander of the US Pacific Fleet Admiral Scott Swift sits in front of a large poster of an Australian Navy frigate as he listens to a question at the Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney, Australia, in this October 6, 2015 file photo. - Reuetrs

ships every year, a fifth of it heading to and from US ports. Beijing is building seven man-made islands on reefs in the Spratly Islands, including a 3,000-metre-long (10,000-foot) airstrip on one of the sites, according to satellite imagery of the area. “Even now, ships and aircraft operating nearby these features, in accordance with international law are subject to superfluous warnings that threaten routine commercial and military operations,” Swift said, speaking at the Cooperative Strategy Forum to naval commanders from Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia and other countries. A Chinese naval fleet is currently visiting Hawaii, including a destroyer and a frigate, according

to China’s Defence Ministry. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan also claim parts of the South China Sea. In October, the US guided missile destroyer Lassen sailed close to one of China’s man-made islands, drawing an angry rebuke from China and a shadowing patrol. But the US Navy is unlikely to carry out another patrol within 12 nautical miles of Chinese-built islands in the South China Sea this year as officials had initially suggested, US defence officials say. Australia’s Defence Department said one of its aircraft was involved in “a routine maritime patrol” over the South China Sea from November 25 to December 4. The BBC reported the aircraft was “exercising international

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freedom of navigation rights”. “There is no problem with freedom of navigation and overﬂight in the South China Sea,” Hong said when asked about the Australian patrol. “Countries outside the region should respect other country’s sovereignty and not deliberately complicate the issue.” China has been building up its civilian infrastructure in the South China Sea, and over the weekend, opened its ﬁrst school there, on Woody Island in the Paracels, state media said. In a challenge to China’s island building program, Manila has asked the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague to affirm its right to areas within 200 nautical miles of its coastline, under the terms of a UN convention.

“The Arbitration Tribunal’s case between the Philippines and China could become the latest opportunity to demonstrate lawful access to regional prosperity for all nations,” Swift said. Beijing so far has rejected the courts jurisdiction and has boycotted the hearing. Rulings are supposed to be binding on its member countries, which include China. But the tribunal has no powers of enforcement and its verdicts have sometimes been ignored. The People’s Daily, the official newspaper of China’s ruling Communist Party, on Tuesday described the arbitration case as a “farce” designed to rip territory from China it has had sovereignty over since ancient times. — AFP

FA C E B O O K P O S T

Court rejects petition to free critic of Thai junta BANGKOK: A Thai court on Tuesday rejected a petition to free a critic of Thailand’s junta who was arrested in hospital, a leader of an anti-government activist group said. The military seized power in a May 2014 coup. Since then, it has pursued perceived critics of the monarchy and stifled freedom of expression, detaining activists, journalists and opposition politicians at military camps for attitude adjustment sessions. Sirawit Serithiwat, the activist, said the Ratchada Criminal Court on Tuesday rejected a petition he filed for the release of Thanet Anantawong, 25. Reporters were not allowed into the court session. Thanet was taken from a hospital on Sunday by undercover police officers while he awaited an operation, Human Rights Watch said in a statement on Tuesday. “Thailand’s junta has reached a new level of ruthlessness by snatching an activist from his hospital bed,” said Brad Adams, Asia Director at Human Rights Watch. Thanet’s medical treatment had been completed when he was detained, junta spokesman Colonel WinThai Suvaree said. “He was detained after his medical check-up was done and he was paying for his hospital fees,” WinThai told reporters. “In any case, as we were concerned about the suspect’s health, we invited doctors to check him and found that he did not have a serious medical condition.” Police say Thanet has been charged under Article 116 of Thailand’s criminal code - the equivalent of sedition - and the wideranging Computer Crime Act, according to an arrest warrant issued for him. The police allege that he violated the act by re-posting a graphic on Facebook linking some top government officials to alleged corruption involving the financing of a park built by the military to honour past kings. — Reuters

A B U S AY YA F G R O U P

15 killed as Philippine troops clash with rebels MANILA: Philippine troops clashed on Tuesday with militants on a remote southern island and 15 people were killed as security forces step up an offensive against rebels who beheaded a Malaysian captive, an army spokesman said. Militants from the Abu Sayyaf group had steered clear of government troops on the islands of Jolo and Basilan since the beheading of a Malaysian restaurant owner last month. The Al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf, known for kidnappings, beheadings and bombings, are one of the most brutal rebel factions in the south of the largely Christian Philippines. Gun battle Army troops killed 13 rebels in the gun battle that erupted at 5pm (0900 GMT) in the jungles near the town of Al Barka on Basilan island, army spokesman Filemon Tan said. Two soldiers were also killed and 10 were wounded, he added. Although soldiers had been in the area since Sunday, Tan said, “It was only today when the ﬁghting got bigger.”

and took it to a police laboratory for DNA tests, Brigadier-General Alan Arrojado told reporters. The military spokesman in Manila, Colonel Restituto Padilla, said an informant had led troops to the site, and added, “The head was sent to the police for DNA testing and now the body for DNA matching.”

GUN BATTLE: Army troops killed 13 rebels in the gun battle that erupted at 5pm (0900 GMT) in the

jungles near the town of Al Barka on Basilan island, army spokesman Filemon Tan said. Two soldiers were also killed and 10 were wounded, he added. – Photo ﬁles

Sporadic skirmishes were continuing, he said. The troopers found a major rebel base on the island, Tan said, adding that the military had launched an offensive

against the rebels since November 18, when President Benigno Arroyo ordered them to hunt down Abu Sayyaf over the execution. There was no immediate state-

ment from the rebel group. Soldiers in nearby Jolo found a body believed to be that of the beheaded Malaysian businessman in a shallow grave on Monday night

Clear identification A clear identification would be necessary prior to notifying Malaysian authorities and the victim’s family, he said. Attending the Asia Pacific Economic Conference in Manila last month, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak had condemned the beheading of the businessman, Bernard Then Ted Fen, calling it a “savage and barbaric act”. The government signed a peace deal with the largest rebel group, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, in March, promising to grant autonomy in the south and ending a 45-year conflict that killed 120,000 people and displaced 2 million. — Reuters

HOIGHEST LEVEL

Hazardous smog hits its highest level in Shanghai, schools shut SHANGHAI/BEIJING: Smog in Chinese metropolis Shanghai hit its highest level since January on Tuesday, prompting schools to ban outdoor activities and authorities to limit work at construction sites and factories as polluted air spreads around the country. Last week, hazardous pollution levels in Beijing triggered the capital’s ﬁrst “red alert,” meaning vehicles were ordered off the roads, classes were cancelled and heavy vehicles banned. Shanghai’s heavy smog arrived just a day before the city hosts the closely-watched World Internet Conference, which will include a speech by President Xi Jinping. Attendees are expected to include global tech industry titans and the leaders of countries such as Russia and Pakistan. On Tuesday, a curtain of grey

smog fell over Shanghai, China’s business capital with a population of over 20 million. It limited visibility and drove the city’s air quality index (AQI) above 300, a level deemed “hazardous” on most scales and which can have a longterm impact on health. Dangerous pollutants The levels of PM 2.5, dangerous tiny pollutants, hit 281, the highest since mid-January, according to data compiled by the U.S. Department of State. PM 2.5 particles are a major cause of asthma and respiratory diseases, experts say. “Because of (the smog) my kid often gets sick, often has a stuffy nose and a cough,” said Valen Wang, 40, a full-time mother in Shanghai. “At the moment, the pollution feels like it just keeps on getting worse, and all we can do is

RED ALERT: A woman wears a face mask as she commutes on a heavily polluted day in Shanghai on Tuesday. – AFP

slow it down a little.” The smog prompted Shanghai authorities to issue a “yellow alert,” the third-highest level warning, and to advise elderly,

young and sick residents to remain at home, avoid outdoor activity and keep the windows closed. China’s pollution is causing a headache nationwide, with many

rivers and lakes clogged with garbage, and heavy metals in the soil. Bad air sometimes causes ﬂight delays. The heavy smog in Shanghai also comes as provinces to the north tighten pollution regulations for steel mills and cement plants, pushing production south. Some Shanghai residents donned masks to ﬁlter the air, while others shunned protection. “My throat is rather dry and it hurts,” Cao Yonglong, a 30-yearold delivery man said. “I keep wanting to have a drink of water.” Meanwhile, China promised again to take steps to reduce air pollution in the run-up to the 2022 Winter Olympics, to be held in Beijing and a nearby city. Government officials have sought to allay fears Beijing’s notoriously poor air will mar the Winter Games, though the city won

wide acclaim when it hosted the summer Olympics in 2008. Speaking at a ceremony marking the formal establishment of the Games’ organising committee, Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli promised authorities would take ‘realistic action’ to gradually reduce levels of hazardous particle pollution. “This is the greatest hope of regular people,” Zhang, who sits on the ruling Communist Party’s elite Politburo Standing Committee, said at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People. Zhang did not say what speciﬁc measures the government would adopt to reduce pollution. Environmental degradation has been the cost of decades of breakneck economic growth in China, he added. In March, the Beijing bid committee said the government was spending $7.6 billion on efforts to tackle smog. — Reuters

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READERS’ FORUM It’s heartening to see the major losses in elections for France’s far-right party National Front This refers to the major losses for France’s far-right party, the National Front. It is heartening to see that the French public has responded maturely after the Paris attacks. The extremist outﬁt has been trying to make inroads to be able to be voted to power, which would surely hurt the immigrant populations. However, the fact that the mainstream rightwingers won the elections is still worrisome as they are bound to come up with policies similar to those of the far-right group. Scan this QR code — Sandrine Nikolai, Qurum to send letters to the Readers’ Forum, containing not more than 200 words with full name, address and telephone number, may be sent by mail (Times of Oman, P.O. Box 770, P.C. 112, Ruwi).

Climate talks were meant to help corporates retain their inﬂuence This refers to typhoon Melor, which struck the Philippines on Monday. This calamity shows the reality of climate change and cannot be mitigated by the toothless pledges made at the Paris climate talks. While the carbon emissions are reduced and other measures take place, such events will keep happening. The need was not empty promises but proper funding and quick action to save communities from disaster. I believe these talks will only help the corporations to retain their inﬂuence and make the disaster-prone countries to further bend to their unjust demands. — Sana Pasha, Muttrah

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Commit more fully to green innovation

VICTORIA BROWN

The globalised economy is often seen as a modern phenomenon, a creation of the 21st century borne out of technological and communications advances. However, if ﬁlming our CNN series Silk Road: Past, Present, Future has shown me anything, it’s that globalisation is nothing new. bit.ly/tradesilkroute

he global agreement reached in Paris last week is actually the third climate agreement reached in the past month. The first happened at the end of November, when a group of billionaires led by Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos announced the creation of a $20 billion fund to back clean-energy research. On the same day, a group of 20 countries, including the US, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, China, and Brazil, agreed to double their investment in green energy, to a total of $20 billion a year. Of the two pre-Paris announcements, it was that of the Breakthrough Energy Coalition (BEC) – Gates and his fellow entrepreneurs – that grabbed most of the headlines. This is not surprising, given the strong association in the popular imagination between innovation and the private sector. If a technological breakthrough is needed in the fight against climate change, whom should we expect to provide it, if not the wizards of Silicon Valley and other hubs of free-market innovation? Gates himself is the first to acknowledge that the public perception is far from accurate. “The private sector knows how to build companies, evaluate the potential for success, and take the risks that lead to taking innovative ideas and bringing them to the world,” reads his coalition’s manifesto. “But in the current business environment, the risk-reward balance for early-stage investing in potentially transformative energy systems is unlikely to meet the market tests of traditional angel or VC investors.” On its own, the free market will not develop new sources of energy fast enough. The payoff is still too uncertain. Just as in previous technological revolutions, rapid advances in clean energy will require the intervention of a courageous, entrepreneurial state, providing patient, long-term finance that shifts the private sector’s incentives. Governments must make bold policy choices that not only level the playing field, but also tilt it toward environmental sustainability. Then – and only then – will private financing follow. So far, however, austerity has prevented sufficient public financing. One hopes that the Paris agreement changes that. As with the information technology revolution, advances in clean energy will require the involvement of both the public and the private sector. Because we do not yet know which innovations will

be the most important in decarbonizing the economy, investment must be allocated to a wide array of choices. Long-term, patient finance must also be available to help companies minimize uncertainty and bridge the so-called “Valley of Death” between basic research and commercialization. The BEC’s argument – that the “new model will be a public-private partnership between governments, research institutions, and investors” – shines a welcome spotlight on the relationship. Unfortunately, however, aside from Gates and his colleagues, there are few signs that the private sector can be counted on to lead the way. The energy sector has become over-financialized; it is spending more on share buybacks than on research and development in low-carbon innovation. The energy giants ExxonMobil and General Electric are the first and tenth largest corporate buyers of their own shares. Meanwhile, according to the International Energy Agency, just 16 per cent of investment in the US energy sector was spent on renewable or nuclear energy. Left to their own devices, oil companies seem to prefer extracting hydrocarbons from the deepest confines of the earth to channeling their profits into clean-energy alternatives. Meanwhile, government R&D budgets have been declining in recent years – a trend driven partly by under-appreciation of the state’s role in fostering innovation and growth, and more recently by austerity in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. Tight budgets are straining the agencies that could be driving path-breaking innovation. The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) was a catalyst for the IT revolution. By contrast, the Advanced Research Projects AgencyEnergy (ARPA-E) has a 2015 budget of $280 million – barely a tenth of DARPA’s. In 1981, energy accounted for 11 per cent of the total US public R&D budget. Today, it accounts for just 4 per cent. Meanwhile, problematic demand-side policies are also in crisis, impeding the deployment of existing renewable-energy technologies. The willingness of Gates and other business leaders to commit themselves and their money to the promotion of clean energy is admirable. The Paris deal is also good news. But they are not enough. If the low-carbon revolution is to be achieved, we will need both the public and private sectors to commit more fully to green innovation, from both the supply and demand sides. - Project Syndicate

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES DECEMBER 2000 Maqbool opens factory MUSCAT: Maqbool bin Ali Sultan, minister of commerce and industry opened yesterday a national factory for reﬁlling and packing units. Also in attendance were Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidi, undersecretary at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and a number of businessmen and dignitaries. The ceremony began with the address of board member, Mahdi Murtadha Jaffer, in which he said that this metal-packing unit is one of the most modern companies of its kind with the cost of the project estimated at RO3 million.

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41,263 17,377

1944: Germany mounts a major offensive in the Ardennes Forest in Belgium. As the centre of the Allied line falls back, it creates a bulge, leading to the name–the Battle of the Bulge. 1950: President Harry Truman declares a state of National Emergency as Chinese communists invade deeper into South Korea.

6,214

Dhofar

5,122

3,586

Musandam

606

4,298

Al Buraimi

695

17,850

Al Dakhliyah

2,134

North Batinah

2,005

14,333

South Batinah

1,687

12,225

South Sharqiyah

1,512

10,386

North Sharqiyah

1,866

Al Dhahirah

1,009

Al Wusta

1,138

Abroad

21,917

9,261 1940: British troops carry out an air raid on Italian Somalia.

Muscat

2,222 259

154,977

Total

23,988

178,965 Source: National Centre for Statistics and Information

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

WORLD

Officials at the second largest school district in the United States asked parents to keep all 643,000 students at home to allow time for a full search of more than 900 schools.

UN watchdog closes probe into Iran nuclear weapons Beyond the IAEA board, however, some have argued that a full examination of Iran’s past violations of its nuclear no-proliferation obligations has been sacriﬁced for the sake of the political agreement reached in Vienna in July. “Iran’s cooperation was certainly not sufficient to close the overall PMD ﬁle,” said the Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security, which follows the Iran case closely. Tuesday’s board resolution provides for the heading under which Iran was being investigated to be closed once Iran puts in place the restrictions on its nuclear activities called for by the July deal, which Iran expects to have done by January. The resolution also asks the IAEA’s chief to report to the Board of Governors and the UN Security Council “at any time if the Director General has reasonable grounds to believe there is an issue of concern”.

International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors passed a resolution that would end inquiry but allows UN inspectors to continue to police Tehran’s activities

VIENNA: The UN nuclear watchdog’s 35-nation board decided on Tuesday to close its investigation into whether Iran once had a nuclear weapons programme, opting to support Tehran’s deal with major powers rather than dwell on its past activities. In a symbolic victory for Iran, the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Board of Governors passed a resolution that would end its long-running inquiry but allows inspectors to continue to police the country’s nuclear programme. “Done,” a diplomat in the closed-door IAEA board meeting said by text message, adding that the decision was reached by consensus, meaning the resolution was unopposed. Other diplomats conﬁrmed the outcome of the session. The IAEA produced a report this month that strongly suggested Iran had a secret nuclear weapons programme up until 2003, though it found no sign of weapons-related activities beyond 2009. Despite the ﬁnding -- the clearest indication yet by the IAEA, after 12 years of investigation,

SYMBOLIC VICTORY: Iran’s ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Reza

Najaﬁ places documents in front of him ahead of a board of governors meeting at the IAEA headquarters in Vienna, Austria, on Tuesday. – Reuters

that Iran was trying to develop an atom bomb even though it denies that accusation -- the international response to the report has been muted. The United States, Russia, Britain, France, Germany and China reached a deal with Tehran in July under which sanctions weighing on Iran’s economy will be lifted in exchange for restrictions on Iran’s atomic activities. Those six powers want to press ahead with implementing

the July deal and hoped that the IAEA report, produced under the deal, would draw a line under the long-disputed issue of so-called “possible military dimensions” to Iran’s activities. Supporters of the July deal argue that it gives the IAEA far more intrusive powers to inspect Iran’s facilities and to monitor what it is doing, and that it extends the time Tehran would need to build an atom bomb if it chose to do so.

RUSSIAN, AMERICAN AND BRITON

ON A LONG JOURNEY: Russia’s Soyuz TMA-19M spacecraft carrying the International Space

Station (ISS) Expedition 46/47 crew of Britain’s astronaut Tim Peake, Russian cosmonaut Yuri Malenchenko and US astronaut Tim Kopra, blasts off from the launch pad at the Russian-leased Baikonur cosmodrome on Tuesday. – AFP

Smooth launch for Soyuz rocket with three astronauts BAIKANOUR (KAZAKHSTAN): A Soyuz rocket carrying a Russian, an American and a Briton blasted off on Tuesday from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan in a smooth launch en route to the International Space Station (ISS). The rocket carrying the Russian Soyuz TMA-19M spaceship lifted off at 5:03 pm local time (1103 GMT) to start its six-hour journey, and successfully reached its designated orbit about nine minutes later. The previous crew, sent in September, had to take a longer, two-day trip due to the position of the $100 billion station at the time. Soyuz will dock with the ISS. The crew consists of commander Yuri Malenchenko, a for-

mer Russian Air Force pilot and a veteran of long-duration space flights, NASA astronaut Tim Kopra and Briton Tim Peake. Peake, 43, a former army major who is on a six-month mission for the European Space Agency (ESA), became the first Briton to go into space since Helen Sharman travelled on a Soviet spacecraft for eight days in 1991. British crew He is also the first astronaut officially representing the British government and wearing a Union Jack flag on his arm. Peake smiled and looked very confident as he prepared to board the spacecraft. He was seen off by his family after going through all

the Baikonur pre-launch rituals, such as signing his hotel door and receiving a blessing from a priest. Most of these traditions, such as watching “White Sun of the Desert”, a 1970 Soviet action film, on the eve of a launch, date back to the early years of space exploration. Even the launch pad used for manned flights has remained the same since Yuri Gagarin’s first mission in 1961. Peake’s mission, called Principia after Isaac Newton’s seminal work, includes a number of scientific experiments such as testing the use of nitric oxide gas as a tool to monitor lung inflammation. Malenchenko, Kopra and Peake are set to return to Earth on June 5 next year. — Reuters

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“As we close out this important chapter here today, we must remain mindful that we are not closing the agency’s ability to investigate any potential concerns that may arise,” US envoy Henry Ensher said in the text of his speech to the board. With companies from the six powers and other nations lining up to do business in Iran once sanctions are lifted, there had been little opposition to the resolution.

Welcome Iran aims to have implemented restrictions on its nuclear activities called for by a deal with major powers in the next two to three weeks, its envoy to the UN nuclear watchdog said on Tuesday. “We are intending to complete this process within two to three weeks, so accelerate the implementation day as soon as possible,” Iran’s envoy to the IAEA, Reza Najaﬁ, told reporters. Iran welcomed a decision by the IAEA to end an investigation into Tehran’s past nuclear activities, the semi-official Tasnim news agency quoted Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif as saying. “We welcome the closure of the investigation of Iran’s past nuclear activities ... the resolution by the board of governors of the agency ... shows the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme,” Tasnim quoted Zarif as saying. — Reuters

VIA AN E-MAIL

Los Angeles closes all schools after threat LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles shut down all of its schools on Tuesday after officials reported receiving a threat involving backpacks and packages and ordered a search of all schools. Officials at the second largest school district in the United States asked parents to keep all 643,000 students at home to allow time for a full search of more than 900 schools. It was the ﬁrst closure of the full district in at least a decade, officials said, and appeared to be unprecedented in scale. The threat came less than two weeks after a married couple inspired by IS militants shot dead 14 people in San Bernardino, California, about 60 miles (100 km) east of Los Angeles. The school district regularly receives threats, but this one stood out for its scale, schools Superintendent Ramon Cortines said. “This is a rare threat... It was not to one school, two schools or three schools, it was many schools,” Cortines told reporters at a press conference that began shortly before schools were to begin opening. “I am not taking the chance of taking children any place into the building until I know it’s safe.” Los Angeles police and the FBI were notiﬁed of the threat and were investigating, officials said. The threat came via an electronic message and mentioned backpacks and other packages, Cortines said. German IP address The threat was linked to an Internet address in Frankfurt, Germany, a spokeswoman for the school district said. Los Angeles school district spokeswoman Shannon Haber said the threat was sent via email to a district board member and came through an Internet protocol, or IP, address from the German city. The threat was delivered to a school board member, the Los Angeles Times reported. — Reuters

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

GLOBAL EYE

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AUSTRALIA: A photograph of ﬂoral tributes to the victims of the Sydney cafe siege are projected onto the exterior wall of the Lindt Cafe during a memorial service marking the ﬁrst anniversary of the incident in Australia’s Martin Place, on Tuesday. Australia marks one year since 18 people were taken hostage and two killed by lone gunman, Man Horan Monis, who was shot and killed by police, during a siege at the cafe in Sydney’s Martin Place on December 16, 2014. – Reuters

UNITED STATES: An artist’s rendering of what the next generation US ﬁghter jet might look like is

seen in this handout photo provided by Northrop Grumman Corporation. The Pentagon’s ﬁscal 2017 budget request will include $12 billion to $15 billion to fund war gaming, experimentation and the demonstration of new technologies aimed at ensuring a continued military edge over China and Russia, Deputy Defence Secretary Robert Work said on Monday. – Reuters

BRAZIL: A mural is seen with a slum in the background on the bank of the Rio Negro (Black River), in

Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil. – AFP

COLOMBIA: Martha Yarci carries a baby red howler monkey (Al

ouatta seniculus), during its recovery at the Santa fe zoo in Medellin, Antioquia department, Colombia. Nine monkeys who had been under the care of the Santa Fe zoo as part of a wildlife conservation programme after they were are torn away from their families in the forests and sold by traffickers to travellers within the country, were released into the wild. – AFP

MALAYSIA: Shoppers walk past Christmas decorations at a shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Tuesday. Every year as

Christmas approaches, shopping malls across Malaysia are decorated with beautiful light displays and offer year-end discounts to lure shoppers. – AFP

CHINA: Anti-terrorism paramilitary policemen take part in a drill in Changsha, Hunan province in China. – Reuters

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

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WORLD Typhoon Melor impact: Central Philippines plunges into darkness Nearly 800,000 people were evacuated to shelter areas as the storm disrupted power in six central provinces and also damaged infrastructure

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MANILA: Wide areas of the central Philippines were plunged into darkness on Tuesday as powerful typhoon Melor barreled into the coconut-growing region, causing ﬂooding, storm surges and forcing almost 800,000 people to evacuate their homes, officials said. Known locally as Nona, the storm packing winds of 140 kph (87 mph) was about 40 km (25 mile) north-northeast of Romblon island early on Tuesday, moving west and weakening. “Melor will continue to weaken as it crosses the central Philippines into Tuesday,” weather provider Accuweather said. “However, damaging wind gusts higher than 130 kph will target the rest of southern Luzon to Mindoro.” Romblon residents reported heavy rain and strong winds from midnight. Power was cut as transmission lines and electric posts came down. Alexander Pama, executive director of the National Disaster

SURGING WAVES: Residents are seen in an area battered by strong winds and heavy rains brought by typhoon Melor in Legazpi city, central Philippines on Tuesday. – Reuters

Risk Reduction and Management Council, said nearly 800,000 people had been evacuated to shelter areas. “So far, we have not received any report of typhoon-related casualties,” he said. Media reported that three people had been killed on Samar island, where Melor ﬁrst made landfall on Monday, although this

could not immediately be confirmed. Power services in six central provinces were disrupted and emergency teams were assessing damage to agriculture and infrastructure, Pama said. Schools and some offices were closed. Dozens of domestic flights and ferry services were cancelled, and the fishing fleet took shelter due to waves

as high as 14 metres (46 ft). Another potential tropical system will hit the southern Philippines later this week, Accuweather said. An average of 20 typhoons pass through the country every year. In 2013, typhoon Haiyan struck the central Philippines, killing more than 6,300 people and leaving 1.4 million homeless. — Reuters

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WORLD

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O N G O I N G I N V E S T I G AT I O N S

Woman among three suspects arrested over France attacks PAIRS: French police arrested two men and a woman on Tuesday in connection with deadly militant attacks on Paris last month and in January, judiciary officials said. In a separate event that highlighted the knock-on impact of tensions over hardliners’ violence, a teacher who claimed to have been stabbed by a man on Monday acting in the name of IS militants was hospitalised after admitting to police that he had invented the story, prosecutors said. IS, which claimed responsibility for the November 13 attacks, has stated that teachers in France’s secular state-schooling system

should be killed for promoting what it called the evils of secular life, music and drawing. France remains on top security alert since at least eight gunmen and suicide bombers killed 130 people at cafes, a concert hall and near a sports stadium in Paris on November 13 the deadliest attack on French soil since World War II. Investigation One of the two men arrested on Tuesday in Villiers-sur-Marne to the east of Paris was deemed a “peripheral” suspect in the investigation into the November 13 attacks, judiciary sources said. Sev-

en assailants died in that attack and an eighth in police raids days later, but police are still searching for another chief suspect, Salah Abdeslam, who vanished after escaping to Belgium from Paris. Another man and a woman arrested by police on Tuesday were suspected of supplying weapons to Amedy Coulibaly, who killed a policewoman and then four other people at the kosher store on the eastern edge of Paris last January, they said. That attack took place on the heels of another in which two militants killed 12 people at the offices of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo. — Reuters

FLASHPOINT DISTRICT: Voters queue at the polling station at the Koudoukou school in the ﬂashpoint PK5 district in Bangui on Monday. – AFP

CAR rebel leader rejects elections, claims autonomy Noureddine Adam, head of Seleka’s FRPC faction, rejected elections aimed at restoring democracy

ABIDJAN: A rebel leader in Central African Republic (CAR) has declared an autonomous state in his northeastern stronghold after rejecting elections due this month that are aimed at ending a years of bloodshed, his spokesman said on Tuesday. The impoverished nation has descended into chaos since mainly Seleka rebels overthrew President Francois Bozize in early 2013, provoking reprisal attacks by anti-balaka militias. Thousands have died and one in ﬁve Central Africans has been displaced by the violence as rival rebels and militia leaders have carved up territory in a de facto partition. Referendum A government minister said on Tuesday that early, partial results from a referendum held on Sunday and Monday indicated a victory for those in favour of a new constitution, an outcome that would pave

the way for elections on December 27. From his headquarters in the town of Kaga-Bandoro, Noureddine Adam, head of Seleka’s FRPC faction, controls a swathe of territory in the northeast. His spokesman and chief lieutenant Maouloud Moussa said the Republic of Logone had been proclaimed there on Monday. “What we want ﬁrst of all is autonomy. Then we’ll look at how to move towards independence,” he said. “People are marginalised... The north has been abandoned by the central government. There are no roads, no hospitals, no schools.” UN peacekeepers took down the rebel republic’s ﬂag - horizontal yellow, green and black stripes with a white star - after it was raised over the northern town of N’Dele. “We call upon the international community and the international forces present in Central African Republic to do everything possible to neutralise the capacity to do harm of these terrorists,” said government spokesman Dominique Said Panguindji. Central African Republic hosts a 11,000-strong UN peacekeeping mission as well as a deployment of French soldiers, thought neither force has succeeded in

ending the violence. Panguindji called for Adam to be arrested and transferred to the International Criminal Court, which is investigating crimes committed during the years of violence. Adam was second-in-command when Seleka seized Bangui in 2013 and served as security minister in the government formed by the rebels’ leader Michel Djotodia. A subsequent transitional government issued a warrant for his arrest in 2014, accusing him of war crimes. He denies the allegations. He is on a UN sanctions list and is subject to an asset freeze and travel ban. Central Africans went to the polls on Sunday to vote on a new constitution, a requirement for elections intended to restore democratic rule and help end the cycle of instability. Adam had called for the referendum and elections to be cancelled, and campaigners including Human Rights Watch accused him of using intimidation to block voting in areas under his control. Voting ﬁnally went ahead on Monday in Kaga-Bandoro under the protection of soldiers from the MINUSCA UN mission. — Reuters

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

MARKE Muscat 5,365.61 - 38.06 - 0.70%

Dubai 2,919.64 + 3.64 + 0.12%

Abu Dhabi 4,014.92 - 11.31 - 0.28%

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CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

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

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.33 Pound ........................................... 1.70 Indian Rs ............................. 173.64 Pak Rs .....................................267.31 Bangla Taka......................200.24

Indian Rs ...................................173.50 Pakistan Rs ............................ 270.00 Sri Lanka Rs .......................... 370.00 Bangla Taka............................ 204.15 Phil Peso ................................... 122.45

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) ....... 13.70

Oman Crude............. (Spot) .........$32.61 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) .........$32.61 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) ........$34.00 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ..........$31.31 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) ................. NA West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........$36.23

* Rates as of Dec. 15 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

* Rates are as of Dec. 15 Source: Bank Muscat

Chinese firm to set up steel pipe unit in Sohar The $20m manufacturing facility, which will be located in Sohar Freezone, will produce steel piping and related products

Times News Service MUSCAT: China-based Jiangsu Chanbao Steel Tube Company is planning to set up a $20 million manufacturing unit in Sohar for producing 50,000 tonnes of special steel pipes per annum for a wide range of industries including oil and gas, chemical and automobile industry. Sohar Port and Freezone has signed a lease agreement with Jiangsu Changbao Steel Tube, which produces seamless steel

pipes for a broad range of industries including petroleum, chemicals, automobile and machinery manufacturing. The signing ceremony to ﬁnalise the new contract took place on Sunday with Sohar Port and Freezone chairman Sultan bin Salem Al Habsi. The new manufacturing facility, which will be located in Sohar Freezone, involves an initial investment of approximately $20 million and will specialise in the production of steel piping and related products for the Omani and

I N N O VAT I O N F O R U M

MAKING A POINT: From left, Salim Omar Al Hashmi, chairman of Al Nimr Expo & Conferences; Barbara Joziasse, ambassador of the Netherlands to Oman; Renee Bos-Jones, secretary general, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Netherlands; and Louma Al Atassi, policy officer at the Dutch embassy. – JUN ESTRADA/Times of Oman

Netherlands offers to boost business innovation in Oman ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: Oman and the Netherlands can cooperate on brining innovation to various sectors, which will help develop the economy and create jobs, said Dutch officials ahead of the Business Innovation Forum to be held in Muscat in March. “We very much believe that innovation is not something that you do in abstract, that is just academic exercise, but innovation needs to be applied to business and to practical solutions,” Renee Bos-Jones, secretary general, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Netherlands, told a press conference in Muscat on Tuesday. The media brieﬁng was held at the Dutch embassy to discuss the innovation forum, which the embassy plans to hold in cooperation with the Omani government and the Dutch Regional Economic Network in the Gulf and in collaboration with Al Nimr Conferences on March 7 and 8. Role of innovation The forum, which will take place at InterContinental Hotel Muscat, will gather primarily Omani and Dutch entrepreneurs, government officials and researchers in the ﬁelds of logistics and maritime but will also have great relevance to others engaged in innovation more generally, according to the organisers. “Oman and the Netherlands are keeping up with the developments of the 21st century. We are work-

ing to become logistics hubs. We have a long tradition like (Oman) in maritime, in ports, in infrastructure. In order to keep that position, to improve that position, the only choice we have, I think, is to innovate,” Bos-Jones noted. The forum will help strengthen good bilateral economic and political relations between the two countries, the official said, adding that Oman has a good reputation due to its stability and its peaceful nature as well as its positive role in the region. In addition, she noted that the two countries are constantly working on new projects in various areas, including oil, ports, logistics, education and training and plan to expand cooperation into other ﬁelds. Investment climate Asked about the existing investment opportunities for Omani companies in the Netherlands, Bos-Jones said that the Netherlands is an open economy and always looks forward to receiving investments. She cited efficient logistics and infrastructure, a digital economy, good and transparent tax climate as well as quality ﬁnancial services as some of the incentives for investments in the country. Commenting on purpose of her visit to Muscat, the secretary-general said that the trip is part of the bilateral consultations about political, economic and cultural cooperation between Oman and the Netherlands as well as the latest developments in the region. >B2

regional oil and gas industries. It is estimated that the annual capacity at the new plant will be 50,000 tonnes of steel pipes and tubular products, with part of the output destined for export to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and other markets. Seamless steel tubes Billed as one of China’s oldest seamless steel tube mills, Jiangsu Changbao specialises in the manufacture of high-end pipes and tubular products for the oil and gas industry. Its expansive facilities in China, comprising ﬁve hot-rolling mills and eight treading lines, are equipped to produce 750,000 tonnes of seamless steel tubes, including 250,000 tonnes of tubing, 250,000 tonnes of casing and 150,000 tonnes of boiler pipes every year. Aside from the oil and gas industry, the company’s products

also cater to the power generation and energy sectors, and are marketed across the world, including Europe, the US, Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Africa, Middle East and other regions. “We are delighted to have signed this new lease agreement with Jiangsu Changboa. Changbao, (which) is already a supplier for a number of Sohar tenants, including METS, and as with all our work here in the Freezone, we hope to eventually combine projects and provide synergised services to increase ease of business and value for tenants,” said Sohar Freezone chief executive officer Jamal Aziz.

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Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......13.25 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ........... 129.50 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............. 122.75 * Rates as of Dec. 15 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

S O H A R FA C I L I T Y

Berger opens Oman’s biggest paint project Times News Service MUSCAT: Leading global paint manufacturer Berger Paints has ramped up operations in the Sultanate with the launch of a new mega-sized facility that has the potential to transform Oman into a powerhouse in the multi-billion dollar paints and coatings industry in the region. Located in Sohar Industrial Estate, the state-of-the-art plant was formally inaugurated on December 14, at a ceremony attended by senior government officials, as well as top-level executives of the project’s joint venture partners — Al Hassan Group of Companies (Oman) and India-based Asian Paints. Covering an area of around 50,000 square metres, the Sohar plant will be by far the largest paint manufacturing facility in Oman. Once fully completed, the plant will have the potential to singlehandedly produce more paint than the total current paint consump-

tion in Oman. The objective is to see this plant form the hub of exports across all of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Until now, exports have been constrained by capacity shortfalls and have been limited to occasional exports to smaller countries. But by the end of 2016, the company hopes to begin large scale exports to neighbouring countries like Qatar. Hassan Ali Salman, chairman, Al Hassan Group, said the Sohar venture was a testament to a blossoming 15-year partnership with one of the world’s leading paint brands.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

MARKET MSM index ends lower

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 5,424.07 ...............5,365.61 ....................5,365.61 ...................5,403.67................-38.06 .................. -0.70 Financial Index .................................... 6,522.80 .............. 6,433.00 ...................6,433.00 ...................6,489.03................-56.03 .................. -0.86 Industrial Index ....................................6,725.93 ...............6,706.10 ....................6,712.08 ................... 6,721.33.................. -9.25 .................. -0.14 Services Index ...................................... 3,095.69 .............. 3,088.96 ................... 3,088.96 ................... 3,094.15...................-5.19 .................. -0.17 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................856.29 ..................853.43 .......................853.46 ...................... 856.28..................-2.82 .................. -0.33 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 14,605,331...................5,261,792 .....................481 ................14,465,511,587 .................. 7 ......................13 .................... 15 .........................35

The top gainer was Al Jazeera Steel, up by

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15

3.10 per cent, while HSBC Bank Oman, down by 3.81 per cent, lost the most

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

MUSCAT: Led by a drop in banking sector, the MSM30 Index continued its downtrend to close at 5,365.61 points, down by 0.70 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index declined by 0.33 per cent to close at 853.46 points. Oman Hotels & Tourism was the most active in terms of volume as well as turnover. The top gainer was Al Jazeera Steel, up by 3.10 per cent, while HSBC Bank, down by 3.81 per cent, was the top loser. As many as 481 trades were executed on Tuesday, generating turnover of OMR5.3 million with 14.6 million shares changing hands. Out of 35 traded securities, seven advanced, 13 declined and 15 remained unchanged. Omani investors were net buyers to the tune of OMR3.8 million, while GCC and Arab investors were net sellers at OMR2.1 million followed by foreign investors, who sold shares amounting to OMR1.7 million. Financial Index retreated 0.86 per cent to close at 6,433.00 points. Al Anwar Holding advanced by 0.64 per cent to close at OMR0.157. HSBC Bank Oman, Bank Sohar, Al Batinah Investment, National Bank of Oman and Al Sharqia Investments declined by 3.81 per cent, 3.73 per cent, 2.27 per cent, 1.47 per cent and 1.05 per cent, respectively. Industrial Index closed at 6,712.08 points, down by 0.14 per cent. Al Jazeera Steel, DhofarCattlefeed, Gulf International Chemicals and Al Maha Ceramics gained by 3.10 per cent, 2.50

per cent, 1.67 per cent and 0.50 per cent, respectively. Raysut Cement, Oman Cables and Oman Cement declined by 1.96 per cent, 1.17 per cent and 0.89 per cent, respectively. Services Index ended at 3,088.96 points, a loss of 0.17 per cent. OIFC and Phoenix Power gained by 1.92 per cent and 0.70 per cent, respectively. Port Services, Al Suwadi Power, Al Batinah Power and OoredooOman fell by 2.88 per cent, 1.03 per cent, 1.03 per cent and 0.56 per cent, respectively.

REGULAR MARKET ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ........................ 135,096.............17,999......................15 ............0.133 ........... 0.135 ...........0.133 ............0.133 .............0.129............ 0.004..............3.101.................0.135 .............. 0.133...................0.135 ................... 16,611,429 .........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 760,755.......... 120,931..................... 49 ............0.158 ........... 0.161............0.158 ............0.159 ............. 0.156............ 0.003............. 1.923 ................0.158 .............. 0.158...................0.159...................31,800,000.........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............. 54,000 ............. 13,176........................1 ........... 0.244...........0.244 ...........0.244 .......... 0.244 .............0.240 ........... 0.004............. 1.667 ................0.244 ............ 0.244...................0.260 ...................5,124,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 568,420 ............89,275..................... 56 ............0.157 ........... 0.158 ...........0.156 ............0.157 ............. 0.156.............0.001 ............. 0.641 ................0.157 .............. 0.157...................0.158................... 23,561,775 .........0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS ..................................................40,957 .............16,500........................8 ............0.410 ........... 0.410 ...........0.400 .......... 0.402 .............0.400 ........... 0.002.............0.500 ................0.400..............0.396...................0.400 ..................21,105,000 .........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING........... 209,072 ............18,816........................3 ........... 0.090 ...........0.090 ...........0.090........... 0.090 .............0.090 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.090..............0.088...................0.091................... 10,968,750 .........0.100 OM0000001889............SALALAH MILLS..............................................................1,669 ...............2,337........................2 ............1.400 ........... 1.400 ...........1.400........... 1.490 .............1.490............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.400..............1.400...................1.490................... 71,762,965 .........0.100 OM0000002275 ...........SHELL OMAN MARKETING .................................. 24,947 ............ 49,894........................3 ........... 2.000...........2.000 ...........2.000 .......... 2.000 .............2.000 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.000 .............1.800...................2.000 ................ 190,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000002549 ...........BANK DHOFAR ............................................................ 560,276 ..........118,368......................18 ........... 0.220...........0.220 ...........0.210............0.211 ............. 0.211............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.220 .............0.210...................0.220 .................325,937,723 ........0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ......................... 120,000 ........... 10,800........................3 ........... 0.090 ...........0.090 ...........0.090........... 0.090 .............0.090 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.090..............0.087...................0.097....................5,295,890 ..........0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 326,369 .........499,345......................41 ............1.530 ........... 1.530 ...........1.530 ............1.530 ............. 1.530............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.530 .............. 1.530...................1.550................ 1,147,500,000 ......0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 508,946 ............37,250.....................24 ........... 0.074 ........... 0.074 ...........0.073........... 0.073 .............0.073 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.073..............0.072...................0.073................... 21,168,587 .........0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY ........................................................1,537 .................. 633........................7 ............0.412 ........... 0.412 ...........0.412 ........... 0.412 .............0.412............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.412 ..............0.412...................0.434 ..................24,926,000 ........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL............................................. 215,047 ............ 16,774......................18 ........... 0.078 ........... 0.078 ...........0.078........... 0.078 .............0.078 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.078..............0.078...................0.080 ..................13,650,000 .........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 3,063,556 ... 1,457,734..................... 73 ........... 0.484 ...........0.484 ...........0.466........... 0.476 .............0.478 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.418................0.468..............0.466...................0.468................ 1,090,907,556 ......0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO.........................................................................59,468 ............ 42,337......................14 ............0.716 ........... 0.716............0.708............0.712 ............. 0.716............-0.004 ........... -0.559 ...............0.708..............0.708................... 0.716 ................. 463,472,292 .......0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ............................................................72,595 ............ 32,385........................6 ........... 0.448 ...........0.448 ...........0.440 .......... 0.446 .............0.450 ...........-0.004 ........... -0.889 ...............0.440..............0.440...................0.444 .................147,569,229 ........0.100

Saudi stocks recover Saudi Arabian stocks rallied the most in three weeks as investors speculated Islamic banks in the Kingdom stand to benefit from a United States interest-rate increase expected this week. The Tadawul All Share Index climbed 1.4 percent to 6,779.22 in Riyadh, rebounding from the lowest close since December 2012. Al Rajhi Bank, the world’s biggest Sharia-compliant lender, led the gains. Alinma Bank was the most heavily traded stock. Islamic banks “will be the key beneficiaries of any interest rate increase in the US,” said Sebastien Henin, the head of asset management at The National Investor in Abu Dhabi. The probability the Federal Reserve will raise borrowing costs for the first time in almost a decade when it meets this week has climbed to 78 per cent, according to futures data. – United Securities/Bloomberg News

OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER..................................................78,000 .............14,979........................4 ............0.193 ........... 0.193 ...........0.192 ........... 0.192 .............0.194 ...........-0.002 ............-1.031................0.192 ..............0.192...................0.194..................129,578,387 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER ....................................................78,000 .............14,976........................2 ............0.192 ........... 0.192 ...........0.192 ........... 0.192 .............0.194 ...........-0.002 ............-1.031................0.192 ..............0.192...................0.194.................. 137,166,017 ........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ..............11,740 ...............1,098........................3 ........... 0.094 ...........0.094 ...........0.093........... 0.094 .............0.095 ...........-0.001 ............-1.053................0.093..............0.093...................0.094 ...................8,460,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001707 ............OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY......................................22,700 ............ 38,209........................5 ............1.670 ........... 1.700 ...........1.670 ............1.685 ............. 1.705............-0.020 ............-1.173 ................1.670 .............. 1.535...................1.670 ..................151,144,500 ........0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ...................................81,454 .............21,853......................11 ........... 0.270 ...........0.270 ...........0.260 .......... 0.268 .............0.272 ...........-0.004 ............-1.471 ................0.260..............0.263...................0.270 .................359,310,347 ........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT .........................................................17,599 .............17,603........................6 ............1.020 ........... 1.020 ...........1.000........... 1.000 .............1.020 ...........-0.020 ............-1.961................1.000..............1.020...................1.035 ................. 200,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ....................... 25,000 ...............2,150........................5 ........... 0.086 ...........0.086 ...........0.086........... 0.086 .............0.088 ...........-0.002 ........... -2.273 ...............0.086..............0.086...................0.088....................2,580,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ........................ 20,000 ...............2,700........................1 ............0.135 ........... 0.135 ...........0.135 ............0.135 ............. 0.139............-0.004 ........... -2.878 ...............0.135 ..............0.134...................0.135 ...................12,830,400.........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR..................................................................47,498 ...............7,362........................3 ............0.155 ........... 0.155 ...........0.155 ............0.155 ............. 0.161 ............-0.006 ........... -3.727................0.155 .............. 0.155...................0.159................. 223,423,200 .......0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 277,962 ........... 28,075......................16 ............0.102 ........... 0.102 ...........0.100............0.101 .............0.105............-0.004 ........... -3.810................0.102.............. 0.101...................0.102..................202,031,592 .......0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 7,382,663 ...2,693,558...................397 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......27........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PARALLEL MARKET ................................................................................................................................................................................. OM0000001301 ............DHOFAR CATTLE FEED ............................................10,000 ...............2,050........................1 ........... 0.205 ...........0.205 ...........0.205........... 0.205 .............0.200 ........... 0.005.............2.500 ................0.205..............0.205...................0.224 .................. 15,785,000 .........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 264,918 ........... 38,090.....................40 ............0.143 ........... 0.145 ...........0.143 ........... 0.144 ............. 0.143.............0.001 ............. 0.699 ................0.144..............0.144...................0.145..................210,614,610 ........0.100 OM0000001228............OMAN HOTELS AND TOURISM .......................... 5,829,300..2,448,306........................1 ........... 0.420 ...........0.420 ...........0.420........... 0.240 .............0.240 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.420..............0.264...................0.000 ..................13,200,000.........0.100 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING......................................5,000 .................. 365........................1 ........... 0.073 ........... 0.073 ...........0.073........... 0.070 .............0.070 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.073.............. 0.071...................0.073....................5,264,560 ..........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 964,722 ........... 69,562......................31 ........... 0.073 ........... 0.073 ...........0.072........... 0.072 .............0.072 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.073..............0.072...................0.073................. 108,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK.............................................. 142,905 ..............9,289........................8 ........... 0.065 ...........0.065 ...........0.065........... 0.065 .............0.065 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.065..............0.065...................0.066...................65,000,000.........0.100 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE ................................3,300 .................. 330........................1 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.100 ...........0.100............0.101 ............. 0.101............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.100..............0.100...................0.106...................10,100,000 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 7,220,145 ... 2,567,991..................... 83 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........ 7........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BONDS AND SUKUK MARKET ...................................................................................................................................................................... OM0000005971 ............B.MUSCAT COMPL. CONVR. B.B.3.5 ....................... 2,523 ..................242........................1 ........... 0.096 ...........0.096 ...........0.096........... 0.092 .............0.092 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.096..............0.096...................0.100...................29,822,868.........0.100 .............................................SUM: ...................................................................................... 2,523 ..................242........................1 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. .........1........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

T H U R S D AY

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INDIAN MARKETS

Orpic to sign Liwa plastics complex project contracts Times News Service MUSCAT: State-owned Oman Oil Reﬁneries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) will sign all engineering, procurement and contracting (EPC) deals for building a major plastic manufacturing unit called Liwa Plastics Industries Complex in Sohar on December 17. The four major EPC contracts for the plastic complex are for building a polymers plant in Sohar industrial area, a natural gas liquids (NGL) extraction plant in Fahud, a steam cracker plant and a 300-km-long pipeline from Fahud to Sohar.

However, as many as 30 engineering, procurement and contracting contracts will be signed on Thursday, which include related projects that are part of the venture. The project commissioning is expected in 2019, a company statement said earlier. Commissioning in 2019 Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, once commissioned in 2019, will transform Orpic’s product mix and business model, double company proﬁt, create new business opportunities, generate signiﬁcant employment opportunities and support the development of a downstream

plastics industry in Oman, said a company statement added. Following commissioning, plastics production is forecast to have increased by more than 1 million tonnes, giving Orpic a total of 1.4 million tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene production. Present at the signing ceremony of one of Oman’s largest projects ﬁnanced in the downstream oil and gas industry will be ministers, members of the council of Oman, Orpic board members, other high ranking ofﬁcials and several members of the local community of Sohar and Liwa.

Sensex soars;

rupee recovers MUMBAI: Firm buying from late afternoon lifted the BSE benchmark to end higher for second straight session, garnering 170.09 points to 25,320.44, while the broader Nifty to reclaimed to finish the psychological 7,700-level ahead of the key US Federal Reserve monetary policy meet starting on Tuesday. Rupee rebounds Breaking a two-day slide, the rupee staged a resounding comeback from its over two-year lows to close at 66.92 against the US dollar amid rise in equities. The home currency had plunged to hit a 27-month low of 67.09 on Monday. - PTI

FORUM

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Importance of innovation in maritime and logistics

Barbara Joziasse, ambassador of the Netherlands to Oman, also highlighted the importance of innovation, especially in the fields of maritime and logistics. “There are so many innovative ways that can actually support the business and can support the country,” she said. Joziasse said that, as a partner, the Netherlands feel the need to support Oman in its efforts towards Omanisation and economic diversification, which can get a boost through innovation. Implementation is also very important, the ambassador said, adding, “It is not only about talking innovation, it is also about doing innovation.” Commenting on the volume of annual bilateral trade, she said that it reached around €750 million ($825 million) in 2013, excluding the re-exports. Exports from Oman to the Netherlands accounted for around €150 million ($165 million) of the total amount, Joziasse explained. According to her, on average, bilateral trade has grown by around four to five per cent every

year over the past ten years. She noted that cooperation between the two countries is ‘broadening’ and ‘deepening’ at the same time and further cooperation and exchange of knowledge is being considered in various areas, such as innovation, oil and gas, reﬁnery, paint and cable industry, traffic management and statistics. Panel discussion The organisers have said that the two-day innovation forum will feature panel discussions, presentations, and workshops to promote knowledge exchange by showcasing examples of established Omani-Dutch cooperation and outline the importance of collaboration between private companies, research organisations, government and consumers through open innovation and include ample networking opportunities. Salim Omar Al Hashmi, chairman of Al Nimr Expo & Conferences, expressed hope that the event would help bring a high-level discussion that would beneﬁt the logistics sector in Oman.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

MARKET R E A L E S TAT E

Dubai developers halt delivery to stem fall in prices

NEW BRANCH: The new branch was opened at a special ceremony held in the presence of Sheikh Dr. Khalifa bin Hamed bin Hilal Al

Sadi, Governor of Al Dakhliyah. The opening of the Nizwa branch is also in line with the bank’s strategy to capture further growth opportunities in Islamic banking in the Sultanate. – Supplied picture

NBO’s Islamic banking branch opens in Nizwa With the opening of the Nizwa branch, total Muzn branch network has reached six. The new branch will provide a complete range of Sharia-compliant products and services

Times News Service MUSCAT: National Bank of Oman (NBO) on Tuesday opened Muzn Islamic banking branch in Nizwa, the capital of Islamic culture, underlining its commitment towards providing a complete range of Sharia-compliant products and services. With the opening of Nizwa branch, the bank’s total Muzn branch network has reached six, a testament to the bank’s concerted efforts to operate in strategic locations and to be able to reach all customers across the Sultanate. The opening of the new branch is also in line with the bank’s strategy to capturing further growth opportunities for Islamic banking in the Sultanate, says a bank release. The new branch was opened during a special ceremony held in

the presence of Sheikh Dr. Khalifa bin Hamed bin Hilal Al Sadi, governor of Al Dakhliyah, along with members of the bank’s senior management team. The Muzn Nizwa branch focuses on serving Islamic banking customers in the area at their convenience through retail, corporate and institutional banking services. The opening of the branch follows a period of unprecedented growth witnessed by Muzn Islamic banking division. Revenues for the ﬁrst nine months grew by an impressive 117 per cent to reach OMR2.4 million compared with 2014, an indication that the bank’s market share for Islamic banking products continued to grow consistently throughout the year. Muzn Islamic Banking also recorded an all-time high net proﬁt growth to reach OMR715,000,

715,000 Omani rials is the alltime high net proﬁt growth of Muzn Islamic Banking recorded, further strengthening the bank’s market leading position in the Sultanate.

further strengthening the bank’s market leading position in the Sultanate of Oman.

Muzn SMS banking To support the growth, the bank also introduced innovative services such as the Muzn SMS banking services and retail internet banking that have been effective in dealing with higher volumes of transactions, improved customer experience and lower operational costs. Commenting on the opening of Nizwa branch, said: “We are delighted to continue rolling out our branch expansion plans for Muzn Islamic banking in keeping with the bank’s growth strategy and commitment towards promoting Sharia-compliant banking in Oman,” said Salima Al Marzoqi,

P R E S E N TAT I O N

Duqm Refinery holds open forum for pre-qualified firms Times News Service MUSCAT: Seven pre-qualified companies were invited to attend an open forum organised by Duqm Refinery, further to the release of invitation to tender for the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts of Duqm Refinery project. The seven firms comprise a combination of joint ventures, alliances, and sole entities capturing a total of 15 international companies. The forum scheduled a session to familiarise the firms with the tender process together with visits to the proposed construction site, Oman Dry Dock, Port of Duqm and other surrounding infrastructure. The forum started with a welcome note from Said bin Hamdoon Al Harthy, undersecretary of Ports and Maritime Affairs, board member of the Special Economic Zone Authority, was followed by a summary of the project by Jacobus Nieuwenhuijze, project director of Duqm Refinery. Commenting on the event, Jacobus Nieuwenhuijze, project

director of Duqm Refinery, said, “the forum serves as an ideal platform not just for Duqm Refinery to interface with these companies but also for local Duqm firms to engage with them to promote their own services and add value to the project.” Support to companies The briefing featured presentations from Economic Zone Authority of Duqm, Takatuf and the local Duqm companies on the capabilities and level of support that would be available. The local companies included Oman Dry Dock Company, Renaissance Services group, Rural Authority for Electricity and Water, Special, Port of Duqm and Duqm Development Company. Duqm Refinery will be one of the growth engines for the special economic zone. It will provide development opportunities for new projects that will directly and indirectly interface with the refinery. These projects will look to benefit from the refinery’s products as well as provide different logistic services to the refinery.

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

head of retail banking- Muzn Islamic banking. “Muzn Islamic banking continues to go from strength to strength and has showcased an excellent first nine months of 2015, with our revenues increasing by 117 per cent and our balance sheet growing even faster. As we continue to focus on branch expansion and technology innovation in the coming months, we remain committed to capture further growth opportunities for Islamic banking in the Sultanate.” National Bank of Oman was the first bank in Oman to establish its flagship Muzn Islamic banking window in 2013, and since then the dedicated concept has gained significant momentum. The bank aims to open more branches across the Sultanate to serve customers who seek Sharia banking solutions. Muzn Islamic Banking customers can avail a full range of offerings including Murabaha Auto Finance; Ijara Home Finance; Sale and Lease Back Finance; Muzn Current Account (Qard Hassan); Muzn Savings Account (Mudaraba); Wakala Investment; Flexi Wakala Account; Murabaha Working Capital Finance; Ijara Muntahia Bittamleek Term Finance and Trade Finance.

DUBAI: Dubai developers halted delivery of about a quarter of the properties set for completion this year, bolstering apartment rents but failing to stop a 16 per cent price decline, according to CBRE Group. About 6,000 nearly-completed homes sit empty in newer developments such as Dubailand, Jumeirah Village Circle and Dubai Sports City as some developers withhold keys from buyers, according to CBRE, which visits developments to assess the extent of construction on various projects. Single-family home rents declined 4 per cent compared to a 14 per cent drop in values, Matthew Green, head of UAE research at CBRE, said at a conference on Monday. Apartment rents were unchanged. Out of 20,000 homes CBRE estimated were ready for completion this year, 14,000 were brought to the market, Green said. The supply squeeze and growing leasing demand is maintaining a gap between rents and values. While some developers purposely delayed completion, some projects were held back by the approvals process or buyers who failed to make payments, CBRE said. “Those who have some ﬂexibility in delivery pipelines will delay or stall the delivery until they presume that the capital values and rental values of those units

will give them better returns,” said Nick Maclean, CBRE Group’s managing director for the Middle East region. “The impact on the rental market is much less than the impact on the capital market. That’s partly the result of strangled supply.” 48,000 homes Withholding supply from year to year can mean deeper decline in rents or values once the properties are eventually delivered, Green said. CBRE estimates there are 48,000 homes set for completion through 2018. Dubai is still witnessing a growth in demand from a largely expatriate workforce. That means the completion of 20,000 new homes can be absorbed by renters but anything above that would boost vacancy rates, Green said. The value of transactions in Dubai dropped 33 per cent this year to around Dh18.45 billion ($5.02 billion), CBRE said. Dubai home values have been hit by the falling price of oil, tighter regulation and unsustainable price increases. Residential property prices will probably fall by another 10 per cent next year, mostly in the ﬁrst half. Home rents are expected to also decline in 2016, Green said, without being more speciﬁc. - Bloomberg News

GROWTH IN DEMAND: Dubai is still witnessing a growth in demand

from a largely expatriate workforce. That means the completion of 20,000 new homes can be absorbed by renters but anything above that would boost vacancy rates. – Bloomberg News

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

FEATURE MODERNISING THE CHAOTIC CROWD-WORKER ECONOMY

or two years, I have been part of a research team studying the lives of “crowdworkers” — people who perform online jobs that range from tweaking algorithms, which improve the performance of search engines, to inputting and organising doctor’s visit notes. We interviewed hundreds of people in the US and India who are doing the digital piecework required to make the Internet seem magically automated. Crowd-work represents a small but rapidly growing micro-climate in the ecosystem known as platform economies. These business activities are burgeoning through the ties that bind the Internet, smartphone apps and social networks. It’s hard to believe, but we have no accurate headcount of this workforce, even though economists estimate it could make up almost 30 per cent of the US labour market by 2035. The boss here is not a midlevel manager but an “application programming interface,” or API, software deployed through a cloud-based web platform. The platform — owned and operated by companies like Amazon, Upwork (formerly oDesk) and LeadGenius — operates in concert with an API to generate and verify workers’ accounts, handle the ﬂow of millions of online job postings, and route payments to people once they complete their tasks and submit them for approval from an invisible “employer.”

From our surveys of thousands of such workers, we know a lot of them string together 30 to 50 hours of work a week, earning a couple of cents to a few dollars per task. They rely on workers’ forums to share information about how to sign up for platforms, what jobs to consider, which “task creators” to avoid, and even how to do certain jobs when the instructions leave out key details. The platforms themselves provide little information about those posting the jobs. The workers have to scour thousands of tasks posted to the site each day and quickly decide which ones are worth doing. A task creator can, unilaterally, reject the completed work and refuse to pay someone, with no system in place for people to appeal the rejection. Nor does the platform allow workers to promote their own abilities. There is simply a tally of how many tasks someone completes successfully, putting people at the mercy of the platform’s algorithms and the goodwill of the task creators using the site. Promoting collaboration among these workers would not only help them be more efficient at making a living, but also help businesses and others looking to find the best people to do specific tasks. The high attrition of labor in this sector comes in part because many don’t find their way to the workers’ forums or otherwise find a way to communicate with others in the

Crowd-work represents a small but rapidly growing microclimate in the ecosystem known as platform economies. These business activities are burgeoning through the ties that bind the Internet, smartphone apps and social networks

on- demand economy. More than anything, this new economy needs an objective third-party registry that allows crowd-workers to build their resumes and establish reputations, independent of the platform. They should be able to take their record of accomplishments with them, no matter where they pick up their next gig. Unlike a typical resume, a registry would allow workers to display validated letters of recommendation from previous employers. Potential employers could register for access to this information or it could be made public, with restrictions on private information. Such a registry would serve as the on-demand economy’s Better Business Bureau, authenticating workers’ identities and reputations, while saving the platform companies and task creators the engineering costs currently poured into blocking bad actors from bombarding the platform with shoddy or fraudulent work. If companies running platforms were required through industry regulation to register why someone was suspended or removed, it would give the workers a way to publicly appeal actions when they feel they have been unfairly blocked from speciﬁc job opportunities. Right now, workers have no formal rights to challenge account suspensions or the withholding of wages, leaving them with little or no recourse. We met several peo-

ple locked out of their platform accounts, with no prior warning or clear explanation for why they had been removed. Ideally, the US Department of Labour could be part of setting up this registry and establishing the ground rules. Its involvement would make it easier to keep track of this rapidly expanding labor force and its impact on the economy. Among other things, the standards should require companies that are proﬁting from the platforms to be transparent about whether search results are being gamed. When some workers are more prominently displayed, that isn’t necessarily because they did a better job but because the companies providing the rankings sold their placements to the highest bidder. We should have that information. Platform companies, consumers and workers all have a stake in developing ways to prevent individuals from scamming and manipulating platforms in the on-demand economy. But we must also penalise employers for misclassifying workers, as well as for failing to pay them in a timely way or at all. Responding to these challenges will not only help protect the rights of millions of people who don’t enjoy the security of a 40-hour workweek. Modernising the “sharing economy” and making it more efficient will beneﬁt business, too. — MARY GRAY/Washington Post-Bloomberg News

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015 SCAN THIS TO INSTANTLY LAUNCH FACEBOOK PAGE

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ROUND-UP

FJ Cruiser now comes with exciting benefits

INTRA-PERSONAL SKILLS

A mid-sized SUV, it boasts some of the most impressive offroad capabilities in the Toyota lineup

MUSCAT: The Toyota FJ Cruiser is big and bold, with an innate sense of adventure. A mid-sized SUV, it boasts some of the most impressive off-road capabilities in the Toyota lineup. Combining tradition with modern technology and practicality, the FJ Cruiser exhilarates, whether one is headed across town or across the country. “Now, we have exciting news for all those who become proud owners of Toyota FJ Cruiser between now and until January 21, 2016,” informs a spokesperson, “Buying a 15 YM or 16 YM of Toyota F.J. Cruiser of 2015 production entitles a new owner to receive a 3 years/30,000km service package. If customers do not wish to avail of it, they can get OMR125 as a cash gift.” “I am overjoyed to hear of the choices that I have riding on my new FJ,” remarked a new owner, “Both options are good, so now I need to really make up my mind,” he added with a smile. Featuring a rugged exterior and a comfortable durable interior complete with lots of cargo space, the FJ Cruiser offers roomy seats, a sleek centre console state-ofthe-art stereo system, plus more. “The Toyota FJ Cruiser takes on

Indian School Muladha conducts guides camp

challenging terrain with ease. As a ‘go anywhere, do anything’ Toyota, it offers a gratifying performance - both on the road and off,” feels an enthusiast. Its advanced design is very noticeable, with its stylishly rounded headlights set either side of a wide, mesh grille; an upright windscreen with three wiper blades, a white roof and wrap-around rear corner windows. The rear swing-out door with mounted spare wheel offers ease of cargo storage and entry and exit of occupants. ‘FJ’ branded spare wheel cover and a ﬂip type rear glass provides a sturdy and stylish look. The FJ Cruiser’s sporty and stylish cabin comes with a silver coloured instrument panel, inner rear view mirror with LCD Display as well as meters such as compass, external thermometer and inclination meter amongst other features. The rear view camera is ﬁtted subtly to provide a clear rear view.

FJ’s classy touches include a leather steering wheel with silver accents and audio control, Bluetooth switches, water repellent fabric seats, USB + auxiliary port, cruise control, 8-way adjustable driver seat, keyless entry system, 10-speaker jbl audio system with subwoofer. The FJ is equipped with a powerful and muscular 4 litre, V6 petrol engine with Dual VVTi that whips up a massive 268HP. Optimally matched with the drive train is the sporty 5-speed, ECT (Automatic) transmission, designed to deliver excellent performance, smooth gear shifting and lower noise levels. The FJ Cruiser has a host of high-end safety features, which include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Active - Traction Control (A-TRC); Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA) and Electric Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The Passive Safety features include the high-energy absorbing,

MULADHA: A three-day annual guides camp was organised on the premises of Indian School Muladha recently. Sixty guides attended the camp under the trained guide captains Reeta Shivraj, Alice Thomas and Padmini Ravi. The camp was inaugurated by S. A. S Naqvi, the sports consultant and international coordinator of OHA and the former coach of the Indian Hockey team. The chief guest in his inaugural speech, enlightened the students on the values of scouting and guiding and stressed its importance in building a better society. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Dr Madhusudhanan, the convener and academic sub-committee chairman of the School Management Committee, Siddique Hassan, treasurer, Felix Vincent Gabriel and Sundram Miller, members. S. I. Shareef, principal, V. S. Suresh, vice-principal and Dr Lekha O. C., CCE&EC coordinator attended the function. The camp provided the guides immense opportunities to develop their intra-personal skills and

high rigidity body structure. All round occupant safety is enhanced with curtain shield, side airbags along with driver & front passenger airbags. All specifications listed above are standard Toyota equipment. Safety kit (fire extinguisher, warning triangle, tyre pressure gauge and first aid kit) is a dealer installed non Toyota item provided on Toyota models as standard equipment. Vehicle specifications may change without prior notice. Pictures and colours may differ from actual specifications of the vehicles. For further details and to ascertain availability of stocks, please visit your nearest Toyota showroom. In Oman, the nationwide parts and service network of Saud Bahwan Automotive supports Toyota’s outstanding product quality. No wonder then that today, Toyota is one of the most trusted and well-known brands.

to realise the need to live in harmony with nature. Informative sessions on yoga, hand signals, whistle signals, first aid, patrol system, woodcraft signs, kit inspection, commands, and flag hoisting were conducted during the camp. A trekking trip to Al Wadi Al Hoqain was organised. The campers enjoyed the outing thoroughly. The Treasure Hunt Competition, conducted to sharpen their observation skills, added to the charm of the camp. Various tests such as Pravesh, Pradham and Dwitiya Sopan were conducted as part of the training. The campers enjoyed the campfire by performing various programmes that focused on the scouts and guides values. The closing ceremony was held in the presence of Felix Suresh and Lekha. The camp report was presented by Alice Thomas and Reeta Shivraj proposed the vote of thanks. Shareef congratulated the campers and commended all the guide captains, staff and the sub staff on their initiatives and successful execution of the camps.

FOCUS ON NRIS

SBT chief visits Oman to strengthen customer relationships MUSCAT: Jeevandas Narayan, managing director, State Bank of Travancore (SBT), has wooed non-resident Indians in Oman, underlining the fact that the Indian Diaspora in the Gulf has been contributing immensely to the economic and social development of India. He was addressing a welcome gathering at InterContinental Muscat here last week, which was organised by Global Money Exchange Company. Jeevandas Narayan was on a three-day visit to Oman, which was part of a weeklong tour to the region to further strengthen the bank’s representations and customer relationships, says a press release. Global Money Exchange is managed by SBT, and the 70-year-old SBT (an associate bank of State Bank of India and a member of the largest banking group in India, the State Bank Group) was originally established in 1945, sponsored

by the erstwhile princely state of Travancore. ‘‘India’s relationship with Oman and the Gulf is of immense importance as the cultural and economic relations between India and Oman have been very deep for centuries. This is my second visit to Oman, and I have been impressed with the warm hospitality of its people. SBT is a household name in Kerala. As the premier bank in India’s Southern State, Kerala, we are privileged to greet NRIs in Oman. Achievements of NRIs are a source of great pride for Indians. We believe in value-addition, as we continue upgrading our services and strengthening relations with NRI customers the world over, year-after-year. More importantly, the relationship between India and its overseas community will continue to remain strong, and is growing, new partnerships evolving and newer dimensions being explored,’’ emphasised Jeevandas.

In his address, E. K. Harikumar, chief general manager, SBT, said: ‘‘SBT has been a bank with a commitment to its customers since its inception. We continue our constructive endeavours to implement NRI-friendly products and

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

status for reliability and customer satisfaction, and our branch network has been growing consistently much closer to customers. "Every single client is important to us, and our endeavour is to establish a mutually satisfactory relationship with each of them. Global Money Exchange started operations in April 2002 with a single branch in Ruwi, and in a short span of 13 years, it has become the second largest money exchange company in Oman with 34 branches along the length and breadth of the country.’’ On the occasion, a few customers of the bank, and the founder general manger of Global Money Exchange Mathai Andrews were felicitated. V. G. Rajeev, general manager, Global Money Exchange Company, proposed a vote of thanks. A melodious musical journey presented by the renowned Melody Music Centre enthralled the audience.

F I R S T O F I T S K I N D I N I T I AT I V E

Bank Sohar supports Autism Centre MUSCAT: In its most recent contribution, within the framework of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, Bank Sohar has extended support to the Autism Centre of the Association for the Welfare of Handicapped Children. Marking its fifth ever donation to the centre since 2010, the bank’s latest contribution will be directed towards the purchase of educational equipment to better serve the beneficiaries of the centre, says a press release. The donation cheque was handed over at Association for the Welfare of Handicapped Children to Foud bin Abdullah bin Moosa Al Kindi, the chairperson of the association by Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, senior AGM and head of Marketing & Customer Experience at Bank Sohar. Commenting on the bank’s contribution to the association, Munira Abdulnabi Macki said: “We strongly believe that it is the role and responsibility of all large corporates to support associations within the country as well as the community at large. Such associations contribute significantly to the society and their work is invaluable to the betterment of the lives

services. We wish 2016, and the coming years would bring the message of prosperity, cooperation, and steady progress for all Indians living in the Gulf.’’ Today, SBT has arrangements with 63 exchange houses in the

Middle East. Over a fourth of the bank’s deposits are accounted in the NRI (non-resident Indian) category. Global Money Exchange is principally engaged in the business of remittance services to different countries through speed remittance facilities directly to the beneficiary’s bank account, issue of demand drafts, instant transfer of cash, buying and selling of foreign currencies. A new product entitled, ‘SBT FLASH’ was unveiled at the meet. The product facilitates instant credit to SBT accounts seven days a week, including holidays, and this unique service is available at all the branches of Global Money Exchange. Moreover, credit confirmation is given by way of SMS to the remitter and the beneficiary. Speaking on the occasion, K. S. Subromoniyan, managing director, Global Money Exchange Company said: ‘‘Over the years, Global Money Exchange has nurtured a

of those in need. “The Autism Centre of the Association is a true asset to any family with a child suffering from autism. We, at Bank Sohar recognise the importance of the work they do, the services they provide and the way in which they help these families and community as a whole to improve the futures for these deserving children.” Thanking Bank Sohar for its continuous support, Foud bin Abdullah bin Moosa Al Kindi said: “At the Autism Centre, we work towards leveraging professional expertise to help young people with autism learn the academic and life skills needed to be successful in

their homes, schools and communities. Bank Sohar’s continuous support over the years has given us a signiﬁcant boost towards improving our facilities and services and achieving this goal. “We are extremely grateful for this donation as it will help meet the growing demand for quality basic educational equipment at the centre.” Bank Sohar strives to ensure that its contributions are carefully planned and evaluated in order to diversify and reach out to the maximum number of people, especially those in most need of it, offering recipients positive support to make a meaningful change.

omanoil's 'Farah' campaign spreads joy across Sultanate MUSCAT: Launched under the theme ‘Feel Good’, Oman Oil Marketing Company’s (omanoil) Farah campaign continues to spread joy throughout the nation. The initiative, a first of its kind in the Sultanate, was designed to share special moments with customers and highlight the benefits of simply being happy, says a press release. This week, a team of special Farah ambassadors started visiting filling stations in the Governorates of Muscat, North and South Al Batinah, Al Sharqiyah, Dakhliyah, as well as Dhofar to surprise customers with gifts ranging from LED TVs to iPhones. Additionally, a special Farah film will be made to capture those special moments of happiness and share them through social media to commemorate the campaign. Jaber Al Wahaibi, senior retail manager, said: “Since we kicked off Farah in November, we have received overwhelming support from fans and local communities all over Oman. The tremendous reaction from customers and eve-

ryone involved has proven to be infectious, spreading feelings of happiness that brighten up their days. Our ethos has always been to care beyond the pump, with each moment of joy strengthening the bond between us and our valued customers. It is great to be happy and with Farah we are aiming to create special moments and memories, one person at a time.”

Running until mid-January 2016, Farah promises more surprises, smiles and prizes as the company’s special ambassadors continue moving across the length and breadth of Oman. To date, the campaign has successfully deepened the relationship between the omanoil brand and customers as the reception of the initiative continue to grow.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

ROUND-UP NBO receives ‘Bank of the Year - Oman’ award

WORKSHOP

NBO received the award in recognition

ahlibank hosts 4th Chief Risk Officers Committee meeting

of its impressive ﬁnancial performance showcased in 2014

MUSCAT: National Bank of Oman (NBO) announced that it has been named the ‘Bank of the Year - Oman’ at The Banker’s 16th Annual Bank of the Year Awards. The prestigious accolade was presented to NBO at a ceremony held recently in London. NBO received the award in recognition of its impressive financial performance showcased in 2014. The bank recorded all-time profit growth to reach more than OMR50 million. The bank’s Tier 1 capital and total assets also increased by 9.7 per cent and 2.7 per cent, respectively, for the year. In addition, net loans, advances and financing activities were up 12 per cent as operating income increased by 10 per cent, says a press release. During 2014, National Bank of Oman continued to shine in a competitive market place, and has distinguished itself as a market leader with all-round impressive performance across parameters including branch expansion and product innovations.

The year 2014 saw the bank expanding its physical footprint both in the Sultanate and in the region. A second branch was opened in the United Arab Emirates, while the success of the bank’s Islamic banking window, Muzn, was supported by the opening of two new branches in 2014 and followed by a further three in 2015. NBO also launched the MyChoice Rewards loyalty programme in 2014. The programme enables the bank’s customers to earn points for every rial spent using credit or debit cards domestically or overseas. Reward points can then be redeemed at various airline, hotel and car rental partners globally, as well as a number

of retail outlets in the country. Cardholders are also offered the flexibility to share points with their friends and family. Ahmed Al Musalmi, CEO of National Bank of Oman, said: “We are proud to be recognised as the best bank in the Sultanate of Oman. This award confirms our relentless efforts to introduce innovative solutions that address specific customer needs, it also reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering a consistently superior banking experience across all our customer touch-points to be the bank of choice.” The bank was also recognised for its successful issuance of a five-year $500m bond in 2014, a

much-needed step in diversifying its funding base as well as lowering its funding costs. The issuance was more than three times oversubscribed, pointing to the high levels of investor conﬁdence in the bank’s future growth potential. Administered by The Banker, a sister publication of The Financial Times, the Annual Bank of the Year Awards is the most prestigious of its kind in the banking sector. A stringent evaluation process based on a balanced scorecard – taking into account earnings, asset quality, Tier 1 capital growth, returns on equity, in addition to evidence of setting new standards, product and technology innovation - was used to determine the winners.

GOOD BARGAIN

Offer adds to Nissan Micra’s appeal MUSCAT: Nissan Micra from Suhail Bahwan Automobiles is a zippy and smart compact hatchback in tune with today’s urban lifestyle. With stand-out looks, classleading driving dynamics and an interior design offering both comfort and convenience, the Nissan Micra goes beyond the regular compact hatchback offering. A refined vehicle in its own right, the Nissan Micra aims to attract a wider audience with its contemporary good looks, eyecatching exterior colour range, spacious and fashionable interior, in addition to a powerful high performance engine and a range of other options to make city driving easier, says a press release. Benefits Auto enthusiasts can now avail exciting benefits on the Nissan Micra that includes cash gift of OMR500, free service for two

years or 20,000km (periodic maintenance only), free registration, six years unlimited mileage warranty and easy and convenient ﬁnancing options. Flexible EMIs can also be tailor made for any individual requirement from in-house Auto Finance team. Customers can also get unlimited access to Nissan’s prestigious vehicle line up at the comfort of their homes or offices. Simply visit Nissan Oman’s Facebook page i.e http://www.facebook.com/Sbanissanoman or send an SMS to get

updated information on any of the vehicles from the house of Nissan. The stunning Micra Key features of the new Micra include a characterful, sleek exterior design, eye-catching exterior colour range, user-friendly equipment and interior designed with convenience in mind, highly-versatile interior seat/stowage conﬁgurations, efficient, largest-in-class 1.5-litre engine, nimble handling with best-in-class turning circle – ideal for city driving, high levels

FESTIVE SEASON

eral of Inquiries and Criminal Investigation, Royal Oman Police represented by Lt. Col. Abdulrehman Al Kiyumi, Major Qais Al Sabbag and Captain Mohammed Al Said. The banking sector in Oman established the Risk Officer’s Committee forum in 2011; wherein Chief Risk Officers of local and foreign banks operating in the country meet every quarter to exchange knowledge and discuss topical matters of relevance.

H E A LT H C A R E

Senior consultant joins emergency unit at Kims Oman MUSCAT: Kims Oman Hospital (KOH) welcomed Dr Mohammed Al Obeid, Consultant, Emergency/ Critical Care Medicine, as a member of its professional medical team at the hospital’s emergency and medical service department, recently. Dr Al Obeid is a qualiﬁed senior practitioner, who has completed his MBBS in 1998 from Khyber Medical College-Peshawar University in Pakistan, he is a fellow of Royal college of UK in emergency medicine as well as an overseas examiner for Royal college of UK in emergency medicine. Dr Obeid is member of American College of Emergency Physicians, says a press release. With more than 16 years of rich experience at many esteemed hospitals and health care institutions serving in senior positions, at Kims Oman Hospital, Dr Al Obeid’s responsibilities include emergency and critical care medicine in addition to pain management. “I am very glad to welcome Dr Al Obeid in Kims Oman Hospital. I am conﬁdent that Dr Al Obeid will be a valuable addition to our medical team and will greatly

With more than 16 years of rich experience, Dr Mohammed Al Obeid’s responsibilities include emergency and critical care medicine in addition to pain management

contribute to the hospital’s distinctive medical standards,” said Dr Hussam Akoum, chief operating officer at KOH.

U N I Q U E M U LT I F U N C T I O N A L S PA C E

Christmas & New Year’s Eve offers at Park Inn Duqm MUSCAT: Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence is all set for the festive season. For patrons who wish to celebrate the festivities nearby the beach and under the stars, the hotel offers package to make the occasion a memorable one, says a press release. On December 24, enjoy a special evening at its signature RBG Grill restaurant with an exclusive one night only dinner package. Diners can enjoy an elaborate Christmas themed set menu aimed at tantalising the taste buds. The package

price includes half a bottle of selected beverage to accompany the meal. Extend the New Year’s Eve celebrations by joining them on December 31 at the RBG Grill for an elaborate evening meal. Enjoy a set menu worthy of celebrating the last night of 2015. Toast to the ups and downs of the year gone by with half a bottle of selected beverage. To bade farewell to 2015 and usher in 2016 make your New Year resolutions, countdown to 2015 and enjoy an evening under the stars and stunning view of beach.

RECOGNITION

AOTC receives API certification MUSCAT: Advanced Oilfield Technology (AOTC), group company of Al Sulaimi Group Holding, received American Petroleum Institute (API) Certification – an advanced industry certification standard for oil and natural gas service companies for its work in the Sultanate. American Petroleum Institute (API) conducted a review of AOTC’s quality management system and ability to conform to the requirements of API standards. API workgroup thought highly of the overall operation of AOTC’s quality management system and ability of API products manufacturing, and finally concluded

of safety equipment including dual airbags, ABS, EBD and Brake Assist. The new Micra with trim level ‘SV’ is available in Oman. Suhail Bahwan Automobiles offers wide range of after sales service with modern technology and state-of-the-art facilities in strategic locations. Their practice of Total Ownership Experience and customer-centric approach will ensure that customers of the All New Nissan Micra 2015 are given par excellence professional services for all car related needs.

MUSCAT: The nation’s fastest growing bank — ahlibank hosted the fourth meeting of the Chief Risk Officers Committee of 2015 recently at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Muscat. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Central Bank of Oman and Chief Risk Ofﬁcers of the operating banks in Oman, says a press release. A workshop on ‘Cyber Crime’ was organised in the meeting, with the help of Directorate-Gen-

AOTC passed the review. This is the fifth time AOTC is successfully passing API’s certification review, says a press release. AOTC has an active facility covering 5,000 sq.m in Ghala and the API certification will help them gain confidence and trust of the valued customers in Oman. “The achievement of API Certification is a testament to AOTC’s commitment to consistent processes, improved safety and superior service quality,” said Haitham Al Fannah, chief operations officer, Al Sulaimi Group Holding. “AOTC has been a strong and active supporter of API from the beginning and is pleased to

achieve this important standard,” Haitham added. Apart from this, AOTC has also received one new certiﬁcate – API 7-1, the scope of this license includes drill stem subs and threading for rotary shouldered connections. “We are raising the quality bar,” says Shakil Hassan, general manager, AOTC. “In addition to our long history as an approved API 5CT, API 6A1054 and API 6D - 0902, we have been awarded API 7-1, as an even higher level of quality assurance. The additional licensing further demonstrates our commitment to changing requirements from our customer base.”

‘Intersect By Lexus’ set to ignite creativity, inspiration DUBAI: Lexus has traversed beyond the realms of automobiles to offer its enthusiasts even more avenues to experience ‘amazing’. creativity. One such move is the introduction of ‘Intersect By Lexus’ – a unique space set to ignite creativity and inspiration. Intersect By Lexus, a unique multifunctional space which will serve as a cultural crossroad for the Middle East creative community, will soon open its doors to visitors in Dubai, UAE. This will be the second global Intersect By Lexus after the inaugural Tokyo space, which was launched in 2013, highlighting the signiﬁcance of the Middle East region in terms of being a prominent global automotive market, says a press release. Located in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Intersect By Lexus is considered a third space, a comfortable destination between work and home, which offers an inspiring networking opportunity for luxury lifestyle seekers with an interest in design, art, fashion, culture, music and technology. It will also feature a comfortable lounge, inviting eatery, an exclusive library and an inspiring garage space that will display Lexus concept cars among other exhibits. In line with Lexus’ philosophy

to surprise and inspire beyond expectations, the beautifully designed space, immaculately conceived by Wonderwall Inc., is set to offer a distinctive brand experience in the city, and is geared towards individuals looking for an edgy and hip representation of diversity through design, art, fashion and music. According to Takayuki Yoshitsugu, chief representative, Middle East and North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, “Intersect By Lexus will be a truly one-of-a-kind ex-

perience where visitors from the Middle East region can indulge in the luxury lifestyle associated with Lexus. It also reﬂects Lexus’ approach of breaking conventions and articulating its philosophy beyond automobiles to reinforce its commitment to the world of luxury, design and craftsmanship. I am conﬁdent people will appreciate the exceptional nature of this space and come together to enjoy this urban destination which is all set to become a great addition to the vibrant cultural and social scene.”

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

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Ooredoo claims award at Telecom Review Summit Ooredoo was named ‘Best Middle East Operator for Enterprise Services’

MUSCAT: Ooredoo was named ‘Best Middle East Operator for Enterprise Services’ at the Telecom Review Summit 2015, for its exceptional growth, market leadership and customer experience achievements over the past year. Held at the InterContinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City, Greg

Young, CEO, Ooredoo accepted the award at a gala event where he was joined by leading telecom experts and industry pioneers, says a press release. The company was singled out for its strong growth, innovative market ﬁrst products and services across the consumer and business

sectors, and for their excellence in customer experience. Ooredoo’s consistent quality of service and advancement across all technical, ﬁnancial, and service areas were key in securing the prestigious award. Considered to be one of the key summits in the industry, Telecom Review gathers industry leaders annually to discuss developing trends in the telecom industry, regionally and globally. Themed ‘It’s All About Smart Networking’, the event has grown to become a meeting point for experts and pioneers to network and celebrate success.

A M I TA B H AU R M A I N C O N C E R T

An honour to be voice of Amitabh Bachchan: says Sudesh Bhosale MUSCAT: “People know me as the voice of Amitabh Bachchan and it’s the biggest honour any Indian can get,” says playback singer Sudesh Bhosale who is set to perform for the Amitabh Aur Main concert scheduled to be held in Muscat on December 26. The show, which is a tribute to India’s legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, will be held at the City Amphitheatre, says a press release. The concert, Amitabh Aur Main, is being organised by Oman’s leading event management company Light and Shadow Enterprises. Minara is the presenter of the event. Speaking on how he came up with the concept of Amitabh Aur Main concert, Sudesh said: “I wanted to pay a tribute to the living legend Amitabh Bachchan and hence came up with the concept of the show. As I am known as the voice of Amitabh in the industry and can mimic his voice, I get to deliver and sing many of his hit songs that are very close to my heart. This was an opportunity to relive those moments.” Sudesh and his son Siddhant will also pay tribute to well-known Indian play singers including Kishore Kumar, Mukesh and Mohammed Raﬁ through this concert. Female singer Arpita Thakkar will join the two singers.

Through this concert we aim at delivering a complete package and entertaining our audience so that they can experience live music in a different way Sudesh Bhosale

Playback singer

Asserting that the response to the concert has been great so far and that even youngsters love the concept of the show, Sudesh said: “We have received an overwhelming response with house full shows across India. “Oman will be the ﬁrst international performance of Amitabh Aur Main outside India. Amitabh is the biggest superstar of India,

and even the younger generations respect and love his work. Through this concert we aim at delivering a complete package and entertaining our audience so that they can experience live music in a different way.” Describing his journey as the voice of Amitabh Bachchan, Sudesh said: “I’ve had an amazing journey in this music industry and

SHARIA-COMPLIANT CREDIT CARDS

venient ways to transact around the world.” Raghav Prasad, general manager for Gulf Countries, MasterCard commented: “We are proud to launch Oman’s widest ranging Islamic credit card programme with Bank Nizwa, which is one of our key partners in Oman’s Islamic banking sector. Through strategic partnerships, we are able to provide cardholders with value-added beneﬁts, premium privileges and rewards. By collaborating with Bank Nizwa, we are actively rewarding MasterCard cardholders for using their cards to enjoy sim-

PAC K AG I N G E X H I B I T I O N

OITE Trade Fairs to launch OPMEX MUSCAT: The packaging market in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) is forecast to grow during the period 2014-19 at a CAGR of 5.0 per cent to $52.4 billion (2013 prices) while the logistics sector in Oman is set to grow beyond the $12 billion mark by 2017, with Oman looking to transform itself into a major industrial and logistics hub for the region and beyond. Keeping in line with these industrial developments, OITE Trade Fairs will be launching the ﬁrst edition of the Oman Packaging and Material Handling Exhibition (OPMEX) being held from February 8-10 2016 at the Oman International Exhibition Centre, says a press release. “Backed by the support of the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE), OPMEX will bring renowned processing and packaging suppliers to Oman along with companies involved in material handling, logistics, storage, racking, warehouse solutions and intra-logistics. With Middle Eastern countries having accounted for a projected share of almost three-quarters of total packaging sales in the Mena region in 2014 and Oman’s logistics sector receiving more attention in recent years, given its importance in the promotion of the national economy, it is well-timed that OPMEX take place in the Sultanate of Oman,” says Tarek Ali, general manager, Exhibitions, OITE Trade Fairs. As Oman’s most complete processing and packaging show for machinery, equipment, materials and services, OPMEX will give visitors a chance to meet big industry players under one roof including names like Regionality, Industrial Packing International, Al Thika Packaging, Technical Supplies & Services Co., Sohar Paper Cores, Golden Line Printing & Packaging, JASPA and TVH. Based in Dubai, Regionality recently launched a regional distributorship for Armanni Carelli Elevatori, an established Italian manufacturer of quality lifting and handling solutions. Armanni’s cost effective product features can be explored further by visitors at OPMEX 2016. Specialised in the manufacture and supply of corrugated paper cartons and paper pallets, Industrial Packing International will show visitors how to achieve

high-quality packaging efficiency through sample cartons for different industries at OPMEX. Al Thika Packaging will be demonstrating the latest 9028 inkjet printer from Markem-Imaje, using revolutionary fast drying MEK-free ink at OPMEX 2016 alongside their metal detection, pallet wrapping and net bagging machines. Technical Supplies & Services Co., a leading manufacturer of racking systems in the UAE, will offer a wide range of warehouse solutions to meet required storage needs. Under the brand name Interack, TSSC will exhibit selective pallet racking, drive in pallet racking and very narrow aisle pallet racking systems at OPMEX. Sohar Paper Cores, formed as a subsidiary company of Takamul Investment Company (Takamul), is the first paper cores plant in Oman and will compete with regional and international producers of paper cores. They will be demonstrating various specifications and sizes of the paper core products at OPMEX. OPMEX Conference will bring together 150 business delegates across industry sectors, being held alongside the exhibition. The first day of the conference will highlight the current trends, challenges and opportunities that are transforming Oman’s packaging industry while the second day will touch on the new innovation and automation in the material handling & logistics sector, under separate sessions. The conference has already received favourable responses from some confirmed speakers. Frédéric Zielinski, general manager of Swisslog Middle East will underline the main factors triggering automation in the region. Walid Khoury, managing director, ALS Logistic Solutions will guide attendees on whether the current period is the right one to automate or not to automate. Matthias Hoewer, general manager of SSI Schaefer Middle East and Africa will elaborate on the right warehouse solutions for the food and beverage industry. Nicholas P. Barakat, chief executive officer, Octal will present brand enhancing through packaging and achieving global acceptance; and Dr Makrem Kadachi, general manager GCC, EPS - Ehrhardt & Partner Solutions DWC will show attendees how to achieve logistics excellence.

LUXURY BRAND

Bank Nizwa partners with MasterCard MUSCAT: Enriching the lives of customers with greater choice and convenience, Bank Nizwa launched a full suite of Shariacompliant credit cards in partnership with MasterCard. The Bank Nizwa MasterCard credit cards are tailored to complement the lifestyles of multiple customer segments with the most expansive Sharia-compliant credit cards in the Omani market, offering financial flexibility in more than 35 million locations worldwide, says a press release. “Since inception, we have been providing customers throughout Oman with an enriched banking experience that caters to a wide range of segments, equipping them with the best options to meet their evolving needs,” said Dr Jamil El Jaroudi, CEO of Bank Nizwa. “Today we are introducing four new cards to the bank’s long list of Sharia-compliant products and services that offer the most flexible payment plans complemented by MasterCard’s unmatched benefits, bringing seamless and more con-

as the voice of Amitabh. People know me as the voice of Big B. It’s an honour.” On the need for a playback singer to have a personal connect with actors and his own equation with Amitabh, Sudesh said: “Yes, a personal connect will enhance the singer’s performance, both, in the studio and on stage. I have had a personal relation with Amitji, having shared the stage with him, going on tours, and of course spending time in the recording studio.” Sudesh has also sung for Govinda, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Anupam Kher, Nana Patekar, Sanjay Dutt and Mithun Chakraborty. He said his greatest inspiration as a singer and performer has been Kishore Kumar. On whether he enjoys mimicry as much as his enjoy singing, Sudesh said, “Yes. Mimicry makes people happy, they enjoy it. “As an artist, I fuse both, mimicry and singing.” The tickets for the event are on sale now and you can grab them from Lulu Hypermarket – Bausher and Darsait, Foodlands Restaurant, Al Khuwair and Sharaf DG, MGM. Tickets priced at OMR25, OMR15 and OMR7. Buy your tickets before December 20 and get fantastic early bird discounts. You can also book online by logging on alatoolmuscat.com

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The Bank Nizwa MasterCard credit cards are tailored to complement the lifestyles of multiple customer segments with the most expansive Sharia-compliant credit cards in Oman ple, safe and secure transactions.” In the wake of strong demand for Sharia-compliant banking in the Sultanate, Bank Nizwa’s MasterCard rollout introduces four new cards including Basic, Standard, Gold, and Platinum. The cards were developed in line with Islamic Finance concept of Qard Al Hassan, whereby customers will be charged a ﬁxed monthly subscription fee rather than a percentage against their outstanding balances.

Amouage opens renovated store in City Centre Muscat MUSCAT: International luxury brand Amouage continues its journey in Oman with a new shop that is double the size of its predecessor in City Centre Muscat. The new generation of design for the shop reflects a sophisticated, international and contemporary approach, with innovative brand-identifying touches that travel well across all countries and cultures, says a press release. “Amouage is a national treasure and we are grateful that the brand is widely known and loved in Oman,” said David Crickmore, CEO of Amouage. “Although we have a strong consumer base in the country, we want to continue to invest in our retail presence here, and our newest shop at City Centre Muscat is a reflection of our commitment to growing our business in the market.” Commenting on the brand’s expanding global presence, he added, “I want to have a retail presence on key opinion-forming shopping streets in capital cities around the world. “We shall continue our wholesale development, working with the best partners around the world, with clear brand identification wherever we sell. We will seek to continue to grow brand awareness among our target audiences, as Amouage further establishes its positioning as one of the top global niche luxury brands.” Under the guidance of Creative Director Christopher Chong, each Amouage shop is a reference towards the brand’s artisanship. The key statement of the brand is to use only the highest quality fittings, which is demonstrated perfectly in the latest shop design

concept and which permeates throughout the business. The new generation of shop design embodies Amouage’s contemporary and international philosophy with clean-cut ivory style finishes, stainless steel and antiqued mirror glass treatments. The brand’s signature jacquard is exquisitely carved into bone corian-sided fixtures, while burgundy and bronze, mirror polished stainless steel and hand printed wallpaper panels add a sense of warmth and refined elegance. “All Amouage shops are designed with an aim to make our customers feel at ease in the luxurious space,” explains Chong. “I want them to feel like they’re in the comfort of their own home.” With a retail footprint spanning 18 stores in 9 countries, the luxury brand plans gradually to roll out a programme of standalone retail shops in key cities around the world. In addition to

the new opening at City Centre Muscat, Amouage is expanding in Oman with a planned opening in Nizwa’s Grand Mall scheduled for January 2016. Today, the brand’s international presence encompasses shops in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, as well as further aﬁeld in Kuala Lumpur, London and Rome, with Milan to open shortly as well. Amouage is also sold in 66 countries across the globe in select department stores and high end independents. Amouage shops house a repertoire of product categories that continue to be expanded to provide a complete and at times retail exclusive offers. This includes collections for home, bath & body and an exquisite range of retail only, Italian, hand-made leather goods, in addition to an outstanding fragrance portfolio, for which it is most known.

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Oman Sail all set to host special National Day Sailing Festival It will be an inspiring warm-up for Renaissance Services Inter-school Sailing Championship ﬁnale where 36 sailors aged between eight and 12 years old, representing 12 schools from all over the country will compete in the series ﬁnal

MUSCAT: To celebrate Oman’s 45th National Day and give thanks to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for his continued wisdom and guidance, Oman Sail is hosting a weekend of fun on and off the waters in the National Day Sailing Festival to be organised at Kalbu Beach, near Muttrah, on December 18 and 19. A vast array of activities will provide fun for the whole family both on and off the water including games, henna painting, bouncy castles, sand castle building and the chance to try sailing with Oman Sail’s instructors. The fes-

SAILING GALA: File photo of Oman Sail’s Inter-school Sailing Championship. – Supplied photo

tival will also feature an open air market and food stalls. Friday holds a surprise and will be the highlight of the weekend celebrations as 90 children from Oman Sail’s Marina Bandar Al Rowdha Sailing School will recreate Oman’s National Flag on the water using coloured sailing boats in honour of His Majesty. An inspiring warm-up for Saturday’s Renaissance Services

90 children from Oman Sail’s Marina Bandar Al Rowdha Sailing School will recreate Oman’s National Flag on the water using coloured sailing boats in honour of His Majesty Inter-school Sailing Championship ﬁnale where 36 sailors aged between eight and 12 years old, representing 12 schools from all over the country will compete in the series ﬁnal.

FA R E W E L L

Oman Cricket bids adieu to long-serving administrator Sports Reporter MUSCAT: Oman Cricket (OC) is bidding adieu to a long-serving cricket administrator Rex Berhardt. Rex, who has been associated with Oman cricket since 1992 ﬁrst as a committee member, honorary general secretary and then as administrative manager at headquarters of the Sultanate’s cricket governing body, is leaving Oman for good. In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Oman Cricket Secretary Madhu Jesrani said: “Rex Berhardt, who has been associated with Oman Cricket since 1992, is retiring and leaving Oman for good. He was the honorary committee member and held the post of General Secretary from 1995 to 2000. He joined Oman cricket full time in the year 2005. “It was indeed a great pleasure working with such a knowledgeable, sincere and dedicated person. Cricket fraternity in Oman highly appreciates his contribution towards development of cricket in Oman.” “On behalf of Oman Cricket board we wish him best of luck for his future,” the statement said. Iqbal Ariwala, who has been associated with Oman Cricket since last two decades on honorary basis, has now joined the Oman Cricket full time as office manager, the statement added. Cherish the dream Meanwhile, speaking to Times Sport, Rex Berhardt said that he was glad to have been associated with Oman cricket over the years and to have made his contributions during several historical achievements, most of which he will ‘cherish for a long time’. “After serving as a committee member and then as honorary general secretary, I left Oman. But I was glad to return to the Sultanate in 2005 and join full time.” “I am thankful to Oman Cricket for giving me another opportunity to be part of the setup that contributed to the overall development of cricket in Oman,” the

I am proud to have been part of the overall development of cricket in Oman Rex Berhardt Departing Oman Cricket official

work put in by Oman Cricket officials under the guidance of Kanak Khimji,” he added.

TAKING REX’S PLACE: Another

veteran Iqbal Ariwala.

Sri Lankan said. Speaking about the developments and achievements of Oman Cricket in the past few years, Rex Berhardt said: “I think the green grounds comes on the top of the list and it has to be because we had talked about the subject for many years and when I ﬁnally saw the green ﬁelds coming up in Oman it was like realising a dream for me as with all others who have been involved with Oman cricket.” Rex, however, also mentions in the same breath two other major achievements of Oman cricket. “The Sultanate gaining the ICC Associate status and most importantly the T20 status, I think these are the kind of historic achievements I will cherish, like everyone who are involved with Oman cricket, for a long time.” “These are all the fruits of hard

Local interest However, amongst all the positive developments and achievements, Rex Berhardt is baffled by one not so positive aspect — of lack of numbers, of local Omanis in cricket. “We have done a lot to improve this particular aspect — of not many Omanis showing interest. Oman Cricket has been sponsoring as many as seven teams (in the league) but we are surprised to see there is lack of interest or enthusiasm among the locals... some players even fail to turn for practice sessions. “But I am sure Oman Cricket, under Kanak Khimji, will soon ﬁnd ways to overcome this problem... after all Omanis are future of Oman cricket.” The Sri Lankan official also revealed his plans to be associated with cricket even after leaving Oman. “I love this sport and I want to be associated with it either back home (in Sri Lanka) or abroad. I don’t want my experience to go waste. There are many emerging cricket nations who need people with experience in cricket administration and I want to be involved with one of those countries and contribute in their success.”

“The National Day Sailing Festival offers the chance for the people of Oman to get closer to the sea and explore Oman’s nautical roots,” said Salma Al Hashmi, Director of Marketing and Events.

“Oman Sail has been tasked with reigniting Oman’s maritime heritage and our teams have been ﬂying the Omani ﬂag with pride around the world. Without His Majesty’s continuous support of Oman Sail,

none of this would have been possible and we thank him for giving us this opportunity.” The Festival opens at 10 a.m. December 18, with free activities available until 8 p.m. on both days. The ﬁnale of the Renaissance Services Inter-school Sailing Championship will take place on December 19 with a prize-giving ceremony taking place afterwards at Kalbu Park Amphitheatre.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

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Pakistan players back home from Bangladesh with bitter memories Misbah-ul Haq’s omission has surprised many in the Pakistan cricket circles while

I can’t say much on this but I guess the team owners and coaches know what is required. But it is not easy sitting on the bench for so long

others like Kamran Akmal, Saeed Ajmal, Umar Akmal and Wahab Riaz have also returned home not happy at being given the cold shoulder treatment

KARACHI: Many of the Pakistani players who went to Bangladesh to appear in the Bangladesh Premier League return home with bitter memories and unhappy at being sidelined by the team owners and management. Foremost among them is Pakistan’s Test captain Misbah-ul Haq who was sidelined by the Rangpur Riders management for his team’s last seven matches while preference was given to other foreign signings including Afghanistan’s little known Mohammed Nabi. “I can’t say much on this but I guess the team owners and coaches know what is required. But it is not easy sitting on the bench for so

long,” Misbah said just before his team’s knockout game on Sunday night. Misbah clearly looked upset at his continued exclusion even for the knockout match against Barissal Bulls. His omission has surprised many in the Pakistan cricket circles while others like Kamran Akmal, Saeed Ajmal, Umar Akmal and Wahab Riaz have also returned home not happy at being given the cold shoulder treatment. “I had made it clear to my franchise owners and management that I wanted to open in the BPL but after just two matches I didn’t get any proper response,” Kamran said.

WA R M - U P M AT C H

Misbah-ul Haq

Pakistan Test captain

“I didn’t go there only for the money I went there as I thought the BPL would allow me to further remind the selectors I am doing well,” he said. Pakistan’s fast bowler Wahab also decided it was better to return home midway through the BPL

and walk the ramp in Lahore than sit and waste his time in Dhaka. “Obviously it is not easy to be ignored like this for majority matches. It has been tough on Misbah but he has handled himself well,” Wahab who also appeared for Rangpur said.

Wahab had joined the BPL on December 1st after the Pakistan and England series along with Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Malik, Ahmed Shehzad, Umar Akmal, Sohail Tanvir and Muhammad Hafeez. Fast bowler Sohail Khan also got just one match for Dhaka Gladia-

tors during his three week stay in Bangladesh while Pakistan’s spin stalwart Saeed Ajmal was also played in just two matches and then dumped on the sidelines. A total of around 17 players from Pakistan were signed by the BPL franchises but only left arm pacer Muhammad Aamir enjoyed himself playing in all their matches for Chittagong Vikings and fast bowler Muhammad Sami who has been a regular feature of the Barissal Bulls which plays the final on Tuesday. Shahid Afridi also enjoyed the honor of leading the Sylhet side despite joining them late and appeared in all their games before they were eliminated in the qualifying league stage. He ensured Tanvir also played in all these matches for Sylhet. Malik has also not been played for the last two matches by the other finalists Camilla Victorians although they say this is because of a finger injury while Shehzad has done well for the Victorians. Pakistani players also had complaints about payment issues with the BPL franchises after the first edition while in the second edition the Pakistan cricket board didn’t permit the players to play in the league. - PTI

CRICKET

Stokes, Taylor make centuries

McCullum urges New Zealand to keep up the momentum against Sri Lanka

POTCHEFSTROOM: Ben Stokes and James Taylor smashed unbeaten centuries as England plundered 470 for ﬁve on the opening day of their warm-up match against a South African Invitation XI on Tuesday. Facing an inexperienced bowling attack, Stokes smashed 158 from 131 balls and Taylor 114 from 152 before both retired to allow others practice time during the three-day game. Their rally came after England had been in trouble against the new ball when openers Alastair Cook (two) and Alex Hales (eight) were out early to leave them teetering at 10 for two.

HAMILTON: New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum had challenged his side before the first Test against Sri Lanka to continue their momentum from their series in Australia and after their 122-run victory has asked them to do it again. The New Zealanders lost the three-match series across the Tasman 2-0 but had improved throughout and were considered unlucky not to have snatched a series draw with victory in the deciding day-night test in Adelaide, which the hosts managed to clinch in a tense threewicket finish. Against Sri Lanka at University Oval in Dunedin, with more favourable conditions they showed they could sustain their level of good play as they eye a return series against Steve Smith’s side next February. “It was essential we got the win because we played some excellent cricket,” McCullum told reporters in Dunedin. “The thing about Australia was I think we got better as the series went on and this Test match we stepped it up another notch. “The challenge for us for the next three matches over the summer is to keep putting that line in the sand further and further away. “That’s the challenge for us.” What must have been pleasing for McCullum was the fact that Martin Guptill managed to put a poor return against Australia behind him to score 202 runs in the match, while Tom Latham finally converted a start to notch his first century at home. Bowlers Doug Bracewell and Neil Wagner also continued to charge in on a pitch that did not deteriorate through the entire five days and perform the thankless task of tying down an end and exerting scoreboard pressure on the Sri Lankans. Bracewell, who was arguably the best bowler for New Zealand in Australia, continued his strong form without much return. “I thought he bowled absolutely

Batting at number three, Nick Compton staked a claim for a Test place with a neat and clean 58 after Joe Root had scored 28, all in boundaries. Jonny Bairstow (35) was bowled just before the close by the impressive Thandolwethu Mnyaka (three for 66) and Moeen Ali finished the day unbeaten on 33. Each side may use 13 players in the game, which does not carry first-class status, and can bat for a maximum of 100 overs. The first Test against South Africa starts in Durban on Boxing Day, to be followed by matches in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria. - Reuters

Southee, Boult rested for ODIs, Nicholls gets call-up Brendon McCullum.

brilliantly throughout the test match and all through Australia as well and just hasn’t got the rewards at the moment,” McCullum said of Bracewell’s match return of 1-88 from 40.2 overs. “The good thing is he didn’t get frustrated. He had a good, calm head about him.” Wagner, brought in as the fourth seamer, also put pressure on Sri Lanka’s batsmen with a sustained period of hostile shortpitched bowling that kept them on the back foot and will cause coach Mike Hesson selection issues ahead of the second test. “There’s obviously times when there’s been a bit of resistance there and we just had to keep plugging away and I thought that’s when Neil Wagner really stepped up for us,” McCullum said. “He bowled those ‘dead overs’ with hostility and when he’s in your team you know that you’ve got those overs when you are going to be able to create some opportunities.” The key for his side, McCullum added, was to keep up that intensity when the second Test begins at Hamilton’s Seddon Park on Friday. “Sri Lanka is a pretty tough opposition to get results against. They have some excellent young bowlers and they asked some questions on day one. “We knew we would get better and it’s one thing expecting yourselves to get better but it’s another thing actually doing it. “I thought the way that we played throughout this test match, bat, ball and in the ﬁeld, was one of our most thorough performances.” - Reuters

WELLINGTON: Uncapped batsman Henry Nicholls has been called into New Zealand’s one-day squad for the start of the ﬁve-match series against Sri Lanka, while pace duo Trent Boult and Tim Southee have been rested. Canterbury lefthander Nicholls was included in the 14-man squad for the ﬁrst three ODIs after impressing coach Mike Hesson and fellow selector Gavin Larsen with his performances over the last 12 months. The 24-year-old, who was the second top run-scorer in last season’s domestic one-day competition, topped the averages (75.66) and scored an unbeaten 144 in the unofficial ‘Test’ between New Zealand and Sri Lanka ‘A’ sides in October. Nicholls continued that strong form in the domestic Twenty20 competition and looks set to reap his rewards with an ODI debut at his home ground of Hagley Oval. “Henry has earned his spot after consistent performances over the last 12 months and during the New Zealand A campaign, he was exceptional across all forms,” Hesson told reporters. “He is a player who has got class and he’s a player we want exposed to the international scene sooner rather than later so we’re excited to see how he goes.” Hesson said opening bowlers Boult and Southee, who formed a deadly tandem during the World Cup earlier this year as New Zealand

made their first final, would be rested. Boult will miss the first three games in Christchurch on December 26 and 28 and in Nelson on December 31. Southee will be available for the Nelson game, with Matt Henry selected for the first two games. “Both Trent and Tim by the time we get to the next test would have played five Tests in a row,” Hesson said. “It’s a long season and we need some fresh legs steaming in at the first ODI.” Injured all-rounders Corey Anderson, Jimmy Neesham and Grant Elliott were not considered for selection. Elliott, who broke his arm in a domestic match, could be back playing during the Christmas period, Hesson said. Anderson and Neesham have been struggling with back injuries and their bowling has been limited, he added. “Corey is starting to increase his loads (and) it is likely he could be considered for the T20 as a batsman,” Hesson said. The final two games of the series are on January 2 in Nelson and January 5 in Mount Maunganui before Sri Lanka end their tour with two Twenty20 Internationals. Squad: Brendon McCullum (captain), Doug Bracewell, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry (first two matches), Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne, Henry Nicholls, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Ross Taylor, Kane Williamson, George Worker, Tim Southee (third match only). - Reuters

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

SPORTS C O M M E N TA RY

Dhoni should smile for a while

couple of days ago John Wright said when he put on his Mumbai Indians’ cap and when MS Dhoni walked into the middle, “it’s a wicket you want to get”. With MS becoming the ﬁrst pick of the all-new Pune franchise yesterday, the apparent wisdom expressed about the captain of the Indian team in limitedovers formats by the former Indian team coach sounds charming. Not absolutely convincing, perhaps. Wright’s views on Dhoni came in the wake of the home Test series victory against South Africa achieved under the captaincy of Virat Kohli by a team that featured almost the very same guys who lost both the T20 and ODI series playing under Dhoni. There’s no doubt about Dhoni’s desire and determination to do good. His participation in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy is a step in the right direction to tune him up for the Australian series scheduled for January. For someone who had taken India to the top in Test rankings and won the ICC ODI and T20 World Cups, playing limited-overs matches at home is an humble, honest attempt aimed at sending the right signals to his critics and trying to get his patent acts, such as the helicopter ones, together. Unfortunately, the ﬁgures against his name on the score-

board don’t tell romantic tales. Dhoni scored just nine runs off 24 balls in his ﬁrst outing, hitting absolutely no boundary. He scored 44 off 64 balls in the second match, against Gujarat, and 18 off 31 balls, in the third, against Kerala. And just ﬁve boundaries off 129 balls. That’s an uninspiring picture of struggle and pain against a set of ordinary bowlers, and his obsession with going slow and steady has, of late, been seldom helping him or the team. This is a failed strategy he needs to take a fresh, frank look at. For all said and done, Dhoni remains the top, spicy draw in the Indian Premier League for now with the fans and the franchises, and his performances in the run up to the ninth edition are unlikely to upset the equations. It’s going to be a yummy spread of icing on the Dhoni cake for IPL 2016 if he does well in the away series in Australia and is able to take India to the second T20 World title, but cake is cake, with or without embellishment. For a man who is currently ranked 23rd by Forbes on its list of 100 highest-paid

athletes in the world, Rs15 crore or so he gets from IPL as salary makes up just a drop of that fabulous $31 million he gets paid a year. But the drop counts, because it’s a few drops that ultimately added up to the estimated $100 million net worth he now has. Close to $27 million of his annual earnings comes from endorsements, and such fabulous multi-million smiles happened in the wake of helicopters in flight. Dhoni needs to take off to fuel his life as a player. IPL 2016 is a few months away, and the immediate challenge Dhoni faces now is not about getting a team of guys from around the world together to discover and believe in a new sense of purpose, but about walking into the Indian dressing room smiling confidently to lead a set of familiar guys. That’s not an easy job, not just because he needs to share the spotlight with the cocky young captain of the Test team. How Dhoni copes with the new reality and how he relates to the guys who feel proud and happy about their sense of empowerment under Kohli could contribute a great deal to the Indian, and Dhoni’s, push for gold in the coming days. The writer is a freelance contributor based in India. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman

ICC RANKINGS

Ashwin, Jadeja in Top-5 of ICC Test all-rounders’ rankings

IPL DRAFT: Owner of Rajkot cricket team Keshav Bansal, Chairman of Indian Premier League (IPL) Ra-

jeev Shukla and representative of Pune cricket team Subrata Talukdar attend a news conference after a player draft for the Indian Premier League in Mumbai. – Reuters

Dhoni for Pune, Raina for Rajkot Seven players of the suspended Chennai Super Kings, including Dhoni, were picked along with three others from Rajasthan Royals, also banned from the league for two years

MUMBAI: India’s limitedovers captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Tuesday emerged as the top draw in the IPL draft with the Sanjeev Goenka-owned new franchise Pune opting to pick him first for the stipulated price of Rs 125 million here. Dhoni’s India teammate Suresh Raina was the first preference for the other new team Rajkot, which is owned by Intex Mobiles. He will also get an identical Rs 125 million crore by virtue of being the first player selected by the franchise. Seven players of the suspended Chennai Super Kings, including Dhoni, were picked along with three others from the Rajasthan Royals, also banned from the league for two years. In-form Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane was the second choice for Pune, while Rajkot optPINK REVOLUTION

Australia line up more domestic pink ball matches

ICC RANKINGS: Ravichandran Ashwin of India held on to top spot in ICC all-rounders rankings as

Ravindra Jadeja, right, rose to ﬁfth in the list. – File photo

DUBAI: Ravichandran Ashwin held on to his top spot, while Ravindra Jadeja rose a rung to be ﬁfth in the all-rounders’ chart of the latest ICC Test rankings issued on Tuesday. However, no Indian found a place in the top-10 of batsmen’s rankings even though Ashwin (2nd) and Jadeja (8th) represented the country in the bowlers’ list. Williamson rises to third Elsewhere, Kane Williamson stood just two steps away from the top spot in the rankings for Test batsmen, which were released after the conclusion of the Dunedin and Hobart Tests. Williamson has earned the rise to third place, just three points off South Africa’s AB de Villiers, thanks to two consistent knocks of 88 and 71, helping New Zealand extend their winning streak

to 12 home Test victories in-arow, after they beat Sri Lanka by 122 runs. Williamson’s teammate Martin Guptill has jumped up a remarkable 18 places, after scoring 156 and 46. Guptill was rewarded with only his second man of the match award in Tests. Black Caps skipper Brendon McCullum has moved up two places to 17th, while his Sri Lanka opposite number Angelo Matthews has marked the visiting side’s presence in the top 10 batsman rankings, down one place to seventh. Smith slips to fourth Over in Hobart, Australia skipper Steven Smith has tumbled three places to fourth and he is now just 11 points ahead of his teammate David Warner. But there was better news for

Adam Voges who led the charge for Australia with a ﬁrst innings double-century. Voges’ knock has vaulted him 19 places to a career-high 15th place in the latest rankings. Shaun Marsh supported Voges ably, scoring 182, and together the pair added a sixth-highest all time partnership of 449 runs. In the process, Marsh has risen 17 spots to a career best 37th in the batsman rankings. West Indies batsman Darren Bravo has been rewarded for being the lone centurion from his side, moving up two spots to 25th. In the ICC Player Rankings for Test bowlers, Australia’s Josh Hazlewood has entered the top-10, rising up four spots after claiming seven wickets in Australia’s win over the West Indies, while offspinner Nathan Lyon has moved up two spots into 15th after a three-wicket haul in Hobart. — PTI

SYDNEY: Flushed with the success of the inaugural daynight Test match, Cricket Australia has further embraced the innovation by scheduling another pink ball round of fourday Sheffield Shield matches for mid-February. More than 123,000 fans passed through the gates at Adelaide Oval over the three days of last month’s experimental Test against New Zealand, a record for a non-Ashes match. That far outstripped the paltry crowds for the test against West Indies last week at Bellerive Oval in Hobart as well as the Brisbane and Perth matches against the Black Caps— all played in more traditional daylight hours. Round seven of the interstate Sheffield Shield championship will now take place under lights with the WACA in Perth, the Gabba in Brisbane and Adelaide all hosting day-night matches starting on February 14. “The public’s response to the ﬁrst day-night test was overwhelmingly positive and we’ve now had some time to evaluate feedback from everyone involved in the match,” Cricket Australia’s Sean Cary said. “These matches will be used as part of our work to keep reﬁning the ball in close consultation with Kookaburra.” — Reuters

ed for Ravindra Jadeja in the same position. Both players will be entitled to a purse of Rs 95 million per year. The draft process was necessitated following the suspension of Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals from the IPL for two years in the wake of the 2013 spotﬁxing and betting scandal. The suspension was ordered by the Supreme Court-appointed Justice (retd) R M Lodha committee, which was formed to decide the quantum of punishment following the investigations. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was picked by Pune as their third choice and will get a purse of Rs 75 million. New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum was Rajkot’s choice. In the fourth spot, both the teams opted Australians with Steve Smith (Rs 55 million) going to

Pune and James Faulkner (Rs 55 million) going to Rajkot. Pune opted for South African batsman Faf du Plessis as their ﬁfth and ﬁnal player, while West Indian Dwayne Bravo was Rajkot’s pick. Both players will get Rs 40 million. The draft pool only included players from Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals,.the two teams which have been barred from participation. The players not picked will now go to the general IPL auction scheduled for February 6. The next edition of the Twenty20 league will be held from April 9 to May 29. Out of this lot, Rahane, Faulkner and Smith had represented the Royals last year while the rest belonged to Super Kings. A total of 50 players from both suspended teams were available to be chosen in the draft. The unsold players will now go to the players’ auction to be held on February 6, said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. “The salary of players as per their contract with their former teams will be protected. The upper limit will be deducted from the total purse of Rs 660 million. All will be put up on the website,” Shukla told a media conference after the draft. - PTI

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

SPORTS

FROM DECEMBER 20

Bank Muscat to receive 2016 Green Sports applications MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, will start receiving applications for 2016 Green Sports programme from December 20. Marking the fifth year of the unique Corporate Social Responsibility (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. Green Sports application forms

can be downloaded from the Bank Muscat website www.bankmuscat.com and are also available at the CSR department in the bank’s head office. The bank will consider only new applications and the completed forms must be submitted at the head office or branches before January 28, 2016. The Green Sports initiative launched by Bank Muscat in 2012 has gained momentum with a total of 49 teams across the Sultanate beneﬁting from the support till date.

In 2015, the bank widened the scope of Green Sports support beyond the natural greening of football fields. Football teams seeking Green Sports support can now choose from four options - to either green their football fields with natural or synthetic turf, or avail support to affix flood lights or water desalination equipment to facilitate greening of fields in areas facing problems of water salinity. The move is aimed at providing wider representation to teams to

build sustainable sports infrastructure in all parts of the Sultanate. The criteria for availing the Green Sports support include that sports teams should have been in existence for three years with a minimum of 300 members from the local community. The bank recognises that local teams wield immense inﬂuence on neighbourhood communities, especially youth, hence teams with modern infrastructure facilities can help raise sporting heroes for the country.

Fatma suffers singles defeat in Thailand her campaign with a victory in doubles, Fatma Al Nabhani suffered defeat in singles competition of the the $25,000 ITF Pro Circuit tournament in Thailand

omy, 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 impetus for youth to excel in all arenas and thereby contribute to the development and progress of Oman. For any enquiries on Green Sports registration, Bank Muscat officials can be contacted on 24768987 or 24768505.

FOOTBALL

Dhofar, Al Nasr, Sur enter quarterfinals of Mazda Cup MUSCAT: Dhofar, Al Nasr and Sur made it to the quarterfinals of the Mazda Professional Cup football tournament while reining Omantel Professional League and His Majesty’s Cup champions Al Arouba were the shown the exit at the end of the group stage matches on Monday. According to information received from the Oman Football Association (OFA) on Tuesday, Al Arouba needed an outright victory in their final Group C match against Sur to advance to the last eight. However, it was the latter who managed to hold the former to a goalles draw and move into the quarterfinals. In three-team Group C, Sur finished their engagements with seven points against Al Arouba’s six. Muscat, who earned nine points, had already booked their place in

A day after starting

MUSCAT: A day after starting her campaign with success in doubles, Fatma Al Nabhani suffered defeat in singles competition of the $25,000 ITF Pro Circuit tournament in Thailand on Tuesday. According to information received here, the Omani ace gave a good fight before going down Japanese girl Miharv Imanishi in three sets. After losing the first set, Fatma battled back to win the second and then stretched her Japanese opponent in the thrid and deciding set but failed to stop the latter winning their first round match with a

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 econ-

the last eight. Al Nasr, meanwhile, managed to make it to the knockout stages with a thumping 3-0 victory over Dhofar in Group D. The victory helped Al Nasr take their points tally to seven, same as Salalah. However, Al Nasr made it thanks to their better goal average of plus one against Salalah’s minus one. Despite Monday’s defeat, Dhofar advanced as Group D toppers with nine points. The others to make it to the quarterfinals were Al Nahda and Sohar from Group B and Al Musannah and Fanja from Group B. The OFA is yet to finalise the dates and venues of the quarterfinals. The quarterfinalists: Al Nahda, Sohar (from Group A), Al Musannah, Fanja (from Group B), Muscat, Sur (from Group C), Dhofar and Al Nasr (from Group D).

RUGBY

Borthwick is England forwards coach MIXED START: Omani star Fatma Al Nabhani

final scoreline of 6-2, 3-6, 7-5. On Monday, Fatma combined well with her Russian partner Angelina Gabveva to book a place in the quarterfinals of the doubles competition. In their first round match, Fatma and Angelina defeated local girls Chompoothip

Jandakate and Tamachan Momkoobthod 6-1, 4-6 (10-4). In the last eight stage, Fatma and Angelina are scheduled to take on Chinese duo of Fang Ying Xun and Qiu Yu Ye. Fatma, who is now at 382 in ITF rankings, is also scheduled to play in another $25,000 ITF Pro Cir-

cuit tournament in Thailand from December 21 to 27. In 2015 so far, Fatma had won ﬁve singles titles, including two back-to-back crowns in $10,000 ITF Pro Circuit events in south Indian city of Hyderabad, and seven doubles titles.

LONDON: Former captain Steve Borthwick has become new England coach Eddie Jones’s ﬁrst appointment after agreeing to join the national team as forwards coach on Tuesday. The two men worked together for three years when Jones was in charge of Japan, culminating in the team’s impressive World Cup display this year. Jones also signed

the former lock when he was Saracens coach and tempted him to Twickenham from Championship club Bristol, who he joined as assistant coach after the World Cup. The 36-year-old former Bath and Saracens captain won 57 England caps between 2001 and 2010 and played in the 2007 World Cup, when England lost to South Africa in the ﬁnal. - Reuters

ISC SALALAH BADMINTON

Ramshad, Jibin reign supreme

MUSCAT: Ramshad and Jibin team reigned supreme in doubles event of the NDTC-sponsored open badminton tournament organised at Sultan Qabooos Multipurpose hall of Indian Social Club (ISC) Salalah recently. Ramshad and Jibin prevailed over Hashim Haneefa and Ajith after a close contest for a 21-16, 21-11 victory. Earlier, the tournament was officially opened with a welcome address by Vinaykumar, Jt. General Secretary of ISC

Salalah, in the presence of club chairman Manpreet Singh and the members of the management committee, sponsors and the other dignitaries. The tournament was controlled and coordinated by club’s sports secretaries Sunny Jacob and Benoy Joseph. The dignitaries include ISC management committee members Mohandas, Rakesh Kumar Jha, Niocolas De Souza, Manoj Kumar, Dileep, Lochan, Chief Financial Officer of L&T Oman,

Issac Thankachan, General Manager of NDTC Oman, and Ashraf, Manager of United India Insurance Company. During the prize-distribution ceremony, a special gift was presented to the most promising Omani player, Marwan as a token of appreciation and encouragement. ISC Chairman Manpreet Singh presented the winners trophy to the winners and gift vouchers were handed over by Lochan of L&T Oman.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Gayle forced to defend his absence from Tests The explosive opener arrived in Australia to play in the domestic Twenty20 Big Bash League a few days after the struggling West Indies team were beaten by an innings and 212 runs in Hobart Test

MELBOURNE: Former West Indies captain Chris Gayle is hopeful he can return to Test cricket next year but said he was simply not fit enough to take part in the ongoing series against Australia. The explosive opener arrived in Australia to play in the domestic Twenty20 Big Bash League a few days after the struggling West Indies team were beaten by an innings and 212 runs in the first Test in Hobart. That Gayle and other leading West Indies players such as Dwayne Bravo, Lendl Simmons, Andre Russell and Samuel Badree are playing Twenty20 while West Indies’ Test reputation is taking such a battering is a matter of some controversy Down Under. “Gayle Farce, the Windies saviour flies in ... to grab our Big Bash cash,” read the backpage headline on Sydney’s Daily Telegraph newspaper on Tuesday. Gayle, who scored the last of his 7,214 Test runs for West Indies against Bangladesh in September 2014, said his recent back injury meant it was too early for him to be playing the longest form of the game. FOOTBALL

Lennon fears Bolton player exodus over unpaid wages LONDON: Manager Neil Lennon fears players could walk away from Bolton Wanderers if the Championship (second tier) club fail to pay their wages for a second month in a row. Bolton, who were unable to pay their players’ salaries in November, received a windingup petition from Britain’s tax collection agency (HMRC) in respect of unpaid monies earlier this month. The club owes about £600,000 ($910,080) in unpaid taxes and has 173 million pounds of debt. A failure to pay wages in December could allow players to get out of their current deals and leave the club for nothing. “They can give the club two weeks’ notice. That is their right. We need something done very, very quickly,” Lennon said. “It’s a scenario I don’t want to contemplate.” - Reuters

SPORTS

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“There’s no way I could have actually been part of that Test team, I’m just coming back from injury,” the 36-year-old, who made his comeback from injury in Bangladesh’s Twenty20 league, told reporters in Melbourne. “I haven’t retired from the game. Next year hopefully Test cricket is on the agenda. I haven’t batted for such a long time. I scored 92 in a game and the next day felt like I’d been hit by a bus,” he added. “The body will actually take time to build up gradually.” Gayle said it would take time for the inexperienced West Indies squad led by Jason Holder to ﬁnd their feet in Test cricket but he hoped they might spring a surprise in the last two Tests of the series in Melbourne and Sydney. “It won’t happen overnight,” he said. “It kind of reminded me how we used to be dominant against Australia and it’s vice versa now. Fingers crossed they can actually turn the tables.” Lara intervention Meanwhile, legendary Australia leg-spinner Shane Warne believes an intervention from the legendary Brian Lara is warranted in order to save the West Indies’ troubled tour Down Under from becoming a full blown crisis. Speaking after witnessing the Windies innings and 212-run defeat inside three days in the opening Test in Hobart, Warne said Lara could play a role in reviving team morale, reports CMC. “Lara is in the country. They need to get him involved, spend some time with the team in Melbourne,” said Warne on Tuesday. Lara is is currently in Australia after featuring in a Festival of Cricket T20 match in Western Australia last week. Warne said it was important the West Indies bounced back as world cricket needed a strong Caribbean side. “I think world cricket needs the West Indies to be strong. What they bring to the table is so exciting,” said Warne. “They play with emotion, passion and ﬂair.” - Agencies

GOOD SHOW

Muscat Gymnastics’ athletes win 15 medals in Dubai Open MUSCAT: Young athletes from Muscat Gymnastics team won 15 medals at the second Dubai Open Gymnastics Competition last Friday. Muscat Gymnastics team took part in the under-10 and over-10 categories where Omani gymnast Sara Al Jabri claimed the all-round title in the under-10 category. Fourteen gymnasts coached by Ionela Yammine competed in the Level 1 meet in all four events: vault, uneven bars, beam and ﬂoor. Their

ﬂawless routines won them 15 gold, silver and bronze medals with Tala Yarvas winning three medals, Gulpharna Hussein two medals, and Julia Klefasz two medals. The star of the day was Sara Al Jabri, a 9-year-old Omani gymnast who won gold on uneven bars, silver on beam, gold on ﬂoor. Sara also took home the allround champion title in the under-10 category with a total score of 36.85 points.

“The team did an excellent competition, and all gymnasts performed their best routines. I am very impressed with the girls’ progress and performance and very thankful to all the families for their support during the preparations for this competition. We have a strong team and we are looking forward to more medals and excellent results at the next competition in March” Ionela Yammine, head coach, said.

Muscat Gymnastics, establihsed in January 2015, is the ﬁrst gymnastics club in Oman, and provides gymnastics classes to children aged two and above at preschool, recreational and competitive levels. Located in Mawaleh, the club is recognised by the Ministry of Sport Affairs, and has state of the art gymnastics equipment approved by the International Gymnastics Federation.

‘ C O M E T O T H E TA B L E ’

IOC ready for talks with banned Kuwait: Bach BUDAPEST: The Kuwaiti government must “come to the table” and resolve the sports law which has caused the country to be banned from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), IOC president Thomas Bach said on Tuesday. Kuwait was suspended in October for the second time in ﬁve years over government interference in the country’s Olympic Committee. The sports ministry has also ordered the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) to vacate its headquarters in Kuwait by April 2016. The head

of the OCA is Kuwaiti Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabah, an inﬂuential IOC member. Suspended sentence Kuwaiti media reported on Saturday that a court had handed out a six-month suspended prison sentence to Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabah, a senior member of the ruling family and a powerbroker in international sport, for quoting remarks by the country’s ruler without permission. The Gulf Arab state’s constitution describes Emir Sheikh Sabah

Al Ahmad Al Sabah as “immune and inviolable”. Quoting him without permission from his court is punishable under Kuwaiti law. Bach, attending a meeting to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the Hungarian Olympic Committee, said the prison sentence was a separate issue from the sports law. Need to change “This is justice in Kuwait, it’s nothing to do with the sports law or sport,” Bach told a news conference. “The IOC will respect the

law of a sovereign country.” The IOC chief, however, said the law which led to Kuwait’s ban needed to be changed. “We will insist on our worry that the sports law is in compliance. I think this is also in the interest of the Kuwait authorities and the Kuwaiti athletes to ensure this compliance and not forcing their other federations to escalate the issue. “They have to come to the table,” Bach said. “The IOC has always made it clear it is ready to address the various stipulations of the law that need to be changed.” - Reuters

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

SPORTS

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Barca set to face repertoire of Scolari’s spoiling tactics Messi’s Barcelona are runaway favourites to win the tournament for the third time in seven years but they know that Scolari, in charge of their Chinese opponents since June, is not going to make life easy for them SPECIALIST IN KNOCKOUTS: Guangzhou Evergrande’s coach Luiz Felipe Scolari instructs his players

OSAKA: Barcelona are likely to face Luiz Felipe Scolari’s full repertoire of spoiling tactics when they meet the Brazilian coach’s Guangzhou Evergrande team in their Club World Cup semiﬁnal on Thursday. The European champions will be without injured striker Neymar against their Asian counterparts, who are in the semiﬁnals for the second time in three years following Sunday’s shock 2-1 win over Mexico’s America on Sunday. South American champions River Plate, with the fanatical backing of thousands of fans who

during a training session ahead of their Club World Cup semiﬁnal against Barcelona in Yokohama. – Reuters

have made the marathon trip from Argentina, meet Sanfrecce Hiroshima, champions of host nation Japan, in the other semiﬁnal in Osaka on Wednesday. Lionel Messi’s Barcelona are runaway favourites to win the tournament for the third time in seven years but they know that Scolari, in charge of their Chinese opponents since June, is not going to make life easy for them. Although his reputation has taken a battering since his Brazil

AT H L E T I C S

Why not dream? More comfortable when his team are seen as the underdogs, he often takes the laws of the game to their limits by using tactical fouling to stop the opposition stringing together passes in midﬁeld. In his wilder days back in the

cutthroat world of Brazilian domestic soccer, he was even known to criticise players for not fouling enough, and to throw spare balls onto the pitch to disrupt opposition attacks. When Scolari’s Brazil beat Spain 3-0 in the Confederations Cup ﬁnal in 2013, they committed 26 fouls, nearly all of them sly trips and shirt-tugs in midﬁeld, and did it so subtly that they did not pick up a single yellow card. A mixture of local Chinese players with a contingent of Brazil-

Tough task for Atletico de Kolkata against Chennaiyin KOLKATA: Smarting from a 0-3 mauling and plagued with injuries, Atletico de Kolkata will have to play out of their skins if they are to reach their final destination, when they take on Chennaiyin FC in the return leg semifinal of Indian Super League (ISL) here on Wednesday. Continuing their dream run, CFC dished out a clinical performance to thrash the inaugural edition’s champions in their ‘home’ leg semis in Pune on Saturday, a record fifth successive win for a team battling flood back home. Bruno Pelissari’s ‘serpentine’ freekick was followed by a goal from Jeje Lalpekhula and Golden Boot leader Stiven Mendoza in the second period for ATK’s rout at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex. The red and whites would now have to win by a margin of four goals to make their second successive final and in the event of a win by three goals, the fate would be decided via penalty shootout, and ATK would bank on the home support at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Compounding ATK’s misery, their captain Borja Fernandez limped off the ground in the 42nd minute, and the former Real Madrid midfielder, who was seen with his hamstring tightly strapped, is a doubtful starter. - PTI

FOOTBALL

Bolt for Anniversary Games LONDON: Six-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt will return to London’s Olympic Park to take part in next year’s London Anniversary Games, organisers British

side lost 7-1 to Germany at last year’s World Cup, Scolari has always been a specialist in knockout matches, known in Brazil as matamata (do or die).

ians, Guangzhou are unbeaten in 28 games, including 24 since Scolari took charge in June. In that time, they have won both the Chinese league and the Asian champions league. “Our team did everything possible to get here and to play Barcelona, so this is absolutely spectacular for us,” said Scolari. “We know we are the small team, but I think we can do something. I have to dream and make the players believe that they can do it. Why not dream, why not believe we can beat Barcelona?” Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets, whose side were welcomed by hundreds of Japanese fans when they arrived on Monday, recognised the threat. “They are a dangerous team, they have Scolari, they have Brazilian players and they have already caused a surprise,” he told reporters. Although a Barcelona-River Plate final is considered the likely outcome, the Argentines will not be taking their Japanese opponents lightly, especially as South American teams have found the semifinal tie anything but a formality in the past. San Lorenzo needed extra-time to beat Oceania champions Auckland City last year, while Brazilian sides Internacional and Atletico Mineiro have both been knocked out by African sides at the same stage. “They have already show they are difficult opponents, who are quick and play well on the counterattack and are strong at set pieces,” said River midfielder Leonardo Ponzio. - Reuters

PREVIEW

Athletics conﬁrmed on Tuesday. Bolt will compete in London’s Diamond League event on July 2223, making it his ﬁnal appearance before the Rio Olympics. - Reuters

FC Goa eliminate Delhi Dynamos to march into ISL summit clash MARGAO: A scintillating offensive display enabled a buoyant FC Goa to a 3-1 aggregate victory over Delhi Dynamos in a two-legged semifinal and enter the title round of the Indian Super League (ISL) here on Tuesday. Spanish midfielder Joffre Mateu scored in the 11th minute, followed by Brazilian forward Rafael Coelho on 27 minutes that helped Goa lead 2-0 at half-time in the second leg match. Man-of-the-Match Nigerian striker Dudu Omagbemi put the finishing touches to the lop-sided 3-0 scoreline in the 84th minute as the hosts overturned a 0-1 deficit they conceded in the first leg at New Delhi on December 11 to enter the final. They await the winners of the match between defending champions Atletico de Kolkata and Chennaiyin FC whose second leg tie will be played in Kolkata on Wednesday. Chennaiyin lead the tie 3-0. Goa were the semifinalists in the inaugural edition of the tournament last year. The final of the competition will be played here on December 20. Goa were determined to hit the ground running at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in their aim of plucking up an early goal that would have nullified Dynamos’ deficit. They were egged on by their animated coach Zico who entered into an argument with the referee at the very beginning of the game that displayed his eagerness as well as nervousness. They got what they yearned in the 11th minute. Spanish midfielder Joffre Mateu capped off his superb solo run from the right with a fierce low left-footed shot that crashed into the near post of goalkeeper Toni Doblas. Dynamos were subjected to intense pressure, which reflected on

SECOND STRIKE: FC Goa’s Rafael Coelho Luiz celebrates after scoring a goal during their second leg semiﬁnal match against Delhi Dynamos FC in the Indian Super League in Margao on Tuesday. – AFP

their coach Roberto carlos’ face. He was seen in an enthusiastic discussion with his defensive spearhead John Arne Riise after the goal with both visibly disagreeing with each other. They were in serious trouble and were disintegrating spectacularly under the consistently impressive combined attacking display of Goa’s frontmen. Dynamos survived going behind on 23 minutes when the sparkling home-grown talent Romeo Fernandes’ attempt went inches wide after latching onto a feeble clearance from Doblas. Goa deservedly took an aggregate lead four minutes later with a similar strike as the ﬁrst goal amidst sporadic, hopeful attempts by Dynamos. Coelho dangerously danced his way towards the box from the

vulnerable right side and let loose a low grounder, this time towards the far post of Doblas. The ball landed into the net after thundering off the inside of the post as a diving Doblas clutched thin air. By this time, the hosts were all over Carlos’ side and the disapproving Brazilian reacted by replacing the non-functioning Riise with Dutch midﬁelder Hans Mulder at the half hour mark hoping to provide support to lonely Frenchman Florent Malouda. Dynamos hoped the change of ends would facilitate a change of fortunes but Goa creditably didn’t let their foot off the pedal and continued to expose the bungling rightback Robert Lalthlamuana by creating two golden opportunities. A conversion of any one of them would have killed off the contest considering the sustained domi-

nation of the hosts. But Doblas rose to the occasion producing smart saves, blocking shots of Fernandes and Brazilian Leo Moura, to keep his team in the hunt though the clock unfailingly ticked away. The frenetic nature of action evoked some bruising physical display from both sides prompting the referee to show several yellow cards. As the match entered its finals stretch, hope of Dynamos evaporated rapidly as a marauding Goa looked likelier to score. They duly obliged when Fernandes laid it for Dudu to finish off another free-flowing coordinated attack from close range, much to the dejection of the Dynamos camp whose English striker Adil Nabi, substituted in the 58th minute, was red-carded for showing dissent at a linesman. - IANS

SECTION

LIFESTYLE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Leisure WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

Are you still thinking of taking a break over the Christmas and New Year festive season? Now is the best time to snap up a bargain. >> STORY MOHAMMED SHAFEEQE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

LIFESTYLE

he presents have all been unwrapped, both you and the turkey have been stuffed and the weather is looking decidedly dank and grey. This is an excellent time of the year for a ﬁx of winter sun, and the tour/ travel operators in Muscat have plenty of options for this Christmas season to choose from. If you’re thinking of getting away for a week of sunshine at Christmas then don’t leave it too late. It is a hugely popular time of year to travel (especially towards New Year) and unfortunately this means the prices go sky high. According to major players, Southeast Asia is the most pre-

Vietnam & Cambodia Christmas vacation to Vietnam is considered as a very high season time for travelling inside the country, the suggestions for a worry-free holiday will be to plan and ﬁnalise your preferences well ahead of time in such a way as you will have a wider option from luxury resorts, hotels and services to choose from, on the other hand, you can travel longer with better value with your chosen package tours. If you are in Vietnam for the sake of beach holiday then you must surely take a deeper look and combine your Christmas with a few days stay in Cambodia. What is the Deal Vietnam & Cambodia 9 nights/10 days ĊŗŗRate per person (twin/double) sharing ĊŗŗStandard package Starting from OMR 664 ĊŗŗDeluxe package Starting from OMR 789 Vietnam 4 nights/5 days ĊŗŗRate per person (twin/double) sharing ĊŗŗStandard package Starting from OMR 148 ĊŗŗDeluxe package Starting from OMR 211

ferred destination this season, since the European weather over this season is not ‘friendly’. “Most of the inquiries we are getting are about Southeast Asian packages and Indian destinations,” said Rajeev M. Thomas, Assistant manager, Holidays, Eihab Travels. People who want to spend the Christmas with their families in Europe go there, but those who want to enjoy the holidays in a sun-and-sand land mostly prefer the Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Bali, Sri Lanka, and India, says another expert in the outbound sector. It is the best time to explore the sun-and-sand destinations where the weather is likely to be warm. “The month of December

is that time of the year when travellers are always looking at short get-aways. The focus is on destinations with minimum travel time along with value for money. There has been great demand for Maldives,” said an official from House of Travel, adding that we offer combination packages where Sri Lanka or even India can be added on, offering tropical sunshine and beaches along with culture and shopping. Families wishing to give their children a memorable time can choose from offers to Hong Kong and Singapore. There are combinations offering these cities along with Bangkok, Phuket and Kuala Lumpur. Meanwhile, some operators

Cruises to the Mediterranean From the pristine beaches and ancient ruins of the Eastern Mediterranean to the artsy and ﬂavourful countries of the Western Mediterranean, this region is easily one of the most diverse in the world. Revel at Spanish and Italian architecture, and soak up some sun in Greece. Some Mediterranean itineraries dip down into northern Africa; the Canary Islands are also a popular stop for repositioning cruises.

Sri Lanka There is so much to do in Sri Lanka from the tea plantations of Kandy, the safari at Yala National Park to relaxing on the beaches of Galle, Unawatuna, Bentota and Mirissa. It’s so diverse it’s like several countries rolled into one. Sometimes you feel you’re in Africa, sometimes India and sometimes Windermere. Then, amid the jungle and rivers, there are ruins of cities once as great as Rome or Carthage.

What is the Deal Costa Mediterranean Cruise 7 nights / 8 days ĊŗŗBarcelona-Palma De MallorcaNaples-La Spezia-Savona-Marseilles-Barcelona ĊŗŗRate per person (twin/double) sharing ĊŗŗInside stateroom Starting from OMR 335

What is the Deal Sri Lanka – 7 nights/8 days Ċ Rate per person based on double occupancy basis Ċŗŗ5 Star Hotel OMR 366 per person onwards Ċŗŗ4 Star Hotel OMR 297 per person onwards

House of Travel khimjistravel.com khot.info@kr.om +968 2476 0556/557

have Mediterranean and some European destinations like Istanbul in their list. “House of Travel also represents Costa Cruises, offering Mediterranean cruises throughout the year which are a great option for travellers wishing to visit Europe during December. Closer to home, Costa Cruises also offers sailings from Dubai,” said Mohamed Zulﬁquar, manager, Outbound Holidays at the House of Travel. Popular Middle East airlines, including Oman Air, also have tailor-made holiday packages for the season. Qatar Airways have announced price discount offers up to 25% on selected destinations. Southeast Asia is a tried and tested traveller’s choice with

The month of December is that time of the year when travellers are always looking at short get-aways. The focus is on destinations with minimum travel time along with value for money

Eihab Travels LLC eihabtravels.com holidays@eihabtravels.com + 968 2468 3900 Explore Sri Lanka 6 nights/7 days ĊŗŗOMR 373 per person Oman Air Holidays omanair.com holidays@omanair.com +968 2453 1000

thousands of tourists, but there is so much more to Southeast Asia than beach pubs and night clubs and if you really look, you can ﬁnd some amazing, untouched paradises. Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar have also emerged as great destinations recently. You just need to pick your destination carefully to be sure you get the weather you expect. The key question is: how warm do you like it? Hot enough to lie motionless on the beach all day or a warm breezy one to go for a river trip or visiting ancient temples and some of the exotic tropical wonders. Here are ﬁve of our picks for the winter season. shafeeq@timesofoman.com

Goa Think Goa, think of exotic beaches, palm-fringed coastlines, a happening nightlife and some lip-smacking seafood. Goa has become one of the hot favourite destinations among Indian and foreign tourists alike. Well known for its Portuguese inﬂuence that can be clearly seen in its architecture, cuisines, and its lifestyle, Goa is one destination that is visited round the year and there seems to be no off-season period for Goa. However, the best time to visit Goa is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and the city is in the party mood and glowing with carnivals and festivals.

USEFUL SITES travelﬁsh.org An independent guide for Southeast Asia selectiveasia.com Great guide that shows the best destinations for travel every month jetlagandmayhem.com Browse through this site and ‘search’ for hotel and villa reviews

Thailand Endowed with immaculate beaches, fascinating culture, and salubrious climate, the Kingdom of Thailand is undoubtedly, one of the most happening holiday destinations in the world. The country encloses ﬁve geographical regions, most of which are speckled with amazing wildlife sanctuaries, historical monuments, ancient temples, as well as skyscrappers, bustling shopping malls, vibrant pubs, bars, and more. Tourists can avail exciting Thailand tour packages to discover the splendours of this beautiful country, which never fails to enchant her visitors.

What is the Deal ŗŗGoa short break – 3 nights/4 days ĊŗRate per person based on double occupancy basis Ċŗŗ5 Star Hotel OMR 133 onwards per person Ċŗŗ4 Star Hotel OMR 102 onwards per person Ċŗŗ3 Star Hotel OMR 79 onwards per person

What is the Deal Phuket – Bangkok specials 7 nights/8 days ĊRate per person based on double occupancy basis Ċŗŗ5 Star Hotel OMR 205 per person onwards Ċŗŗ4 Star Hotel OMR 140 per person onwards Ċŗŗ3 Star Hotel OMR 115 per person onwards

Eihab Travels LLC eihabtravels.com holidays@eihabtravels.com + 968 2468 3900

Eihab Travels LLC eihabtravels.com holidays@eihabtravels.com + 968 2468 3900 Bangkok + Pattaya starting from OMR 307 onwards Bahwan Travel Agencies LLC bahwantravels.com +968 2478 8753, +968 2465 4160

House of Travel khimjistravel.com khot.info@kr.om +968 2476 0556/557

T R AV E L T I P S

Tips to protect yourself from cybercrime during holiday travel THIS TIME of the year is among the busiest travel times of the year. These busy, unassuming travellers could be a hacker’s ideal target, as more than half of respondents in a survey say they rarely take precautions, like changing online banking or ﬁnancial account passwords regularly. With travel booking on mobile devices becoming increasingly popular, and travellers’ near-constant smartphone use on the road, the threat continues to rise. Experts offer these tips for travellers to pro-

tect themselves from cybercrime this holiday season: Use personal hotspots. Do not use public Wi-Fi networks as these can be a landmine for cyber hackers. Instead, opt to use your phone or tablet’s personal hotspot. Be mindful on public networks. Don’t share credit card information over hotel networks, like on-demand menus or hotel services, since these systems are easy for hackers to access. Shutdown wireless services you aren’t using. Shut down

wireless services, like Bluetooth, if you do not need them. Don’t leave your devices unattended. Protect your devices like cash when you’re in public places like hotels and resorts; thieves and hackers always go where the money is. Charge with caution. While convenient, avoid charging your mobile devices from a computer or charging station you do not control, like at an airport terminal. - Courtesy of Brandpoint

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

LIFESTYLE THE HOBBYIST Adil Ali Al Mahruqi Guitarist

Why do you love playing guitar? Your commute was awful, you spilled coffee on your trousers, and your boss was at his irritating best for nine straight hours. When you’ve had a day like that, there is no better medicine than plugging in a guitar, turning it up, and making a huge amount of noise. Playing guitar is, in my experience, the most effective method of staying sane in a world that can appear to be actively trolling you. Like extremely loud yoga, playing the guitar clears your mind and gives you an enormous sense of peace. It’s an endlessly rewarding pleasure, and one that only grows sweeter as the years roll by. There’s always something new to learn, some other trick to try or tune to pick up Being a guitarist means that you are always learning, constantly teaching your brain to do new, intricate things. How did you get into it? Actually during my school days I was a part of a school music team that plays during the morning march to class. Then, I had been a keyboard player and I didn’t know anything about guitars. I got into playing guitar when I was 17 years old and began playing in Spanish classical style. Later I changed to electric guitar after watching a band from Philippines and I was surprised at the performance of the guitarist and the way he did it with the electric guitar. Then I decided to learn more about guitar and while searching on Youtube for good guitar players, I came across Joe Satriani and was very inspired by his playing. Most of the days I used to join jam nights when a lot of bands were performing in Muscat and many musicians advised me to start playing in a band. And here I am playing with the top band in Oman (T Band) as a lead guitarist. How can I get into it? You have to work hard to get into it and you have to love music too.

LOUD YOGA

What’s your pro-tip? Love what you do and practice as much as you can. There is no short cut to becoming a good player. Being constant in your practice is perhaps the main secret. Some talented young players did not reach their potential as guitarists because they do not put in efforts daily. With tenacity and perseverance you will be able to make beautiful music on the guitar.

Classic Music & Arts Institute - Qurum +968 2456 0025; musictec@omantel.net.om Kalabhavan Muscat: +968 24 551295, +968 24 492287 Talentz Enterprises LLC +968 24783443, +968 24791948 Melody Music Institute +968 24486647;melodyalkr.mct@gmail.com Harmony Music +968 24 475620

It’s an endlessly rewarding pleasure, and one that only grows sweeter as the years roll by.

Y O U R FAV O U R I T E B O O K

Zorba the Greek By Nikos Kazantzakis ZORBA THE GREEK, the book by Nikos Kazantzakis, is a gleaming, brimming example of words as lifealtering wisdom. Zorba the Greek is more than just a title. The eccentric, wily Mediterranean character who exists in a romanticised past, still ﬂickers in our present day, and is demanded by some for a secure future in the human race. Zorba the Greek follows a stuffy intellectual narrator and his conversations with a worldly man named Alexis Zorba. The novel is a tale of indomitable spirit, joy and zeal for life. Zorba is a wanderer, an adulterer, a drinker, a poet and a dancer — while all those quali-

ties are endearing, that’s not why I admire Zorba. He is a man of the earth who understands life with all its ups and downs. He cuts through the usual ambitions and illusory trappings of successful life and gets down to the marrow. He embraces the whole of life, what he calls “the full catastrophe”. Zorba is the epitome of a true man, intensely in love with life, and laughing at all hypocrisies and pretenses that shroud our inner light. He is fearlessly, absolutely human. As he lies dying, Zorba laughs, “And tell my friend that whatever I have done, I have no regrets. If some priest or other comes to take my

confession…tell him to clear out quick, and leave me his curses instead. I have done heaps and heaps of things in my life, but I still did not do enough. Men like me ought to live a thousand years. Good night.” Kazantzakis is best remembered in infamy, having been excommunicated for his novel The Last Temptation of Christ, which received a similar backlash during the Scorsese ﬁlm adaptation. When he passed away from leukaemia in 1957, the Greek Orthodox Church refused to intern in his body. He was eventually buried outside the church in Heraklion, Crete, his home island.

How does one begin to understand Kazantzakis who lived what he wrote, his epitaph in Herakleion reading, “I hope for nothing. I fear nothing. I am free.” — Reviewed by Mohammed Shafeeqe

ARE YOU A PROLIFIC READER? Which is your favourite book? Pick one and send in your thoughts on it. Contact shafeeq@timesofoman.com

Photography: A R Rajkumar

Contact info/resources for guitar lessons in Oman

C10

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

FIND-IT-ALL

PRAYER TIMINGS

@MGM

@PANORAMA MALL

@SHATTI

3.30, 6.30, 9.30 PM Screen 2 Tamasha (Romance/Drama) – PG12 Cast : Deepika Padukone, Ranbir Kapoor 3.45, 9.45 PM Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (Drama) – PG 6.45 PM Screen 3 Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (Family) – PG 3.45, 9.45 PM Salt Mango Tree (Drama) – Malyalam – PG 6.45 PM

CITY CINEMA Contact (10 am to 6PM) 24567664 | 68 www.citycinemaoman.net facebook.com/citycinemaoman SHATTI Star Wars: The Force Awakens (3D) (Action | Adventure | Fantasy) (PG12) Cast: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher 11:59 PM In the Heart of the Sea (3D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy 2:30, 9:15 PM Bridge of Spies (Biography | Drama) (PG) Cast: Tom Hanks, Mark Rylance, Alan Alda 4:45 PM Bus 657 (Action | Crime | Thriller) (12+) Cast: Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Dave Bautista 2:45 PM The Good Dinosaur (3D) (Animation | ) (U) 2:30, 4:30, 7:00 PM Hyena Road (Drama | War) (15+) Cast: Rossif Sutherland, Paul Gross 4:45, 9:00, 11:30 PM Howl (Horror) (18+) Cast: Mark Huckerby, Nick Ostler 10:15 PM Close Range (Action | Crime) (12+) Cast: Scott Adkins, Nick Chinlund, Caitlin 8:30, 11:30 PM Victor Frankenstein (Horror | Drama) (12+) Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, James McAvoy 6:30 PM Zinzana (Arabic) (Crime | Drama) (PG12) Cast: Ali Suliman, Ahd, Saleh Bakri 7:30 PM MUSCAT GRAND MALL Star Wars: The Force Awakens (3D) (Action | Adventure | Fantasy) (PG12) Cast: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher 11:59 PM The Good Dinosaur-3D (Animation) U 11:00AM, 1:00, 2:30, 4:30 & 7:15PM Gold Class: 7:00PM Macbeth (Drama | War) 12+

Star Wars: The Force Awakens (3D) (Action | Adventure | Fantasy) (PG12) Cast: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Issac 11:59 PM

Harbinger Down (Horror, Sci-Fi)(2D)(15+) Cast: Lance Henriksen, Matt Winston 7:30 pm

Cast : Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard 9:15 & 11:30PM Gold Class :2:30 & 9:00PM Close Range (Action | Crime) 12+ Cast: Scott Adkins, Nick Chinlund 3:00 & 11:30PM Gold Class : 2:30 & 9:00PM In the Heart of the Sea (Action) PG12 Cast : Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy 12:15 & 9:00PM Gold Class: 4:45 & 11:15PM The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-2 : 3D Cast : Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson 4:45PM; (Sci-Fi) PG12 A Second Chance (Romance / Drama) PG12 Cast : Bea Alonzo, John Lloyd Cruz

6:30PM PANORAMA MALL Star Wars: The Force Awakens (3D) (Action | Adventure | Fantasy) (PG12) Cast: Harrison Ford, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac 11:59 PM In The Heart of The Sea (Action)(3D (PG12) 7:00, 9:15 pm In The Heart of The Sea (Action, Adventure) (MX4D)(PG12)

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI)

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Arrival Operating time days

Dept time

Destination

Arrival Operating time days

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

TEMPERATURE

15:00 15:00 15:00

05:30 05:30 05:30

Maximum

16:30 18:00 19:30

Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

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

Nizwa Yanqul

20:50

Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

Sur Sur

10:20 12:30

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Fahud Yibal

Daily Daily

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

Daily Daily

Marmul

20:00 20:30 23:30 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

06:00 06:00

Nizwa Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

06:00 14:30

Ruwi Ruwi

10:45 19:00

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

07:00

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

15:00

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07:00

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10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

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

Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

Pathemari (Mal) (Rom/Drama) Cast: Mammootty, Jewel Mary & Srinivasn 6-30 pm at Cinema Main; 9-45 pm at Cinema -3 Anarkali (Mal) (Rom/Drama) Cast: Prithviraj, Biju Menon & Priya Glor 3-30 pm Cinema -2; 6-45 pm Cinema-3 Amar Akbar Anthony (Mal) (Act/Drama) Cast : Prithviraj & Jaya Surya 3-45 Cinema -3; 9-30 pm at Cinema Main Salt Mango Tree (Mal) (Com) Cast Biju Menon, Sohasani & Mani Ratnam 3-45, 6-45 & 9-45 pm at Cinema -4 Bengal Tiger (Telugu) (Act) Cast : Ravi Teja, & Tamannaah 6-30 & 9-30 pm Cinema-2 3-30 pm at Cinema Main Next change: Dilwale (Hindi); Tanga Magan (Tamil); Bajirao Mastani (Hindi) Programmes are subject to change

WITH LOVE

NANDAN NAIR.S December 16, 2005

Minimum

RELATIVE HUMIDITY

40-60% 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

Daily Daily Daily

Sharjah Fujairah Ruwi

16:30 18.15 23.00

LISTINGS

ROYAL OMAN POLICE 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)

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 06:00 06:00 13:00 13:00 15:00 15:00

Daily

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101)

SALALAH TO DUBAI (ROUTE 102) 15:00

10:25

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100)

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

Ruwi

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

10:30 11:15

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (ROUTE 100) 07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

07:00

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 12:00 18:45

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (ROUTE 62) 06:30 06:30

25 15

STAR CINEMA

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54)

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 07:30 14:30

08:55 Daily 11:40 Daily 20:20 Daily via Ibri 14:55 Daily 17:40 Daily 19:20 Daily 22:15 Daily

RUWI Screen 1 Hate Story 3 (Thriller) – PG12 Cast : Zarine Khan, Daisy Shah, Karan Singh

Close Range (Action / Crime) Cast: Scott Adkins, Nick Chinlund, Caitlin Keats 4.00, 8.15, 10.00 & 11.55 pm CP No : 3041 (12+) Howl (Horror) Cast: Ed Speleers, Holly Weston, Shauna Macdonald 2.00, 6.00 & 10.00 pm CP No : 3042 (18+) Hyena Road (Drama / War) Cast: Rossif Sutherland, Paul Gross, Clark Johnson 1.30, 3.45, 7.45 & 11.55 pm CP No : 3043 (15+) In the Heart of the Sea (Action / Adventure / Biography) Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson 6.00 pm CP No : 3031 (PG12)

SALALAH In the Heart of the Sea (3D) (PG12) (Action) 12:00, 6:45, 11:15PM Hyena Road (2D) (15+) (Drama | War) 10:00AM, 2:00, 9:00, 11:35PM Close Range (2D) (12+) (Action | Crime) 12:15, 8:15, 9:55, 11:55PM Howl (2D) (18+) (Horror) 4:30, 10:05PM Creed (2D) (15+) (Drama | Sport) 2:05PM The Good Dinosaur (3D) (U) (Animation) 10:05AM, 12:10, 2:15, 6:15PM Tamasha (2D) (PG12) (Romance| Drama) 4:10PM Larry Gaye: Renegade Male Flight Attandant (2D) (18+) (Comedy) 10:30AM, 4:15PM Zinzana (2D) (PG12) (Arabic) (Crime/Drama) 6:05PM Salt Mango Tree (2D) (PG) (Malayalam) Cast: Biju Menon, Lakshmi Priya 7:45PM

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54) 08:00 08:00

Daily Daily Daily

SOHAR In the Heart of the Sea - 3D (PG12) Action 6:25, 11:45 PM In the Heart of the Sea - 2D (PG12) Action 3:00 PM Victor Frankenstein - 2D (12+) Drama 11:30 PM Pathemari - 2D (M) (PG12) Drama 7:00 PM Hate Story 3 - 2D (PG12) Thriller 6:15 PM Macbeth - 2D (12+)Drama | War 3:00, 9:30 PM The Good Dinosaur - 3D (U) Animation 2:30, 5:30, 7:30 PM The Good Dinosaur - 2D (U) Animation 4:15 PM Larry Gaye: Renegade Male Flight Attandant - 2D (18+) Comedy 4:30 PM Bengal Tiger - 2D (Telgu) (TBC) Action 4:30 PM Harbinger Down- 2D (15+) Horror | Sci-Fi 5:15, 11:30 PM

Film information 24540856 / Advance Booking 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

BURAIMI In the Heart of the Sea– 3D (Action) (PG12) Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy 5:15, 9:15PM Star Wars: The Force Awakens - 2D (PG12) 11:59 PM Close Range– 2D (Action, Crime) (12+) Cast: Scott Adkins, Nick Chinlund 3:30, 9:45, 11:30PM The Good Dinosaur – 3D (Animation) (U) 3:00, 5:00, 7:30PM Harbinger Down – 2D (Horror, Sci-Fi) (15+) Cast: Lance Henriksen, Matt Winston 5:15, 11:45PM Macbeth– 2D (Drama, War) (12+) Cast: Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard 3:15, 7:30, 9:30PM Salt Mango Tree – 2D (Comedy, Drama) (PG) Cast: Biju Menon, Lakshmi Priya 7:00PM

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52)

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54) 14:30 14:30

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

AZAIBA Close Range – 2D (12+) Action, Crime Cast – Scott Adkins, Nick Chinlund 5:15, 9:15, 11:45 PM In the Heart of the Sea – 2D (PG12) Action 2:15, 11:55 PM Salt Mango Tree – 2D (PG) Comedy, Drama Cast – Biju Menon, Lakshmi Priya 7:10, 9:30 PM Hate Story – 2D (PG12)Thriller Cast – Zarine Khan, Sharman Joshi, Daisy 2:00, 4:20, 6:40, 9:05, 11:30 PM Pathemari – 2D (PG12) Drama 6:45 PM Tamasha – 2D (PG12) Romance, Drama 2:30, 4:35, 9:00, 11:00 PM Prem Ratan Dhan Payo – 2D (PG) Family 3:00 PM Bengal Tiger – 2D (TBC) Action Cast – Ravi Teja, Tamannaah, Rashi Khanna 6:15 PM

BAHJA CINEMA

Zinzana - 2D (PG12) Crime | Drama | Thriller 2:30, 9:30 PM Salt Mango Tree - 2D (PG) Comedy | Drama Cast : Biju Menon, Lakshmi Priya 9:00 PM Star Wars: The Force Awakens - 3D Cast : Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie 11:59 PM (PG12)

WEATHER

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (ROUTE 36) Quriyat Sur Jaalan

SUR Star Wars: The Force Awakens (Action) Cast: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie 11:59 PM (PG12) Close Range (Action | Crime ) (12+) 3:15, 8:30, 11:45 PM Howl (Horror ) (18+) 4:45, 10:00 PM The Good Dinosaur 3D ( Animation ( U ) 3:00, 5:00, 6:30 PM Salt Mango Tree ( Malayalam) ( PG) Cast : Biju Menon, Lakshmi Priya 6:45 PM In the Heart of the Sea 3D (Action) (PG12) 9:15 PM

Hyena Road (Drama | War) (15+) Cast: Rossif Sutherland, Paul Gross 4:45, 9:00, 11:30 PM

2:45, 5:45, 8:30, 11.30 PM In The Heart of The Sea (Action, Adventure) (3D)(PG12)- VIP LOUNGE Cast : Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy 8:45 PM Creed (Drama, Sport)(2D)(15+) 4:30 pm Bridge of Spies (Biography, Drama)(2D)(PG) 9:00 pm Hyena Road (2D)(15+) Cast: Rossif Sutherland, Paul Gross 3:15, 9:15, 11:30 pm Lary Gaye (Comedy)(2D)(15+) Cast: Rebecca Romijn, Jessica Lowndes 5:30 pm Harbinger Down (Horror, Sci-Fi)(2D)(15+) Cast: Lance Henriksen, Matt Winston 7:30 pm Macbeth (Drama, War)(2D)(12+) 2:45, 11:30 pm The Godd Dinasaur (Animation)(3D)(U) 2:30, 5:00, 7:00 pm Hyena Road (2D)(15+)-VIP LOUNGE Cast: Rossif Sutherland, Paul Gross 3:45, 11:00 pm Macbeth (Drama, War)(2D)(12+)-VIP LOUNGE 6:30 pm

LONG DISTANCE BUS TIMINGS (OMAN NATIONAL TRANSPORT COMPANY SAOC) *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Destination

12.07pm 3.08pm 5.28pm 6.43pm 5.21am

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, DECEMBER 16, 2015

C11

LIFESTYLE

Cliff Life

Location: 23°04’03.1”N 57°40’05.2”E ion Have you been able to capture the beauty of an off-the-beaten-path destinat to: tor geo-loca & caption a with pictures your Send in Oman? shafeeqe@timesofoman.com

IN THE NEWS

BRIEFS

Al Ain Air Championship Launches Mobile App VISITORS to the Air Championship can choose their champion by easily voting for their favourite teams with the click of a button and stand a chance to win a Brietling watch. Ahead of the widely anticipated 11th edition of the Al Ain Air Championship, set to take place on 17th – 19th December, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) has announced the launch of a mobile application that allows visitors for the ﬁrst time to vote for their favourite participating teams, helping to determine the winner of the spectacular aerobatic competition. Through the interactive app, which can be downloaded from the Al Air Championship website at alainairchampionship.ae, the panel of four expert judges will account for 65% of the total score of each team in each Championship Round, with the audience vote counting for 35% of the team’s score. The awarded points on the aerobatic team’s performances will be based on their ability to illustrate Grace, Power, National Pride for their respective nations and ‘Wow’ Factor. Participants will compete for honours in each of these four categories and will be rewarded by Brietling, the official prize sponsor of the Al Ain Air Championship. The category winners will be announced as part of the main public prize giving after the Championship Finals on December 19, in front of the main grandstand. Public visitors to the exhibition who register to become an

Delhi, Bengaluru top travel destinations in Asia New Delhi and Bengaluru are two Indian cities that rank among top destinations in Asia for globetrotters, leading travel portal TripAdvisor has stated. “New Delhi and Bengaluru topped the Asian ranking as destinations that are on the rise, with the former being the only Asian city at seven in the top 10 globally,” the travel site said in a statement. Announcing its ‘Travellers’ Choice awards for ‘destinations on the rise’, the travel advisory ﬁrm said 52 top spots were selected using an algorithm that measured their popularity growth year-on-year (YoY) on the travellers’ feedback on attractions, accommodation and restaurants across the cities, worldwide, TripAdvisor chief marketing officer Barbara Messing said in the statement. With 28 per cent increase in booking in October 2015 from 2014, New Delhi ranked top in Asia as travellers’ choicest destination in Asia. Similarly, with a whopping 46 per cent jump in booking interest YoY, Bengaluru is rising up the ranks in popularity as a techie’s paradise and a garden city, with its charming locales that provide respite from its bustling city centre.

Ed Sheeran focussed on travel

official fan voter at the stand using the Championship Voting App will enter a draw to win a magniﬁcent Breitling watch valued at over AED 40, 000. This year, the Al Ain Air Championship comes with a brand new competition format, which will see Military and Civilian teams go head-to-head in a bid to impress the judges and the general public,

with the highest number of votes choosing the Grand Champion. Tickets are available at Virgin Megastores across the UAE and at TixBox booths in Al Ain at Al Bawadi and Al Ain Mall and at the Mall at the World Trade Centre in Abu Dhabi. Online purchase of tickets can be done via tixbox. com. On-ground tickets can be bought, with prices starting at

AED 30 per day for general admission or AED 120 for a three-day pass, inclusive of reserved seating and parking access. Grandstand seating is available, priced at AED 60, as well as a limited number of VIP passes for AED 150 per day, allowing ticketholders to access the best seats on offer. Children below the age of six get in free. lifestyle@timesofoman.com

Singer Ed Sheeran has taken a break from the social media to travel the world. Sheeran shared a note on photo sharing platform Instagram, saying that he is “taking the opportunity of not having to be anywhere... to travel the world”, reports mirror.co.uk. “I’m taking a break from my phone, emails and all social media for a while. I’ve had such an amazing ride over the last ﬁve years, but I ﬁnd myself seeing the world through a screen and not my eyes so I’m taking this opportunity of me not having to be anywhere or do anything to travel the world and see everything I missed,” Sheeran posted. However, stressing that he is not leaving his work, the 24-yearold also added that his third album is on its way. “It will be the best thing I have made thus far,” added the Lego House singer, who has 16 million Twitter and 5.5 million Instagram followers. -IANS

C12

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

LIFESTYLE

THE SEVEN HOTTEST TRAVEL DESTINATIONS OF 2016 We’ve got holiday getaways on the brain. But not just any old getaways. We’re looking for something out of the ordinary, a place to fuel our passion for travel but that’s yet to be affected by mass tourism. From the Mexican beach hardly anyone has discovered to the Mediterranean city that’s blissfully free of cruise ships, these seven off-the-beaten-path places are at the top of the 2016 travel list.

KOTOR, MONTENEGRO When to Visit: May through September This Mediterranean town is drop-dead gorgeous from every single angle. Within the city walls, locals sip strong coffee at pavement cafes and queue up for warm bread along the dreamy maze of alleys and plazas. Beyond, the mountain-encircled bay is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Europe. Better still, the cruise ships have yet to overwhelm. Get here before they drop anchor.

PALAU

KAUAI, HAWAII

GREENLAND When to Visit: September through April

BAVARIA, GERMANY When to Visit: March through September

Next year will be all about Greenland, which is so off the grid, your cellphone probably won’t work. (Folks here rely on satellite phones.) Love the outdoors? Locals travel around this sparsely populated land by dogsled or snowmobile, and it’s hands down the best spot to spot the aurora borealis. Head there in March to catch the ﬁrst-ever Arctic Winter Games — much like the Olympics, but with sports such as badminton and “Alaskan high kick.”

Located between the Alps and the vineyards of Franconia, Bavaria has a wonderful Sound of Music vibe. The region is one of Germany’s 16 states and boasts breathtaking scenery, an easygoing feel and a charismatic culture. Tour Munich’s world-class galleries, raise a stein with the lederhosen-clad locals in a frothy beer hall. Or follow the Romantic Road through enchanted forests to castles straight out of a Disney movie.

BOTSWANA, AFRICA

RIVIERA NAYARIT, MEXICO

When to Visit: September through April This archipelago of around 250 islands in the western Pacific Ocean is a prime country for underwater lovers searching for snorkelling and diving expeditions — without the crowds. Loads of World War II wreckage still remains scattered throughout the islands, and you can explore these while scuba diving. The coolest spot is Jellyfish Lake, home to an endemic subspecies of jellyfish that travel across the water in a repeated daily pattern.

When to visit: Any time of year Praised for its stability and progressive social climate, this low-proﬁle African country will celebrate 50 years of independence in 2016. Awash with national parks, Botswana is great on either a high or low budget, in the dry or green season, and it is equally suitable for adventurers, honeymooners or wild scenesters. But fair warning: It won’t remained undiscovered for long, as 2016 will likely bring the dawn of direct international ﬂights.

When to Visit: April through June Seeking beauty and adventure? Consider adding the Hawaiian island of Kauai to your itinerary. Not only is Kauai geologically the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, it’s also the greenest-nicknamed the “Garden Isle” for its lush rain forests and beautiful vegetation. It also happens to be the backdrop for some tiny movies like Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

When to Visit: January through March This year, visit the part of Mexico that’s blissful. Located on the western part of the country, the region of Riviera Nayarit is home to the surfer town of Sayulita, which is a perfect snapshot of what many consider authentic Mexico. Along these cobble stone streets you’ll ﬁnd amazing mahi-mahi ﬁsh tacos, and the beaches have some of the best waves on the coast. (It’s also only a few miles from the popular city of Nuevo Vallarta.) - Courtesy of purewow.com

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 1 6, 2 0 1 5

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

VACANCY

CARGO

LPG scrap cylinder & scrap metal FOR SALE 22 KG Cylinder- Quantity 4000 Nos. (Approx) 44 KG Cylinder- Quantity 550 Nos. (Approx) Scrap metal -3 MT Approx. Interested parties to submit their quote at NGC Rusayl office before 25th December 2015.

Contact : Bhushan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9672 5339

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 1 6, 2 0 1 5 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classiﬁeds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE FOR RENT

*Tourist visa arranged

E t &ůĂƚƐ Θ ^ŚŽǁƌŽŽŵƐ ĨŽƌ ZĞŶƚ 1/2/3 BHK Flats & Showrooms at DƵƩ ƌĂŚ͕ ŶĞĂƌ KŵĂŶ Ň ŽƵƌ ŵŝůůƐ͕ ϭϬ ŵŝŶ͘ ĨƌŽŵ ĐŽƌŶŝĐŚĞ͘ ĞƋƵŝƉƉĞĚ ǁŝƚŚ ƐƉůŝƚͬ ĐĂƐƐĞƩ Ğ ƵŶŝƚ Ɛ͕ ŝŶƚĞƌŶĞƚ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ͕ ĨƌĞĞͲ ƚŽͲĂŝƌ ĚŝƐŚ ĐŽŶŶĞĐƟ ŽŶ͕ ds ŵŽŶŝƚŽƌĞĚ͕ ďĂƐĞŵĞŶƚ ƉĂƌŬŝŶŐ͘ ZĞŶƚ ZK͘ϮϱϬͬϯϱϬͬϰϱϬ ;EĞŐŽƟ ĂďůĞͿ ƉĞƌ ŵŽŶƚŚ͘

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ͗ ϵϵϮϮϵϮϲϯ͖ ϵϯϮϮϭϬϱϰ͖ ϵϱϮϭϱϮϴϵ

WAREHOUSE IN MABELA

K&&/ ^W &KZ Z Ed

Industrial Area Brand new with raised floor, dock leveler, office space.Total covered area 1300 Sqm. With 10 meters height. Contact - 92525766 Email-

ů EĂŚĚĂ dŽǁĞƌ Ϯ͕ Į ƌƐƚ Ň ŽŽƌ͕ ϭϬϮ Ň Ăƚ ŶŽ͘ KƉƉŽƐŝƚĞ Ͳ WŝŽŶĞĞƌ Θ ϯ ŝŐ ďĞĚƌŽŽŵƐ ĨŽƌ ĂĐĐŽŵŵŽĚĂƟ ŽŶ ďĞƐŝĚĞ 'ƵůĨ DŝŶŝŶŐ ŽŵƉĂŶǇ 'ŚĂůĂ Ͳ DƵƐĐĂƚ

properties@alsirajholdings.com

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ͗ ϵϵϱϵϭϵϭϮ ͬ ϵϮϳϭϴϳϯϯ

FOR RENT 2BHK, 3 washroom Flat with Split Air Conditioners Near Lulu Darsait CONTACT :

93202733 2 Bedrooms Flat for rent in front of Indian School Ghubra. Contact: 92197959 / 92502497 2 Bedroom Townhouse with Swimming pool, free Wi-Fi for Rent near British Council in Madinat Sultan Qaboos. Contact: 92197959 / 92502497. Showroom / Office for rent located in Prime location of Azaiba Main Highway. Contact: 92197959 / 92502497.

Flat for rent 3BRM hall, 2 toilets, kitchen, store payment R.O 350/payment 12 cheques monthly in Darsait (ENT) . Contact: Morean 98292846

2 Bedrooms Flat for rent located in Prime location of Al Khuwair. Contact: 92197959 / 24527852. Profs / jack. Contact 93219378

Villa for rent in Wadi Kabir. Contact: 95562646 Rent for ﬂat in Wadi Adai, big room big hall one toilet, one Kitchen. Contact : 99345137 Flat villa type for rent - in al khuwair 33/, 4 Bed Rooms .4 bath Rooms, 1 Family Hall, 1 Dining Room, 1 Living Room, 1 Kitchen, Store. Contact 99315515 1& 2 BHK CBD Ruwi Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99024730

V. Nice flat in Wadi Kabir. Contact: 95755953 /95555162 2 BHK flat for rent opp. Sheraton, CBD. Contact 99046569 At Al Athaiba ground floor with split AC, 2beds, 2bathrooms, kitchen & sitting room Behind AL Zubair rent 350/-PDC. Contact: 99879939 At Wadi Kabir Industrial two floor showrooms, 80 sm each, rent 450/R.O (PDC). Contact: 99879939

3 Room flat in North Ghubra, 18 November Street with three toilets. For residential or commercial use. RO. 315/- Contact 94477222. At Al Athaiba (2nd floor) 2 bed, sitting room , 1 bathroom , kitchen , split AC rent 310/- PDC. Contact: 99879939 2bed rooms flat with hall, 2 bathrooms in Darsait near Muscat Municipality. Contact: 92584715 / 24700120 House for rent in Al Amerat . Contact: 92532371 / 92294259

One / two B/R RES / comm. ﬂat near Oman Medical College directly from owner. Contact: 92158031 1BHK R.O 170/-, & 2BHK R.O 215 near medical Darsait Muttrah house. Contact : 95076261 1 Flat for rent 4 BRM hall 4 toilets, kitchen, store rent R.O 400/- (per month) in Darsait 12 cheques monthly . Contact: Morean 98292846 New deluxe 1BHK for rent in Darsait behind ISD School. Contact 99142314

1BHK R.O 225 close to Indian Nursery, Darsait, 2BHK close to ISWKG Wadi Kabir bldg 1690 R.O 300/-. Contact : 99476728 1000sqmtrs industrial land for rent in Ghala suitable for warehouse workshop etc. Contact 24700120 /92584715 Shops for rent good for offices + stores behind bldg, behind whole sale center Al Amerat space 11 x4 meters R.O 250/- per month. Contact: 92877449

6 B/R villa for office use in Al Khoudh, 2 & 3 B/R flat in AL Khuwair for office. Contact: 99776071 /99057348 NEW WAREHOUSE FOR RENT at Ghala Ind. Area. 800 & 2500 approx sqms Near Hotel Al-Madinah Holiday, Ghala. Container can enter. Immediate access to roads & highways. Contact : 94583320 4 B/R, 3 flats building in Azaiba behind Al Meera. Contact: 99776071 /99057348 2 B/R flat in Wattaya and Azaiba. Contact: 99776071 /99057348 Flats shops & store for rent in Ruwi Honda road Mumtaz. Contact: 97293708 / 92433127

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 1 6 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

FOR SALE Beauty Salon for urgent sale in Azaiba prime location behind Al Fardan building. With sponsor and 1 staff and 1 ready visa clearance. Call: 95318629 / 95169411

FOR RENT

FOR SALE Dozer Kom 355A -3 Dozer Kom 155A- 3 Grader Champion 780 Excavator PC 400 with breaker Man green water tanker 5000 IG All are in good condition

FOR RENT 02 BHK residential ﬂat opposite to Al Nadha hospital. Contact: 99342733 / 99795241 1&2 BHK M.B.D R.O 280/- & 300/-. Contact: 92144045

2 BHK with split / AC in MSQ opposite Al Fair. Contact: 96708000

1,2 BHK Ghubra R.O 300/-, 325/- & 350/-. Contact: 97799175

Open showroom AL Ghobrah 18 November 175SQM & office space Al Qurum next to Al Araimi Complex. Contact: 94300909

1 BHK Mumtaz R.O 250/-. Contact: 92144045 2 BHK Ghubra R.O 300/-. Contact: 92144045

1.2.3 BHK & villa. Contact: 97799175 2BHK Ghobrah R.O 300/- & 350/-. Contact: 92144045 /97799175

2BHK ﬂats available for near PDO gate no 2 Qurum. Contact: 94057023

1BHK Darsait R.O 225/-. Contact: 92144045 /97799175

Flats for rent at Al Mablah block eight. Contact: 99445177

1BHK Mumtaz R.O 250/-. Contact: 92144045 /97799175 1BHK M.B.D R.O 280/- & 250/-. Contact: 92144045/97799175 2BHK available near Hamriya round about main road rent R.O 170/- PM. Contact: 99513510 Flats in Darsait. Contact 94051789-97201688 Flats in Wadi Kabir. Contact 94051789-97201688 Fully Furnished apartments in Boucher (35) Contact - 9405178997201688 Flats in Muttrah. Contact 94051789-97201688 Offices in Ghala. Contact 94051789-97201688 Offices in Qurum opposite City Center. Contact - 94051789-97201688 Brand new villas in Al Ansab. Contact - 94051789-97201688 Offices & Showrooms in Muttrah. Contact - 94051789-97201688 Mini Furnished Apartment in Qurum. Contact - 94051789-97201688 Duplex villa in QURUM 29. Contact - 94051789-97201688 Offices & Showrooms in Al Khoud. Contact - 94051789-97201688

1 Bed room in Al hail south R.O 130/- Monthly. Contact: 93993354 Shops, studio flat and spacious outlet and offices (good for clinic) are offered for rent in Al Amarat opp. ROP police station. Contact: 91231380 2 bedroom luxury fully furnished flat for rent at Ghala short or long term basis. Contact: 99886386 / 99881653 New apartment for rent at Al Amerat second floor consists of two rooms with two toilets, reception with toilet, kitchen. Contact: 95588568 Villa, 2 flats at Al Khuwair (17/2) Contact: 99444786 Ghubra-Beautiful Room, attached bath, separate entrance, huge terrace, near Shell & Bank Muscat, for Male/Female - Indian/Asian/Western. OMR 180. Strictly for Vegetarian, non-drinker. Contact 99283938 (No Kitchen). Big room attach bath kitchen in Muscat near Palace R.O 90/-. Contact: 95094028 1& 2 BHK flats for rent at Hamriya Mabela and Al Khoud shop at Al Khoud. Contact: 24834644 / GSM : 93994401 /02/03/3lines

3 BHK behind Oman House, Muttrah. Contact: 99319149

Showroom space available at MBD area near old manpower building ground ﬂoor 220 Sq.MTR Mezzanine ﬂoor 320 SQ. mtrs, rent R.O 2650/per month. Contact: 99449885

1000 sqm industrial land with compound wall & two rooms at Misfah. Contact: 99342733 / 99795241

02 BHK commercial / residential (with split AC) ﬂats at Honda Road. Contact: 99342733 / 99795241

Single BHK flat available in Honda road Ruwi. Contact - 24833972/ 24833974/99367448 Flat in Wadi Kabir, 3 BHK rent 280/- R.O. Contact: 99330810 2BHK Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti mosque. Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 600 SQT commercial flat for rent opposite Oman flourmill Darsait more details. Contact: 91214849/ 99364735 2 BHK Flats for rent Muttrah near Oman house. Contact: 97007934 / 92629232

MV SALE Hummer H2 model 2006, 178000 km, Full options Number 1 Army edition.OMR 7200. Contact -99466773 Jeep Wrangler 2012 20,000km, Expat from new, dealer serviced, RO6500 Contact 99440320 Sohar 4WD Mitsubishi Pajero 2008 model 3.8 CC white 137000km maintained by Mitsubishi work shop. Contact: 99513510 BMW 7301car for sale, model 2007. One handed used car and service with BMW for sale. Contact: 99231676 or 24667405 New car Pathﬁnder Classic 4X4,4L V6.Only 11500 OMR. Zero KM.Call 99416162 Yaris 2011, full automatic Toyota warranty, 90,000 km, expat use R.O 3100/-. Contact: 92227165 Mazda 626 in VGC, 2001 model, single expat Owner, full service history with dealer, 180000 kms. Offer price OMR 1000. Contact 99296768 Single owner Ford Escape 2012 white, 2.5L, 10100 kms. All tyres recently replaced, Comprehensive insurance including UAE Mulkiya valid Oct 2016. OMR 5250 92320155 divadmuscat@gmail.com FOR SALE or rent Tata Dawoo Truck 12 ton 2014 Model. Contact: 92719681

Used supermarket shelving’s Godolas . Contact: 97752395 Running restaurant with seven clearance for sale Awabi Muscat. Contact: 95497007 Al Qurum, 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, sitting, kitchen, split ACs price 65,000 R.O. # 9879939 Sports shop for sale at Ruwi. Contact: 98453599 /93050776 Top Quality sparingly used Outdoor Catering & Bakery Equipments including chairs etc for sale in Muscat .Please call for viewing 99471085.Serious buyers only. Scrap available for sale, power cables & accessories. # 24446399 / Email – ravi.ztc@omzest.com Zawawi Trading Road no.8 Rusayl 3Ton Forklift, Special made for Oman market, Japanese Isuze C240 Engine, Cascade side shifter, High amount exhaust, 3m lifting height, Solid tyres, One year warranty. Contact: 98883445 We have laundry for sale in Ghala prime location 3 visa clearances available. #93782735 / 99208033 Shop for sale at Ghala Sanaya main junction (prime location) shop for sale #: Kamil 92696479 Mangalorean restaurant at Wadi Kabir & shop at Ruwi for sale. Contact: 98428507 / 93655003 60,000 Sq Mtrs Agriculture Land in Misfah, can be changed to Industrial Land. OMR 29 Per Square Meter. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

FOR SALE Grade one, non residential civil construction company, seven months old, with all approvals, in Sohar, for immediate sale. Contact: 98236616 Sale house & office furniture & electronic items. Contact : 99834373/ 96642500/22010080

ACC. AVAILABLE Furnished sharing accommodation in ruwi near O.K. Center for non-cooking indian bachelor. #98805474 Sharing accommodation available opp. to Oman house at Muttrah, for executive bachelors. Contact - 92350595 Single room, toilet, sharing, and kitchen near Azaibah Bank Muscat family only. Contact 96755127 A Bedroom along with separate bathroom available for rent for an Executive Bachelor in Al Khuwair (near Zawawi Mosque). Contact 92138451 Room for rent available in a ﬂat for Executive bachelor at Azaiba, behind Al Meera Hypermarket with attached bath with cot & A/c, rent inclusive of water & electricity. Contact 96404166 / 97433992 Single room bathroom in Darsait R.O 140/-. Contact: 93289652 Independent rooms in Qurum / Al Hail. Contact 95529970 Big room available near Hamriya R/A for Muslim couple / small family / Executive bachelor rent 150/- per month including W+ E. Contact : 99495131

Barber shop for sale in Ghubra. Contact 92955874 400 sq mtrs Commercial/Residential land in Maabela Phase 5 Block 2. OMR 155 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, sitting room, Kitchen & store including utilities bills at Al hail. Contact 92817777

ACC. WANTED

5 plots of fertile agriculture lands in Misfah East totaling 4,532 sq mtrs having date trees and using falaj water for irrigation. OMR 158 Thousand for all 5 plots. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

Single room for expat Indian bachelors near Al Aktham restaurant Al khuwair for RO 120. Water and electricity included. Contact: 98803261

Single room required for an Executive with reasonable rent. Contact 95405033

2,688 sq mtrs commercial land in MBD North. OMR 1.39 Million. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

Flats for rent in Wadi Kabeer. Contact: 99388994

BMW 318/ 2003 for sale. Contact 96364990

Flats for rent in Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99376454

Ford focus, automatic, 2010 model, silver colour, expat driven, 58000 kms, dealer serviced, registration till sep 2016, price ro 2750. Contact- 93207590

One ﬂats for rent 2 bedroom all with bath al Ghobrah north near Indian school (hot burger restaurant) Tel. 9976610

Contact 99337723 / 95118906

Furnished room in new building for working Muslim lady/ Muslim couple only. Location AINT, Darsait. Contact - 99008069

1BHK ﬂat near Star Cinema 220/-. Contact 99358589 /95570288

Flat for Rent 1/2 BHK Flat at Muttrah, near Oman ﬂour mills, 10 min. from Corniche.Equipped with split unit ACs, internet points, free-to-air dish connection, CCTV monitored, basement parking. Rent RO.250/350 per month. Contact: 99229263; 93221054; 95215289

Villas in Al Khoud. Contact 95056808-97201688

Fully Furnished apartments in Boucher (35) Contact -9505680897201688

Chaverlet Epica 2004 model RO -700, for sale. Contact 92194205

7 Bedrooms villa in Ghobrah North. Contact - 96420432

Studio for sale in Athaibah. Contact: 92478970

Indian Granite 600x300x20 - 15000 sq mts Indian Granite Slabs 20000 Sq mts Our factory yard at Ghala Industrial area.

Luxury Apartments in Boucher (35). Contact - 9505680897201688

99310448/99612010/95208455

STOCK CLEARANCE SALE

WANTED Wanted carpentry shop with clearance. Contact: 99055571 /97982406 /95306030

Window AC 30 Nos (general make all good conditions), refrigerator, freezer & mess equipments for sale. Contact: 98064113/ 99315878 Quotation fax on: 24448101 /24448103

1 Bedroom with attached Bath, fully furnished, separate entrance at Mabela for ladies only. Contact: 99634841

LOST Sabrin Bint Ridha Fennia has lost Tunisian Passport No. R 180792. Finder please handover to ROP

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 1 6, 2 0 1 5 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classiďŹ eds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT A reputed Dairy Company in Oman is looking for following Vacancies. Van Salesman: 3 Year experience with NOC

Drivers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Omani National Only: 2 year experience with Valid Omani D/L

Debt collector: Omani National with 4 years experience with Valid Omani D/L Please forward your CVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to

Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x201A;Ä?Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ?Ç&#x2021;ĎŹĎľĎłÎ&#x203A;Ĺ?ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ĺ?ĹŻÍ&#x2DC;Ä?Ĺ˝Ĺľ

WANTED PROJECT MANAGER

Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹśĹ˝Ç ĹśÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x161; Ć?Ä?Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ĺ˝ĹŻ Ĺ?Ĺś DĆľĆ?Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; Ĺ?Ć? Ä?ĆľĆ&#x152;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x161;ĹŻÇ&#x2021; Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x17E;ĹŹĹ?ĹśĹ? Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x2030;Ć&#x2030;Ĺ˝Ĺ?ĹśĆ&#x161; Ä&#x201A;

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Required for a reputed Construction Company, having degree or diploma in civil with 10 to 15 years experience with valid Oman driving license.

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Interested candidates can send their CV onprojectshr2015@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTED Urgent requirement of t 4UPSF LFFQFS t .BJOUFOBODe Technician (Air-condition)

t %JTQBUDI DMFSL With experience of 5 years for a reputed organization in the glass industry. Interested candidates may send their resumes at:

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B NBMJL!CBIXBONHF DPN

URGENTLY REQUIRED

hZ' Ed>z Z Yh/Z

An Indian female HOUSEMAID (Muslim) to take care of an Omani lady. Salary best in the industry. Contact - 99250595 or mail to tc.subi@yahoo.com

Z Wd/KE/^d Íť KĹľÄ&#x201A;ĹśĹ?Ć? KĹśĹŻÇ&#x2021; ÍžĆ&#x2030;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä¨Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ä?ĹŻÇ&#x2021; Ä¨Ä&#x17E;ĹľÄ&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Íż Íť DĆľĆ?Ć&#x161; Ć?Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ĹŹ ĹśĹ?ĹŻĹ?Ć?Ĺ&#x161; Ĺ&#x2021; ĆľÄ&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x161;ĹŻÇ&#x2021; Íť Ä?Ĺ?ĹŻĹ?Ć&#x161;Ç&#x2021; Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161;ĹŻÄ&#x17E; KÄ¸ Ä?Ä&#x17E;ÍŹ Ä&#x161;ĹľĹ?Ĺś Ç Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;ĹŹĆ? Íť 'Ĺ˝Ĺ˝Ä&#x161; ĹŹĹśĹ˝Ç ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x161;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E; Ĺ˝Ä¨ Ä?Ĺ˝ĹľĆ&#x2030;ĆľĆ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ć? Interested candidates please send CV to: Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ?ĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹŻĆ&#x2030;Ć&#x152;Ĺ˝Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ć&#x; Ä&#x17E;Ć?Î&#x203A;Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ?ĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹŻĆ&#x2030;Ć&#x152;Ć&#x2030;Í&#x2DC;Ä?Ĺ˝ĹľÍ&#x2DC;Ĺ˝Ĺľ Ĺ˝Ć&#x152; Ä?Ĺ˝ĹśĆ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ä?Ć&#x161; ĎŽĎ°Ď˛ĎŹĎŹĎ˛Ď´Ď´ÍŹ &Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x2020;Í&#x2014; ĎŽĎ°Ď˛ĎŹĎŹĎ˛Ď´ĎŻ

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Wanted an Accountant. Contact: lawďŹ rmfm@gmail.com We are looking for Chief Financial Officer, Male 40- 45 years old, Bachelor of Science in Accountancy with 5 - 15 yrs. of experience. Contact: +968 24702133 Email: admin-dept@daud.om

BEAUTY Urgently require a Female Beautician for a saloon in Sur, must have exceptionally good skills in threading ,waxing ,haircuts & facial treatments .Hair styling & bridal make ups would be added advantage .(Visa available)For more details please contact on 95214535

CATERING Shawarma / griller / helper wanted. Contact 95529970

DRIVER Driver cum maintenance person. Wanted cheerful, caring, clean and honest young man for an Indian family. Must have excellent driving skills and a valid GCC license. Can do and helpful attitude. Age 28 to 35, good references and English. Attractive salary, please apply to jobscharismat@gmail.com or call 99471085 for interview. Light duty driver. Contact: 98505294

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SECT. /OFFICE

DESIGN & ESTIMATION ENGINEER (HVAC+ FIRE FIGHTING) Degree/ Diploma in Mechanical Engineering with 3 to 4 years of experience in estimation, designing and tendering. Working knowledge of AutoCAD is must. Should have good communication skills. Contactvacancyforoman@gmail.com

Urgently required for a reputed company in Oman (Tyre, Battery & Lubricant division) Sr. Executives/Executive-5 nos (Sohar, Nizwa & Muscat), Techno Commercial Professional-5nos, Driver (Omani)-1no. Required minimum 3-5 yrs experience in the same ďŹ eld with market exposure holding valid Omani driving license or GCC. Kindly fwd your CVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to ashwin@taasintl.org Contact: (+968)93891700

Urgently required Female Secretary : Oman based leading manufacturing company has immediate requirement Graduate with min. 5 yrs of experience & capable to handle Management office work independently & Secretarial work, knowledge of computers & accounts will be an advantage. Age limit upto 30 yrs. Send CVs to vacancyinoman123@gmail.com

Experienced Petrol Mechanic, denter required. Contact: 98045373 Planning Engineer (HVAC) Degree/ Diploma in Mechanical Engineering with minimum 7 years of experience in the planning and coordination of multiple projects, cost evaluation/ control and handing over. Good communication skills. Email vacancyforoman@gmail.com

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Wanted Project Manager. Contact: almoosaengineering@gmail.com Urgently required Project Managers, Civil Engineers, Foreman, Electrical Engineer, Electrical quantity surveyors for a reputed construction company. Send your CVs to mohamed@oasisgrace.com Contact: 99881459 / 24826566 can send fax: 24812226

IT (SALES) DOMESTIC HELPER Looking for full-time housemaid - please call 99385119

DESIGNER Required Graphic designer and sales person for Advertising agency. Contact: 97982406 Email: choice.ap@gmail.com

ENGINEER A Grade Construction company in Muscat urgently requires â&#x20AC;&#x153;Safety Officerâ&#x20AC;?. Send C.V hr.azatllc@gmail. com or fax C.V to 24422458 Civil Site Supervisor for telecom tower projects across Oman. Send CV to fyjo@spec-link.com or call +968 9946 7227 Urgently Required: Civil Engineer with an experience minimum in 5 years in building construction, MUST have NOC and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968â&#x20AC;&#x201C;24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

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ENGINEER

Engineer consultancy company urgently require (2) Architectural Draftsman (Filipino) with experience 2 years. Contact: 99201222 Email: sahd35@yahoo.com

An IT Company dealing with wireless connectivity /networking requires a Salesman urgently. Forward your CV to vctsjobsoman@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Sales Ladies wanted for Ladies Boutique. Age: 20-35 yrs. Al Khoudh. Send CV to sameer916@hotmail.com or call 91159905 Looking for a FOREIGN STAFF has experience in Oman in real estate ďŹ eld. Interested contact: #99109094 Email: aburashid94dd@gmail.com Instrumentation & controls Technician with 2-3 years experience preferably in water sector and having valid driving license Send CV to shiju@spec-link.com or call Ph:+968 99450811 Urgent Staff requirement for Omar Al Khayyam Group of restaurant (restaurant manager, restaurant cashier, waiters, Indian / Chinese / Tandoor cooks. Contact: +96893798969 or email: ok.office2013@gmail.com

Indian male , B.Com, 21 yrs, accountant with 1 and half years experience looking for suitable job for more discussion. Contact: 96512733 Email: azazahemad968@gmail.com

15 years GCC experienced in ďŹ nance treasury management CPA, CMA, ACCA, MBA qualiďŹ ed chartered accountant available for immediate joining. Contact: 94872345 Email: mfta27@gmail.com

CA (Inter), MBA, 25 yrs exp. in Accounts, Sales, Marketing & Administration in poultry industry seeks suitable placement immediately. Contact 91 9704075855, +968 96500893, Email : sanaullah.sheikh@rediffmail.com

Young 24, ACCA affiliate, advanced diploma in Accounting and business, seeking suitable placement in accounts, ďŹ nance or audit with valid driving license. Contact: 92430152 Email: rau_dey@yahoo.com 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 male 29 yrs, M.Com, MBA, ICWA (pursuing) 5 years experience in ďŹ nance & accounts, Tally, SAP , Sage &MS Office on visit visa till December . Contact: 92840519 / 98450609

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Accountant, Indian Male, 15 Years experience (8 Years in Oman with Driving License & NOC) Seeks suitable placement, Contact 94117616, 91238272 Email: praveen78oman@gmail.com

Indian male 11 yrs exp in accountant (4 yrs in Oman with D/L & NOC) seeking suitable placement in Sohar area .Contact: 91212471 / 94049967 Email: rennyj6@gmail.com

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ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

MEDICAL Leading medical services company looking for GP Doctors, Nurses - male & female. Preference given to candidates in oman with MOH/prometric. Send resume to athirababylon@gmail. com, tamara@babylon-om.com. ph: 24613069 Wanted Lab Technician for Ibra clinic. Very attractive salary for MOH license holders. Send biodata to jmjmedicare@gmail.com 99373493 Urgently required Philipina Nurse with MOH license at prometric parsed. Contact: 99724013 Wanted a Staff Nurse with MOH license for a well running clinic in Seeb. Contact: 99442701 Wanted GP Doctor with MOH license, job location in Muscat with good salary and beneďŹ ts. Drop your cv at careerhr1972@gmail.com. Looking for new private clinic GP Doctor who ďŹ nish license in Oman, Muscat. Contact: 97882811

Chartered Accountant with ICWA Inter having 5 years experience in Finance, Accounts, Costing, Budgeting, Insurance, Treasury & Banking operations - NOC Available + Oman Driving License Contact : 97881548 Email-ďŹ nancecost2@gmail.com Indian male, MBA ďŹ nance, B.Com have 1 and half years experienced as Accountant and office assistant of India, on visit visa. Contact: 97445488 Accountant looking part time job. Contact: 99867456 Email: ashkar7673@gmail.com Indian male 37 yrs,(M. Com ďŹ nance) with 12 yrs experience (9 yrs in Oman) in accounts up to ďŹ nalization can join immediately having NOC & Oman driving license looking for suitable placement. Contact: 90194907 Email: ke.jinson@gmail.com Filipino, 29, Male, BS Commerce, 5years experience Payables/Receivables/Payroll/Document Control.Excellent Communication/MS Office skills. Contact: 95057206 patrick110486@yahoo.com Indian Female, CA Final, 5+ yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in A/cs. Currently in Oman.Ph:94704800 email id: vinithsavith@gmail.com

SKILLED Looking for experienced construction laborers as a subcontractor for a villa construction in Mawaleh.Contact: 96203333

SALES / MARKETING Urgently required Graphic Designer & marketing executive please forward your CV arshedkm@gmail.com Reputed building materials company looking for outdoor Sales executive having valid Omani driving license with more than 2 years local sales experience in tiles / sanitary ware. Please fax CV to 24798709 Email: united@omantel.net.om Urgently required Salesman having experience in marble and granite D/L and NOC must. Contact: 93484330 Email: preciousmrbl@gmail.com Insurance agency company require Sales Executive with experience Oman driving license. Clearance available. Send CV to: ahiginsurance@gmail.com Looking for experienced sales candidates in (outdoor & industrial signage, exhibition stands & media locations). Fluent English. Email : creativityeast@gmail.com Kitchen cabinet manufacturing company is looking sales person, most have Oman D/L and must know any kitchen designed software and two years experience. Contact: 93326636

28/male/MBA - Finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ india experience looking for a suitable placement. shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com 90187483 Male Indian with 7 years experience in accounting & 6 years experience in sales and marketing very good knowledge of tally currently in Muscat on a visit visa. # 96148427 Email: jijokurianp@gmail.com Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ ďŹ nance ďŹ eld. On visit visa. Immediately available. Contact â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com 25 years (20 years in Oman & 5 years in Indian) well experienced ďŹ nance controller seeking for suitable position, with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 99756765 SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, with 13yrs experience, 6 yrs Oman in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, capable of handling all accounting, ďŹ nance, banking, L/C, import, export & ďŹ nalization seeks placement. NOC Available. Call+968-98932752, mail:jjohnmuscat@hotmail.com 28/ male MBA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ďŹ nance /B.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; accountant with 4 years of Dubai / India experience looking for a suitable placement. Contact: 90187483 Email: shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com Senior Accounts Admin Manager B.com M.com 25 years experience accounts up to ďŹ nalization holding light duty license seeks suitable placement. Contact: 93064975 Accountant Bachelor of commerce English, 2 years experience visit visa. Contact: 98584398/ 95539923 Indian male 28 yrs, 3 years experience Oman driving license available accounts/ assistant accounts/ sales representatives, Tally, focus experienced Graduated, diploma in Accounting +2 SSLC. Contact: 96565010 Indian Male 28. B.Com with 11yrs experience in in secretarial and document controller ďŹ eld in Saudi Arabia with Saudi license looking for a vacancy contact 00966501913557 and yarajunun@gmail.com

Chief Accountant IndianMale, B.Com Graduate+ PGDCA, Total 18 Years Experience, 13 Year in GCC, 7 Years in Oman. Exposure in Tally ERP9, Peach Tree, MS Office. Having NOC Available for Immediate Joining. Contact - 97060826 Email-tomnedum71@yahoo.co.in

Indian CA, 8 yrs + Exp (6 yr in Oman & UAE ) in Finance , Accounts & Auditing , seeking suitable position in Muscat/Dubai, Can Join Immediately, NOC Available , Contact: 98707434 / Email: casmart007@gmail.com

Indian male accountant cum admin with good experience in India & Oman knowledge of tally ERP.9 currently on visit visa seeking suitable placement. Contact: 94834687

Part time Accountant services, yearly ďŹ nalization works, monthly report, proďŹ t& loss report, consulting and audit works. Contact: 96247295

Indian lady, bachelor degree in Preparatory Programme (BPP) and Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), completed training course in MS Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook from KTI looking for full time / part time job opportunity in Oman. Contact 92437568, 96795853, Email: linda_navs@yahoo.com

Accountant Indian female, 26 yrs, B.Com 2 yrs experience in accounting, purchase vouchers, bank reconciliation. Contact: 95690207 Email: pereira.rita08@gmail.com

Indian male 9 years experienced Accountant cum store keeper with D/L Oman & UAE transfer available. Contact: 97085435 Email: sudhimohd@gmail.com Indian male MBA, 8 years experience in hospitality industry, accounting looking for a job, now in visit visa. Contact: 92115860 Indian male 20 years in Oman experience with language institute (registrar, admin, account clerk) seeking a suitable position. NOC available. Contact: 96553961 Email: u.m.sulďŹ @gmail.com Pakistani male age 28 years MBA ďŹ nance work experience 3 years as Accountant currently in Muscat Oman on visit visa. Contact: 99685330 Email: hussain_ca87@yahoo.com

ARCHITECT Senior Architect with 16+ years experience in Multi turnkey projects in KSA, UAE, Qatar, Libya, Oman, India. Contact: +974 433657155 Email: aftab1706@gamil.com

ADMIN Now in visiting visa looking for job, ďŹ&#x201A;uency in Arabic writing, typing, reading & speaking, looking in Admin, document controller secretary translator & HR Assistance. do needful. Contact: 968- 97240204 Email: dmethaju@gmail.com 15 yrs experience in administration (rent a car) in UAE, holder of UAE driving license on visit in Oman seeking suitable post. Contact: 98606800 / 99431708 10 years experience in secretarial / Admin job. Contact: 94868626

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HR/ Admin with total 7 years GCC experience looking for immediate change over with suitable position NOC available. Contact 95521535 Email: kbino110@gmail.com

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HR & Admin Executive (MBA) Indian male 26 years, with more than 4 years experiences in HR / Admin (16 months in Oman) looking for suitable placement. NOC available. Contact: 968-98757304 / 968 -98314238 Email: muroollah789@gmail.com 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 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, 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

CATERING Cooks (Arabic Indian) gulf exp looking job. Contact: 99531802

DRIVER Experienced Light Duty Driver, Fluent in English, Arabic Well knowledge of Oman Areas Seeking Suitable placement 97950869 Light driver. Contact: 96313100 Driver with car available. Contact: 93015630 Driver with big Pajero only pick, drop. Contact: 91800277 Light driver looking for job. Contact: 98549627 10 yrs exp in GCC driver. Contact: 93722881 Pakistani with light duty driver license seeks job. Contact: 92789805 Light driver, looking for job. Contact: 98372745/99090362 Looking for Job driving. Contact: 97418036 Driver with new car looking for job.contact: 95873286 Driver (light & heavy duty) valid gulf /Indian) looking job. Contact: 95175192

DESIGNER/DRAUGHTSMAN Multimedia and graphic designer Filipino male 25 , looking for job in Muscat 3 years experience in 6 graphic and 3D design on visit visa immediately available. Contact: 95844940 Email: chrisrimas@gmail.com 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 Autocad , Oman exp in ARCh, structural, interior, knows 3D ph : 96946306 Professional architect 3ds max (interior, exterior) looking for private work. Contact: 96041201

DOMESTIC HELP House maid looking for job. Contact: 98257659

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Male, B.E in industrial & production engineering, 8 years experience (5 years in oil & gas) and 3 years in available currently on visit visa, seeking immediate placement. Contact: 97863823 7 Yrs Exp. PM in Mech. Engg in the ﬁeld of Building Const. Oil & Gas Seeking Job.94625598 29 yrs Indian male B.E (ECE) with more than 5 yrs experience in Oman with valid D/L. Contact 96652145

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ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian male, Mechanical Engineer on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact:97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Indian Male, 35 years old, ITI – Mechanical Maintenance Technician (Total 14 years) 7years Oman experience. Ready for NOC , VISA transfer, ready to join immediately, Mob .96254637 Email.abilashbt@gmail.com Indian Male, 36 years old, ITI – STEEL FABRICATION Supervisor (13 years) 11 Oman experience.(6 years in Plant maintenance) Ready for NOC , VISA transfer, ready to join immediately, Mob + 92257422 Email: jacktcr@gmail.com Indian Female 25 BE.CS Engg with 2yrs Exp in Tech Support at Hewlett Packard & S/W Development at ISRO India,looking for a job in IT/ TechnicalSupport/HR/Administrative/Teaching ﬁeld. Contact : 92891427,24128682 reshmatj@gmail.com B.E Civil Engineer having 10 years experience (04 years in Oman) looking for a suitable placement NOC available. Contact: 98065360 Email: shafeeqahmedr@gmail.com Indian, looking for work building maintenance electrical & plumbing. Contact: 99365092 Looking for a suitable job (4 yrs experience) electrical engineer. Contact: 96649586 Email: sattarali863@yahoo.com Electrical engineer Indian male 30 years , having 5 years of experience in industrial automation and utility maintenance in Indian ( MRF Tyres) seeking suitable placement. Contact: 92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com An Indian male HSE professional 9yrs experience out of 6yrs in Oman 3 yrs in India. Graduate, safety diploma, IOSH & NEBOSH . Working as Sr. HSE officer in a reputed MNC in MCT. NOC available, seeking suitable placement. Contact: 90187224

Well experienced team available to provide feasibility reports & business solutions, product development, risk management methods for startups, progressive, defunct operations. Creating of ERP modules. Contact - 93343251 (PDLO SUR¿ WRPDQ#JPDLO FRP

ƌĞƐƵůƚ ŽƌŝĞŶƚĞĚ ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂů ͘ ͘;DĞĐŚͿ͕ ϯϬн ǇĞĂƌƐ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ WƌŽũĞĐƚƐ͕ &ĂďƌŝĐĂƟ ŽŶ͕ Z Θ D ĂŶĚ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ͘ ^ĞĞŬŝŶŐ ũŽď ĂƐ 'D͕ K͕ ŽƵŶƚƌǇ ,ĞĂĚ͘ EK Θ ŝŵŵĞĚŝĂƚĞ ĂǀĂŝůĂďŝůŝƚǇ͘

Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects. Contact – 90164912

Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrsexp seeks suitable position ina reputed company. NOC available. Contact – 96789711

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

Electrical Engineer Indian male having 5 yrs of exp in designing, execution & planning in electrical ﬁeld. Having valid GGC driving license. Looking for a suitable job. Contact – 98052942 / azamjeelani@gmail.com

Civil Engineer (Diploma) looking for urgent placement (ﬁnal exit). Contact: 95200650 Electrical Engineer ( B.Tech) Indian female 4 years experience in India presently located at Al Ghubra on family visa. Contact: 97228117 Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1Year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact: 97416564, Email: jovinmathias@gmail.com Indian male 24 yrs bachelor mechanical 2 yr experience looking for job. Contact: 95179021 / 96974981 Email: atharhussain54@gmail.com BCA & GNIIT Higher diploma in NIIT. Looking for job, .presently in Muscat oman. Looking for a suitable position, Able to get NOC from the present company. Network management in computer, software developing, Accounting. Contact 98631210 Civil Engineer 6 yrs Exp in Oman with license. Contact: 98975528 Diploma in Electrical Engineering with 6 years’ experience in Electrical Automation , Programming, Project, Power, Energy and Supervision in Civil Work. Currently in Oman and looking for suitable position, Please contact 94873560/92406652 STP Operator having 25 yrs experience in Oman. Contact: 93089468

Civil Supervisor, 5 yrs experience in high rise buildings worked in BP Khazzan projects. NOC available. Contact: 96259407 Email: rp2251990@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer (B.Tech) Indian m with good knowledge in MEP, currently in Oman on visit visa looking for suitable placement. Contact: 90154793 Email: sangu.vazhoor@gmail.com Indian female on visit visa master of engineering (M.E) in computer science with 2 years experience software trainee, worked as mathematics and IT Teacher seeking for suitable job. Contact: 94528019 Email: indhu101291@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer with 3 Yrs experience in international Oil & Gas company looking for job Contacts: Tel: 90164236 Email: mustafaoshi-62@hotmail.com Project Engineer 6 years experience in Oman, construction (site manager) ﬂuent Arabic, English and good Hindi. Tele 97858589 Civil Engineer (BE) having total 5 years experience in building construction looking for a suitable placement. D/L available Contact# 94450270 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 Sr. Civil Engineer, Indian male with 22 yrs of experience in building construction, pipeline work specialist in tendering, billing, quantity surveying with Gulf experience. contact 95225759 Email : raﬁksimna@gmail.com

Project Manager / Site manager two years experience with BE Civil Engineer + DAE civil technology skills Primavera 6, Ms Office, age 26 years seeking suitable job. Contact: 94842408 Email: engrali300@gmail.com

Civil maintenance painting, tile works decor works, plumbing, electric, shop furnishing carpentary works and all other maintenance. Contact 97897831, 92112094 (Indian, Keralite)

Electrical Project Engineer 5 years experience in primacy substation cables and OHL valid driving license. NOC available. Contact: 91204243

Bachelor Civil Engineer 6 Years in Oman experience Valid Driving License seeks suitable placement Phone 97619722 Email – golamrob@yahoo.com

QA Engineer 5+ years experience executing ISO internal audit implement QA document. NOC available. Contact: 95361454 Email: mohamedshalifawaz@gmail.com

Mechanical Engineer M.Tech 2 years experience as HVAC design engineer rev IT M.E.P AutoCAD. Contact: 91050913 Email: rahmanmechengg@yahoo.com

B.Tech (IT) Indian Male 2 years Oman experience in I.T & Networking, holding Oman Driving License, presently on employment visa, seeks for a suitable placement. Ready to join immediately. NOC available. Contact: 92462578

QA/QC Engineer 10 yrs experience 7 yrs in GCC oil& gas industry looking for opportunity in Oman. QMS Auditor CSWIP3.1, API 570 BE MECH, MBA-PM NOC available. Contact 94663812 Email: srsaamy@hotmail.com

Civil Engineer 6 yrs Exp in Oman with license. Contact: 98975518

10 year experience ﬁt – out project Engineer, holding Omani driving license searching for a suitable placement. Contact: 95896061 Email: supreethshetty88@gmail.com

Buyer cum expeditor having more than 7 years of experience in oil& gas sector major client Oman gas company & British petroleum, knowledge in logistics and shipping clearance. NOC available. Contact: 98708758 Email: sakthivigneshraj@gmail.com

Electronics & Communication Engineer : Master degree in VLSI & Embedded systems , looking for electronics/telecom/embedded jobs or teaching in colleges or schools or institutions . Currently on family visa. Contact: 97092459 or 91342287 remyaramaswamy1991@gmail.com Robotics/Embedded Systems Engineer, Masters in Electronics Engineering, experience in software ﬁeld & robotics, seeks suitable opportunities. Email: mariaannajoseph@gmail.com Mob: 91306841

Sudanese Civil Engineer with 5 years experienced AutoCAD primavera & GIS Arabic & English language looking for a suitable job. Contact: 91340584 Indian male diploma Civil Engineer having total 6 years experience in building continuation looking for suitable job. #94257287 Indian Male 23 years B.Tech Civil having 2 years experience in quantity survey and site management looking for suitable placementContact:- 95042656 Diploma in Mechanical Eng piping system in AutoCAD work, 21+ years experience with Driving license. Contact: 95267113 Email: rkakkaryil@gmail.com

Need for job Generator Mechanic 2 years auto diesel cores, exp. 7 years Pakistan 1 and half years in Oman oil ﬁled. Contact: 92849823 Indian male Mechanical Engg with 6 yrs experience in MEP ﬁeld, seeking suitable placement with GCC license now in visit visa. Contact: 98086267 Email: khaleel1586@gmail.com Road and Construction Engineer with 5 years exp in Oman. Contact: 97646908 Civil Engineer with 6 years exp in Oman. Contact: 93242103 Email: mohamedf91987@gmail.com

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

WŚŽŶĞ ͗ нϵϭ ϵϳϳϯϴϮϴϲϲϯ͕ EŵĂŝů ͗ ũǀƉϮϵϭϯϲϳΛǇĂŚŽŽ͘ĐŽŵ

ENGG. / TECH./MECH.

Female Engineer material / controller 3 years experience in road companies, with D/L. Contact: 98001764

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR

Sri Lankan Engineer (27 Years old) – B.Sc Engineering (Hon) Mining / Geotechnical Presently in Muscat, 1.5 years experience. Contact 91295802 / acmfaslan123@gmail.com

EDUCATION Indian female M.SC B.ED qualiﬁed TEFL two years experience in gulf seeking suitable job in teaching. Contact: 91706466 Teacher special education (MR, LD, Autism) Indian female 26 yrs on visiting visa, good experience looking suitable placement. Contact: 95128634 Email: thomassabu35@gmail.com Computer Teacher M.SC Indian male 10 years teaching exp in Maldives as O level computer teacher presently located at Berha on family visa. Contact: 94867456 / 95262691 Indian female MSC, B, ED M.PHIL currently on visit visa seeking suitable placement, 2 years experience Contact: 96916534 / 91969756 Email: aryanair23@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 Dutch male qualiﬁed commercial pilot (Faa-ME-IR certiﬁed) is looking for job openings in middle east. rutjestom@outlook.com

IT 7 years Gulf experienced Automatic door system technician. All type of automatic door, gate barrier, Access control, CCTV, working in Oman (NOC available). Contact 96707646 Email: pramod.raj.p@gmail.com B.Tech (IT) Indian Male 2 years Oman experience in I.T & Networking, holding Oman Driving License, presently on employment visa, seeks for a suitable placement. Ready to join immediately. NOC available. Contact: 92462578 IT / Net work Engineer with MIT , CCNA certified CCNP and MCSE training , 2 years working experience currently on visit visa in Muscat. Contact: 94153542 Email: shahzadmahmood51@yahoo.com Indian female MCA IT 3years experience in the field of computer hardware and windows, Network Administration on visit visa. Contact: 96730971 Email: anjuretankar@gmail.com Hardware & net working, 2 years exp. Contact: 96244031 Female, 24yrs, B-tech Computer Science, currently on visit,1yr experience and certified special training .skills in software testing,managem ent,administration,java,oracleDB,A ndroid,C++,C.seeking suitable placement.Contact:98741930, amruthamohandas515@gmail.com Structural Steel Supervisor / foreman 12 and half experience in overseas, I.T.I fitter, NOC available. Contact: 96195185 India: 917356668511 Omani 6 years excellent exp looking for opening in IT. # 95356166 Indian male IT, CCNA, RHCE, MCITP, 3 years experience have GCC driving license seeking suitable position on visit visa (until 27th Dec). Contact: 93311963 Email: sajal035@gmail.com An Indian male 27yrs, B. Tech in (Computer Science) 6 years of exp in technical support, troubleshooting and managing seeks suitable placement. Contact:- 97483775, email:- mir.jak89@gmail.com CCNA MCITP network support /network technician with 2 years experience Indian male having bachelors degree on visit visa. Contact : 93080871 sean.f.peters@outlook.com Age 28 years experience 2years & 8 month in IT accounting technical skill, java, J.S.P tally Peachtree M.S excel, SQL ,Working java programmer India , accountant , Dubai ,Qualification MCA, B.C.A mathematic visit visa. Contact: 95673451

MEDICAL Experienced prometric cleared Indian female dentist seeks suitable placement in Muscat. Contact: 94673720 /92880267 An experienced Sudanese female Dentist with MOH license looking for job. Contact: 96436517 /97396088

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR 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

MBA In Operations Management Indian male : MBA in Lean Operations And Systems with 3 years of experience seeks suitable placement in Oman. Contact : 0096894369897 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 Indian male 4 years experience M.S.C Marine biotechnology, looking for Production Manager. Contact: +919629032023 Email: evergreenram88@gmail.com 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

MISCELLANEOUS Candidate with communication & analytical skills. Contact 90187827 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 Indian male 42 years 13 years experience with Oman driving license in MEP contracting looking job store keeper / purchaser. Contact: 95197065 Indian 28 yrs, 5 years experience in purchase looking for a suitable NOC available, driving license available. Contact: 96772166 Indian Male, 34 years with 14 years oil & gas tankers sailing experience in reputed ﬁrm with Class 1 UK COC Master’s license seeking suitable placement in port/drydock/terminal facilities/ shipping and marine services. Contact- 98842135/99090098 email:-menon.dhanesh@gmail.com Graduate, computer literate, experienced in sales, credit control, accounts, Omani D/L , seeks suitable placement. Gsm 9880-5474

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Game operators & gardener, with at least relevant ﬁeld experience. Please send your CV to fuad@hadidmajan.com Required expatriate manpower goods loading & unloading labors. For inquiry Contact: 98111363

SALES / MARKETING Candidate with good communication. Contact 90187827 Indian, 38 years with 15 years in sales & marketing ﬁled with GCC valid license. Contact: 94744746 Indian male 11 yrs exp in Oman looking for job in sales /mrkt, office work having Oman D/L. Contact: 99501046 Male B.com 8 month experience in sales seeking suitable placement. Contact: 98371144 Indian male graduate with 7 yrs exp in sale & marking immediate join NOC available. Contact : 96746107 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 Sales & Marketing Executive MBA with 3 years experience in sales looking for suitable placement. Contact: 91345727.

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 1 6 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classiﬁeds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

HOME THEATER & KARAOKE BRING HOME - LIVE MUSIC & CINEMA GENERAL ELECTRONICS SERVICES LLC CONTACT: 99627299 / 93327841

SITUATION WANTED SALES / MARKETING Age 26 Indian male B.Com completed 3 years outdoor sales experience, one year Gulf experience good marketing knowledge, having Oman driving license. NOC available seeking suitable placement. Contact: 98792682 Indian male sales marketing with G.C.C license 7 years exp. Contact: 98097459 Email: shl_kami@yahoo.com Indian male with Oman driving license and 27 years’ Oman experience in FMCG sales /newspaper distribution across the Sultanate seeks job. No objection certiﬁcate/ release letter is available from the present employer. Contact: 98962949

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Looking for job as Mason, steel fixer, electrician. Contact: 93015630 Masonry / finishing foreman 20 years experience NOC available. Contact: 98435309/ India + 91 9446958838 Mason, SH / carpenter, steel fitter gulf & Indian exp looking job. Contact: 95175192 Electrician, plumber (exp gulf / Indian) looking job. Contact 95175192

TECHNICIAN /MECH.

Graduate, computer literate, experienced in sales, credit control, accounts, Omani D/L , seeks suitable placement. Gsm 9880-5474

Urgently required cold room refrigeration Technician must know up to commissioning gulf experience preferred .Pls forward CV to nasmatmasirah@gmail.com Contact: 97982623/ 95183616

Indian male 23 years with 4 years experience in Purchase and Sales, graduate in EC, currently on visiting visa, seeking suitable job in Oman. Contact: 96761020. Email: adikmuthumuttam@gmail.com

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

12 years of experience in Oman; marketing strategies & operations, logistics, government tenders, public relations & dealing with international companies -4 years of experience in UK, engineering CNC & industrial areas, have dual nationality, fluent in English & Arabic speaking and writing , (I can travel abroad easily without visa, for finalizing business or any other purpose). Contact: 94123939 Indian male, with experience in sales, marketing, and client relation, with UAE driving license, on visit visa, seeks suitable job. Contact: 95269818 Email: naushers@yahoo.com Indian male, MBA Finance & Marketing 28 yrs,6+ Exp, with Driving license, Hospital Phrma Herbal Marketing, construction A/c & sales , F&B industry, 93379044 Indian male, MBA Marketing having 2.5 years Sales experience immediately looking for a suitable position. Contact: 91415145, Email: shariqs88@gmail.com Indian male 46 years, Sales Manager experience in modular kitchens & furnitures. Contact: 94522616 Indian male, 24, MBA Marketing and HR, I year experience. On visit visa. Looking for suitable job. Contact 94014073 Marketing Executive/Merchandiser, Omani License, BA 8 years Experience in Multinational Groups. Contact 97601343 Indian 18 years experience in Oman Driver cum Sales man fields NOC available. Contact: 92459603

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Indian lady with release paper. searching for admin or accounts asst or showroom sales job. Contact 94417080 MCA, Indian female looking for a job in admin office works. 96370225 Secretary MBA Indian male 5 years exp in India, 1 yr exp as Secretary / document controller in tendering dept in Oman seeking urgent placement. Contact 91566118 / 93089367

TOURS & TRAVELS Indian female BSC IATA, 14 years exp in travel & tourism in Oman looking for suitable placement. Contact: 96433490 Email: indu623@yahoo.co.in Indian female 24 yrs, Bachelor in Travel & Tourism and 2 year exp in Oman as ticketing executive. GDS-Sabre, Amdeus, Galilio. seeking suitable job. Contact- 95883404

MISCELLANEOUS HR & Admin Executive ( MBA) Indian male 26 year old, with more than 4 years of experiences in HR& Admin (16 month in Oman) looking for suitable placement, NOC available. Contact: +968-98757304 Email: nuroollah789@gmail.com Indian Male, 28, MBA Finance & Mcom. more than 5yrs exp. in A/c & Finance (Including 2 yrs in Oman), NOC available, Seek Suitable Placement, Contact: 93939421, email: baleeq.ams@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS MBA (F), B.COM. Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for job. presently on family visit visa. Contact :- 94704661. Email:bhumicapandya@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: yashicapandya@gmail.com 31 year Indian male PG in HR with 5 yrs Professional experience in HR in Construction Oil & Gas Oman seeking for a suitable placement(NOC Available).Kindly contact me on 93488914, emailKaarthickshankar@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 Indian male, totally 8+ years experience in IT Assistant, 5 Years in Oman, Looking for a suitable position in Oman, Holding Oman Driving license & also NOC is available. Contact: 98248024, email- bala.abins@gmail.com Indian male B.Eng. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3 yrs exp. in IT / networking/ server support, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support. Contact 92607532 ACCA (Associate Certiﬁed Chartered Accountant) with 2 years experience. Looking for opportunities in Finance, Accounts. Presently Available in Oman for Personal interviews -# 96124257, 93692578. Email at naeemnoe5@gmail.com Indian male, QA/QC Instrument Inspector, 8 years exp in GCC, on visit visa. # 92430370 Email: rajeshgcc.kumar@gmail.com, Indian female, MBA HR & Finance, having 1 year experience, seeking suitable placement. Currently in Oman. Contact: 96052366.

Indian Accounts professioanl with 2 years of experience currently on visit visa looking for suitable job openings Contact: Gsm: 92395449 jaleelcabdul@gmail.com

Indian male 23yr BA TTM(Travel and Tourism Management) with Advanced Diploma in Supply Chain Logisitics and Shipping Management, Experienced in Logisitics (Customs Clearance) seeking in suitable placement, currently on visit visa(Oman) Contact; 90291092 email:iyas.adhur@gmail.com

Part- Time Accountant, well experience senior accountant ,doing all type of accounting works, Finalization, Budgeting available. Contact 98803439

Male 27, BCA, Diploma in Networking, CCNA certiﬁed engineer, 4 years experience in IT support & networking seeks job. Contact-90193811

Post graduate master of social work having 5 years experience at present visit visa seeking suitable opportunity.Contact 99876307

Indian male, 11 years exp. in accounting, knowledge in tally also. Looking for a part time job. Contact. 98983122

Planning Engineer: B.E(Electrical and Electronics Engineering): Indian Male 33 yrs with 10 years of experience in UAE & Muscat. Skilled in the areas of project coordination, planning & procurements. Contact: 00971503529608 Email Id: saravananbe44@gmail.com

Indian female, 27, food technologist (MSc Food Technology), 2years experience in research and development - instant foods, seasonings. Contact -93987174 email :mayacnair@outlook.com

29 year Indian male B-Tech Engineering, with 6 yrs of Professional experience in Manufacturing Oil & Gas Industries seeking for a suitable placement (NOC Available).Kindly contact me on 94628362, emailmahinathdevani@yahoo.co.in

8 yrs exp 2d, 3d draughtsman (HOLDING OMANI DRIVING LICENSE) seeking job. Contact 93790601 Project Manager in Mechanical Engg. (M.sc.) with 8 years experience in Building Construction, oil & gas seeking job-94625598 (nima.azimzadeh@gmail.com)

Indian male 23yr BA TTM(Travel and Tourism Management) with Advanced Diploma in Supply Chain Logistics and Shipping Management, Experienced in Logistics(Customs Clearance) seeking in suitable placement. Currently on visit visa (Oman) Contact; 90291092 email: iyas.adhur@gmail.com Driver Cum Salesman Professional, Indian male having 7 Years of Experience in Oman Having Valid Driving License working as a Office Driver, Looking for a suitable Position, NOC available. Contact: 99680429 Email:anzarkutty1975@gmail.com

MANPOWER

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SITUATION WANTBUSINESS ED

Software Engineer , Oracle EBS R-12 Technical Consultant 9 Years Experience. HRMS/ Payroll, Education, Hotel, Textile, Shipping Container Terminal. Email: sziahussain@hotmail.com. Contact 97912264 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 Indian male 24yrs, B. tech in (Computer Science) 4 years of exp in technical support, sales and networking, seeks suitable placement. Contact:- 95955696, email:- mir.jak89@gmail.com

Luxurious villas in a Gated community with all the modern facili es at Vakathanam By-Pass (MC road-NH 220) Web: www.royalcastles.in email: info@royalcastles.in +968 92855909, +91 9961 11 9988

3 storey Building for sale Thiruvalla , near Nelladu building with 4 ﬂats and 3 shops for sale. Contact : 97835464/ 0091 8606029166

Plot, propeties for sale in prime location in pune 95272138,(+918390982975)

GOOD NEWS > Z / zhZs / >/E/

Required expatriate partner or investor, to invest various commercial ﬁelds. For inquiry. Contact : 98209820 We will register LLC. trade license for foreign investors and do all actions. Contact: 92833566

FOR LADIES Home service for ladies only facial, waxing, body massage, (if you not waxing menicure pedicure) only 20 Riyal, Contact 9243 0239

SIT.WANTED

Indian male B.Eng. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3 yrs exp. in IT/ networking/ server support, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support. Contact 92607532

Indian male 23 yr BA TTM (Travel and Tourism Management) with Advanced Diploma in Supply Chain Logisitics and Shipping Management, exp in Logisitics (Customs Clearance) seeking in suitable placement, currently on visit visa(Oman) contact;90291092 email:iyas.adhur@gmail.com

Indian male, 28 yrs, E & I Engineering diploma (3 years), 7 years exp.(India, Oman, KSA) in electrical and instrumentation with driving license, looking suitable job #91051803

Btech graduate, 26yr male, 4 years experience as system and network engineer. Looking for suitable placement. Mob : 93125669, Email : amritrajsasidharan@gmail.com.

Iraqi pharmacist with 15 years experience as Senior med rep. regulatory affairs and Marketing & sales Manager seeking job in pharmaceutical co. Contact 96720441

Indian Male 23 years B.Tech Civil having 2 years experience in quantity survey and site management looking for suitable placement contact:- 95042656

Indian male B.Eng. in IT, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT support, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support. Contact 92607532

Indian male, MBA, ﬁnance, having MNC 2 year experience in accounts and audit, skilled in sap, seeking suitable position. Contact : 96930855

Indian female, Science Graduate, 3 year’s experience in Teaching English & Science seeking suitable placement. Also interested in Teaching Spoken English for student at any level. Contact : 96431456 / 95704814l

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

Sudanese Manager and Accountant, master degree in Economics Diploma(Development and Planning).Egypt. More than 15 years Experience in Government Accounts..and Banking. Speaking arabic and English, skill full in M.S office, seeks suitable placement. Contact 97396088

royal castles

vakathanam, kottayam

Plot for sale Shadnagar Municipality, Mahboob Nagar District, walk able distance to existing colonies, national highway and basic amenities at reasonable price. Contact – 0091 8686631669

31 year Indian male PG in HR ,with 5 yrs Professional experience in HR in Construction Oil & Gas Oman seeking for a suitable placement(NOC Available).Kindly contact me on 93488914, emailKaarthickshankar@gmail.com MBA(HR & Marketing) & B.Com, Indian male 28 yrs,2 yrs exp. in Qatar, having oman driving license, currently on family visa (NOC available).looking for hr, admin, assistant accountant, marketing & sales job in salalah. Contact:98138376, email: subinabraham87@gmail.com

NRI

Indian male having 14years of experience in HR, Purchase Dept and Sales having Oman driving license looking for a suitable position at Salalah. Noc available. Mail. Madhuvtk@ gmail.com

EĞĂƌ <Śŝŵũŝ DĂƌƚ͕ D ƌĞĂ͕ ZƵǁŝ KƵƌ ǇƵƌǀĞĚŝĐ dƌĞĂƚŵĞŶƚ ŝŶĐůƵĚĞƐ ďŚǇĂŶŐĂŵ͕ <ŝǌŚŝ DĂƐƐĂŐĞ͕ ^ŚŝƌŽĚŚĂƌĂ͕ sĂƐƟ ͕ hĚǁĂƌƚŚŶĂŵ ϱϬй ŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ ŽŶ ĨƵůů ďŽĚǇ ŵĂƐƐĂŐĞ͘

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ϮϰϴϭϰϮϮϮ Žƌ ϵϳϭϭϮϱϭϬ ĨŽƌ ĂƉƉŽŝŶƚŵĞŶƚ Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis, massage steambath, obesity, Spondylitis, Ideal Care Ayurvedic Clinic, 18 November Street Azaiba. Contact: 99639695 / 98342990 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 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com

MATRIMONIAL Kerala RC boy 31 yrs paramedical working in Oman hailing from Tellichery Dioces. Contact: 92866673 Keralite, Thiruvananthapuram based “Young and Handsome Boy”, Hindu – Viswakarma (Carpenters), Birth Star – Pooyam, MCA, 29 years(05/11/1985, 01.30 AM), 176 cm height, Wheatish colour, Moderate family, Working as ‘Commercial Assistant’ in a reputed automotive company. seeking alliance of girls from the suitable family. Contact: Rejeesh 92801583, 94238934, Shanmughan - +919895891202, +914712619230 RCSC MOH Nurse working in Ministry hospital Sur seeking suitable alliance from Keralite Malayalees Christian boys (preference in Muscat, well educated). Contact: Gince Sebastian 98055621 / 97929487 Kerala Ezhava boy 28 years MBA working in Oman seeking suitable alliance. Contact: 98185755 23 Years Malayalee Christian girl born & educated in Bangalore, seeking suitable alliances from well settled Keralite Malayalee Christian boys. Contact - 99494371

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 1 6, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

RENT A CAR

CLASSES

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

in Azaiba and Ruwi earn in two months tion guaranteed

Tel: 95244310

Ph # 24480800 / 99347202

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

COMPUTER

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

IELTS & TOEFL Academic / General Target Band 8 TQT Institute.

WEBSITE

Rental car. Contact: 92516090

SITUATION WANTSERVICES

^ Zs/ ^ tĞ WƌŽǀŝĚĞ ůĞĂŶĞƌƐ͕ Kĸ ĐĞ ďŽǇƐ͕ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ͕ 'ĞŶĞƌĂů ĐůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ĞƚĐ͘ ů DƵĚĂŬŚŝƌ EĂƟ ŽŶĂů Ɛƚ͘ >> ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ͗ ϵϰϮϳϳϬϮϬ

DRIVING

Learn driving with professional. Contact: 94022250

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 Available office space in Prime location on 18th November Street, Azaiba Kindly. Contact: 99288664

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price. Contact: http//webviewoman

SITUATION WANTSERVICES MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807 We are doing electrical, plumber, painting, & carpentering work any type of job small or big. Contact: 99208033 / 93782735 Water prooﬁng ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

Marble grinding resurfacing & ceiling crystallization / polishing general cleaning of villas & ﬂats. Terrazzo ﬂoor scrubbing, ceiling, polishing & buffing. Contact: 98598280 /94134784 GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 A/C maintenance, installation spilt A.C and maintenance window A/C and ducted and package the reunites. Contact: Asad Abbas 98667326 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

House shifting & transporting. Contact 92490422 Cleaning & Carpet Shampooing, Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99344723 Pest Control Treatments. Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99344723 House shifting. Contact: 99657644/98518013

Split & window A/c servicing & maintenance. Contact : 93769089 / 95323517 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

Debt collection services your money we collect value commercial services. Fax: 0096824783669 Contact: 009682479815 /00968- 24701422 /00968- 94665476 Email: salim@valuedbtcollection.com

FOR LADIES Home service for ladies only facial, waxing, body massage, (if you not waxing menicure pedicure) only 20 Riyal, Contact 9243 0239

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 1 6, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classiďŹ eds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

TOURS

SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours contact 98029602, 92808636

SITUATION WANTED CARGO

ABDULHAKIM AL BIMANI TRADING & CONTRACTOR Expert in Shipping cargo by sea & air to Zanzibar, Pemba, Dar es Salam in Tanzania, Burundi, The Philippines, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. Reasonable price.

Contact: 97440625/95416662 &NBJM BCEVMIBLJNBMCJNBOJ!IPUNBJM DPN

TRANSPORTATION

FOR HIRE Bobcat available for rent. Contact 97623299 Car with driver available for rent. Contact: 93015630

Transportation. Contact: 99099714

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation available Ruwi Seeb. Contact 99867456

7 Ton/ 10 Ton- Trailer Local transport- MCT- UAE

Transportation. Contact: 8505294 Transportation. Contact: 95190627

Contact 96609857 Amir Ali

Transportation & tours. Contact: 99324045 Pick & drop anytime in Al Khuwair. Contact 99764307 Transportation available Ruwi to Al Khuwair, Ghubra & Azaiba. Contact: 91103909