Times of Oman - April 28, 2016

THURSDAY April 28, 2016 20 Rajab 1437 AH

6 085010 120010 FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

On the occasion of the 4th National Day, 1974

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ We have drawn an ambitious plan - the target of which is the Omani citizen. The main criterion of the plan is the human individual. It is man who performs development and its objective is to ensure happiness for the individual and his reformation so as to give thee best of his talent and production.

Founded 1975 . Volume 41 No. 57

| 48 Pages . Baisas 200 . Subscription OMR63 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company | Chairman/Editor-in-Chief: Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali | Printed & Published by Muscat Media Group

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

45 expats arrested for consuming liquor

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Forty-five expatriates of different Asian nationalities were arrested on charges of consuming alcohol in public, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) reported. The expatriates were allegedly found consuming alcohol in an open area in Al Azaiba. “The ROP raided the place after 11 people were killed in ‘suspicious’ run-over accidents near the location.” an ROP official said. >A5

Currently maids, cleaners, drivers and gardeners are not included in the labour law, but things could soon change...

WORLD

Trump, Clinton register big wins

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Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton rapidly turned their fire on each other with an eye on November’s presidential election after rolling up strong wins in Northeastern states. The New York billionaire defeated rivals John Kasich and Ted Cruz in all five states that held party nominating contests in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Delaware. >A16

MARKET

World Bank optimistic on $41 oil price in 2016

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World Bank boosted its forecast for oil prices this year, projecting that refinery demand will pick up and United States production cuts will steepen in the second half of 2016. Crude prices will average $41 per barrel this year, which is still down 19 per cent from 2015, the Washingtonbased development bank said on in its quarterly commoditymarkets outlook. >B1

DOMESTIC STAFF SET FOR LEGAL RIGHTS IN OMAN Oman’s intention to enact legislation for protecting domestic workers is a welcome move as they are most prone to exploitation

REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: How many hours a day does your maid work? Do they get a day off every week? Do they get paid annual holiday? Would you pay them a gratuity at the end of their service?

These are all questions which

households employing domestic staff may soon have to answer as the Ministry of Manpower confirmed they are planning more legal protection for these workers.

“Either in the new labour law or as a separate chapter, we have plans to legalise their rights and provide better protection to domestic workers,” Said Salem Al

UPGRADED

MUSCAT: Broadband service provider Awasr will provide fixed landline services in Oman with an international call facility as its licence has been upgraded to Class 1 category by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), a statement from the company said.

According to a top official at Awasr, the company has already begun working with its part-

Labour laws Currently, Oman, Qatar and the UAE exclude domestic workers from the ambit of labour laws.

Kuwait has the most effective law regulating domestic workers’ labour rights, which grants them the right to a weekly day

off, 30 days of annual paid leave, a 12-hour working day with rest, and an end-of-service benefit of one month per year worked at the end of the contract, among other rights.

Meanwhile, Bahrain’s 2012 labour law gives domestic workers annual vacations as well as access to mediation in labour disputes – but it fails to provide other basic protections, such as weekly rest days, a minimum wage, and limits on working hours.

Saudi Arabia had adopted a regulation in 2013 that grants domestic workers nine hours of rest in every twenty-four, with one day off a week, and one month of paid vacation after two years. But domestic workers can be required to

work up to 15 hours a day, whereas Saudi labour law limits other workers to 8 hours of work daily.

Sharan Burrow, the general secretary of International Trade Union Centre, said that Oman’s intention to legislate rights of domestic workers is a very good news.

“These workers are entitled to the same rights and social protection as all workers. New laws that meet the ILO standards will be the real test of the country’s leadership,” Sharan said.

Rothna Begum, Women’s rights researcher on the Middle East and North Africa at Human Rights Watch, said that domestic workers are the most vulnerable workers in the country. >A6

EXECUTION OF EIGHTH PLAN

Shura urges health minister to expedite pending projects

Awasr gets licence for fixed landline services Staff Reporter

Saadi, the advisor to the Minister of Manpower, told Times of Oman.

“We have to protect them. We see them as guests in our home.

Most likely, we may have a separate system to protect their rights if it’s not going to be included in the labour law,” the advisor added.

Generally, housemaids, household drivers, gardeners and cleaners fall in domestic workers category.

ners and the authorities to build a fixed landline infrastructure in Oman.

Affordable prices “We will deliver top-notch services at highly competitive and affordable prices for everyone, especially since affordability is one of Awasr’s core principles and aims to achieve sustainable development in the Sultanate,” Issam Al Ismaili, head of marketing at Awasr, said. >A6

ERIK PRINS

erik@timesofoman.com

MORNING MINUTE

MUSCAT: Minister of Health is expected to make more efforts to ensure the completion of delayed health projects, said members of the Majlis Al Shura, who hosted the minister, Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Sa’eedi on Wednesday.

The minister’s statement on the condition of health facilities and plans to improve the sector in Oman, was the basis of discus-

sion at the Majlis Al Shura. The members questioned Al Sa’eedi on delays in executing the health ministry’s eighth five-year plan (2010-2015) projects.

Ali Al Qutaiti, head of the Health Committee at the Majlis Al Shura, said only 36 per cent of the projects in this plan have been realised, while people are still waiting for the completion of remaining 64 per cent of projects.

“So far, we have heard only the ministry’s plans to build new hos-

pitals and renovate some, but we don’t see anything. So how can we and the citizens trust you?” he asked.

Al Sa’eedi said a letter from the Ministry of Finance in the past had instructed the ministry not to execute any projects before 2013, except essential projects, due to financial reasons.

According to Al Sa’eedi, the eighth five-year plan had 74 projects, including 12 hospitals and 37 health centres. >A6

LIVE MUSIC EVENT

Win tickets of 80s icon Pat Sharp concert Times News Service MUSCAT: As summer is around the corner, one live music event in Muscat is celebrating beach life and Times of Oman is your ticket to be part of the fun.

We have teamed up with Alive Entertainment Oman to offer you the chance to win one of 10 pairs of tickets to its ‘Here Comes The Summer Party’ this Friday, April 29.

The huge event at the ShangriLa Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Amphitheatre will feature seven bands and host DJ will be 80s icon Pat Sharp, former host of FunHouse and a contestant on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.

For your chance to win register the form on timesofoman.com and

Pat Sharp, former host of FunHouse. – patsharp.co.uk

enter our online competition.

Tickets cost OMR10 and the dress code is ‘beachwear and flipflops’ and doors open from 5pm and the fun starts at 6pm. If you are not one of our lucky winners you can still reserve your ticket online.

Ministry issues fostering norms

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THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

OMAN

Instead of asking others for directions and room numbers, these signs will save them (the visually impaired) the time and the hassle of asking Muadh Al Raqqadi, SQU College of Arts and Social Sciences official

SQU makes life for the visually impaired easier More than 30 students will benefit from this initiative, under which 370 Braille signboards have been placed to help people with visual disabilities become more

INITIATIVE: The signs are located in all rooms, including restrooms, prayer rooms, coffee shops and computer labs. – Supplied

independent

HASAN SHABAN AL LAWATI

hassan@timesofoman.com

YOUR BIGGEST ROAD HAZARD IS IN YOUR HAND A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

MUSCAT: For the first time in Oman, visually impaired students will be able to walk easily through Sultan Qaboos University’s (SQU’s) corridors, guided by newly installed Braille signs.

Braille is a tactile writing system used by the visually impaired, to read by touching the paper or board with their hands.

More than 30 students will benefit from this initiative, as SQU’s College of Arts and Social Sciences has recently placed 370 signboards all over the college’s departments, to help people with visual disabilities to become more independent.

“Instead of asking others for directions and room numbers, these signs will save them the time and the hassle of asking,” Muadh Al Raqqadi, an official at the college

told the Times of Oman.

The signs are located in all rooms, including restrooms, prayer rooms, coffee shops and computer labs. Al Raqqadi explained that the signs are made of plastic with soft edges so they do not cause any injuries to passersby. Moreover, they are not affected by humidity.

“We used a special font and colour so people with visual difficulties can see it more clearly,” Al Raqqadi said, while adding that this initiative will be the first of its kind in Oman’s educational sector.

He added that the signs are placed at a suitable height so even people on a wheelchair can read them.

The whole project was carried out locally as working with foreign companies will be much more costly, according to Al Raqqadi. “It would have cost us at least OMR15,000 if an external company did the job,” he said.

“This is just the first phase of a bigger project. We will translate

more signs into Braille in the second phase,” he confirmed.

The college will soon open a special workshop for people with all sorts of disabilities. Al Raqqadi noted that a map is available now in Braille at every department’s entry, so blind students can easily navigate through the offices.

It is worth mentioning that the College of Arts and Social Sciences accommodates the highest number of students with disabilities in SQU, around 80 per cent of total students with disabilities.

In 2015, five new students with visual impairment and two with mobility impairment joined the college. The majority of them are studying history. The college gives special attention to this group of learners in order to motivate and encourage them to take the road of creativity and achievement like their able peers.

Furthermore, the college also installed four elevators that helped disabled students move between the different floors easily.

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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‘Oman needs to further improve hospital access’

T E C H N I C A L C O O P E R AT I O N

Oman, World Bank sign pact MUSCAT: Oman and the World Bank signed an agreement for technical cooperation and discussed means of developing the macroeconomic model of the Sultanate.

Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Planning (SCO) on Wednesday received a delegation of the World Bank led by Dr. Hafez Ghanem, Chairman of the World Bank for Middle East and North Africa, currently in the Sultanate.

Technical cooperation The two sides signed an agreement for technical cooperation and discussed means of developing the macroeconomic model of H E A LT H

INAUGURATED: The first-ever Apollo Hospital in the Middle East was inaugurated by His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan. – Jun Estrada

More than 5,100 drug addicts in Oman Staff Reporter

Apollo Hospital Muscat, which was recently upgraded into a full-fledged hospital, with world-class facilities, was officially inaugurated on Wednesday

MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman needs more access to hospitals, said Dr Preetha Reddy, executive vice-chairperson of the Apollo Hospitals Group.

“Oman doesn’t require more hospitals but the access should be greater,” Reddy told the Times of Oman (TOO) on the sidelines of the opening of their first Apollo Hospital in Oman and also the first in the Middle East.

“For that the insurance system should be more streamlined; and can be made even better and exciting, while hospital system should be upgraded,” she said while speaking about the health sector in Oman.

She added that there should be some assistance extended to find trained manpower and Oman needs more doctors and nurses, whether it is nationals or expats but that it should be available in a consistent manner.

According to her, Oman should have enough hospitals between the private and public category in

the health sector of Oman.

She also agreed that with the support of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Oman’s health sector has come a long way.

“I came to Oman after a long time and the changes in the field are immense and the decision of His Majesty to give Omani citizens high-end healthcare has brought about that change,” she asserted.

“They upgraded the public health system to a large extend and the decision to allow the private health sector to establish was a great move,” Reddy added.

She also said the Apollo group would like to work in the health sector as a partner.

“We would like to work in the health sector as a partner and we will provide whatever needs to be done for the people of Oman,” Reddy said. “The level of trust with Apollo as a brand is very high because we stand for affordable, accountable care and the outcome have been very good,” she added.

Reddy also appreciated the support of the ministry in estab-

lishing the new Apollo Hospital in Muscat. “I can promise the people of Oman whatever treatments are available globally for any disease,” Reddy said.

She also pointed out that the number of patients travelling from Oman to India, especially to Apollo hospitals in India, is increasing and this shows the trust of the patients.

Apollo Hospital Muscat, which was recently upgraded into a fullfledged hospital, with world-class facilities, was officially inaugurated by Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, advisor to His Majesty the Sultan.

According to V T Saileswaran, managing director, Apollo Hospital Muscat, the facility currently has 25 specialised in-house doctors and eight super specialty visiting consultants from Apollo India, for neurology, oncology and orthopaedics.

“Our aim is to make this hospital one of the best treatment providers for nationals and the residents of Oman,” Saileswaran told TOO. “We have plans for introducing an array of specialised departments in a phased manner, including separate clinics for thalassemia, orthopaedics and neuro diseases,” he added.

Speaking about the expansion of Apollo Hospitals in Oman, Saileswaran said: “We have a definite plan but our first concern is to make our new hospital a better one with good treatments being made available in the area.”

B I L AT E R A L T I E S

Outgoing South Korean envoy praises progress in relations MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Ties between the Sultanate and South Korea have deepened in many fields, said the country’s ambassador to the Sultanate.

“During my tenure, our relations have deepened further in many fields, such as through the continued participation of Korean companies in major infrastructure construction projects in all major cities of Oman, that is, Muscat, Duqm, Sohar, Musandam, Salalah, even in Masirah island,” Kim Daesik said while addressing the guests who had come to bid farewell to him.

“The relationship between our two countries has never been in such an excellent shape and I am leaving the Sultanate with that satisfaction,” he added.

He also said the visit of a highlevel delegation of political and economic leaders from both countries was active during his period, which had helped in the bilateral relationship.

According to Daesik, the cultural ties between the two states also witnessed a growth during his time. “My embassy has organised a variety of events to introduce Korean culture and modern society to Omanis,” the ambassador said.

“We have introduced traditional music, traditional and modern dance, modern ballets, the martial arts of Taekwando, Korean food,

Kim Daesik ambassador of South Korea to the Sultanate

Korean movies and so on to the Sultanate,” he added.

People-to-people contacts Speaking about the peopleto-people exchanges, the ambassador said, “I have happily witnessed an increase in peopleto-people exchanges.”

“Every year, 40 university students from both countries have visited either country to learn since 2014,” the ambassador said.

“Three seats of scholarship have been offered annually to the Omani people for Masters and Doctoral courses,” Daesik asserted.

“Oman and Korea has even started to develop the Scouts cooperation for the young and future generation,” he continued while commenting on people-to-

people exchanges between the two countries.

He also spotted the new areas that have added to the cooperation between Oman and Korea, such as Police Training, Digital Security, Marine Farm and Fishery, Preservation of valuable government documents and archives.

He also mentioned the construction of the new embassy building, which had begun construction during his period.

“Though delayed, the progress has been made gradually and is now almost in its final stage. In three months time, my successor may attend an opening ceremony,” he asserted.

Daesik thanked all Omani government officials from different ministries for their unsparing support and help with his work.

“Further, not only for the government, but also for all the wonderful people whom I met from economic, cultural, media and academic circles,” he added.

Daesik also praised the natural beauty of Oman in his farewell speech. He closed his speech by wishing continued great leadership and longevity of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, more prosperity for the Sultanate of Oman, and an everlasting friendship and cooperation between Oman and Korea. Government officials and ambassadors going to other friendly nations were also there to say goodbye to the ambassador.

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MUSCAT: There are more tham 5,100 drug addicts in Oman, the minister of health stated in the Majlis Al Shura today.

Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Sa’eedi, the Minister of Health, is being hosted by the Shura today and tomorrow to discuss the status of the health ministry and the progress it made during the last five-year plan.

Earlier in a report, the ministry of health said the success rate of treating drug addicts in Oman is only 20 per cent, noting this was because of a lack of comprehensive rehabilitation centres.

Al Massara Psychiatric Hospital is the only dedicated facility in Oman that treats drug addiction,though the facility has just 245 beds.

the Sultanate, which forecasts the effect of the different changes on the Omani economy. They also discussed means of developing the promising economic sectors that lead to economic diversification, as well as programmes for enhancing the planning capabilities of the Secretariat General, over the next three years.

The World Bank delegation’s visit to the Sultanate comes within the framework of the technical cooperation between the Bank and the SCP Secretariat General.

Finance Minister receives Darwish bin Ismail Al Balushi, Minister Responsible for Financial Affairs received in his Of-

fice the delegation of the World Bank Group under the chair of Dr Hafez Ghanem.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed means of opening horizons of cooperation between the Sultanate and the World Bank Group in developing the services and advice provided to the Sultanate, especially in light of oil prices’ slump in world markets.

They also discussed the steps implemented to develop the public financial systems, as well as the measures that should be taken to facilitate and expedite the implementation of the articles of cooperation between the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank. -ONA

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THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

OMAN TIE-UP WITH NETHERLANDS’ HOTELSCHOOL THE HAGUE

Tourism College set to launch hotel management certificate course

The course is designed to strengthen the business skills of hotel professionals and assist them in advancing their careers Dr Abdulkarim bin Sultan Al Mughairi, Dean of Oman Tourism College

Gallery that helps the consumer spot fakes Counterfeit items

Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman Tourism College will launch the nation’s first Management Development Program in Hotel Business Acumen in Oman, in association with the Netherlands-based Hotelschool The Hague, an international hospitality management school.

The Business Acumen management program, with 15 participants, will begin on 9 May. “The Certificate programme in Hotel Business Acumen is a first of its kind academic project in the hospitality industry in Oman, and Oman Tourism College is proud to maintain its pioneering role in the Sultanate’s hospitality training sector by offering the management certification, which is highly valued in the industry the world over.

“The course is designed to strengthen the business skills of hotel professionals and assist them in advancing their careers,” said Dr Abdulkarim bin Sultan Al Mughairi, the Dean of Oman Tourism College.

Professionals The programme will be taught by hotel professionals from Hotelschool The Hague who have international experience in operations, leadership and management training.

The four-day intensive program is meant for senior level professionals in the hospitality

industry, including sales, marketing, revenues, and asset managers, heads of departments, and supervisors. Upon completion of the program, participants are authorised to add the letters CBA (Certified for Business Acumen) to their names.

“The course sharpens the skills, knowledge and mindset that form the business foundations of a successful leader, by providing the three essentials of business acumen—financial competence, strategic thinking and effective communication— that are needed for fast decision-making, efficient execution and positive business scorecard results,” according to a communique from the Hotelschool The Hague.

Further, international hotel chains, such as Marriott, have incorporated the Business Acumen program into their management training projects.

Oman Tourism College is offering the Business Acumen programme following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the college and Hotelschool The Hague Performance Management Ltd. According to the MoU, Oman Tourism College will be the only school in Oman to offer Hotelschool The Hague’s Business/ Food and Beverages Acumen programmes. The Food and Beverages programme will begin at a later date.

R A I S I N G AWA R E N E S S

Students learn about governance in visit to State Council Times News Service MUSCAT: State Council places high priority on disseminating accurate information about governance in Oman.

To facilitate this, it has in place a student awareness programme, which allows academic institutions to coordinate, and organise visits to State Council.

Recently, the Council welcomed students from the College of Education at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and the Al Bustan School.

The guided tour was conducted

by Ahood Talib Rahby, researcher at the Department of Information and Research, who said this was a great way to find out about the Council and its relevance in residents’ lives and learn about the impact it makes across the Sultanate.

The students also explored the cutting-edge technology of the Council. Ahood also highlighted the role of the Council and about including rules and laws relating to governance, the two councils and their differences and role.

are housed on the ground floor of the headquarters of the Public Authority for Consumer Protection

BABA UMAR

babaumar@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: A rogue’s gallery of counterfeit goods is helping consumers spot the difference between real and phony goods on sale in the Sultanate.

“I always thought there is nothing like counterfeit (goods) in Oman. But inside the gallery the battle between original and fake goods is real,” Toheed Ahmed, a mid-level executive at a perfume selling company told the Times of Oman (TOO). “Thank God there is no replica of our products,” he said at the gallery on the ground floor of the headquarters of the Public Authority for Consumer Protection (PACP). The visitors said the attempt could successfully help in the fight against phony and spurious goods flooding the markets.

Unexpected Goods Walking around the gallery one can find plenty of unexpected goods. Omani caps (or Kumma) are showcased amongst bogus sunglasses and hair oils.

“We seized these caps sometime back from various markets. We found some traders are purchasing second-hand Kumma. Then they wash the headgear, repack it and sell it as new,” said one the PACP’s female employees managing the gallery.

On other shelves one can find English breakfast tea, biscuits, and even washing powder.

The products have even been marked with original and counterfeit stickers to help visitors recognise the difference between fake and genuine goods. Further ahead, a Stanley-brand handsaw and clippers are juxtaposed with their replicas inside a glass frame.

The gallery displays a counterfeit of bathroom accessories, toothpaste, toilet cleaners, olive oil, ketchup, corn flakes, soft drinks, noodles, sun flower oil, Basmati, rice, tea bags, movie DVDs, knives and blades, mobile phones, nail clippers, socks, traditional Omani attire, printing machine

EXPOSED: The products have been marked with original and counterfeit stickers to help visitors recognise the difference between fake and genuine goods.

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

cartridges, soaps, skin creams and other household things.

Public Awareness Earlier in February, PACP claimed to have collected more than OMR960,000 from businesses in the Sultanate, who were found to have violated consumer laws.

This recovery was made in the year 2015 following up on the complaints of consumers. The process

of lodging a complaint is simple.

Either the consumer can call the PACP office to register the complaint or visit the office in person.

Once the complaint is through, consumers are told to submit the original invoice. Then the trader is called and the officials settle the dispute face to face. For example, explained one PACP official, a trader had sold a used cell phone to a consumer in a new packet.

“After receiving the complaint, we made the trader pay back the money plus the penalty of violating consumer laws,” he stated.

PACP officials say the seized goods are worth millions of Omani riyals.

“PACP is a mere six-year old agency and the goods we have seized are worth millions of riyals,” Omar Faisal Al Jahadmi, deputy chairman for PACP’s Consumer Services and Marketing Monitoring wing told TOO. The exhibition of counterfeit items, he said, has helped immensely in raising public awareness in the Sultanate. PACP officials also said the pro-consumer agency’s website regularly updates the database of counterfeit products.

“In 2015 alone, about 4,693 people visited the gallery. This has helped our consumers to a great extent,” Al Jahadmi said.

I N - F L I G H T E N T E R TA I N M E N T S Y S T E M

Wi-fi, live TV streaming soon for flydubai fliers RAHUL DAS

rahuldas@timesofoman.com DUBAI: Passengers travelling on flydubai flights will soon be able to surf the net, watch live television and enjoy a new seatback inflight entertainment system.

Dubai-based flydubai operates 56 flights a week from Oman to Dubai. “From Muscat we operate seven flights a day to Dubai, while from Salalah we operate one flight a day to Dubai,” said a spokesperson of flydubai. Currently, it flies to more than 85 destinations in 43 countries from Dubai, with 19 new routes launched in 2015.

Commenting on the launch at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, Ghaith Al Ghaith, chief executive officer (CEO) of flydubai, said: “Flydubai has been committed to investing in product innovations and technologies that enhance the travel experience for our passengers from day one.

“We want to offer customers more choice, a greater experience and affordable access to the technologies that we are all coming to expect in the air, just as we do on the ground. “Adding wi-fi connectivity, live television along with our enhanced groundbreaking in-flight entertainment system, will allow us to continue to deliver that personalised flying experience our customers expect and appreciate.” From this week,

ATTRACTION: Dubai-based flydubai operates 56 flights a week from Oman to Dubai. — Supplied photo

wi-fi connectivity and live TV will be available through the in-flight portal for the first time on selected flights as flydubai continues to roll out service across the rest of its fleet.

Package The wireless satellite-based network will allow passengers to buy a package from as low as $4 to get connected during a flight using their personal devices and from $8 to tune in to catch up with the news on BBC World News, Al Jazeera or Al Arabiya, enjoy Arabic shows on MBC1 or fascinating documentaries on the Discovery Channel.

Flydubai has partnered with Global Eagle Entertainment (GEE) to launch the fully-integrated Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity (IFEC) System.

It already receives in-flight media content through GEE and the installation of connectivity systems expands the partnership to in-

clude integrated IFEC solutions, offering wi-fi-enabled internet connectivity, an extensive library of more than 2,000 hours of ondemand content and the capability to stream live TV. “GEE has enabled flydubai to take control of the total in-flight passenger experience like never before, starting with integrated in-flight entertainment, connectivity, digital media solutions and rounding it out with real-time data operations solutions,” said Dave Davis, CEO of GEE. “We’re looking forward to tailoring additional solutions that will continue to enhance the flydubai passenger experience in the months and years ahead.”

Daniel Kerrison, vice president of Inflight Product at flydubai, who has been driving the innovation of its cabin appearance and services since the launch of the airline in 2008, said: “We are excited to be offering as many creative and innovative product choices as we can to our passengers and giving them the option to decide which products and services they wish to include in their travel experience. We are very happy with our partnership with GEE and we are determined to provide our passengers with an experience similar to what they have come to expect from consumer electronics like tablets and smartphones.”

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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Ministry issues fostering norms

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OMAN HELPING OUT

Al Wafa Centre holds disabled children’s products exhibition TARIQ ZIAD AL HAREMI

tariqh@timesofoman.com

Potential foster parents must match laid down criteria

TARIQ ZIAD AL HAREMI

tariqh@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: As the public eagerly awaits the chance to foster the abandoned girl, unless a relative turns up, any prospective foster family will have to comply with criteria issued by Ministry of Social Development, which evaluates whether a foster parent is fit for taking care of the child.

When news surfaced about the abandoned girl, many came forward with offers of help to foster the two-year-old. However, potential parents must match the criteria put forth by the Ministry of Social Development in order to ensure a safe life for the child.

According to Article 16 of the Regulations for Care and Fostering, the candidates must be an Omani, Muslim family with two parents (father and mother). In

Ministry of Social Development has issued strict criteria for adoption of abandoned girl child.

certain cases, it is permissible for a single woman to foster the child.

The parents or the woman must be between 25 and 55 years old and must have a clean criminal record. The fostering family must be able to care for the child, both socially and psychologically.

The family and parents must also go through a medical examination to prove that they do not carry any contagious diseases and are not suffering from any mental, psychological and behavioural issues. However, those who are financially capable of car-

ing for the child, will get priority over others.

The Times of Oman spoke with Her Highness Sayyida Basma Al Said, founder of Whispers Serenity and expert psychotherapist to get her view on this matter.

When asked about what makes for a good parent, she responded, “We cannot ask what makes a good parent, but rather, what makes for a caring parent?”

“Parents must go through a psychological examination to determine how fit they are to take care of a child, this is very important.

Examiners must also ask why they want to foster their child,” she said, adding that parents must provide a reason for their will to foster children.

Families can only foster two children and would need the minister’s approval if they wish to foster more. The Ministry of Social Development will regularly monitor the status of the fostering family every six months or whenever they feel necessary. Those who live abroad will also be monitored by the Sultanate’s embassy in the country the family lives in.

The abandoned child was found in Al Buraimi and is now being kept at the Al Wifaq Care Center in Al Seeb.

ENFORCEMENT

45 expatriates arrested for consuming alcohol publicly Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Forty-five expatriates of different Asian nationalities were arrested on charges of consuming alcohol publicly, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has reported. The expatriates were allegedly found consuming alcohol

in an open area in Al Azaiba.

The arrests were made after ROP officials raided a crowded area where the accused were allegedly consuming alcohol openly.

“The ROP raided the place after 11 people were killed in ‘suspicious’ run-over accidents near the location. Royal Oman Police

officials raided the area following these reports and arrested the accused, who reportedly gathered frequently at the same location,” an ROP official told the Times of Oman.

The accused have been referred to the Public Prosecutor for further action.

MUSCAT: Breaking down stereotypes, the Al Wafa Rehabilitation Centre for Children with Disabilities (WRCCD) displayed children’s handmade products for the public to prove that disabled children and people are also able to become productive members of the society.

The products were displayed at the Muscat Grand Mall, which ranged from stunning paintings and handmade dolls to bedazzled tissue box holders and frankincense thuribles. Nawal Al Shuhi, deputy supervisor at WRCCD said it took the children two months to create their work.

“It is a great opportunity for the community to see the children’s talents and that they are capable of creating such beautiful work,” said Al Shuhi. She said they are continuously seeking support from the government and private sectors, as well as the general public.

The disabilities range from physical, mental and autism.

Supporting the cause, members of Oman Mustangers were present as they helped organise the exhibition to acquaint the public with the children’s talent. “We want the people to know that disabled people are also talented, not just those who are not disabled,” said

STUNNING: The products, handmade by disabled children were

displayed at the Muscat Grand Mall, and ranged from stunning paintings to handmade dolls. – Tariq Al Haremi

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Ayman, an administrative member of Oman Mustangers. “We want to break the stereotypes; just like how people perceive Mustang owners, such as ourselves, are rash and reckless people, when it is not the case. Yes, our cars are powerful, they make a lot of noise and are fast, but it can also be used responsibly.

Disabled children have a lot of talent, but most people see them differently,” he added. “A lot of people think that disabled people cannot

do anything and I have had people say it to me directly,” said Al Shuhi.

“But we are not a school, we are a rehabilitation centre and we bring out the talent in the children so it can benefit them in the future and have some self reliance,” she added, explaining that the children could make a career out of their abilities. Although it was a oneday event, staff members and supporters relied on the community to keep an open mind and support the disabled children.

Al Shuhi said the next step for “glory” would depend on how active the community was towards supporting the children.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016 It is an ideal place for children to have fun and stay engaged while the parents can relax and shop, staying assured that their children are in a safe environment Ben Watson, General Manager of Oman Avenues Mall

OMAN

‘Slowdown hasn’t hit Oman Avenues Mall business’ Oman Avenues Mall will be offering a

People are coming to the mall because we are fresh and new, and new brand openings at our mall attracts people

lot of gifts to their customers in the month of May

MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: “We are not at all affected by the recent slowdown in the economy,” Oman Avenues Mall general manager has said.

“It hasn’t affected our business a great deal because we are a new Mall and every month the footfall in our mall is getting higher and higher,” Ben Watson told the Times of Oman.

“Even our sales are increasing every month,” he said on the sidelines of the announcement of Oman’s largest indoor park.

According to him, more than a million people are visiting the Oman Avenues Mall every month.

Ben Watson General Manager, Oman Avenues Mall

“People are coming to the mall because we are fresh and new, and still we have new brand openings at our mall, which attracts people,” Watson said.

Speaking about the Funtazmo, Oman’s largest indoor family entertainment centre (FEC), which is operated by Abu Taleb Investments LLC, Watson said, “They are one of the best operators in this field.”

Abu Taleb Investments LLC

had previously invested in several entertainments centres in Oman and Egypt.

According to him, the Oman Avenues Mall is associating with them because of three reasons.

“They are outstanding in operations, they have a safe operation and a fun operation which the entire family at the Mall can enjoy,” Watson said.

“We are expecting very big things with FEC and we want

families in Muscat to visit our Mall not only once, but many times throughout the year,” he added.

As per the announcement, Funtazmo will start its operation from May 5. This space will be home to more than 250 unique ride and games, a 5D cinema and a mega party hall.

Indoor roller-coaster The Centre will also host the first indoor roller-coaster in Oman, which will be operational by the end of 2016. According to officials, Funtazmo has two parts.

The first is Funtazmo children, which is situated on the first floor and caters especially to children in the age group of up to three.

“It is an ideal place for children to have fun and stay engaged while the parents can relax and shop, staying assured that their children are in a safe environment,” an official said. The second one is the main Funtazmo, which is located in the second floor. According to the officials, the complete action can be viewed from two viewing galleries across the centre.

“One gallery is located on the same floor and the other on the third floor, giving the person a bird’s eye view of all the fun hap-

pening inside,” he added. According to a spokesperson at Abu Taleb investments LLC, their investment in the Funtazmo project is about OMR7 to 8 million.

“We are happy to announce the launch of Funtazmo; Oman was missing a family entertainment centre that caters to both the youth and adults, which is why we conceptualised the place keeping the entire family in mind,” Amad Aldin Razzaq Ahmed Talib, chairman of Abu Taleb investments LLC, said. According to Watson, Oman Avenues Mall will announce its expansion soon.

“We do have another expansion planned, which we are going to announce soon,” he asserted.

He also said that the Oman Avenues Mall is offering a lot of gifts to their customers in the month of May. “Anyone who spends OMR15 at the mall is eligible to participate in a lucky draw and win a car,” he said. He also said the customer, who spends OMR15 on a week day will get two chances to win a car through the lucky draw.

“Through this we want the people to come to mall not only on the weekends, but also on the weekdays with their family,” Watson explained.

PROTECTION

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2.5 million

A1 workers

live in GCC “The Omani authorities should include domestic workers within its law and ensure they are accorded equal protections like other workers,” she added.

Saud Salmi, a trade union leader in Oman who always champions for the rights of domestic workers, said that a law is needed to protect workers and for the regulation of the sector.

“Domestic workers should feel secure in Oman,” the trade union leader said while expressing his thoughts that the current Kafala system should be abolished.

Earlier, Salmi had called upon the government to set up an independent body to protect domestic workers’ rights in the Sultanate.

Mohammed Khaldi, another trade union leader from Oman’s trade union federation, said that all workers in Oman should get their rights in the law.

“As for the domestic workers and their rights, this is one of the important topics. We see many kinds of exploitation. Still, there is a perception that there is no need to protect domestic workers by law. However, they are most vulnerable to the exploitation,” Mohammed added. It is estimated that there are 2.5 million domestic workers in the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

LAUNCHED SERVICES LAST MONTH

< FROM

A1 Awasr to offer high-speed fibre-optic internet Meanwhile, the company statement added that in addition to the fixed line service, it will also be able to build a robust and advanced dedicated network, capable of delivering high-speed fibre-optic internet of up to 1 Gbps (gigabytes per second).

According to an official from the company, one does not need to have a fixed landline to have highspeed internet access.

“With Awasr, you do not need to have a fixed landline to have in-

ternet access, we provide our services over fibre optic that is data specific and we provide internet services over the fibre network.

As long as you are within our coverage area, you can get our high speed internet service,” the official said.

“The fixed line service is also through fibre optic,” the official added.

Meanwhile, Mohamad El Madhoun, commercial adviser at Awasr, said they are keen on

meeting all Class 1 licence requirements, which reflects their continued commitment towards improving lifestyles and developing the Omani business environment, by delivering high-speed fibre-optic internet for both locals and expats across the Sultanate.

With the new licence, Awasr will build network infrastructure in Muscat and the northern region, including in Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South, Al Dhahirah and Al Buraimi governo-

rates and in the southern region, Al Dakhiliya, Al Sharqiyah North, Al Sharqiyah South, Dhofar and Al Wusta governorates will be covered.

“Awasr will also build an international gateway to provide high-end international telecommunications services,” the statement added.

Its services will cover the regions of Al Khoud, Al Mawaleh, Al Hail, Maabilah and Shatti Al Qurum in the first phase.

MUSCAT SINGERS SPRING CONCERT The Muscat Singers Spring Concert will be held on May 14, 2016 at The Bosch Center for the Performing Arts, TAISM, Azaiba. This year’s repertoire will feature folk songs from around the world, including pieces from Kenya, Scotland, Brazil and an Indian raga. The choir will be joined by guest performers, Muscat Brass. Doors open at 5.30pm and the concert begins at 6pm. -Supplied photo

EXECUTION OF PROJECTS

A1 Shura members ask minister about delayed health projects < FROM

The projects have been delayed after 2013. According to figures presented by Al Sa’eedi during the session, 27 health projects were completed between 2013 and 2016, including 17 health centres and four hospitals.

Hilal Al Sarmi, member of the Health Committee, said that while he understood the Ministry had to postpone some projects in this plan, he is not satisfied.

He said that the biggest projects finalised in this period were hospitals and health centres outside Muscat, including the Al Falah, Khasab, Al Nama and Samail Hospitals.

AUGUST OFFICE: Majlis Al Shura hosted Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Al Sa’eedi on Wednesday. -ONA

Minister’s response “We are not satisfied with the minister’s response and we urge him to do more to secure these projects. Clearly, the minister was not prepared to execute the projects. Even when there was space for new projects, the Ministry executed smaller projects and left the bigger ones aside,” he said.

Al Saidi said the ministry is waiting for a decision by the Supreme Council for Planning on the remaining projects of the eighth and ninth plan (2016 to 2020).

Al Sarmi said the health minister is not clear about which projects are in the pipeline for the

ninth plan, “because he does not want to be judged in case it does not happen.”

He also pointed out that the Sultanate of Oman currently has 69 hospitals, of which 49 are under the Ministry of Health, five under other government entities and 15 under the private sector.

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

A7

OMAN

HM’s greetings conveyed to King Salman Sayyid Al Busaidi takes part in the 17th consultative meeting of the GCC Interior Ministers

RIYADH: Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) yesterday received Sayyid Hamoud bin Faisal Al Busaidi, Minister of Interior when King Salman received the GCC Ministers of Interior who are taking part in the 17th consultative meeting being held in Riyadh.

Sayyid Hamoud conveyed greetings of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said along with his best wishes of continuous progress and prosperity to King Salman and the Saudi people.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques also asked the Minister of Interior to convey his greetings and best wishes to His Majesty the Sultan and the Omani people permanent progress and growth under His Majesty’s wise leadership.

Prince Mohammed bin Nayef T O U R S I M AWA R D

Honour for Mahrouqiah DUBAI: Arab Centre for Tourist Media (ACTM) honoured Maithaa bint Saif Al Mahrouqiah, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Tourism with the award of the Government Figure supporting the Arab tourism and Faiza bint Suwailm Al Kalbaniyah was awarded the Best Arab Journalist as part of the awards of (Tourist Media Oscar 2016), organised by the ACTM every year.

The ceremony was organized in the United Arab Emirates in Dubai during which Hassan Haddad, Minister of Tourism in the Kingdom of Morocco was honoured as the tourist personality of the year. -ONA

BOOST TO TIES: The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud with Sayyid Hamoud bin Faisal Al Busaidi, Minister of Interior, in Riyadh, yesterday. – ONA

bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior in Saudi Arabia received Sayyid Hamoud in Riyadh who is leading the Sultanate’s delegation at the 17th consultative meeting of the GCC Ministers of Interior.

Sayyid Al Busaidi is accompanied by Maj. Gen Hamad bin Sulaiman Al Hatmi, Assistant Inspector General of Police and Customs for Operations, a number of officials in the Ministry of Interior and the Royal Oman Police (ROP). -ONA

ARAB MEET

TRA signs agreement with Jordan telecom regulator AMMAN: Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) on Wednesday signed a bilateral cooperation with the Jordanian Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (JTRA).

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 14th Annual Meeting of the Arab Network for Regulatory Commissions of Telecommunications and Information Technology Sector, currently being held in the Jordanian capital Amman. Dr. Hamad bin Salim Al Rawahi, CEO of TRA and Dr. Ghazi Al Jabour, Board Chairman of JTRA signed the agreement.

The deal will help open areas of cooperation between the two sides in the field of regulating the telecommunications sector in accordance with laws and regulations, in addition to cooperation in the field of spectrum management and allocation of new frequency bands to increase access and improve the quality of mobile internet service.

BOOSTING TIES: The agreement was signed on sidelines of the 14th Annual Meeting of the Arab Network for Regulatory Commissions of Telecommunications and Information Technology Sector. – ONA

It will also help in developing the necessary criteria for the improvement of free competition and upgrading the quality of telecommunications and postal services and other topics of interest.

Meanwhile, TRA participated in the meeting along with other Arab countries. The TRA CEO head-

ed the Sultanate’s delegation in the meeting.

The delegates discussed the recommendations of the experts about current projects, which have been prepared in their preparatory meeting ahead of the official meeting after the discussion and evaluation. -ONA

A8

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

REGION Palestinian woman, brother killed at Israeli checkpoint Palestinian woman and man were armed with knives and ignored orders to halt, said Israeli police

OCCUPIED JERUSALEM: Israeli police shot dead a Palestinian woman and her teenage brother on Wednesday, saying they were armed with knives and tried to carry out an attack at a checkpoint in the occupied West Bank.

In the last half year, Palestinian attacks have killed 28 Israelis and two visiting US citizens. Israeli forces have killed at least 193 Palestinians, 130 of whom Israel says were assailants. Many others were shot dead in clashes and protests.

Police said the woman, holding

a knife, and a man walked rapidly towards police and other Israeli security guards in a vehicles-only lane at the Qalandia checkpoint outside occupied Jerusalem. “Police called on them several times to stop. When they kept advancing... the officers neutralised the terrorists,” a police statement said.

The Palestinian Health Ministry identified the two dead as Maram Abu Ismail, 23, and her 16-year-old brother, Ibrahim Taha. Police, who have been on high alert during the current Jewish holiday week, issued a photograph of three knives on the ground which they said the two had been carrying.

Alaa Soboh, a Palestinian bus driver who said he witnessed the incident, said the pair appeared to be unfamiliar with crossing procedures and were swiftly challenged at the checkpoint. “As soon as the two crossed, (Israeli forces) started screaming ‘Go back, go back’, and then they began shooting. The first one they shot was the girl... the boy tried to go backward, when they fired seven bullets at him,” Soboh said. — Reuters

VERBAL DUEL: A Palestinian woman argues with an Israeli border policeman near the scene where a Palestinian woman and a man were shot dead by Israeli police near Qalandia checkpoint near the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah on Wednesday. – Reuters

UNREST

Serbian engineer abducted in Libya freed BELGRADE: A Serbian engineer who was abducted by unidentified kidnappers in Libya has been freed, the Serbian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

Miroslav Tomic, a maintenance engineer employed by a German company, was kidnapped on Saturday as he travelled to inspect an oil field around 1,200 km (750 miles) east from the capital Tripoli.

“We have confirmed information he was released from captivity. We have been informed he will appear at his workplace tomorrow,” a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said without elaborating.

Tomic was taken in a region not under effective control by any of Libya’s governments. A new UN-backed unity government has barely established itself in Tripoli, and a self-declared government in Tripoli, a rival government based in the east and various armed factions are vying for power.

The conflict among various Libyan factions has allowed IS militants to set up operations in Libya, and criminal gangs also roam parts of the country. — Reuters

WA R W I T H I N NAT I O N

No clarity on date of Syrian peace talks next round MOSCOW/GENEVA: The United Nations said on Wednesday no date had been set for the next round of Syria peace talks, contradicting a report quoting Russia’s deputy foreign minister as saying talks would resume in Geneva on May 10.

UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura is struggling to keep the peace process alive after the main opposition High Negotiations Committee (HNC) left formal talks last week. The HNC said on Wednesday that it was up to the

United Nations to say when peace talks would resume, but that it would not take part until its demands were met.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov’s comments were reported but RIA news agency on Wednesday, but a spokeswoman for de Mistura said in an email that May 10 was speculation.

Later, HNC chief coordinator Riad Hijab, a former prime minister, called in a statement for an extraordinary meeting in Paris of the “Friends of Syria” group of coun-

tries in order to contain the worsening violence and grave humanitarian situation on the ground.

A meeting of the group - which excludes Russia - should aim to “put an end to the hostilities against the Syrian people and put pressure on the regime and its allies to abide by the international resolutions and put an end to their severe violations against the Syrian people”, the statement said.

De Mistura was due to address the UN Security Council by video-link on Wednesday night from

Geneva at the end of a two-week round which began on April 13.

He is expected to speak beforehand with both US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the co-sponsors of the fragile twomonth ceasefire who are steering the talks. “With the whole thing falling apart, it is going to require some high-level inspiration to get it started again,” a Western diplomat told Reuters.

De Mistura is talking about May 14-15 for starting the next round, a

second Western diplomat said.

“But it is very, very theoretical,” that diplomat said. “It is not at all a given that the two parties will return to Geneva. De Mistura feels that ending the round without giving a date for the next one would not be a good sign.”

The Syrian government said on Tuesday it had held a final session of talks with de Mistura in a “useful and constructive round”, but diplomats warned that an escalation of fighting around Aleppo threatened the shaky peace pro-

cess. George Sabra of the HNC said on Wednesday his group would not attend talks unless the situation on the ground improved.

“All the while real steps aren’t taken on the ground in Syria, the participation of the delegation of the HNC will remain suspended,” Sabra said. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday that the HNC’s conduct was “worrying” and that the group had failed to make constructive proposals at the talks. — Reuters

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A9

INDIA

Court extends President’s rule in Uttarakhand, no Friday floor test The bench made it clear that it was extending the stay on the Uttarakhand High Court verdict till further orders on the consent of parties

NEW DELHI: The President’s rule will continue in Uttarakhand and the April 29 floor test in the Assembly ordered by the High Court will not take place as the Supreme Court of India on Wednesday extended its stay on the quash-

ing of the Central rule.

Hearing the Centre’s appeal against the Uttarakhand High Court judgement revoking President’s rule, the apex court framed seven tough questions and even gave liberty to the Attorney General to include other questions the government would like to be addressed.

The bench comprising Justices Dipak Misra and Shiva Kirti Singh posted the matter for further hearing on May 3 amidst indication that the verdict may be pronounced before the court breaks for summer vacation by the middle of next month.

The bench made it clear that it was extending the stay on the Uttarakhand High Court verdict till further orders on the consent of parties.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Rawat, said there was no question

of opposing the bench’s stand on continuing with the interim order staying the High Court’s order for few more days. During the hearing, the bench said possibly the answer to the current incident would ultimately be the floor test and asked Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi to think over the questions and suggestions put forward by it.

“The matter has its own gravity and ultimately in such a case prima facie we have to sustain democracy and if we don’t find merit with the President’s rule then we will have to have a floor test.

“Therefore, as a constitutional concept unless we really vacate our order, not to say lift President’s rule, we have to modify our order and have to say go for the floor test.

Think over it,” it said.

Attorney General said that he will think over it and inform the court. The bench also said that this is an emergent situation.

SCORCHING SUMMER

No respite from heat wave as eight die of sunstroke in Odisha NEW DELHI: People in Odisha on Wednesday continued to reel under the blistering heat wave as 17 places recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius.

The government confirmed the death of eight people due to sunstroke. The highest temperature of 46.3 degrees Celsius was recorded at Subarnapur, followed

by Talcher at 45 degrees and Angul at 44.7. Bhubaneswar Met department director Sarat Chandra Sahu said the heat wave would continue in many parts of the state for a few more days.

The state government received reports of deaths of 112 people due to sunstroke, the special relief commissioner’s office said.

“On inquiry, the death of 8 people due to sunstroke has been confirmed. In 40 cases, death occurred due to other reasons. The remaining 64 cases are under inquiry,” it said.

Delhi woke up to a sunny morning with traces of haze and a minimum temperature of 22.2 degrees Celsius, two notches below the season’s average.

The maximum temperature settled at 40.7 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal.

In Jharkhand, steel cities Jamshedpur and Bokaro registered 44.1 and 43.5 degrees Celsius respectively while Ranchi recorded 42 degrees Celsius.

In Andhra Pradesh, there was some respite from the heatwave for the locals as rainfall occurred at isolated places over coastal areas of the state. While 3 cm rainfall was recorded at Araku Valley in Visakhapatnam district, dry weather prevailed over Rayalaseema, Y K Reddy, Director incharge, IMD said in a statement.

Jangamaheswarapuram, Anantapur, Kurnool and Nandyal recorded the maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius.

Elsewhere, day temperatures were appreciably above normal in some parts of Assam and Meghalaya, Nagaland-ManipurMizoram-Tripura, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, east Madhya

HOT DAY: Girls cover themselves during a hot summer day in Gurgaon on Wednesday. - PTI

Pradesh, Madhya Maharashtra, Telangana, Rayalaseema, Tamil Nadu, interior Karnataka and in remaining parts of Gangetic West Bengal. Kerala continued to sizzle with the temperature touching 41.6 degrees Celsius at Malampuzha in Palakkad district, the highest in the state for the second day.

Kannur recorded 39.2 degrees Celsius and Kozhikode 38.2 degrees Celsius, IMD Regional centre sources here said.

Some places in the state received summer showers giving some respite for the people.

Sun burn Seventy cases of sun burn and one death has so far been reported from the district, Palakkad District Medical Officer, Dr Reetha, said. In Telangana, the highest maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius was recorded at Adilabad, Medak and Nalgonda.

In Bihar, the heat wave will continue for the next couple of days. Patna and Bhagalpur were the hottest places in the state with the mercury recording a high of 43.6 degrees Celsius, the MeT office said.

Besides Patna and Bhagalpur, Purnea recorded 37.8 degrees

Celsius as the Wednesday’s maximum temperature.

In the north, maximum temperatures across Punjab and Haryana including Chandigarh on Wednesday hovered few notches above normal limits, with Hisar sizzling at 42 degrees Celsius.

Ambala too braved a hot day at 40 degrees Celsius up two notches, the MeT Department report said here. Karnal recorded a high of 39 degrees Celsius.

Chandigarh was hotter by two degrees than normal at 39.4 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Amritsar experienced a hot day at 40.2 degrees Celsius while Ludhiana’s maximum settled at 40.6 degrees Celsius. Patiala’s maximum settled at 40 degrees Celsius.

Dry weather conditions continued to prevail in Uttar Pradesh today, with Banda recording the highest temperature of 44.8 degrees Celsius in the state.

Varanasi and Basti had 43.5 degree Celcius while Etawah had 43 degrees Celsius. In Rajasthan, Churu was recorded as the hottest place with a day temperature of 43.3 degrees Celsius followed

by Sriganganagar which recorded a maximum of 42.8 degrees Celsius. - Agencies

While answering various questions Rohatgi, said President’s rule will be operative for two months till May 27 and if it is upheld by the court, then to have a floor test will be the discretion of the government and if the President’s rule is dismissed, it will be a case of non-existence of Central rule and in that event the direction to the governor will be to call for the floor test. In a high-voltage hearing that commenced at 2pm in a packed court room, the bench, at the outset, took strong note of the plea of Uttarakhand Chief Secretary that he be also allowed put forth his views in the matter.

“What will the Chief Secretary do? Chief Secretary has nothing to do with the matter. What kind of affidavit he is going to file,” the bench said.

The court then listed out seven questions which it wanted to deliberate upon during the course

of the hearing and asked Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi and others to assist it.

“Whether the Governor could have sent the message in the present manner under Article 175 (2) for conducting floor test,” the bench said in its first question.

It further sought response on the question as to whether the disqualification of MLAs by the Speaker is a “relevant issue” for the purposes of invoking President’s rule under Article 356 of the constitution. Referring to constitutional scheme that the assembly proceedings are beyond the scope of judicial scrutiny, the apex court also posed the query whether the proceedings of the House can be considered for invoking President’s rule.

Dealing with the claim and counter claim with regard to the fate of the Appropriation Bill in the Uttarakhand Assembly, it

said that the next question is as to when the President’s role comes in the picture.

“Can the delay in the floor test be a ground for proclamation of the President’s rule,” it asked.

The apex court, referring to defections of individual lawmakers, said that it is a matter of deliberations as to how this issue can be taken into account with regard to imposition of President’s rule.

Lastly, the bench said that democracy “hinges on some stable concepts” and they may vary with a particular view point taken by rival political groups.

The court said an incident can be termed as destabilising for democracy by one political group and simultaneously, the other party can have divergent view on it.

Rohatgi, who opened arguments, said the Centre has also framed certain issues and they needed to be dealt with. -Reuters

A 10

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016 The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System comprising seven satellites would be able to provide navigation system with much better accuracy and targeted position

INDIA

Sonia hits back, says ‘not afraid’ of Agusta inquiry when asked about Congress’ allegation that while United Progressive Alliance (UPA) had blacklisted the company, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government removed it from the blacklist.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi asked the government what it has been doing in power for the last two years on the issue and demanded that the ongoing inquiry be completed impartially

NEW DELHI: Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday rejected as “baseless” allegations linking her and party leaders to bribes in the AgustaWestland chopper deal and said she is not “afraid” of being “cornered” on the issue.

She asked the government what it has been doing in power for the last two years on the issue and demanded that the ongoing inquiry be completed impartially.

“I am not afraid of anyone cornering me as there is no basis to that. All the accusations they are throwing at us are false,” Gandhi told reporters in Parliament complex as BJP sought to target her on the deal.”Where are the proofs.

They are lying.

They are part of a strategy of character assassination which we have known these people indulge in,” Sonia said.

Referring to the Modi government, Sonia asked what has it been doing over the last two years.

“The government is there for the last 2 years. What are they doing? Inquiry is there, why don’t they complete it? Complete it as soon as possible, impartially,” she added.

Rubbished the allegations Sonia’s’s political secretary and senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel also rubbished the allegations against him and the party as “absolutely baseless.”

“This government, when they are saying all these things outside and inside the Parliament, why can’t they investigate,” Patel said.

“If there is something against me, they should find out and they should hang me,” he said when asked by reporters for his reactions over the allegations.

N AV I G AT I O N S AT E L L I T E

TAKING TOUGH: Congress President Sonia Gandhi talks to the media on the AgustaWestland scam,

during the Parliament session in New Delhi on Wednesday. - PTI/TV GRAB

No bilateral meeting between Modi and Italian PM at UNGA, says ministry NEW DELHI: There was no bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Modi and his Italian counterpart Matteo Renzi on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York last year, External Affairs Ministry said on Wednesday.

The ministry was reacting to allegations by James Christian Michel, the middleman in the AgustaWestland chopper deal, on purported meeting between Modi and Renzi where the Indian leader offered to free two Italian marines, facing murder charges in India, in exchange of evidence linking Sonia Gandhi and her family

The comments of Sonia Gandhi and Patel come in the backdrop of BJP move to target the Congress president and other party leaders on the issue of bribes in the AugustaWestland chopper deal during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime in a bid to corner the main opposition party which has been paralysing Rajya Sabha on the Uttarakhand affair.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister

to the corruption in the Rs36 billion deal. “There was no meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Renzi of Italy as part of PM’s bilateral meetings at the UNGA in September 2015.

“Insofar as James Christian Michel is concerned, various law enforcement authorities of India are proceeding against him in cases relating to the Prevention of Corruption Act and Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA),” the ministry said.

It also noted that an open ended non-bailable arrest warrant has been issued by the special judge of Central Bureau of Investi-

Manohar Parrikar on Wednesday challenged the Congress to show the UPA government order blacklisting the Anglo-Italian helicopter maker AgustaWestland in connection with the VVIP chopper scam.

Italian court order Parrikar, who said that he will speak in detail in Parliament on the issue in the near future, in-

gation against Michel on September 24, 2015.

“Upon a CBI request a Red notice against him has been issued by the Interpol Headquarters on November 25, 2015. A request for provisional arrest for the purpose of extradition was made to the UK authorities on January 4, this year by the CBI. “The Enforcement Directorate, another autonomous agency to handle private money laundering and foreign exchange irregularities, has also separately sent a Red Corner notice seeking arrest and a request for his extradition from the UK on February 29, this year,” it added. - PTI

formed that the ministry has received a copy of the Italian court order and is in the process of translating it into English. He said that the process might take 8-10 days. Parrikar also took a dig at Congress president Sonia Gandhi, saying translation from Italian was not easy, “at least for the ruling side. May not be a difficult task for the opposition”.

A combative Parrikar hit back

Blacklisted “When did they blacklist? Ask them first. Ask them what date the order was issued? Show me the copy of the order,” the minister said. Asked if he meant that the firm was never blacklisted, he said, “I am not saying that”.

Interestingly, in a written reply to Rajya Sabha on February 5, 2014, the then defence minister A. K. Antony, while giving details on AgustaWestland, had said, “No decision has been taken till date to debar the said company”.

This runs contrary to what the Congress has been claiming because the reply came just months ahead of the regime change.

However, records of state-run HAL show that Agusta Westland International Ltd, UK, Finmeccanica, Italy and its group of companies, including subsidiaries and affiliates, IDS Tunisia and Infotech Design System (IDS), Mauritius, were blacklisted on July 3, 2014, when National Democratic Alliance was in power, because of the CBI case against them to inquire into alleged criminal wrongdoing in the procurement of VVIP Helicopters.

Hitting back at Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the VVIP chopper deal, Congress had on Tuesday alleged that AgustaWestland was “removed” from the blacklisted category by the Modi dispensation.

Congress leader and former Union Minister Anand Sharma had said, “The chopper deal was scrapped. Action was taken by the UPA government. A K Antony, the then Defence Minister, had made a statement in Parliament and Agusta Westland was blacklisted.”

Parrikar was speaking on the sidelines of an Indian Air Force (IAF) event. Reacting to Sonia Gandhi’s rejection of charges related to the case, Union Minister Rajiv Pratap Rudy on Wednesday said she should ask the Italian court why her name and names of senior party leaders have come out after two years.

“She is from Italy and I am sure she will have some connections back there. The reports have not be presented by the government or a BJP leader but by the media. She should ask the Italian court why her name and names of senior party leaders have come out after two years,” Rudy told reporters. - PTI

GEARING UP: ISRO’s seventh navigation satellite IRNSS-1G that would set up regional navigation system for India, a day before its launch from spaceport of Sriharikota on Wednesday. - PTI

Stage set for launch of IRNSS-1G CHENNAI: India will move closer to having its own navigation satellite system when the seventh and last in the series of the constellation of Regional Navigation Satellite System, IRNSS-1G on board PSLV-C33, will be launched from the spaceport of Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday.

The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System comprising seven satellites would be able to provide navigation system with much better accuracy and targeted position.

While four satellites would be sufficient to start operations of the IRNSS system, the remaining three would make it “more accurate and efficient”.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) had launched the sixth navigation satellite IRNSS1F on March 10, the other five being IRNSS-1A on July 1, 2013, IRNSS-1B (April 4, 2014), IRNSS1C (October 16, 2014), IRNSS-1D (March 28, 2015) and IRNSS-1E (January 20, 2016). According to ISRO officials total cost of all the seven satellites was Rs14.2 billion.

Soon after the Mission Readiness Review Committee and the Launch Authorisation Board gave its approval on Monday, the 51.30 hour countdown for the launch of IRNSS-1G began at 09.20 hours on Tuesday and was “progressing smoothly” for the launch scheduled for Thursday from the first launch pad at Sriharikota by 12.50pm.

“Countdown operations are progressing normally and everything is ready for the launch (scheduled for tomorrow)”, ISRO Chairman A. S. Kiran Kumar told reporters at airport. With the launch and operationalisation of IRNSS-1G, the seventh in the constellation, the completion of IRNSS constellation will be achieved, ISRO said. - PTI

V I O L AT I O N O F F O R E I G N E X C H A N G E RU L E S

ED seeks to recall exemption given to Vijay Mallya by court NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday urged a Delhi court to recall its earlier order granting permanent exemption from personal appearance to business tycoon Vijay Mallya in a case for allegedly evading summons issued by the agency in connection with purported violation of foreign exchange rules.

Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Sumit Dass, who was hearing final arguments in the case, was told by Enforcement Directorate (ED’s) prosecutor N. K.Matta that he would file an appropriate application in this regard within a week.

The court posted the matter for further hearing on May 20.

During the hearing, Matta argued that court should recall its December 2000 order by which Mallya was granted permanent exemption from personal appearance as a PMLA court in Mumbai has recently issued an open-ended warrant against Mallya, chairman of now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines in connection with a money laundering case.

He said the exemption order was passed by the court and the present status is that Mallya has gone abroad and in such situation, he will file an application seeking cancellation of exemption granted to Mallya.

Senior advocate Ramesh Gupta, who appeared for Mallya, said

EVADING SUMMONS: According to ED, Mallya had allegedly paid $200,000 to the British firm for displaying Kingfisher logo in Formula One World Championships in London and some European countries in 1996, 1997 and 1998. - Reuters file photo

his client was earlier granted exemption from personal appearance on December 20, 2000 and he be exempted for today.

In the present case, the ED had alleged that Mallya had violated the provisions of Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) in arranging funds to advertise his company’s liquor products abroad. ED had claimed that Mallya was summoned on four occasions for questioning in connection with a contract signed in December 1995 with Londonbased firm Benetton Formula Ltd for promotion of the Kingfisher brand abroad.

When Mallya failed to appear before ED in response to the summons, a complaint was filed on March 8, 2000 before a court here and later on charge was framed against him under section 56 of FERA. According to ED, Mallya had allegedly paid $200,000 to the British firm for displaying Kingfisher logo in Formula One World Championships in London and some European countries in 1996, 1997 and 1998.

The agency had claimed that the money was allegedly paid without prior approval from RBI in violation of FERA norms. - PTI

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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PAKISTAN

DIALOGUE Pakistan Foreign Affairs Adviser Sartaj Aziz, second left, holds a talk with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, second right, during a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing, on Wednesday. — Reuters/Iori Sagisawa/Pool

‘Maalik’ banned across country Ministry of Information, Broadcasting, and National Heritage declared it ‘uncertified’ according to Section 9 of the Motion Pictures Ordinance, 1979 on Wednesday

R E P R E S E N TAT I O N

Sikh minister Soran’s alleged killer to take his seat if proven innocent PESHAWAR: Sikhs in KhyberPakhtunkhwa (K-P) have demanded representation in the provincial assembly after the assassination of Sardar Soran Singh in Buner.

The deceased was the minority affairs adviser to chief minister and was allegedly murdered by a political rival.

Singh lost his life to a murder allegedly orchestrated by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) minority leader Baldev Kumar who was ignored by the party for a re-

served seat ticket to the assembly.

Ironically, Baldev is now a suspended lawmaker in line to take Singh’s seat as the suspect was second on PTI’s priority list after the slain Sikh parliamentarian.

Dedicated leader The Sikh community demanded representation, saying the government should choose another member from their community as it would soften the blow of losing a dedicated leader.

“We want our representative

in the assembly again,” said Sahib Singh, a member of the Sikh community. “Although the government submitted its priority list for minorities after the election in 2013, at least an adviser can also be selected from the [Sikh] community.” The PTI-led government submitted its priority list for the reserved minority seat. Top priority was given to Soran Singh who became a member of the assembly and the name of Baldev Kumar, who is in the custody of the Malakand police, was second in line.

Third on the list was Ravi Kumar and fourth was Wazir Zada.

Deputy Director of the K-P Election Commission Khushal Zada said that Baldev Kumar would be an lawmaker on the reserved seat unless a court convicted him of Singh’s murder.

He would then be disqualified under Article 63.

“When the provincial government announces the vacant seat for minorities, Baldev will fill it as his name is second on the priority list”. — Express Tribune

KARACHI/LAHORE: The federal government has made a decision to ban Ashir Azeem’s film Maalik across the country.

According to a notification issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Information, Broadcasting, and National Heritage declared the film ‘uncertified’ according to Section 9 of the Motion Pictures Ordinance, 1979.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, director Ashir Azeem said he was just informed about the ban by his distributor.

“Even I don’t know why the film has been banned,” he said.

Sources in the federal censor board said the film was banned due to a plethora of public complaints regarding portrayal of Pakistanis in general and country’s politicians in particular.

The film’s distributor Mirza Saad Baig said it is perhaps for the first time in the country’s history that the government has banned a film halfway through its running.

“Since the government is directly involved, and not the censor boards, it is between the government and the producer to decide the future of the film.”

A FIRST: Film’s distributor Mirza Saad Baig said it is perhaps for the first time in the country’s history that the government has banned a film halfway through its running. — Express Tribune

He added, “I don’t know what our next move is going to be as it is a tricky situation.”

Meanwhile, a source in the Federal Information Ministry said the government had a right to ban any film, adding, “Maalik shows a former chief minister in a very bad light”. Earlier, the film was banned for a period of three months by the Sindh Board of Film Censors (SBFC).

In a stunning turn of events the SBFC went back on their decision, overturning it within the span of a few hours. — Express Tribune

A12

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READERS’ FORUM New Indian schools relief for thousands of parents The story Six new Indian Schools to end the double shifts( April 23rd) is a pleasant and soothing news for thousands of the parents of the Indian schools. Though the five year time set to achieve this goal is little to long but let us hope that the present board meets the set deadline, and none of the planned school meet the fate of the proposed Al Ansab School, which has not turned into reality and still remains on the drawing board for the last more than five years. — Mohammad Osama Rawat, Ruwi Scan this QR code to send letters to the Readers’ Forum, containing not more than 200 words with full name, address and telephone number, may be sent by e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com).

Europe as single entity in today’s multipolar world doesn’t work This refers to the story Brexit would cost Britons a month’s salary by 2020, warns OECD( April 27). The whole saga highlights the fact that the unified-Europe project was always a non-starter. Across the continent, in reaction to influx of refugees the farright parties are gaining. Likewise, regions like Scotland and Catalonia are seeking greater autonomy. The movement seeking British exit underlines the fact in today’s multipolar world a single European entity negates the imperial interests of the former colonial powers. — Sabina Schimdt, Qurum

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

“Insure with New India and be secure”

Tel: 24838800 | Fax: 24838899 | Email: niamct@omantel.net.om | Website: www.newindiaoman.com The opposite of talking isn‘t listening. The opposite of talking is waiting.

FRAN LEBOWITZ

Woes of migrant workers in region

THERESE RAPHAEL

Polling agency in France asked 1,000 French voters to describe the qualities they would most like to have in a president. The good news is that one of Europe’s most conservative electorates looks ready for significant change. The bad news is that the criteria emerging from the poll rule out most of France’s political class

W

orkers from South Asia started migrating to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries much before GCC was formed as an official bloc.

As many countries in the bloc started to drill oil, driving the development engine with petro dollars, migrants also played a vital role in boosting the development of the host and home countries.

While migrant workers have helped erect the glittering buildings of the metropolises of many GCC capitals, including the Burj Khalifa and the Abraj Al Bait, a few to name, their hard earned remittances have also propelled the economies of South Asia.

According to data, India earns $70 billion annually from the remittances of its citizens abroad; Pakistan earns $15 billion; and Bangladesh makes $14 billion.

Meanwhile, Nepal relies on its citizens abroad for 25 per cent of its gross domestic product; Bangladesh for 12 per cent and Sri Lanka for 10 per cent.

However, the enormous contribution of low-wage workers employed in construction and domestic work are neither acknowledged nor welcomed back home.

Not only in the gleaming buildings they have helped build, but also by the countries that surround them.

In their country of birth, their contribution to economic development is taken for granted and they are largely ignored. Sometimes, even their own families abuse their generosity and selflessness.

At best, South Asian men and women, who work in the GCC brave difficult working conditions in a hot and unfamiliar land.

But too often they are reportedly underpaid or not paid at all. There are also reports that they are forced to perform extra tasks and work long hours without overtime pay, are reportedly abused, kept in captivity and made to work in unsafe conditions.

Many a times, workers facing hostile conditions have nowhere to turn for help; although their governments know the extent of the problem, they have done little to address it.

This highlights the importance of a ‘Plan of Action,’ which will be discussed in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, by migrantsending countries in South Asia.

Two years ago, on November 27, 2014, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), an economic and geopolitical organisation of eight countries, had adopted the Kathmandu Declaration, Article 21 agreeing to cooperate to improve the safety, security and well-being of migrant workers from South Asia.

The crucial question now is whether the SAARC governments will back up their rhetoric with action and address the gross neglect of their citizens abroad.

The ‘Plan of Action’ to implement Article 21 has been drafted by Nepal and is to be discussed and finalised by the SAARC governments next month before being adopted at the SAARC Summit in Pakistan later this year.

For migrant rights activists, the Kathmandu meeting is a momentous occasion that is expected to propel these countries to take badly needed action to protect their migrant workers.

They are optimistic, however, as they have a lot of questions.

Will this be a turning point for migrants in GCC? Will South Asian governments commit to a meaningful plan of action and finally take responsibility for their citizens abroad?

Will they commit to ensuring ethical recruitment with no fees for migrant workers?

Will they agree to promulgate a standard contract across the region? Will migrant workers in the GCC be able to turn to their governments in times of need?

For those who stand for the welfare of workers, and for those who migrate to support their families back in their homeland, I hope that these questions are answered and their concerns are addressed regarding their well-being, as they are often and unfortunately only considered money remitting machines.

Rejimon K is a senior reporter with the Times of Oman and has attended several global meetings for the welfare of migrants.

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES APRIL 2001 Remarkable progress in tourism sector MUSCAT: Tourism plays a significant role in the economic structure of countries as it represents part of the unforeseen exports and contributes to the GDP to boost the balance of payments in them. Tourism in the Sultanate was remarkably developed during the past years thanks to the attention accorded by the government to this important sector and the directives of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to upgrade tourism in the country through developing tourism attractions and utilizing them. The government had always encouraged and supported the private sector to set up projects in tourism field by providing this sector with required facilities, incentives and services.

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

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

1789: The crew of the HMS Bounty mutinies against Captain William Bligh.

1910: The first night air flight is performed by Claude Grahame-White in England.

1916: British declare martial law throughout Ireland.

1969: Charles de Gaulle resigns as president of France.

PICTOGRAPH OMAN PRICES VARIATION FOR FOOD PRODUCTS (%) From January to February 2016 Price fell %

-10

Price rose -5

Bread & cereals Meat

0

5

-1.45 0.01

Fish & seafood

-10.97

Milk, cheese & eggs

-0.63

Oils & fats

-0.68 -1.56

Fruits Vegetables

2.75

Sugar, jam, honey & confectionary

0.68

Other foods

0.38

Non-alcoholic beverages

-0.19 0 19 1

Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

10

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

A13

ASIA

Included in the master plan is the building of 17 artificial islands off Jakarta’s northern coast, where property developers plan to build shopping malls and attractions similar to Singapore’s Sentosa Island.

AFTER 36 YEARS

Aquino vows to neutralise Abu Sayyaf after hostage execution

North Korea ruling Workers’ Party congress on May 6

severed head had been found on a remote island on Monday, five hours after the expiry of a ransom deadline set by the militants, who had threatened to execute one of four captives. Police confirmed the head to be that of Ridsdel.

On Wednesday, army spokesman Major Filemon Tan said a headless body was found in a dried creek, near jungle where Ridsdel was believed to have been beheaded. “We are still verifying if the body is that of John Ridsdel,” Tan told reporters.

Abu Sayyaf is a small but brutal militant group known for beheading, kidnapping, bombing and extortion in the south of country.

Ridsdel and three others, including a Norwegian and another Canadian, were abducted seven months ago in the southern Philippines and appealed in a March video for their families and governments to secure their release.

Other foreigners held by Abu Sayyaf include one from the Netherlands, one from Japan, four Malaysians and 14 Indonesians.

Canada and Britain will urge other nations not to pay ransoms to free kidnap victims, Trudeau said on Tuesday, the day after a Canadian hostage was found dead in the Philippines. - Reuters

SEOUL: North Korea said on Wednesday its ruling Workers’ Party would hold a congress from May 6, ending its silence on the date of the first such conference in 36 years.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is expected to use the congress to cement his leadership and to formally adopt his policy, known as “byongjin”, to push simultaneously for economic development and nuclear weapons capability.

North Korea’s last party congress was in 1980, before Kim was born. Kim, the third member of his family to lead the country, is believed to be 33.

Byongjin follows Kim’s father’s Songun, or “military first”, policy and his grandfather’s Juche, the North’s home-grown founding ideology that combines Marxism and extreme nationalism. The party congress, first announced in October, will be closely watched for any new policies and for how the country will present its pursuit of nuclear-weapon capability.

North Korea’s drive to develop a nuclear capability has intensified since January, when it conducted its fourth nuclear test. - Reuters

John Ridsdel, 68, a former mining executive, was executed on Monday

by Abu Sayyaf who captured him and three others in 2015 while they were on vacation on a Philippine island

MANILA: Philippine President Benigno Aquino, reacting publicly for the first time to the beheading of a Canadian hostage by Abu Sayyaf group, vowed on Wednesday to devote all his energy to eliminating the group before he steps down in two months.

John Ridsdel, 68, a former mining executive, was executed on Monday by Abu Sayyaf who cap-

COURTESY CALL: In this handout photo taken on April 13, 2016 and released by Malacanang Photo Bureau (MPB) on Wednesday shows Philippine President Benigno Aquino, right, talking to one of the wounded soldiers who recently clashed with Abu Sayyaf, during a visit to a military hospital in Zamboanga City on southern island of Mindanao. - AFP/ Benhur Aracayan/Malacanang Photo Bureau

tured him and three others in 2015 while they were on vacation on a Philippine island.

Condemned Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the execution as “cold-blooded murder”. Se-

curity is precarious in the southern Philippines, despite a 2014 peace pact between the government and the largest rebel group that ended 45 years of conflict.

“So, to the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group), and whoever may aid or abet them, you have chosen only

the language of force, and we will speak to you only in that language,” Aquino said in a statement.

“Casualties are to be expected.

But what has to be of utmost importance is neutralising the criminal activities of the ASG.” The Philippine army said a

SUPREME COURT RULING

Australia rules out settling asylum seekers as Papua New Guinea says it will close camp SYDNEY: Papua New Guinea said on Wednesday it will close an Australian immigration centre on a northern island after its Supreme Court ruled it unlawful, but Australia ruled out accepting more than 800 asylum seekers detained there.

Immigration Minister Peter Dutton stressed the success of Australia’s hardline policy that has been strongly criticised by the United Nations and human rights agencies. Under Australian law, anyone intercepted trying to reach the country by boat is sent for processing to camps on the tiny Pacific island of Nauru or to Manus Island off Papua New Guinea. They are never eligible to be resettled in Australia.

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said the detention centre would close after Papua New Guinea’s Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that the detentions breached the country’s constitution and would have to stop.

Government policy Dutton said that it was still government policy that asylum seekers sent to offshore detention centres would never be resettled in Australia.

“As I have said, and as the Australian government has consistently acted, we will work with our PNG partners to address the issues raised by the Supreme Court

SOLIDARITY: This file photo taken on February 23, 2014 shows people attending a candlelight vigil in support of asylum seekers, in Sydney. - AFP

of PNG,” Dutton said in a statement after the announcement.

O’Neill said he would ask Australia to make arrangements for the asylum seekers held on Manus Island, adding that they would be able to stay in Papua New Guinea if they wanted.

A spokesperson for Dutton did not immediately respond for requests for comment on the closure but Dutton said in Melbourne that the Manus detainees could return home or go to another country willing to accept them.

The detainees on Manus and

Nauru are mostly refugees fleeing violence in the Middle East, Afghanistan and South Asia.

While Australia maintains its hardline stance, a second case concerning the fate of the detainees on Manus is set to be heard by the Papua New Guinea Supreme Court later this week. Lawyers acting on behalf of nearly all the Manus Island detainees will argue that they should be taken to Australia and be compensated for being held in custody.

The detention centre on Nauru houses about 500 people and

SCANDAL-MIRED

Jakarta to sink without $40b construction project: Widodo JAKARTA: Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Wednesday that large parts of the nation’s capital will sink below sea level if a $40 billion construction project, mired by accusations of corruption, does not go ahead.

A major bribery scandal and bureaucratic clashes prompted authorities last week to suspend work on a key phase of the “Great Garuda” project, which aims to shore up northern Jakarta while revamping the capital’s image into a Singapore-like waterfront city.

“It is estimated that all of North Jakarta will sink below sea level by 2030,” Widodo said at a cabinet meeting. “Because of that, the development of the capital’s seaside, which has been delayed for so long, is the answer for Jakarta.” Greater Jakarta, one of the world’s most densely populated cities, sits on a swampy plain and is sinking at a faster rate than any other city in the world. (http:// reut.rs/1WeSQ8u) Unable to stop the sinking, Ja-

WORK SUSPENDED: Dredging barges are seen working on a land reclamation project in Jakarta Bay, Indonesia April 5, 2016 in this photo taken by Antara Foto. - Reuters

karta has focused its attention on bolstering its defences with a 15mile seawall and refurbishing the crumbling flood canal system.

The plan is known as the “Giant Sea Wall” or “Great Garuda”, for its resemblance from the air to the bird-deity of Hindu mythology that is Indonesia’s national symbol.

“The point the president wants to make is the project is needed to save Jakarta,” said city Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama. “But

the national interest shouldn’t be entangled in the legal cases.”

Included in the master plan is the building of 17 artificial islands off Jakarta’s northern coast, where property developers plan to build shopping malls and attractions similar to Singapore’s Sentosa Island.

But work on these islands will be suspended for six months, said Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, after officials named the president director of property developer PT Agung Podomoro Tbk a suspect in allegedly bribing a city council member to influence the regulation for a land reclamation.

Authorities have also imposed a travel ban on the head of another property company, Agung Sedayu Group, and could soon name more suspects. “We see this as a big case because it involves a Jakarta programme that is quite huge and that has become the object of the world’s attention,” Saut Situmorang, one of the key anti-graft investigators, said. - Reuters

has been widely criticised by the United Nations and human rights agencies for harsh conditions and reports of systemic child abuse.

Against such a backdrop, many of the detainees have self-harmed, with Dutton on Wednesday confirming that a 23-year-old man from Iran had set himself on fire on Nauru.

Dutton said the man would be evacuated from Nauru later on Wednesday. Broadspectrum Ltd, which runs the detention centres on Manus and Nauru, declined to comment. -Reuters

A 14

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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CUBA: A cloud of insecticide is seen over Havana, Cuba, during dawn after fumigation against the Aedes aegypti mosquito in the fight against the Zika virus on Wednesday. — Reuters

GERMANY: Strollers walk in a snowy landscape on a cold spring

morning with temperatures around three degrees at a field near the small Bavarian village Alling, Germany, on Wednesday. — AFP

IRAN: Iranian women get off a bus in downtown Tehran on Wednesday. — AFP

PORTUGAL: The Creole Spirit tanker is towed by tugboats at Sines port in Sines, 170km south of Lisbon, Portugal, on Tuesday. — AFP

PANAMA: NASA’s only remaining space shuttle external tank makes its way through the Panama Canal, in Panama City, on Tuesday. — AFP

BRITAIN: A ring-necked parakeet eats blossom from a tree in

west London, Britain on Wedesday. — Reuters

HONG KONG: Ice Skaters perform a scene from Swan Lake On Ice during a media preview at the Cultural Centre in Hong Kong on Tuesday.

Swan Lake On Ice features 23 former Olympic, World, European and National Championship-level skaters, and will be at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre for a limited fifteen performances only from Wednesday. — AFP

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

WORLD

there would be no economic benefits for Britain from a Brexit, even under the most favourable scenarios.

Angel Gurria, OECD secretary general

FRANCE

Paris attacks suspect put under formal investigation PARIS: Salah Abdeslam, a key suspect in November’s Paris attacks, was put under formal investigation by French magistrates on Wednesday on charges of belonging to a terrorist organisation, murder, kidnapping and holding weapons and explosives.

Abdeslam will be put in solitary confinement, lawyer Frank Berton said. He had been extradited to France from Belgium earlier in the day. He was arrested in Brussels on March 18. He is believed to be the sole survivor among a group of militants who killed 130 people in Paris in November.

Abdeslam, 26, was Europe’s most wanted fugitive and was arrested after a four-month manhunt. He was taken by helicopter to Paris under armed guard and then driven to the capital’s main law courts. French Justice Minister Jean-Jacques Urvoas said Abdeslam would be held in a highsecurity prison in the Paris region.

Frank Berton, a high-profile French criminal lawyer, said he would lead Abdeslam’s defence and had visited his client for more than two hours last week in his prison cell in Belgium along with Abdeslam’s Belgian lawyer, Sven Mary. — Reuters

Police chief suspended over UK soccer stadium disaster Relatives of victims and lawmakers called for prosecution of those who perpetuated a cover-up during the two-year long inquest hearings of Hillsborough soccer

LONDON: The head of the British police force accused of covering up failings that led to the death of 96 fans at the Hillsborough soccer stadium in 1989 was suspended on Wednesday as lawmakers called for prosecutions.

The suspension of Chief Constable David Crompton of South Yorkshire Police came a day after an inquest jury concluded that

‘Brexit would cost Britons a month’s salary by 2020’ heavily in the second quarter and industry figures showed retail sales fell at the sharpest rate in more than four years in April.

Gurria said that there would be no economic benefits for Britain from a Brexit, even under the most favourable scenarios. “Our conclusion is unequivocal,” he said in a speech in London. “The UK is much stronger as a part of Europe and Europe is much stronger with the UK as a driving force. There is no upside for the UK in Brexit, only costs that can be avoided.”

Campaigners in the “Vote Leave” camp immediately challenged the OECD’s credibility, saying it had damaged its reputation by promoting the benefits of the euro currency. “Out” campaigners, chief among them London Mayor Boris Johnson, argue that Britain’s economy would flourish outside the EU by saving its annual contributions to bloc, freeing itself of red tape and striking its own trade deals.

“After (we) Vote Leave and take back control we will be able to cut our tax bill because we will no longer have to fund overpaid and under-taxed international bureaucrats,” Vote Leave spokesman Robert Oxley said. — Reuters

D E L AY E D L AU N C H

Putin orders shake-up of space programme MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin told his space officials to raise their game on Wednesday after he flew thousands of kilometres (miles) to watch the inaugural launch of a rocket from a new spaceport, only for it to be called off.

With moments to go before the launch of an unmanned Soyuz rocket, officials had to postpone it early on Wednesday morning because a fault was uncovered with the rocket. They rescheduled for 24 hours later, but there was uncertainty about whether the second attempt would go ahead.

The episode was the latest problem to beset Russia’s space programme, which Putin aims to revive as part of his push to restore Russia’s military and technological might after years of post-Soviet neglect.

“The fact is there is a large number of hitches. That is bad.

There should be an appropriate reaction,” a stern-looking Putin was shown saying on state television at the Vostochny cosmodrome, hours after the

FLORAL TRIBUTE: People look at floral tributes in memory of the victims of the Hillsborough disaster at St Georges Hall in Liverpool, northern England on Wednesday. – Reuters

stadium tragedy

O E C D ’ S WA R N I N G

LONDON: Leaving the European Union would cost the average working Briton the equivalent of a month’s salary by 2020, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said on Wednesday, joining a chorus of economic bodies warning against an exit.

Angel Gurria, OECD secretary general, said Britain would have less access to the bloc’s single market of 500 million consumers, investment would slow and companies could move to other countries as a result. As economists at the global economic policy body warned of the risk of further strains on Britain’s wide current account gap and a fall in the value of sterling, Gurria took aim at the “Out” campaigners, accusing them of creating a “delusion” by saying the country would prosper outside the EU. He said official figures released on Wednesday showing Britain’s economic growth slowed in the first three months of the year underscored how the possibility of a so-called Brexit was already weighing on confidence.

Analysts said the impact of the June 23 EU membership referendum was likely to weigh more

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launch was scrapped. Delays and corruption have blighted work on the new cosmodrome, while this month a European Space Agency launch in French Guiana, using a similar Russian Soyuz rocket, was delayed by technical problems.

Problems with Russian space rockets are worrisome not just for the Kremlin but also for the United States space programme.

Since it retired its space shuttle, NASA depends on Russia to fly its astronauts to the International Space Station.

Russia pioneered manned space flight when it fired Yuri Gagarin into space in 1961.

But since the collapse of the Soviet Union its space programme has had to retrench for a lack of cash. For years it filled gaps in its budget by taking paying tourists into space. The Vostochny spaceport, in the remote Amur region near the border with China, was the flagship project in Putin’s planned $52 billion investment in space exploration up to 2020. — Reuters

the Liverpool fans who died in an overcrowded, fenced-in enclosure at the ground in Sheffield had been unlawfully killed, with police accepting catastrophic mistakes had been made.

Unlawful deaths “Those responsible must be held to account for 96 unlawful deaths and a 27-year cover-up,” Andy Burnham, the opposition Labour Party home affairs spokesman who has long cam-

paigned for “Justice for the 96”, told parliament.

The Hillsborough tragedy changed the face of English football with banks of terracing and metal fences around pitches replaced by modern, all-seated venues. However, families of the victims and survivors were forced to fight for decades to overturn original conclusions that the deaths were accidental and to combat initial police claims that drunken Liverpool fans without tickets had

stormed into overcrowded pens.

The jury absolved supporters of any blame, and David Duckenfield, the police commander in charge at the match, admitted to the inquest he had lied about fans forcing a gate open, and acknowledged that his failure to close an access tunnel had directly caused the loss of lives.

Relatives along with Burnham and other lawmakers had said Crompton’s role as the local police chief was untenable as lawyers

acting for the force had repeated the discredited claims about the fans and so perpetuated a cover-up during the two-year long inquest hearings. Alan Billings, the elected Police and Crime Commissioner for South Yorkshire, said he had no choice but to immediately suspend Crompton, who was not involved in the events in 1989, because of the erosion of public trust and confidence in him. “No one should have to endure what the families and survivors have been through.

No one should have to fight year after year, decade after decade in search of the truth,” Home Secretary Theresa May told parliament.

“They suffered the injustice of hearing the victims, their loved ones, and fellow supporters being blamed.”

She said prosecutors were weighing up whether to bring criminal charges against those involved, with offences ranging from gross negligence manslaughter and misconduct in public office to perjury and perverting the course of justice. Prosecutors and the independent police watchdog will conclude their investigations by the end of the year, May said, but Burnham and other lawmakers urged charging decisions to be made sooner. — Reuters

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THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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Trump, Clinton register big wins Republican Donald Trump easily defeated rivals John Kasich and Ted Cruz while Democrat Hillary Clinton defeated challenger Bernie Sanders

INDIANAPOLIS: Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton rapidly turned their fire on each other with an eye toward November’s presidential election after rolling up strong wins in Northeastern states.

The New York billionaire easily defeated rivals John Kasich and Ted Cruz in all five states that held party nominating contests on Tuesday - Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Delaware. He had a margin of victory rivaling that of New York state a week ago and was on course to win the vote in every county in each state.

Clinton, already in control of the Democratic race, defeated challenger Bernie Sanders in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Her only loss of the night was in Rhode Island.

Race The race now pivots immediately to Indiana, which is shaping up to be Cruz’s best, and perhaps last, chance to slow Trump’s momentum toward capturing the Republican presidential nomination for the November 8 general election.

If Cruz, a US senator from Texas, can win a large share of the state’s 57 delegates on May 3, it will boost the chances that Trump will not be able to amass the 1,237 delegates he needs to clinch the nomination before the party’s convention in

IN CONTROL: Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton addresses supporters during a primary night event on Tuesday in Philadelphia after winning the Pennsilvania state primary. – AFP

July. That could give Cruz a shot at convincing delegates to back him for president instead. Cruz’s campaign has begun hinting that he could name a vice presidential running mate as soon as this week, a move that would seek to consolidate more Republican support and create an image that he will be the nominee. Former Hewlett Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, who made a failed presidential bid, is among the potential picks being vetted.

Trump, pressing his point that he views the nominating race as essentially finished, criticised that as a potential Cruz pick. “I think it would be a bad choice, not because she’s a woman but because she did not resonate at all with people.”

“It’s too early to do it. And frankly, he’s wasting his time because

he’s not going to be the nominee,” Trump said. A loss to Trump in Indiana would effectively cripple Cruz’s already faltering bid, and increase pressure on the party to rally around Trump as the prospective nominee.

As Trump has moved from longshot candidate in a crowded field last year to clear front-runner, he has sparked despair among many in the Republican establishment both for his aggressive and sometimes insulting style and for campaign pledges such as slapping a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country, and building a wall along the border with Mexico.

Katie Packer, head of the antiTrump political-action committee Our Principles, said her organisation would be active in Indiana

with “TV, mail, phones, digital, all of it”. “We’re going to be playing in a lot of different congressional districts,” Packer said.

The Club for Growth, a conservative pro-business group, has bought $1.5 million worth of antiTrump TV ads in the state.

Both groups worked to hand Trump a defeat at the hands of Cruz earlier this month in Wisconsin. “Tonight, this campaign moves back to more favourable terrain,” Cruz said in Knightstown, Indiana on Tuesday.

Back on the East Coast, Trump and Clinton used victory rallies to snipe at each other, a taste of the kind of back and forth that will take place should they win their party’s nominations and face off in the general election campaign.

“I think she’s a flawed candidate and she’s going to be easy to beat,” Trump told a news conference at New York’s Trump Tower.

In an interview on Wednesday morning with ABC’s “Good Morning America,” he said he was not concerned that supporters of his Republican rivals would not back him against Clinton.

“They’re going to come over,” said Trump, a real estate magnate and former reality TV star. “I’ve watched it all my life. They are angry, they’re confused, and they don’t know how all of this has happened, then all of a sudden it turns into love. Anger turns into love.”

Trump was due to give a big foreign policy speech in Washington on Wednesday. He criticised Clinton’s record as secretary of state

and her vote as a US senator from New York in support of the Iraq war. He said her only advantage was her bid to be the first woman US president.

“Frankly if Hillary Clinton were a man, I don’t think she’d get 5 per cent of the vote,” he said.

Clinton, in a victory speech in Philadelphia, took aim at Trump for accusing her of trying to “play the woman card.”

“Well if fighting for women’s healthcare and paid family leave and equal pay is playing the woman card, then deal me in,” she said to cheers.

Of 118 committed delegates available on Tuesday, Trump took 105, raising his total delegates to 950. Kasich, the Ohio governor, won five, all from Rhode Island, and Cruz one, with seven delegates still to be assigned, according to the Associated Press. Pennsylvania’s 54 unbound delegates will become clearer later.

Clinton’s strong showing in the Democratic race added to the pressure on Sanders to get out of the race or ease his criticism of her.

In her speech Clinton was careful, however, to avoid criticizing Sanders, a US senator from Vermont, as she spoke of the need for party unity.

“Whether you support Senator Sanders or you support me, there is much more that unites us than divides us,” she said.

Clinton’s victories on Tuesday brought her total count to 2,141 delegates, according to the AP, pushing her closer to the 2,383 needed for the nomination.

Sanders, who has accused Clinton of being in the pocket of Wall Street and pledged to do more than she would to address social inequality, showed no signs of getting out of the race. He is expected to campaign in Indiana.

“The people in every state in this country should have the right to determine who they want as president and what the agenda of the Democratic Party should be. That’s why we are in this race until the last vote is cast,” he said in a statement on Tuesday night. — Reuters

B OMAN OIL PRICE RECOVERS Oman Crude price (June delivery) recovered by $1.68 per barrel to touch $42.65, according to Dubai Mercantile Exchange. The average price of Oman Crude (May delivery 2016) stabilised at $36.34 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a rise of $6.11 per barrel compared to April delivery 2016. - ONA

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MARKET TENDERS

Tender Board awards water projects worth OMR42 million MUSCAT: Oman government on Wednesday awarded different projects worth OMR42 million, mainly for developing water pipeline network and related projects.

The decision was taken at the fourth meeting of Tender Board this year, which met under the chairmanship of Dr Rasheed bin Al Safi Al Huraibi, chairman of the Tender Board.

Contracts were awarded for the construction of water pipeline from Buasher to Seeb in the Governorate of Muscat at OMR32.44 million and construction of water distribution networks in the wilayats of Nakhal, Al Awabi and Wadi Al Ma’awel in the Governorate of South Al Batinah at OMR8.49 million.

Further, additional works for the operation and maintenance of assets of the Public Authority for Electricity and Water (above ground) in the Governorate of Muscat valued at OMR393,958 was also awarded.

Other tenders include additional works for the operation and maintenance of assets of the Public Authority for Electricity and Water (above ground) in the Governorate of Al Dhahirah valued at OMR330,960; additional works for the operation and maintenance of assets of the Public Authority for Electricity and Water (underground) in the Governorate of Al Dakhiliyah at OMR254,937.

Tenders for additional works for the operation and maintenance of assets of the Public Authority for Electricity and Water (underground) in the Governorate of Al Buraimi at OMR60,182 was also awarded.

The Tender Board has also awarded projects linked to additional works for the operation and maintenance of assets of the Public Authority for Electricity and Water (above ground) in the Governorate of Al Buraimi at OMR39,632. - ONA

World Bank optimistic on oil averaging at $41 this year Explorers hope crude recovers to $50 a barrel

The bank, while boosting its forecast for oil prices, projected that refinery demand will pick up and US production cuts will steepen in the second half of 2016

WASHINGTON: World Bank boosted its forecast for oil prices this year, projecting that refinery demand will pick up and United States production cuts will steepen in the second half of 2016.

Crude prices will average $41 per barrel this year, which is still down 19 per cent from 2015, the Washington-based development bank said on Tuesday in its quarterly commodity-markets outlook. The bank in January had predicted a price of $37 per barrel, which represents a composite of projections for the Brent, West Texas Intermediate and Dubai Fateh blends.

While oil has recovered after slumping to the lowest since 2003 in February, as optimism grows that the global surplus will ease, negotiations between members of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) and other oil producers ended last week without a deal to limit supplies.

West Texas Intermediate for June delivery rose $1.40, or 3.3 per cent, to $44.04 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

The World Bank increased its projection for prices next year to

ON RECOVERY PATH?: While crude oil has recovered after plunging to the lowest since 2003 in February, as optimism grows that the global surplus will ease. – Times file picture

$50 per barrel, up from $48 per barrel in January. At the same time, the lender reduced its forecast for non-energy commodities, as agricultural and fertilizer prices are expected to be weaker than projected at the start of the year.

The oil recovery is slower than in past global oil shocks.

The World Bank estimates crude prices would average around $58 per barrel this year if prices had been on the recovery path of major oil shocks over the last three decades, according to the report.

OECD supplies The lender notes crude-oil stocks among Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries remain near a record.

However, the buildup slowed last month, suggesting that inventories had begun to tighten, according to the bank.

Opec production is expected to remain flat, excluding Iran, whose output will climb by about 500,000 barrels per day, the lender said.

Prices could end up higher than expected if big non-Opec produc-

ers reduce supply, Iranian exports grow more slowly than anticipated, and supply disruptions hit key Opec producers such as Iraq, Nigeria and Venezuela, the bank said. Downside risks include weak demand and the continued resilience of United States producers.

– Bloomberg News

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WASHINGTON: BP, rig-owner Nabors Industries and explorer Pioneer Natural Resources all said in the past 24 hours that prices above $50 will encourage more drilling or provide the needed boost to cash flow. With oil bouncing close to $45 a barrel, an industry that has been shaving costs to stay competitive is ready for signs of stability at a price level less than half of 2014’s average.

At an average price of $53 per barrel of oil means the world’s 50 biggest publicly traded companies in the industry can stop bleeding cash, according to oilfield consultant Wood Mackenzie. Nabors, which owns the world’s largest fleet of onshore drilling rigs, said it has already been talking with several large customers about plans to boost work in the second half of the year if prices rise ‘comfortably’ above $50.

“It’s not just about touching $50,” Fraser McKay, vice-president of corporate analysis at Wood Mackenzie in Houston, said on Tuesday in an interview. - Bloomberg News

PUBLIC OFFER

Capital raised in Mena share offerings increases by 141% Times News Service MUSCAT: Two initial public offerings (IPOs) for raising $615 million were witnessed in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region in the first quarter of 2016, according to Ernst & Young (EY).

Capital raised through Mena firms in the first quarter of 2016 increased by 141 per cent, while the number of IPOs were consistent (two IPOs), compared with the first quarter of 2015, said a statement from EY. “The first quarter of 2016 witnessed limited IPO activity, in line with the second half of 2015, as volatility in the Mena capital markets continued, primarily driven by fluctuating oil prices and certain global factors. Egypt and Saudi Arabia continue to lead the limited IPO activity in the Mena region driven by investor demand and strong fundamentals. There is a strong pipeline of companies in Mena that are IPO ready and waiting for the right time to go to market,” said Phil Gandier, Mena Transactions Leader, EY. Egypt, Saudi Arabia The IPO of Middle East Healthcare Company on the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) was the largest IPO in the quarter, raising $471.1m and was over three times

TWO ISSUES: Capital raised through Mena firms in the first quarter of 2016 rose by 141%, while the number of IPOs were consistent (two IPOs), compared to the first quarter of 2015. –File picture

the size of the IPO of Arabian Food Industries on the Egyptian Stock Exchange, the only other IPO in Mena in the first quarter of 2016.

“Egypt and Saudi Arabia continue to be the most active Mena exchanges in the first quarter of 2016, continuing on from 2015, where IPOs in Saudi Arabia and Egypt represented eight out 14 IPOs executed in the year. Both markets continue to attract investors against a backdrop of increasing foreign investment, emphasis on diversification and business confidence,” added Mayur Pau, Mena Strategic Growth Markets and IPO Leader, EY.

Oil price fluctuation Oil prices declined in January 2016 to the lowest level in several years (below $30 per barrel) resulting in fluctuations across the Mena capital markets.

According to analysts, Brent Crude prices declined primarily due to an increase in global oil supply and reduced demand, driven by uncertainty in the performance of the global economy.

However, the price of Brent crude rose slightly towards the end of the quarter, trading at around $40 per barrel, resulting in a uptick in Middle East and North Africa region stock market performance.

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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MARKET O I L P R I C E FA L L

Real estate prices in UAE to remain subdued: S&P DUBAI: United Arab Emirates’ real estate market will probably see further price declines this year because of lower oil prices and a strong dollar-pegged local currency, said Standard & Poor’s (S&P).

Pressures on the property market come mainly from a slowdown in the hiring and expansion of oilexposed companies, and a strong United States dollar making real estate in the emirate more expensive for international investors, the ratings firm said in a report.

Dubai’s housing market, the biggest and most volatile in the MidDROUGHT

India set to become a net importer of Sugar MUMBAI/LONDON: India is expected to become a net importer of sugar in 2016/17 as back-toback drought years dry irrigation channels and ravage cane fields, with output in the country’s biggest producing state seen dropping over 40 per cent.

That would mark the first time the nation has been a net importer of the sweetener in four years, with the switch likely to support global prices that have already been rising this year.

It would also give rival producers such as Pakistan, Thailand and Brazil the chance to boost shipments from their ports. “India will need to import next year due to a production shortfall,” Ashok Jain, president of the Bombay Sugar Merchants Association (BSMA), said.

Plantations affected “Drought has severely affected cane plantations in Maharashtra. The government should stop exports now to reduce import requirements in the next season.”

The El Nino weather phenomenon, which brings dry conditions to many regions, has stoked the worst drought in decades in some parts of India, with thousands of small-scale sugar cane growers in Maharashtra state failing to cultivate crops for the next marketing year, starting October.

“Even for drinking water we are relying on water tankers. It wasn’t possible for anyone from our village to cultivate cane,” said Baban Swami, a farmer standing in a parched field in the Latur district of Maharashtra, around 500 km southeast of Mumbai. - Reuters

dle East, is in the doldrums as falling oil prices, weaker currencies in Europe and Russia and an abundance of properties on the market damp demand.

Residential values fall Residential values fell 2.2 per cent in the first quarter, according to consultancy Cluttons, which predicts villa prices will decline 5 per cent this year and apartment prices 3 per cent to 4 per cent.

“We still believe that the lifting of geopolitical restrictions, such the sanctions on Russia and Iran,

could strongly benefit the recovery of the UAE property market,” according to S&P. “This would open new investment flows into the regions’ real estate markets and partly compensate for the softening demand from other countries.”

Still, the rating agency said it doesn’t expect ‘major’ negative movements in its real estate sector ratings over the next 12 months and that the developers it rates could absorb a 10 per cent drop in residential sales prices in Dubai this year. – Bloomberg News

Tender floated for raising water capacity in long run The selected consultant has to advise the government on economic, financial/ commercial and legal areas for the development of a revised process for the future contracting of water capacity RISING WATER DEMAND: Demand for potable water in Oman’s northern region, which include Muscat governorate, is projected to grow by 6 per cent per annum in the next four years to 349 million cubic metres in 2020. Picture is used only for illustration purpose. – File picture

Times News Service MUSCAT: State-owned Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) has floated a tender seeking an international consultant to provide advisory services for enhancing water production capacity from 2022.

The consultant, who wins the contract, has to advise the government on economic, financial/ commercial and legal areas for the development of a revised process for the future contracting of water capacity by OPWP and the initial implementation of the process to a contracting round aimed at securing capacity from 2022, according to a tender notice.

The tender documents are available between April 25 and May 8, while the last date for submitting bids will be on June 5.

Demand for potable water in Oman’s northern region, which include Muscat governorate, is projected to grow by six per cent per annum in the next four year horizon to 349 million cubic metres in 2020.

A combination of population growth and industrial development, including tourism projects, is cited as a major reason for the growth in demand for potable water.

The OPWP, the sole procurer of new power generation and water desalination capacity, re-

BANKING

cently signed a OMR100 million agreement with a consortium to establish Myah Gulf Oman Desalination Company to build a water project in Sohar. The project is one of the biggest of its kind in the Al Batinah North Governorate and is expected to meet about 80 per cent of water demand in Al Batinah North, which is witnessed a tremendous growth in urbanisation, tourism and industrial activities.OPWP will have the right to buy the desalinated water produced by the plant during a concession period of 20 years. Slated for commercial operation in 2018, the independent water project will produce 250,000 cubic me-

tres of water per day, based on the reverse osmosis technology.

Two water projects Eng. Yaqoob bin Saif Al Kiyumi, chief operating officer of OPWP recently said that OPWP plans to build one each major independent water project in Muscat and Northern Batinah regions. The capacity of each project will be higher than 250,000 cubic meters per day. Another independent water project (of roughly around 20,000 cubic liter per day capacity) is coming up in Khasab, which is part of a series of small and large water projected planned in different parts of the country.

OPWP has already floated a request for proposal for developing two other projects – Salalah and Sharqiya – after selecting prequalified companies.

Eng. Al Kiyumi said that Salalah and Sharqiya water projects are expected to be operational in 2019. A request for proposal seeking bids from pre-qualified companies will be floated before the end of the summer.

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C O R P O R AT E

London Stock Exchange’s first quarter revenue climbs by 8%

Standard Chartered chief sees depressed earnings this year LONDON: Standard Chartered chief executive officer Bill Winters expects erratic swings in global markets to continue for at least the rest of this year, complicating his efforts to reinvigorate earnings and restore the Asiafocused lender’s dividend.

Reviving ‘depressed’ revenue in the face of a sluggish economy and a slump in commodities prices is “the big challenge,” Winters said in a Bloomberg Television interview with Francine Lacqua eight months into his tenure. The bank could resume dividends this year, if it keeps showing improvement. But first, he’s waiting to see how the firm performs as emerging markets in which it operates face headwinds, potentially rattling investors anew.

“I am expecting very high volatility for the rest of this year and probably into next year,” said Winters, 54. “It’s too early to call the risk-off theme. We could have episodes of real risk aversion.”

Standard Chartered jumped 9.8 per cent on Tuesday after saying loan impairments declined and capital levels improved during the first quarter. Winters, hired in June with a mandate to turn around the struggling lender, has picked a new management team, bolstered risk controls, sold 19 businesses and identified $100 billion of risky assets he wants to restructure or exit.

Taking risks “I am hoping we can grow income over the course of this year,” the CEO said. Historically, employees prioritized “growing income at the top line and were not so focused on returns. We have shifted the focus to returns, and there is always this risk in that transition you lose the focus on growth. I think we’ve got the balance right.

We need to resume growth with our clients.”

Winters has sought to shrink the lender’s balance sheet after years

of unchecked growth, cutting assets 12 percent last year. The CEO said he discovered a “looseness” to the way the bank was managed when he joined, developed over years of good performance.

Shareholders have been “quite supportive” of his efforts, he said.

Still, he added, they also play a role in encouraging excessive risk-taking when they set unrealistic growth targets.

“I say, ‘You’re the one that bought the stock at 14 pounds, what were you doing then?’”

Winters said. “‘I can tell you what you were doing then: You were encouraging management to go faster, to grow more, to book more loans, to get bigger. You, Madam or Mr. Shareholder, you were encouraging the bank to do the things that ultimately were its partial undoing.’ Shareholders don’t appreciate that.”

The stock has fallen more than two-thirds from its level of 1,856 pence in 2010. - Bloombergt News

LONDON: London Stock Exchange Group, which has agreed a merger with German peer Deutsche Boerse, reported a rise in first-quarter revenue on Wednesday, aided by growth at its FTSE Russell, capital markets and clearing units.

The company, which also owns Borsa Italiana, said revenue rose 8 per cent to £358.9 million ($522.4 million) in the first quarter ended March 31, beating average estimates of £350.1 million.

LSEG reiterated there was “compelling” logic in its deal with Deutsche Boerse. Revenue at its capital markets division, which makes money from fees paid by companies listing on its markets and trading of stocks and bonds, rose by 8 per cent to £92.4 million.

LCH.Clearnet, the clearing

house, saw revenue increase by 14 per cent with growth coming from a rise in volumes of over-the-counter derivative products. Revenue from information services, which includes the FTSE index business,

rose 10 per cent to £141.5 million.

Technology services provided the only weak spot, with revenues down 17 per cent, hurt mainly by the timing of customer deliveries. - Reuters

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MARKET MARCH

C O M M E N TA RY

Central banks in spotlight again HOWARD DAVIES

C

entral banks have been on a roller-coaster ride in the last decade, from heroes to zeroes and back again.

Is another downswing in their fortunes and reputations now starting?

In 2006, when Alan Greenspan retired after his 18-year reign as chair of the United States Federal Reserve Board, his reputation could hardly have been higher. He had steered the US economy through the dot-com boom and bust, had carefully navigated the potential threat to growth from the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, and presided over a period of rapid gross domestic product and productivity growth.

At his final board meeting, Timothy Geithner, then pesident of the New York Fed, delivered what now seems an embarrassing encomium, saying that Greenspan’s stellar reputation was likely to grow, rather than diminish, in the future.

Only three years later, the Nobel laureate economist Paul Krugman, borrowing from Monty Python’s parrot sketch, was able to say that Greenspan was an ex-maestro whose reputation was now pushing up daisies. Central banks were widely seen to have been dozing at the switch through the early years of this century. They allowed global imbalances to build up, looked benignly on a massive credit bubble, ignored flashing danger signs in the mortgage market, and uncritically admired the innovative but toxic products devised by

Central banks, once seen as part of the problem, came to be viewed as an essential part of the solution. They were given new powers to regulate the financial system, and encouraged to adopt new and highly interventionist policies in an attempt to stave off depression and deflation

overpaid investment bankers.

The early reactions by central banks to the deepening crisis were also unsure. The Bank of England (BoE) lectured on moral hazard while the banking system imploded around it, and the European Central Bank (ECB) continued to slay imaginary inflation dragons when almost all economists saw far greater risks in a eurozone meltdown and associated credit crunch.

Lessons of crisis Yet, despite these missteps, when governments around the world considered how best to respond to the lessons of the crisis, central banks, once seen as part of the problem, came to be viewed as an essential part of the solution. They were given new powers to regulate the financial system, and encouraged to adopt new and highly interventionist policies in an attempt to stave off depression and deflation.

Central banks’ balance sheets have expanded dramatically, and new laws have strengthened their hand enormously.

In the US, the Dodd-Frank Act

MSM index ends lower

has taken the Fed into areas of the financial system which it has never regulated, and given it powers to take over and resolve failing banks.

In the United Kingdom, bank regulation, which had been removed from the BoE in 1997, returned there in 2013, and the BoE also became for the first time the prudential supervisor of insurance companies – a big extension of its role. The ECB, meanwhile, is now the direct supervisor of more than 80 per cent of the European Union’s banking sector.

In the last five years, central banking has become one of the fastest-growing industries in the Western world. The central banks seem to have turned the tables on their critics, emerging triumphant. Their innovative and sometimes controversial actions have helped the world economy recover.

But there are now signs that this aggrandizement may be having ambiguous consequences. Indeed, some central bankers are beginning to worry that their role has expanded too far, putting them at risk of a

backlash. There are two related dangers. The first is encapsulated in the title of Mohamed El Erian’s latest book: ‘The Only Game in Town’. Central banks have been expected to shoulder the greater part of the burden of post-crisis adjustment. Their massive asset purchases are a life-support system for the financial economy. Yet they cannot, by themselves, resolve the underlying problems of global imbalances and the huge debt overhang. Indeed, they may be preventing the other adjustments, whether fiscal or structural, that are needed to resolve those impediments to economic recovery.

This is particularly true in Europe. While the ECB keeps the euro afloat by doing “whatever it takes” in ECB president Mario Draghi’s phrase, governments are doing little. Why take tough decisions if the ECB continues to administer heavier and heavier doses from its monetary drug cabinet?

The second danger is a version of what is sometimes called the ‘over-mighty citizen’ problem. Have central banks been given too many powers for their own good?

Quantitative easing Quantitative easing is a case in point. Because it blurs the line between monetary and fiscal policy – which must surely be the province of elected governments – unease has grown. We can see signs of this in Germany, where many now question whether the ECB is too powerful, independent, and unaccountable. Similar criticism motivates those in the United States who want to “audit the

Fed” – often code for subjecting monetary policy to Congressional oversight.

There are worries, too, about financial regulation, and especially central banks’ shiny new macroprudential instruments.

In his new book The End of Alchemy, former BoE governor Mervyn King argues that direct intervention in the mortgage market by restraining credit should be subject to political decision. Others, notably Axel Weber, a former head of the Bundesbank, think it is dangerous for the central bank to supervise banks directly.

Financial markets Things go wrong in financial markets, and the supervisors are blamed. There is a risk of contagion, and a loss of confidence in monetary policy, if the central bank is in the front line.

That points to the biggest concern of all. Central banks’ monetary-policy independence was a hard-won prize. It has brought great benefits to our economies.

But an institution buying bonds with public money, deciding on the availability of mortgage finance, and winding down banks at great cost to their shareholders demands a different form of political accountability.

The danger is that hasty post-crisis decisions to load additional functions onto central banks may have unforeseen and unwelcome consequences.

In particular, greater political oversight of these functions could affect monetary policy as well. For this reason, whatever new mechanisms of accountability are put in place will have to be designed with extraordinary care. – Project Syndicate

China’s factory profits add to economic recovery hopes BEIJING: Profits earned by Chinese industrial companies rose 11.1 per cent in March from a year earlier, adding to signs that the country’s economic slowdown may be bottoming out.

Industrial profits rose to 561.24 billion yuan ($86.50 billion) in March, the National Bureau of Statistics(NBS) said on its website on Wednesday. That brought total first-quarter profits to 1.34 trillion yuan, up 7.4 per cent from a year earlier and improving from a 4.8 percent rise in the JanuaryFebruary period.

The data covers large enterprises with annual revenue of more than 20 million yuan from their main operations.

The first-quarter gains were largely led by chemical companies and agricultural and food processing companies, which posted 20.8 per cent and 12.1 percent growth compared with the same period a year earlier.

Heavy industry But heavy industry and mining continued to struggle, with ferrous metal smelting and rolling firms seeing profits fall 15.8 per cent in the quarter and profits for coal miners slumping 92.6 per cent. Oil and gas producers posted a loss.

Debt at Chinese industrial companies increased 5.2 per cent on a yearly basis to 55.22 trillion yuan as of end-March, the bureau said.

China’s economy grew 6.7 per cent in the first quarter this year from a year earlier, its slowest pace in seven years, but better-than-expected consumer, investment and factory data have fuelled hopes that the economy’s prolonged downturn may be easing. - Reuters

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 5,960.26 .............. 5,934.99 ....................5,939.10 ...................5,960.56................-21.46 .................. -0.36 Financial Index .....................................7,786.52 ...............7,706.54 .................... 7,715.06 ................... 7,789.40................-74.34 .................. -0.95 Industrial Index .................................... 7,175.04 ............... 7,155.03 ....................7,173.35 ....................7,175.04...................-1.69 .................. -0.02 Services Index ...................................... 3,244.66 .............. 3,233.33 ...................3,234.56 ...................3,245.56................ -11.00 .................. -0.34 MSM SHARIAH INDEX....................... 879.91 .................. 877.96 ...................... 879.90 ...................... 878.26.................... 1.64 ................... 0.19 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 24,418,874 ................. 4,769,894 ................. 1,364 ...............17,008,463,390 .................. 7 ......................21 .................... 13 .........................41

As many as 1,364 trades were executed on Wednesday, generating a turnover of OMR4.8 million with 24.4m shares changing hands.

MUSCAT: During a quiet session, profit taking brought down the MSM30 Index by 0.36 per cent to close at 5,939.10 points.

The MSM Sharia Index ended at 879.90 points, up by 0.19 per cent.

Galfar Engineering was the most active in terms of volume as well as turnover. Construction Materials, up by 2.86 per cent, was the top gainer while Al Madina Investment, which declined by 6.06 per cent, was the top loser.

As many as 1,364 trades were executed on Wednesday, generating a turnover of OMR4.8 million with 24.4 million shares changing hands. Out of 41 traded securities, seven advanced, 21 declined and 13 remained unchanged. Omani investors were net buyers for OMR87,000 followed by GCC and Arab investors for OMR23,000 while foreign investors remained net sellers for OMR110,000.

Financial Index ended negatively to close at 7,715.06 points, down by 0.95 per cent. Al Madina Takaful and Ominvest increased by 1.33 per cent and 0.36 per cent, respectively. Al Madina Investment, HSBC Bank Oman, Oman United Insurance, Al Sharqia Investments and Al Izz Bank declined by 6.06 per cent, 4.69 per cent, 2.53 per cent, 2.17 per cent and 1.69 per cent, respectively.

Industrial Index stayed relatively flat at 7,173.35 points, down by 0.02 per cent. Construction Materials, Oman Cables, Raysut Cement and Gulf International Chemicals gained by 2.86 per cent, 1.43 per cent, 1.30 per cent and 0.39 per cent, respectively. Al Hassan Engineering, Galfar Engineering, Oman Fisheries and Al Jazeera Steel declined by 3 per cent, 1.71 per cent, 1.45 per cent and 1.04 per cent, respectively.

Services Index retreated by 0.34 per cent to close at 3,234.56 points.

Port Services Corporation, up

by 0.37 per cent was the only sector gainer. Al Batinah Power, Al Jazeera Services, Renaissance Services and Oman Telecommunications Company declined by 1.86 per cent, 1.65 per cent, 1.63 per cent and 0.31 per cent, respectively.

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27 ISIN ......................................SECURITY NAME ..................................................................VOLUME..... TURNOVER............TRADES ......OPEN PRICE......HIGH ............. LOW ........ CLOSE PR. ...PREV. CLOSE...DIFF (RO).........DIFF % .............LAST PR.....LAST BID .............LAST OFFER ........MARKET CAP.PAR VALUE

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

OM0000001707 ............OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY.................................... 130,000 .........230,625........................8 ............1.755 ........... 1.780............ 1.755 ............1.775 ............. 1.750.............0.025 ............. 1.429 ................1.780 .............. 1.780...................1.790 .................. 159,217,500 ........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL............................................. 723,110 .............55,251..................... 50 ............0.075 ........... 0.077 ...........0.075........... 0.076 .............0.075 ............0.001 ............. 1.333 ................0.076..............0.075...................0.076...................13,300,000.........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ........................................................72,496 ............ 84,338........................9 ............1.155 ........... 1.165............ 1.155 ............1.165 ............. 1.150.............0.015 ............. 1.304 ................ 1.165 ...............1.165................... 1.195 ................. 233,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............. 24,000 ............... 6,231......................18 ........... 0.260........... 0.261 ...........0.258........... 0.260 .............0.259 ............0.001 ............. 0.386 ................0.258..............0.257...................0.258....................5,460,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ....................... 693,339 ......... 189,483......................61 ........... 0.270 ...........0.277 ...........0.270........... 0.273 .............0.272 ............0.001 ............. 0.368 ................0.275..............0.272...................0.275...................25,945,920.........0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST .................................................................... 685,233 .........376,268..................... 26 ........... 0.548 ........... 0.552 ...........0.548........... 0.550 .............0.548 ........... 0.002............. 0.365 ................0.550..............0.550...................0.554..................349,684,988 .......0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE..................4,000 ..................860........................1 ............0.215 ........... 0.215 ...........0.215 ........... 0.218 .............0.218............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.215 .............. 0.211...................0.215...................43,600,000 ........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT .......................................................... 125,500 ...........62,240........................3 ........... 0.480 ...........0.496 ...........0.480........... 0.496 .............0.496 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.496..............0.482...................0.496..................164,112,864 ........0.100

Abu Dhabi bank National Bank of Abu Dhabi PJSC posted an 11 per cent decline in first-quarter profit, missing analysts’ estimates, as earnings at the largest bank in the United Arab Emirates’ were hurt by a drop in non-interest income, higher provisions and lower investment gains.

Net income rose fell to 1.27 billion dirhams ($346 million) from 1.42 billion dirhams a year earlier, the state-controlled lender said in a statement on Wednesday. The bank was expected to post profit of 1.35 billion dirhams, the median estimate of 3 analysts compiled by Bloomberg. Non-interest income fell 8 per cent to 819 million dirhams, while impairments rose to 295 million dirhams from 170 million dirhams.

Banks in the UAE are prepared for deteriorating conditions as oil prices remain lower for longer, leading to a decline in government spending, slower economic growth and falling asset quality, Standard & Poor’s said on January 11.

Emirates NBD PJSC, the country’s second-biggest bank, reported a lower-than-expected 8 per cent rise in first quarter profit as higher funding costs eroded gains from increased lending and a decline in provisions.

Banks from the UAE to Saudi Arabia are facing liquidity pressures as a more than halving of oil prices over approximately the past two years slowed deposit growth and pushed up funding costs. -United Securities/Bloomberg News

OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE .........................................................4,394 ..................602........................3 ............0.137 ........... 0.137 ...........0.137 ............0.137 ............. 0.137............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.137 .............. 0.137...................0.140...................44,703,537 .........0.100 OM0000002572 ...........OMAN OIL MARKETING .............................................3,911 ................7,431........................1 ........... 1.900 ........... 1.900 ...........1.900........... 1.900 .............1.900 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................1.900..............1.800...................1.900..................116,422,500........0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY ...........................................................552 .................. 232........................1 ........... 0.420 ...........0.420 ...........0.420........... 0.420 .............0.420 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.420..............0.424...................0.440 ..................25,410,000 .........0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 672,225 ..........510,981..................... 57 ............0.760 ........... 0.764 ...........0.760........... 0.760 .............0.760 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.760.............. 0.712...................0.760.................. 494,717,615 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................. 258,527 ............55,738......................14 ............0.216 ........... 0.216 ...........0.214........... 0.216 .............0.216............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.215 .............. 0.215...................0.220 ................. 154,311,769 ........0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS .................................................... 4,501 ............... 1,836........................5 ........... 0.406 ...........0.408 ...........0.406........... 0.410 .............0.410............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.408..............0.408...................0.410...................21,525,000 .........0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 207,338 ..........331,741......................17 ............1.600 ........... 1.600 ...........1.600........... 1.600 ............. 1.605............-0.005 ........... -0.312 ...............1.600..............1.590...................1.600................1,200,000,000......0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ...................................10,000 .............. 2,640........................2 ........... 0.264 ...........0.264 ...........0.264 .......... 0.264 .............0.265 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.377 ...............0.264............. 0.260...................0.265..................389,342,257 .......0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK ......................................................................22,953 ............... 4,161........................8 ............0.180 ........... 0.184 ...........0.180............0.181 .............0.182............-0.001 ........... -0.549 ...............0.184..............0.180...................0.196..................257,931,542 ........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 840,557 ..........150,727..................... 23 ............0.182 ........... 0.182 ...........0.179 ............0.179 .............0.180 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.556 ...............0.179 .............. 0.179...................0.180..................283,819,536 ........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING........... 367,000 ............47,958......................16 ............0.134 ........... 0.134 ...........0.130............0.131 .............0.132............-0.001 ........... -0.758................0.130 ..............0.128...................0.130................... 15,965,625 .........0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ......................... 150,000 ............19,500..................... 29 ............0.130 ........... 0.130 ...........0.130........... 0.130 ............. 0.131 ............-0.001 ........... -0.763................0.130 ..............0.128...................0.130.................... 7,649,618 ..........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 1,090,878 ...... 447,491...................276 ............0.412 ........... 0.412 ...........0.408........... 0.410 ............. 0.414............-0.004 ........... -0.966 ...............0.412 ..............0.412...................0.414................1,023,462,606 ......0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ........................ 111,380 .............21,192........................8 ............0.188 ........... 0.192 ...........0.188 ........... 0.190 .............0.192............-0.002 ........... -1.042 ...............0.192 ..............0.190...................0.192................... 23,730,612 .........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 1,616,525.......373,208....................119 ........... 0.227 ...........0.233 ...........0.227............0.231 .............0.234 ...........-0.003 ........... -1.282 ...............0.230..............0.229...................0.230 ..................34,667,325 .........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..................................... 343,000 ...........82,822......................17 ........... 0.244...........0.244 ...........0.231 ........... 0.241 .............0.245 ...........-0.004 ............-1.633................0.244 .............0.238...................0.244 ..................70,046,896.........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ............................................35,500 ...............8,482........................7 ............0.241 ........... 0.241 ...........0.238........... 0.239 .............0.243 ...........-0.004 ........... -1.646................0.238..............0.237...................0.240 .................. 14,627,821 .........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 9,136,090 ...1,047,064...................294 ............0.115 ........... 0.118............ 0.111 ............0.115 ............. 0.117 ............-0.002 ............-1.709................0.117 ...............0.117................... 0.118 ................... 33,347,773 .........0.100 OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER................................................ 138,152 ............ 29,206......................14 ............0.211 ........... 0.212 ...........0.211 ............0.211 ............. 0.215............-0.004 ........... -1.860 ...............0.211 .............. 0.211...................0.212..................142,401,248........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 268,987 ...........36,202.....................24 ............0.136 ........... 0.136 ...........0.133 ............0.135 ............. 0.138............-0.003 ........... -2.174................0.134 .............. 0.133...................0.134...................12,150,000 .........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ............................... 217,641 .............58,763......................15 ........... 0.270 ...........0.270 ...........0.270........... 0.270 .............0.277 ...........-0.007 ........... -2.527 ...............0.270..............0.270...................0.275...................27,000,000.........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 1,257,937 .......153,775..................... 45 ............0.127 ........... 0.127 ...........0.120........... 0.122 .............0.128............-0.006 ........... -4.688 ...............0.125 .............. 0.125...................0.126..................244,038,160 .......0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT ................................... 293,000 ............18,286......................13 ........... 0.064 ...........0.064 ...........0.062........... 0.062 .............0.066 ...........-0.004 ........... -6.061................0.062..............0.063...................0.065...................12,843,386 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 19,508,726........4,415,332 .........1,184 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......31........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000001368 ............CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS IND. .................... 52,351 ............... 1,875........................3 ........... 0.035 ...........0.036 ...........0.035........... 0.036 .............0.035 ............0.001 ............. 2.857 ................0.036..............0.035...................0.036....................3,060,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001400 ...........OMAN FLOUR MILLS ................................................... 2,700 ............... 1,562........................4 ........... 0.582 ...........0.582 ...........0.570........... 0.582 .............0.582 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.570..............0.570...................0.580 ..................91,665,000 .........0.100 OM0000001764 ............NAT. HOSPITALITY INSTITUTE.............................4,000 ...............2,128........................2 ........... 0.532 ...........0.532 ...........0.532........... 0.532 .............0.532 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.532............. 0.000...................0.000 .....................532,000............1.000 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 720,994 ........... 54,834.....................20 ........... 0.076 ........... 0.077 ...........0.076........... 0.076 .............0.076 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.077..............0.076...................0.077..................114,000,000........0.100 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE ....................................976 ...................123........................1 ............0.126 ........... 0.126 ...........0.126........... 0.126 .............0.126............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.126 ..............0.126...................0.128...................12,600,000.........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 400,326............59,963..................... 25 ............0.150 ........... 0.150 ...........0.149 ........... 0.150 .............0.150............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.150 ..............0.149...................0.150..................219,390,219 ........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ..................................................... 695,604 ............47,021..................... 57 ........... 0.069 ...........0.069 ...........0.067........... 0.068 .............0.069 ...........-0.001 ........... -1.449 ...............0.067..............0.066...................0.067....................8,500,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001590............MUSCAT FINANCE......................................................27,200 ............... 3,318........................3 ............0.122 ........... 0.122 ...........0.122........... 0.122 .............0.124 ...........-0.002 ............-1.613 ................0.122.............. 0.121...................0.124...................32,539,301 .........0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK.............................................. 2,762,737 ...... 160,241..................... 39 ........... 0.059 ...........0.059 ...........0.058........... 0.058 .............0.059 ...........-0.001 ............-1.695................0.058..............0.058...................0.059...................58,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING.................................. 243,260 ........... 23,496..................... 26 ........... 0.096 ...........0.098 ...........0.096........... 0.097 .............0.100 ...........-0.003 ........... -3.000 ...............0.098..............0.098...................0.099.................... 7,295,176 ..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 4,910,148 ...... 354,561...................180 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......10........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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ROUND-UP

Great time to purchase Ford’s passenger cars Ford’s passenger cars now come with special offers

MUSCAT: Ford’s passenger cars have been very impressive considering the range of new-age features and technologies they sport and now with special offers from Ford, every passenger car in the Ford stable will be nothing short of absolutely rewarding to own, says a press release.

According to a spokesperson from Arabian Car Marketing, “Ford’s range of passenger cars has remained very popular among fans in Oman. They are big, comfortable, safe and ideal for young customers as well as those with large families. Those looking to own a Ford passenger car can now look forward to special offers like up to 3 years / 60,000km free service,

up to OMR2,500 cash gift and free insurance. The offer will last until April 30 (Conditions apply; contact your nearest Ford showroom for details).”

In Oman, Ford fan can choose from the Ford Figo, Focus, Fusion, Taurus or the Mustang.

The 1.5L Ford Figo breaks all stereotypes and proves that a compact sedan can also have the best of everything – be it stunning design, smart technology, advanced safety and impressive fuel efficiency. The Ford Figo is available with three years / 60,000km free service (16YM), and cash gift.

The 1.5L Focus powered by an EcoBoost Engine gains a wellbalanced outlook that is both mature and sporty. Based on Ford’s global C-platform, this compact front-driver features an international design pedigree and introduces numerous class-exclusive technologies, including a host of premium-level comfort, convenience and safety touches. The Focus will be available with three years / 60,000km free service (15 & 16 YM), free insurance (15 MY) and cash gift.

Thoughtfully designed inside and out, the Fusion is a four-door

T O K E N O F A P P R E C I AT I O N

B5

sedan that boldly stands out.

Fusion sports an array of available smart technologies. Fusion is available in S and SE trims, featuring Ford’s 2.5L Duratec 23 I-4 engine and 16 inch aluminium wheels. The Fusion is available with three years/60,000km free service (14 & 16 YM), free insurance (14 MY) and cash gift.

The Ford Taurus delivers more of what large sedan customers really want with even better fuel economy, more technology, design refinement, improved craftsmanship and enhanced driving dynamics. The Taurus is available with three years/60,000km free service (15MY), Free Insurance (15MY) and cash gift.

Ford vehicles are known the world over for their exceptional safety, luxury and unsurpassed technological superiority. Ford ploughs in millions of dollars into R&D each year to ensure that every Ford offers maximum safety and motoring pleasure for its customers.

In Oman, Ford vehicles are brought to you by Arabian Car Marketing Co.

H E A LT H C A R E

Kims Oman performs critical procedure to save Indian patient MUSCAT: Kims Oman Hospital’s (KOH) expert medical team led by Dr Mohammed Al Obeid, consultant and head of emergency and critical care services, successfully performed a critical procedure and saved the life of a 41-year old Indian patient, who was transferred to Kims Oman hospital from a local hospital in Muscat in a critical health condition, recently.

Emergency case Kims admitted the transferred patient as an emergency case, the patient was intubated, hypoxic and was placed on ventilator support soon after becoming hypotensive and his overall health deteriorated significantly. After a thorough examination that was conducted by D. Mohammed Al Obeid, the patient was diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome with septicemia, and life-threatening health issues, says a press release.

Instantly, the patient was transferred to the Intensive Care

Unit (ICU), a multidisciplinary team of critical care and anesthesia team, headed by Dr Manjeet Singh, head of anaesthesia department, and the patient was managed aggressively with inotropes to maintain his blood pressure, was kept on ventilation and given the needed medications.

Miraculously, the patient overcame the critical case; he was ex-tubated after a week showing positive recovery and was discharged 10 days later.

The patient expressed his utmost thankfulness to KOH’s professional medical team for saving his life and for the care he received during his stay at the hospital.

“With a clear compassion, up to date care, and a collaborative team, even the toughest odds can be beaten,” said Dr Mohammed Obeid.

“I am very happy that the patient has recovered, and we have supported him until he restored his normal life and daily routine,” said Dr Manjeet Singh.

D A I LY W I N N E R S

Dar Al Atta’a honours Bank Sohar Win big at City Centre malls MUSCAT: In recognition of its continual support of Dar Al Atta’a Association and its various activities across the Sultanate, Bank Sohar was presented with a token of appreciation from the association at the recently held gala dinner at the Al Bustan Palace – A Ritz Carlton Hotel. The dinner was held in commemoration of the association having completed 10 years in the Sultanate.

The event was held on April 24 under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Minister of Heritage and Culture. Representing Bank Sohar and receiving the token of appreciation was Rashad Ali Al Musafir, acting CEO, together with Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, senior AGM and head of Marketing and Customer Experience, in addition to the bank’s senior management members, says a press release.

Commenting on the bank receiving the token of appreciation, Munira Abdulnabi Macki, the GM of HR and Corporate Support at Bank Sohar said, “We believe that even the smallest contribution can make a big difference in the

lives of those that need help, and any corporate organisation has the responsibility to do what it can to help the communities in which it operates. As such, Bank Sohar has always been fully committed towards promoting and supporting associations that play an effective role in society. Dar Al Atta’a has been a beacon of hope for people in need in the Sultanate for the past ten years. It has been an honour to support such an esteemed organisation and on behalf of the bank, I would like to congratulate all members of the association on

their 10th anniversary and look forward to working closely with them in the future.”

Bank Sohar strives to ensure that its contributions to the local community are carefully planned and evaluated in order to assist organisations that make a meaningful change in society. Over the course of the past years, the bank supported a broad range of charitable initiatives, events, associations and organisations across the Sultanate. The bank’s CSR initiatives have always been central to its operational strategy.

MUSCAT: Majid Al Futtaim’s two leading lifestyle destinations in the Sultanate, City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum, have announced incredible daily winning opportunities till June 21.

The two-month long prize giveaway will see lucky winners everyday – with two grand prize draw winners taking home a brand new Cadillac worth OMR15,000 each after spending OMR20 at either mall, says a press release.

What’s more, shoppers in City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum will have the opportunity to double their chances to win the grand prize when shopping at Carrefour during the promotional period. Additionally, shoppers will have the chance at winning a combined daily prize of OMR100 from both hypermarkets, resulting in a total of 92 winners.

“The chance to win big at City Centre malls over the coming months is very exciting and is aligned with our vision of creating great moments for everyone, everyday. We’re thrilled to offer our shoppers an extra opportunity to drive away with a premium car

when shopping at Carrefour hypermarket,” said Husam Al Mandhari, senior mall manager at City Centre Muscat. “These incredible promotions at our malls present memorable life-changing opportunities for many and we have great surprises in store for everyone” City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum have a schedule packed full of captivating shows, workshops and activities suitable for all ages starting on May 5 just in time for the summer. As temperatures soar, what better way

than spend the weekend then enjoying family-friendly entertainment at the mall.

Watfa Humaid Al Harthy, senior mall manager at City Centre Qurum said, “Our City Centre malls offer families in the Sultanate the opportunity to create memorable moments by enjoying an array of never been seen weekly acts and entertainment. We look forward to seeing families and friends enjoy the great activities we have in store for them over the coming weeks.”

NEW INSURANCE PLANS

Muscat Life Assurance launches two new unique products MUSCAT: Muscat Life Assurance Company (MLAC) is one of the first life insurance companies to have brought global tie up in international health solutions for the individuals, in Oman.

It has now announced the launch of its two indigenous and locally developed individual products – Family Floater Health Insurance – ‘Himayat Al Usra’ and Personal Protection Plan – ‘Hayati’, says a press release.

With the growing demand for improvement in quality of life, both these products aim to address the local aspirations of individuals and families, while

managing their personal risks effectively and efficiently.

The Family Floater Medical Plan provides an umbrella of cover to the entire family (upto seven members) upto the age of 65 years.

It also adds convenience to choose from a wide range of network of hospitals and clinics - freedom to decide. The plan covers wide range of benefits from in-patient, outpatient and maternity options and allows the flexibility to choose the same based on customer needs.

The Personal Protection Plan is a security for your loved ones in the event of an untimely event like death, accident or disability. It

agreed lump sum or payment towards borrowings or even acting as security to the bank. The level of cover depends on your current income and age. The plan can be bought at the age of 18 and pro-

ery of service at each touch point.

The flexibility and affordability of these products should encourage everybody to buy them.”

K. S. Parameswaran, chief marketing and relationship manager stated, “These products would help to cater to the insurance needs of the people in Oman in view of its uniqueness in providing additional benefits with attractive pricing.”

With the launch of these new individual products MLAC is going to enhance its presence, as well as distribution strategy and make them easily available. The process has been kept simple in order to facilitate quick turnaround times.

SINGING COMPETITION

SEMINAR

Career Counselling at ISC Salalah today MUSCAT: Meritnation - India’s leading education website that caters to students in Grades I-XII is conducting a Career Counselling Seminar for students studying in Grades IX-XII. The seminar, scheduled for today at the Indian Social Club, Salalah, has been especially designed to help students in Grades IX-XII outside India, make informed career decisions by guiding them to choose the right career, says a press release.

The seminar will especially focus on helping them prepare for competitive exams like JEE and AIPMT. The session will give students an opportunity to interact with experts from Meritnation

helps your loved ones live a peaceful life and enjoy the same standard of living in the event of an untoward incident.

The plan provides initial relief to the family members with the

vides cover upto 65 years. It is a must have for any individual working on his/her financial goals.

Philip K. Philip, Group CEO Muscat National Holding said, “The tradition of trust and service continues to motivate us to bring quality products to the market. We are extremely happy to contribute to the ambitions of aspiring Omani population in achieving their financial goals, with security. The new products shall strengthen the bond and ensure we live upto our motto - A friend for life.”

Syed Hussaini, GM - MLAC said, “We are committed towards our customers and ensure deliv-

The seminar will especially focus on helping students prepare for competitive exams like JEE and AIPMT and clear doubts and misconceptions regarding educational opportunities for NRIs. The career seminar will be followed by a one-on-one counselling session today and tomorrow.

The slots for the same can be booked by prior appointment by calling 98298451/ 93629471 or email: contact@meritnation.com

Bank Sohar sponsors Al Shabab FM ‘Najm Al Shabab’ contest MUSCAT: Demonstrating its dedication towards promoting youth talent in the Sultanate, Bank Sohar sponsored Al Shabab FM’s 3-month singing competition called ‘Najm Al Shabab’.

Based on the votes received, participants were shortlisted. In the finale that took place recently, three out of a total of four participants were announced as the winners. Bank Sohar presented the cash prizes to the winners Ghazi Talib Al Balushi, Bashier Al Saadia and Nisma Al Raisi.

The award ceremony was hosted by Al Shabab FM at the Public Authority for Radio and TV in Madinat Al Ilam, Muscat and was presided over by Mona Mahfoudh Al Mandhari, Oman TV presenter.

Representing Bank Sohar at the event was Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, Senior AGM and head of

Marketing and Customer Experience accompanied by the marketing department team.

The ceremony began with a welcome note from the popular radio presenter; Huda Al Khanbashi followed by short introductory speech by Mahmood Obaid Al Hesini, radio producer at Shabab FM. The event then took off and showcased the talents of the young Omanis who gave an outstanding performance. While anxiously awaiting the voting results, a

special thanks was mentioned to Bank Sohar where a memento was presented to Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi for being the sponsors of the event and having supported this initiative. Following the handover, members of the organising team were then awarded with certificates of appreciation from Public Authority for Radio and TV for their hard work, dedication, and efforts towards making the programme a significant success.

As soon as the votes were in,

the names of the winners were revealed by the judging panel where Ghazi Talib Al Balushi was announced as the first place winner of the contest, Bashier Al Saadia and Nisma Al Raisi, came in second and third place respectively.

The event concluded with Bank Sohar providing a token of appreciation to Mona as well as the judging panel.

Munira Abdulnabi Macki, GM of HR and Corporate Support at Bank Sohar mentioned, “As an integral part of the community for the past nine years, we believe that the youth deserve the best possible opportunities to showcase their talents and skill. Events such as the ‘Najm Al Shabab’ competition provide an opportune platform for the youth to do exactly that and was a competition we were glad to be a part of.”

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THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

ROUND-UP Basant showcases beauty of Pak culture and cuisine

TRULY ITALIAN: Basem Habash, regional director of La Verita introducing the brand in Oman. — O. K. Mohammed Ali / TIMES OF OMAN.

Thousands of people thronged Al Sawadi

Delicious Italian cuisine at La Verita

Beach to enjoy the electric atmosphere reverberating with the foot-tapping Pakistani music

SHAHZAD RAZA shahzad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Pakistani music, culture and the art of kite-flying were seen at their best at Pakistan Social Club’s mega annual festival ‘Basant 2016’ at a jam-packed Al Sawadi Beach.

Thousands of people thronged the place to enjoy the electric atmosphere reverberating with the foot-tapping Pakistani music and intermittent chants of bo kata, the shrill announcement signifying the severing of opponent’s kite in the

INAUGURAL OFFER

sky, followed by a loud celebration to mark the victorious occasion.

While a large number of kite-flying enthusiasts had started gathering at the beach since morning, the festival was formally opened by the chief guest Naheed Naveed Atif, Charge d’affaires, Embassy of Pakistan. The Basant Festival was presented by Mian Mohammed Munir, executive director of Ittfaq Travel and Tourism, and chairman of PSC Oman. Times of Oman was the media partner.

No Pakistani festival is considered complete without the taste and charm of its delectable cuisine. As the aroma of grilled food filled the air, one could sense a sudden spring in many strides and the food stalls were soon swamped by

swarms of foodies generously ordering their favourite tikkas and kebabs. With singers Farah Naz and Tahir Mehdi belting one hit after the other under the sky filled with kites of various designs and colours, the atmosphere could not have been more festive and families happier. With a lovely beach a few paces away, people seemed to be having a great outing, full of fun and joy.

Pakistani Social Club officials found it hard to keep a count of the number as the crowd continued to swell as the day progressed. As the sun set on an eventful day, a PSC official was heard claiming a massive crowd of about 10,000 people was present on the sprawling Al Sawadi beach, enjoying the popular festival

to the hilt. More than 6,000 kites were believed to have surveyed the Al Sawadi sky on that day.

Earlier, welcoming the guests, A. H. Raja, PSC vice chairman, announced the club would organise a colourful kite-flying competition from next year as part of its intention to add some innovations to the Basant Festival which PSC has been holding since 1998. He said the teams could be named after the corporates willing to sponsor the festival in 2017.

Muhammed Zaeem, PSC general secretary thanked the guests and sponsors for their support.

The event, conducted by Azra Aleem, was sponsored by Lifeline Medical Centre, Stars Light and Muscat Beach Trading.

MUSCAT: La Verita, after its success in Syria with eight branches, has now come to Oman with its first branch in Al Khuwair.

This lip smacking Italian pizza outlet, La Verita is here in Oman with not only pizza, but a variety menu of international taste. Pastas, sandwiches and many other dishes in the menu make it difficult to choose among the best, says a press release.

As a part of the inaugural offer, 50 per cent discount is announced for two months by Basem Habash, regional director of La Verita.

The Al Khuwair outlet was opened in December 2015. Within this short time span, La Verita has already become one of the favourite restaurants in Oman.

Habash said that introducing the brand to Oman was not very demanding, “Being an already established brand in a global market, finding a new location for expansion was tedious. However, launching the brand in Oman did not demand much effort, but a lot of passion.”

The key to their success is the fresh food they serve to their customers said Habash, “We serve it fresh, just the way you wish. The unique recipe and extravagant menu will make every foodie drool.”

Huge expansion plans are under pipeline with 24 outlets to be opened across Oman by year end.

La Verita has free home delivery service and food can be ordered via email as well at eat@ laveritaoman.com

P R O M O T I O NA L C A M PA I G N

Omantel TV+ offers 3 months free subscription MUSCAT: Omantel, the first integrated telecommunications services provider in the Sultanate, recently launched the nation’s first Internet Protocol Television service ‘Omantel TV+’ using Home Broadband.

The state-of-the-art TV viewing platform brings the Sultanate firmly into the fibre-optic era with HD quality news, sports and entertainment programmes with over 450 regional and global TV channels and a library of thousands of movies and TV series available ondemand. To celebrate this milestone, Omantel has launched a promotional campaign for its new Omantel TV+ subscribers offering

them 3 months’ subscription absolutely free, allowing them to experience the world of entertainment offered by Omantel TV+, says a press release.

Commenting on the advanced features of Omantel TV+, Haitham Al Kharusi, VP of Omantel’s Consumer Business Unit noted, “We are proud to present Omantel TV+ and excited for our customers to explore the world of features that this service brings. Omantel TV+ provides a unique platform and unmatched TV experience for live and on-demand entertainment services. Omantel TV+ service allows customers to watch premium channels, customers are also free

I N N O VAT I V E T E C H N O L O G Y

Fibre-optic subscribers “Rolling out digital smart home

services is part of our broader strategy, and a key area of growth in the years ahead. We aim to be the nation’s digital partner of choice, helping to bridge the digital divide and pioneering the move towards the digital smart home ecosystem. To mark this digital turning point, we are excited to launch ‘Omantel TV+ promotional offer for our new Omantel TV+ customers, this offer is available for fibreoptic subscribers of 6Mbps or higher Home Broadband package only. Omantel TV+ customers will receive the first 3 months’ service subscription absolutely free when they sign up for an Omantel TV+ subscription. Through this offer

our customers will get 150+ High Quality channels to experience the powerful features of the service, such as pause, rewind or record live TV, over 5,500 movies and series on demand, parental controls, picture in picture and much more,” Haitham Al Kharusi added.

The launch of Omantel TV+ aligns with the ‘Omantel 3.0’ strategy for digital smart homes and business services. The innovative growth strategy aims to position Omantel as the digital partner of choice, in the consumer arena and for the public and private sectors, enabling the digital society to flourish and grow across all sectors in Oman.

EXHIBITION

Al Hashar brings City Multi cooling system to Oman MUSCAT: It’s going to be a sizzling hot summer. Nonetheless, keep your cool with the amazing City Multi multi-purpose cooling system from Japanese electronics and electric giant Mitsubishi Electric Corp.

City Multi is an amazingly innovative multi-purpose air-conditioning system that can be used for homes, offices, hypermarkets, hotels and shops. City Multi has the technological brilliance to cool down the environment at extremely sultry weather conditions, while keeping operational noise level to the minimum, says a press release.

City Multi’s highest efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and compact design features are complemented by its environmentally friendly technology.

“Al Hashar Electronics has a single focal point: customers. We are driven by our corporate philosophy of enabling a better and enjoyable lifestyle for our esteemed customers. The City Multi multi-purpose cooling system is a cool technological innovation from Mitsubishi Electric, and Al Hashar Electronics is proud to be its exclusive distribu-

to air channels and movies to easily record their favourite shows and movies for future playback.

In addition to the pause and rewind function which allows them to have full control, simultaneous watch and record features are also included, and subscribers are able to browse other channels while watching their favourite channel, and search easily for their favourite shows. The Omantel TV+ service provides a world of entertainment at the touch of a button. TV viewing in the Sultanate will never be the same.”

tor. Don’t be intimidated by hot summer days; switch on your City Multi and stay cool,” said Rajeev Sharma, the general manager of Al Hashar Electronics.

The reliable City Multi range of air-cons are manufactured to the highest global standards, and are quite easy to install and maintain.

City Multi’s VRF technology enables a single outdoor unit to connect with multiple indoor units.

Some of the hi-tech features that sets City Multi apart include the VRF - which regulates refrigerant flow as per requirements, IPM - which precisely controls energy input ensuring efficient oper-

ation, inverter technology—which produces the right output level and saves energy, and the R410A refrigerant—which is chlorine-free and environment friendly with zero ozone depletion potential.

Another highlight is the anti-corrosive Blue Fin technology.

City Multi range of cooling systems use the acclaimed Mitsubishi Electric’s Air-conditioner Network System (MELANS) with individual and centralised remote controllers, apart from an integrated centralised software and BMS interface. The City Multi’s TG-2000A integrated softwaredriven management system enables centralised control of up to 2000 indoor units.

Further, City Multi can be easily connected to the building management system through BACnet.

Al Hashar ranks as one of the most trusted distributor of global electronics brands in Oman.

Opening up an amazing world of best-in-class household appliances, state-of-the-art electronics and innovative storage solutions, Al Hashar has endeared itself to the discerning customers of Oman.

Briefings on external undergraduate scholarships held at Ghedex 2016 MUSCAT: A briefing about external undergraduate scholarships was held for delegates from overseas Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) participating in the Ghedex last week.

The presentation was held by officials from the DG of Scholarships, Oman Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) who explained the difference among seats, grants, internal and external scholarships and underlined that the number of internal and external scholarships at undergraduate level has not yet been announced for the academic year 2016/17.

The MoHE staff members advised the audience not to confuse the scholarships with seats or (internal and external) grants. Seats concern seats at the government HEIs in the Sultanate; grants are funded by either other countries or companies, while the internal and external scholarships are funded by the Oman government and would allow recipients to pursue their higher undergraduate studies at either a private HEI in the Sultanate (an internal scholarship) or at a recommended HEI

abroad (an external scholarship).

The scholarship programmes have been included in the handbook as published by the Higher Education Admission Centre (www.heac.gov.om). The MoHE aims to offer scholarships for studying in areas that have been identified as national priorities and that have potential for economic growth.

Qualified Omani school leavers may competitively apply to the HEAC state-of-the art, award winning and unbiased electronic system for scholarships, as well as for seats and grants. At present, students have time to register until June 1 and they need to apply for at least 12 and max 40 different programmes in order to com-

pete. Applicants are advised to make well informed decisions in this regard and focus on whether a specific programme would suit their capabilities and needs.

‘Meet the counsellor’ Officials from MoHE and Ministry of Education attended a ‘Meet the Counsellor’ session organised by OITE/Ghedex and bringing together delegates from the United Kingdom, the United States, Malta, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Ireland, Poland, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Cyprus.

The aim of the briefing was to provide career counsellors with more information about these study destinations.

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ROUND-UP

REST UPON THE WIND

English play on Khalil Gibran’s life to be held only on May 4 MUSCAT: Rest Upon the Wind, a London West End English play, inspired by Khalil Gibran’s life and brought by NPA Events will be staged only on May 4 due to the public holiday announced in Oman on May 5. The play will be held at the Oman Auditorium of Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel at 8pm.

Rest Upon the Wind, written and directed by Nadim Sawalha, is the story of the struggle of the Middle East’s most acclaimed poet, writer, painter and philosopher, to deliver the message of love and peace to his fellow human beings.

The specially designed sets will transport the theatre aficionados to the very heart of Boston in the United States of America of the

19th and 20th centuries. There Khalil Gibran wrote his timeless classic The Prophet, the 1923 bestselling book which was translated to over 40 languages and sold over 140 million copies worldwide.

Lines from this classic have inspired song lyrics and political speeches. John Lennon, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, John F Kennedy and Indira Gandhi are among those who have been influenced by its words. The book is the inspiration for the play.

Khalil Gibran is the third bestselling poet of all time, behind William Shakespeare and Laozi. His works stand apart with their lyrical outpourings and express his deeply religious and mystical nature. Having his training in art by world-re-

his mother when still young, versatile Khalil won world recognition.

Though he passed away on April 10, 1931 in New York, United States at the age of 48, Khalil Gibran continues to create an indelible impression in the hearts and minds of people across the world through his timeless classics.

nowned sculptor Auguste Rodin in Paris, Gibran went on to create over 700 of the most fascinating drawings during his lifetime.

His story is that despite his humble upbringing and adverse circumstances of his family, losing his sister Sultana, his brother Peter and

ISD all set to organise ‘Symphoneve 2016’ The concert is being organised as part of Indian School Darsait’s plans to raise funds for the school’s development

MUSCAT: Indian School Darsait (ISD) is all set to organise Oman’s biggest fusion band concert – Symphoneve 2016 featuring India’s popular rock band Agam tomorrow at the City Amphitheatre.

Agam, a Bangalore-based contemporary Carnatic progressive rock band shot to fame when they performed at the MTV Coke Studio and has so far conducted 300 stage live shows across the globe.

“This will be Agam’s maiden performance in Muscat. Their music is not limited to any regional boundaries. It appeals to every individual who enjoys good music. We are confident that audience will be mesmerised in an evening of myriad hues of musi-

cal extravaganza when the symphony of Agam’s eclectic performance delivers an unforgettable experience,” said Ramesh of Orbit Events Management, who is managing this mega event.

The concert is being organised as part of ISD’s plans to raise funds for the school’s development. The fund raised from the event will be utilised by ISD for supporting economically deprived students and the Early Intervention Centre as well as infrastructural developments of the school. This includes development of school playground among many other value additions to school’s infrastructure.

School’s management committee (SMC), teachers, students and

their parents are enthusiastically participating in the preparation of this mega event. Principal Dr Sridevi P. Thashnath expressing her joy, said, “It is such a pleasure that everyone in the team has assumed responsibility and is contributing their best.”

Abdul Rahim Kassim, president of SMC said, “Oman’s people have given us a lot of support.

Funds so raised from this event will enable us to serve the community even more.”

ISD’s first fund raising event was a Carnival in 2012 followed by a mega fund raising event in 2015 that included a concert by the legendary musician Balabhaskar and his band. “The suc-

SHOPPER’S DELIGHT

Malabar Gold promises up to 15kg gold this festive season MUSCAT: Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the leading jewellery retailer unfurled the details of its much awaited campaign to celebrate this festive season.

This campaign which commenced yesterday will run at all Malabar Gold & Diamonds outlets in Middle East & Far East till May 14. The customers get unprecedented opportunities to win a total of 15 kilos of gold, says a press release.

A true shopper’s delight, Malabar Gold & Diamonds will captivate the customers by exhibiting eye catching designs in gold, platinum, diamonds and precious stones from different parts of the world to flaunt any occasion or event and are well priced too.

For every purchase of gold jewellery above OMR200, the customers get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon through which they can win a guaranteed gold coin or up to 250 gold coins instantly. The customers will get guaranteed pearl jewellery on every diamond

For every purchase of gold jewellery above OMR200, the customers get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon through which they can win a guaranteed gold coin or up to 250 gold coins instantly

jewellery purchases.

Customers also have a great opportunity to pay 10% of the value on their desired jewellery and get gold rate protection until May 9, during this festive season.

The customers also get a fabulous chance to buy 22K 8g gold coins with absolutely no making charges from any of Malabar Gold & Diamonds outlets in GCC during this period.

To add more glitter to this season, they have also unveiled the latest collection of jewellery specially designed for the festive season in gold, diamonds and precious gems to suit the tastes of their multicultural and multinational customers. Moreover, the customers can update any of their old ornaments purchased from GCC with the brand new enticing collection of Malabar Gold & Diamonds without any loss. Any 22K old gold ornaments purchased from GCC can be exchanged with Malabar Gold & Diamonds designs by paying only making charges ensuring they don’t lose any value on the rate of gold.

Customers can buy their favourite jewellery by using their credit/debit cards without paying any additional charge.

cess of the event is still resonating in our minds and hearts and fondly remembered by one and all,” added Dr Sridevi.

“We have been working on this project since November 2015. We are extremely delighted with the response and anticipation this event has generated. Entire ISD family has come together to make with event successful,” said Saji S. Nair, vice-principal (Operations and ICT).

“The support we are getting from corporates and individuals is phenomenal. It is said that when you wish for something sincerely and with pure intentions, the entire universe conspires to make it happen. We have been experiencing it since the day we started preparations for Symphoneve,” added Jaikish Pavithran, member of SMC and chairman of the event Symphoneve is presented by Minara, and is brought by ISD in association with Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Group. The event is powered by 360 Degrees Restaurant. SMC Infra is the gold sponsor. Event sponsors include Malabar Gold & Diamond, BEC Group and S & T Interiors & Contracting, KAS. Oman Air is the official airlines. Media partners is Times of Oman, print partner is Al Zahra Printing Press and radio partner is Voice of Kerala.

Enthralling drama An enthralling mélange of drama, introspection and soul-searching discovery, Rest Upon the Wind chronicles Gibran’s life from the time he migrated from Lebanon to the United States of America as a 12-year-old with his family.

The play revolves around his struggle to survive, of those who helped him along the way such

as his mentor Mary Elizabeth Haskell, and his warm family relationships, especially with his sister Miryanna.

A mix of drama, comedy and profound self-discovery, Gibran is an absolute ‘must see’, not only for Gibran fans, but for all those who are busy discovering their own spiritual journey.

With an original sound-score from award winning composer Jules Deering, this production boasts stunning visuals, music and electric performances from the six strong cast.

‘Rest Upon the Wind’, produced

by Ali Matar and staged by NPA Events, known for their ‘wow’ events, is all set to enthral the Oman audience.

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM THU RS DAY, APRIL 28, 2016

SECTION

SAID AHMAD JUST MISSES OUT ON MEDAL IN WORLD AMATEUR CHESS >C3

SPOR YOUR GAME

Saham Club

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INSIDE LIFESTYLE

THE GREEN PASTURE’S SOIL IS CRACKING UP SO TO SPEAK BY SALEH AL-SHAIBANY >C77

Al Khabourah Club

Exciting soccer in store as Saham, Khabourah set for HM’s Cup final The final, to be

Bank Muscat to make HM’s Cup final memorable

played at the Sohar Spots Complex, is scheduled to kick off at 7.15 p.m. with Lt. Gen. Hassan bin Mohsin Al Shuraiqi, Inspector General of Police and Customs, presiding over as the chief guest

Sports Reporter MUSCAT: An intriguing game of football is in the offing as Saham and Al Khabourah are set square off in His Majesty’s Cup Football Championship final on Saturday.

The final, to be played at the Sohar Spots Complex, is scheduled to kick off at 7.15 p.m. with Lt. Gen. Hassan bin Mohsin Al Shuraiqi, Inspector General of Police and Customs, presiding over the match

MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, as part of its commitment to promoting the development of youth and the national game of football, joins the nation in making the final match of His Majesty’s Cup a memorable experience for all.

In a special gesture, Bank Muscat will present the ‘Man of the Match’ award.

Saleh Al Maini, AGM – Interior Regions, said: “Bank Muscat is delighted to partner with Oman Football Association (OFA) in supporting His Majesty’s Cup. As the nation’s leading financial institution, Bank Muscat aims to support varied sporting activities to motivate and provide the required

as the chief guest. Interestingly the final will be contested between two sides — both from Al Batinah region — that have not done that well in the just concluded Omantel Professional League.

In the league, which saw Fanja lift the title for the record-equal-

Saleh Mohammed Al Maini

impetus for the country’s youth to excel in sports and games.

Bank Muscat wishes good luck to both the two teams participating in the HM Cup final to

ling ninth time, both finished in the bottom half with Saham at eighth place and Al Khabourah in the 10th.

However, it was different story in the Sultanate’s premier soccer event, His Majesty’s Cup, where both the teams came up with one ex-

lift the game of football to new highs to make it a unique experience for football enthusiasts in Oman.”

In keeping with the passion

cellent performance after another.

In the double leg semifinals, for instance, Al Khabourah got the better of Salalah on 1-0 aggregate while Saham defeated four-time winners Al Nasr by a similar margin.

Interestingly, Saham will be eyeing their second title to add to

AFC CUP

their one they won back in 200910 season while Al Khabourah will be hoping to lay their hands on Oman’s most coveted trophy for the very first time.

Referees named The Oman Football Association

Awards ceremony Meanwhile, the OFA revealed the plans to host the annual Awards Gala on May 7.

The ceremony wil take place at Hotel Crowne Plaza under the auspices of Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Chairman of the General Authority for Radio and Television and in the presence of Sheikh Sa’ad bin Mohammed Al Saadi, Minister of Sports Affairs, and a large number of invitees from the sports, institutions of public and private sectors as well as the star performers of the season.

During the ceremony, the best players and the teams will be honoured and the awards include top scorer, best player, best goalkeeper, best coach and best manager as well as the fairplay award. The best referees will also be honoured.

IPL

Fanja held, Al Arouba suffer defeat MUSCAT: Newly crowned Omantel Professional League champions Fanja were held to a goall draw while Al Arouba suffered a defeat in the AFC Cup group matches on Wednesday.

Fanja’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stage of the Asian event ended after a goalless draw with Syria’s Al Jaish at home and Al Arouba were beaten in their away game 2-1 by another Syrian side Al Wahda.

According to news posted on AFC website, Fanja’s chances of progressing to the knockout phase came to an end as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Al Jaish in their Group D match.

The result means Fanja, who have yet to register a win in this year’s competition, cannot surpass either Al Jaish or Palestine’s Ahli Al Khalil if they win their final game against group leaders Al Muharraq given their inferior headto-head record against both clubs.

Al Jaish, meanwhile, restored the one-point gap that existed between themselves and Ahli Al Khalil at the start of the day, with both teams having played four games compared to five by Fanja.

That leaves both clubs with a shot at joining Al Muharraq in the last 16 after the Bahrainis confirmed top spot in the group earlier in the day with a 1-1 draw against Ahli Al Khalil.

Neither side impressed in a disjointed affair at the Seeb Sports Complex, with Fanja squandering the best chances to win the game.

Raed Ibrahim hit the side netting with his first-half attempt while Hamid Osman and Youssef Khalfa

for football in Oman, Bank Muscat seizes every opportunity to promote the national game.

Bank Muscat is a major supporter of the national football team in all international tournaments, especially Gulf Cup. Central to the bank’s corporate social responsibility is the Green Sports initiative launched to promote Oman as a sporting nation in general and the national game of football in particular.

The Green Sports initiative launched by the bank in 2012 has achieved notable success in developing green football fields in all parts of the Sultanate. The bank remains committed to supporting all deserving teams to green their football fields.

(OFA) announced the officials for the match.

Ahmed Abubacker Al Kaf will officiate the match with Abubacker Al Amri and Rashad Al Haqmani acting as assistant referees. Omar AlYaqoobi will be the fourth official. During the final, the OFA will also be presenting a host of prizes for the fans including a car, airline tickets and tens of other valuable gifts.

The OFA also thanked Mazda, Oman Air, Omantel and all OFA sponsors for their valuable support for the HM’s Cup final.

Abdulrahman Al Ghassani posing the main threat to the Syrians’ defence, but the 25-year-old was unable to take full advantage.

On the hour mark Al Ghassani sent his shot from 12 yards over the bar while, three minutes later, the towering striker missed the best chance of the game when he only made the slightest of contact with Basil Al Rawahi’s cross from the left.

Rather than crossing the line, though, the ball was glanced well wide of the target.

And as the game moved into stoppage time, Al Ghassani was at fault again when, with the goal at his mercy, he rattled Ahmad Madanieh’s crossbar with his sidefooted attempt from eight yards out as Fanja exited the competition.

DRAWN GAME: Action from the AFC Cup Group D match between Fanja and Syria’s Al Jaish played at the Seeb Sports Stadium on Wednesday. – ISMAIL AL FARSI/Times of Oman

were off target with their efforts in the opening 45 minutes.

Ibrahim pulled off a rare moment of quality in first-half stoppage time when he slalomed his way through

the Al Jaish defence, only to see his right foot shot from 12 yards out deflected wide for a corner.

Fanja remained marginally the better side in the second half, with

Dominant Al Wahda Meanwhile, in Lebanese town of Saida, substitute Nassouh Nakkdahli’s second-half penalty secured a deserved 2-1 victory for Al Wahda over Al Arouba as the Syrian side remained in the hunt for last 16 qualification.

Al Wahda dominated the firsthalf proceedings at Saida Municipal Stadium but failed to open the scoring until two minutes into stoppage-time when Reja Rafe finished off a neat move from close in.

The visitors then equalised against the run of play on the hour through South African forward Lyle Peters only for Nakkdahli’s spot-kick on 66 minutes to wrap up the scoring as Al Wahda leapfrogged their opponents to move off the bottom of Group C.

Lions survive Morris onslaught to edge Daredevils in thriller NEW DELHI: Chris Morris’ brilliant unbeaten knock of 82 went in vain as Gujarat Lions held their nerves to pull off a thrilling one-run win over Delhi Daredevils in an Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Wednesday.

Coming out to bat at a difficult time when the Daredevils were tottering at 57 for four in 10.4 overs while chasing a challenging 173, Morris played a sensational knock and struck sixes at will to notch up his 50 in just 17 balls, the fastest half century of the season.

Morris (82 not out off 32 balls) shared 87 runs for the fifth wicket with his compatriot JP Duminy (48 off 43 balls) to take Daredevils to the brink of a win before experienced Praveen Kumar and Dwayne Bravo produced brilliant final two overs to restrict Daredevils to 171 for five.

With Daredevils needing 18 runs off the last two overs, Praveen gave away four runs in the penultimate over before Bravo held on to his nerves with a fine final over to seal the win for Gujarat Lions and propel the debutants to the top of the standings with 10 points from six games.

Earlier, openers Brendon McCullum and Dwayne Smith struck explosive fifties before Daredevils bowlers pulled things back to some extent to restrict Gujarat Lions to 172 for six.

McCullum (60 off 36 balls) and Smith (53 off 30) gave Gujarat a

blazing start as the duo put on 112 runs off just 64 balls for the opening stand after being invited to bat.

The way McCullum and Smith were going at one stage, Gujarat were well and truly on course to post a 200 plus total but Delhi bowlers, especially Imran Tahir (3/24) and Chris Morris (2/35), bowled brilliantly in the middle overs to keep the total under their arms length.

Chasing a challenging 173 for win, the Daredevils were off to a horrible start, with right-arm pacer Dhawal Kulkarni picking up the first three wickets, two of which came in one over, to reduce the hosts to 16 for three in four overs.

While Sanju Samson got a leading edge and was caught by a backward running James Faulkner in the second over, Kulkarni returned to dismiss Quinton de Kock (5) and Karun Nair (9). Duminy and Risabh Pant (20) then tried to resurrect the Delhi innings with a 40-run stand before the latter was brilliantly caught by Praveen Kumar at deep off Faulkner’s bowling.

Then came in Morris and in the company of Duminy used his long handle to great effect to keep Delhi in the hunt till the very last over.

Brief scores: Gujarat Lions 172 for 6 in 20 overs (B. McCullum 60, Dwayne Smith 53; Imran Tahir 3/24, Chris Morris 2/35) bt Delhi Daredevils 171 for 5 in 20 overs (Chris Morris 82 n.o., JP Duminy 48; Dhawal Kulkarni 3/19). - PTI

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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SPORTS INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW

Table toppers KKR take on holders MI in high-profile clash MUMBAI: The odds are in favour of table toppers Kolkata Knight Riders as they square off against defending champions Mumbai Indians, experiencing a campaign that is oscillating between high and low, in a potentially exciting Indian Premier League contest here tomorrow.

KKR and MI are the two teams that have clinched the honours alternately in the glamorous T20 league over the last four editions.

With the form shown thus far in the tournament by the two outfits, the match at the Wankhede Stadium promises to be an engaging battle between two top-notch sides. KKR are on a roll with four successive victories in five games.

Interestingly, their lone defeat of the season, by six wickets, had come at the Eden Gardens against the Rohit Sharma-inspired MI on April 13.

Captain Sharma blasted a match-winning 54-ball 84 not out to lead MI to victory in the first leg clash and KKR would be eager to set the record straight and stay at the top of the pecking order.

The Knight Riders have travelled well this season and have also been led brilliantly by their opener Gautam Gambhir who has been the fulcrum of the batting, aggregating 237 runs from five games.

When he fell cheaply KKR struggled on to chase down Rising Pune Supergiants’ total of 160 for five and won by two wickets on April 24, thanks largely to Mumbai Ranji batsman Suryakumar Yadav’s timely 49-ball 60. Yadav got good back-up from the under-performing Yusuf Pathan (36) which helped KKR’s cause.

“It is still the start of the tournament, we need to keep continuing the way we have done in the last five games, because we have realised what has happened last year.

We were right at the top of the table till the 12th game, and suddenly we did not qualify for the playoffs,” said Gambhir here during a team promotional in the run-up to the game.

MI, at the other end of the spectrum, have had a mixed bag of results so far, wins coming in between losses and are going into the game with their confidence re-

SITTING PRETTY: Kolkata captain Gautam Gambhir with Brad Hogg during the launch of Sansui new TV series in Mumbai. – PTI

stored following a 25-run victory over Kings XI Punjab at Mohali on Monday.

“It (this win) means a lot, considering our last few games hadn’t gone the way we wanted to. We played like we are known to, this is the performance we have been expecting,” said Sharma after the victory. Significantly MI registered a competitive score of 189 for

six without a big contribution from the captain and the form shown by his opening partner Parthiv Patel, who notched his first half century of the season with a knock of 81, must have pleased Sharma.

The win over Punjab, their second in the last three outings, lifted them to the fifth spot, but there’s still a long way to go before they can seal a spot in the play-offs.

Said narrowly misses out on medal at worlds Going into the ninth and final round of

I am not disheartened.

I gave my best and I am really proud of my performance

the championship, the Omani talent had the glory within the reach but he came up against a strong

Said Ahmad Ali Jidal Fadhil

Indian player in M.P. Ajith and suffered his only loss in the championship. That defeat, coupled with the tie breaks rules, saw Said Ahmad settle for fifth place

A. SESHAGIRI RAO

raoas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: It was a case of so near and yet so far for Oman chess player Said Ahmad Ali Jidal Fadhil. The Salalah-based player came up with a brilliant show but narrowly missed out on a medal at the World Amateur Chess Championship for players with under 2000 ratings in Greece on Wednesday.

Going into the ninth and final round of the championship, the Omani talent had the glory within the reach but the tournament regulations saw him settling for the fifth place.

Said Ahmad, in fact, had the opportunity to go for the gold as going into the final round he was in a two-way lead along with Mongolian girl Khulan Enkhsaikhan.

Both Said Ahmad and Khulan, who faced off in the penultimate round sharing the spoils after a long drawn out game, went into the final round with 6.5 points each.

But the Omani came up against a strong Indian player in M.P. Ajith and suffered his only loss in

the championship and the Mongolian defeated local player Koutsogiannopoulou Theodora to take the top honours with 7.5 points.

While Ajith grabbed the silver with 7 points, Said Ahmad, despite the final round loss, was still in with a chance to bag the bronze medal.

The Omani had 6.5 points, same as India’s Gochhikar Aparajita, Georgian Tqavadze Giorgi and Lithuania’s Jonkus Lukar.

But with the tie breaks coming into play, including Buchholz Tie-Break method, Aparajita took third place and Tqavadze finished fourth with Said Ahmad settling for fifth ahead of Jonkus.

Speaking to Times Sport from Greece right after the final round matches, Said Ahmad sounded disappointed but not disheartened.

“I am at a loss of words to describe how I am feeling right. It is very disappointing,” he said.

“But I am not disheartened. I gave my best and though I couldn’t win a medal I am really proud of my performance,” he said while adding: “It definitely would have been great if I have won a medal for the country.”

Speaking about the overall competition, he explained ‘we all came here to give out best and enjoy the atmosphere’, referring to the three other Omanis who took part in the championships.

“To be honest we came here (to Greece) to enjoy the game and the atmosphere. And we wanted to take one game at a time. But once we started playing we got into the groove and gained in confidence.

And from there we went on to focus more,” he added.

“Personally I had started off

well with good wins and kept my focus,” he said.

For the record, Said Ahmad, who entered the field with 1936 rating points, was unconquered till he met his match in Ajith in the final round. The Omani started off with two successive victories against Germany’s Roser Ludwig and Colombia’s Lina Panesso. Then after a draw with Bulgaria’s Alexander Karaivanov, he went on to beat Vietnam’s Hai Luu Duc and Georgia’s Tqavadze Giorgi. Another draw with Argentine Carcamo Matias followed a victory over Brazilian Renato Zimmermann Kleber.

Said Ahmad, however, opines his penultimate match against Khulan was the turning point.

“The match against the Mongolian girl was very tough. I think it was the turning point. But I should say the competition was very tough till the final round,” he said.

Hope for others Said Ahmad, who represents Salalah club, said the he and his fellow Omani players have given hope for other chess players from the Sultanate.

“We are very proud of our results in this world championship.

With our performance we have given the hope and we have proved that we can believe in ourselves and in our abilities, and dream of achieving great results at the world stage,” added Said Ahmad, who along with Musallam Salim Al Aamri, Amin Al Ansi and Fadhil Salim Ahmed can be termed as pioneers in the sense they were the first to represent Oman at the international chess championships.

Said Ahmad and Amin Al Ansi

were part of Oman squad that made their debut at the Chess Olympiad in 2014 in Norway and also took part in the Asian Cup in the same year in the neighbouring Iran.

The Salalah based player also took the opportunity to thank all those involved with Oman chess for their support, making special mention of International Chess Academy of Oman and it’s head coach Ismael Karim.

“I had to thank all for their support, not just for me but for all the Omani chess players, over the past few years. Especially the International Chess Academy of Oman and Ismael (Karim),” he said.

All praise Ismael Karim, who was Oman national team coach when they took part in the Olympiad and Asian Cup, was all praise for Said Ahmad.

“In chess the key is preparation and Said (Ahmad) has come this far purely because of dedication to preparation,” he said.

Ismael Karim, himself an International Master, said: “His (Said Ahmad’s) best quality both as a player and as a person is planning and add to that dedication. And more importantly when in front of the chess board he puts lot of emphasis on the strategy. These are the factors that contributed to his development as a player”.

Ismael Karim, who worked with Said Ahmad before he left for Greece, informed that the Omani player though missed out on a top three place will get other benefits in the form of points.

“Said Ahmad who went into the tournament with a 1936 ratings has completed his rounds with a rating performance of 2083 and that means he is likely to gain a minimum of 20 rating points,” he said.

Meanwhile, Musallam Salim Al Aamri, who also took part in the championship for players under 2000 ratings, finished in the 53rd place in a 67 player field with three points.

Amin Al Ansi and Fadhil Salim Ahmed competed in the world championship for players under 2300 ratings, the former finishing in the 34th place and the latter in the 41st.

Fadhil, who went into the championship as an unrated player, is likely to get the rating points of 1781 when the next list of ratings will be released by the world chess body.

In batting, MI have relied mostly on Rohit and Ambati Rayudu (217 runs), with the occasional blasts from Kieron Pollard and Jos Buttler.

It’s their bowling, especially the pacers, who have caught the eye for MI with New Zealand’s Mitchell McClenaghan (11 wickets) and Jasprit Bumrah (8) being the pick, in the absence of the injured Lasith Malinga.

Among the slow bowlers, Harbhajan Singh has taken just three wickets and against the strong batting of KKR he would be expected to strike important blows after the power play.

For KKR, Gambhir has — as in the past — been the stand-out performer with the bat while his opening partner Robin Uthappa (134 runs) has given him decent support.

The good show of Yadav against Pune bodes well for the visitors as the Wankhede is his home ground away from IPL. There has been no outstanding bowler for KKR so far as they have re-jigged the attack constantly.

But they have the extra bounce

of Morne Morkel and the pace of Umesh Yadav to bank on and the duo could pose a few problems for MI batsmen on a Wankhede track which is known to assist the pacers.

The return of Sunil Narine with a remodelled bowling action has added extra teeth to the slow bowling department, although bowling second with the possibility of dew fall could be a difficult proposition for him and the likes of Piyush Chawla and Shakib Al Hasan.

KKR have already lost the services for the remainder of the season of Australian pace bowler John Hastings due to an ankle injury, according to Cricket Australia.

The fast bowler, who has now been ruled out of the subsequent Australian tour to West Indies too, played in KKR’s first two games on April 10 and 13 and has not been part of the playing XI since then.

MI have a superb 17-5 all-time win-loss record against KKR, their last loss having come in their opening game of the last season at Eden Gardens before they turned around the fortunes and raced to the title. — PTI

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THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

SPORTS ISSF OLYMPIC SOLIDARITY COURSE FOR SHOOTING COACHES CONCLUDES The Olympic solidarity course for Oman shooting coaches saw 29 local participants in the week long programme, which concluded on Wednesday. The solidarity course was held by Oman Shooting Association in association with the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF) and has proved successful. The event was first of its kind in Oman and ISSF involvement was to develop national coaches in the sport of shooting. At the closing ceremony, Oman Olympic Committee secretary general Taha bin Sulaiman Al Kishry stressed the importance of developing national coaches. He later gave away certificates to the participants. — Supplied photo

Let’s get ready to rumble at Bernabeu, says Hart Ten-times winners Real Madrid have

CRICKET

Summer coaching at Al Hail School of Cricket

won six out of six at home in this year’s competition,

Sports Reporter MUSCAT: Al Hail School of Cricket will organised full-fledged summer training programme beginning from the second week of May. This was revealed by Moulabaksh Al Balushi, the founder of Al Hail Cricket Team and the Al Hail School of Cricket, which is situated at Mabellah off the Express Highway.

“There has been a demand from parents to organise training sessions during the summer,” said Moulabaksh, whose Al Hail School of Cricket boasting of lush green cricket facilities including nets has been attracting keen interest lately.

The school normally conducts training sessions on weekends, but now are planning to increase the numbers of sessions to all days when the schools are closed for summer vacations.

“Since we have started the school, we have witnessed new registrations (approximately 10

racking up 18 goals without conceding, but Manchester City’s Hart said he was relishing the challenge

TOMORROW’S STARS: Budding cricketers at the Al Hail School of Cricket. – Supplied photo

every week) and the response has been encouraging,” said Moulabaksh.

“During the summer days we will divide the number of registered budding cricketers into different batches so that every individual receives optimum

care and guidance,” he added.

Freshers’ session on weekends According to Moulabaksh, the first batch will be training from Sunday to Tuesday and the second batch will train from Monday to Wednesday.

The third batch will train on Tuesday, while the newly registered (fourth batch) will have their sessions on Friday and Saturday.

“The timing of sessions will be between 6pm and 7.30pm and cool refreshments will be provided to beat the heat,” he added.

MANCHESTER: Manchester City are set up to land Real Madrid a knockout blow at the Bernabeu next week and earn a place in the Champions League final, Joe Hart said after his saves helped earn a 0-0 draw in Tuesday’s first leg. The England goalkeeper produced two incredible late stops at the Etihad Stadium to leave the tie hanging in the balance for next week’s second leg in the Spanish capital.

Ten-times winners Real have won six out of six at home in this year’s competition, racking up 18 goals without conceding, but Hart said he was relishing the challenge.

“We’ve set it up for a good, old-fashioned rumble at the Bernabeu,” said Hart, who made a superb point-blank save from Pepe late on shortly after sticking out a foot to block a goalbound Casemiro header. “Bring it on.”

“We are not disappointed with the result. We are ready. We have a brilliant squad who are coming to fruition. Big game next week, simple as.”

City have already won at Sevilla in the group phase and in Kiev in the last 16 and also drew at Paris St Germain on their way past the French champions into the semifinals.

We are not disappointed with the result. We are ready. We have a brilliant squad who are coming to fruition.

Big game next week Joe Hart Manchester City

Formidable hurdle Real, who should have their injured top scorer Ronaldo back next week after he was forced to sit out Tuesday’s opener with a thigh strain, will be a formidable hurdle, but City captain Vincent Kompany said the Spanish giants will be wary.

“0-0 is a very dangerous scoreline. From the moment we manage to score in Madrid, it will be very different,” he said. Real manager Zinedine Zidane said he felt his side deserved to be heading home with their noses in front.

“It was difficult. We defended well, we had more of the ball in the second half and we had chances to score,” he said. “I’m a bit disappointed because in the second half we deserved to win.”

Explaining why Ronaldo was not even on the bench, the Frenchman said the Portuguese had aggravated a thigh strain during a training session. — Reuters

CRICKET

Global Falcon Cup tourney on Friday MUSCAT: The Global Falcons Cup 2016 cricket tournament will be held on Friday (April 29), according to information received from the organisers.

The tournament is sponsored

by Global Source Trading LLC and Global Industrial Services LLC and will be played on the Al Amerat cricket ground near the Muscat Festival parking area.

The opening match of the tournament will be from 6.15am and the final will be played around 4pm. Eight teams such as Cyclone XI, Spartans, Al Mudhish

XI, Infinity CT, Dolphin XI, Salkot Stallions, Dragon Warriors and Waves XI will be vying for the honours.

T.K. Vijyan (M.D- GST & GIS), Roy (CEO-GIS) and Martin Thomas (CFO-GIS) will be giving away the prizes.

The other supporters are Modern Exchange, Silver Star Oil & Gas, Omani Vegetable Oil & Derivatives, Tawoos Industrial Services, Al Afiya Cold Store, Al Fayeda Travel & Tourism, Al Jardani Silver Enterprises and Al Afiya Cold Store.

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SECTION

LIFESTYLE

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

Culture WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

FILM FIESTA Young filmmakers will showcase their works in the first short film festival, organised by the German University of Technology in Oman at its sprawling campus, from May 8 to 12

Story T.A. Ameerudheen ameerudheen@timesofoman.com

COM E and vis MAY 8, fi u lm differe al media stu makers n d scend t parts of Om ents from o Universn the sprawli an will den Oman ity of Tech g German Halba (GUtech) nology in campu n, in s in For th Muscat. will w e next five a makin tch movie days, they s try th g tips from , get filme produ ir hands in experts, c shake tion pro the postc a dance leg at the ess and B first-e night, du ollywood ver r GUte ing the Film Fes ch S hort The fe tival. stival films w il l such a in differen showcase s anima documenta t genres, ti ry, and sp on, expe drama, ies sho orts, apart rimental, fr tw om m ovThe ith GoPro ready organisers cameras. r h e ave a ceived entrie lp s sectio for the co lenty of n. mpeti tion Joan found na Trace y e said th r of the film Heaton, encou e respons festival, e r nation aging. “T is quite h good al event p e multiplatfo rovide ing fi rm fo lm r upc s a case th makers o to sh me ir w movie orks, a ows Besid made by t nd watch h e oppor s, it will giv eir peers. tu e share nity to in them an te other their thou ract and s g mitte . Entries ca hts with d till M n ay 8.” be sub-

1st GUtech Short Film Festival When: May 8 to 12, 2016 Where: GUtech Campus, Halban, next to Southern Expressway Genres: Documentary, Drama, Anime and Animation, Experimental and Art, Sports

On the concluding day, day a jury of experts will announce the awards for best films in each category. Special awards will be given to best actor, actress, writer, visual effects, and cinematography.

The event will benefit youngsters, as experienced filmmakers will throw light into various aspects of film production. “Omani director Ahmed Al Maqbali will give a two-hour workshop on filmmaking process. Those who are interested in postproduction can participate in the Adobe Premier editing workshop. We are also planning a Bollywood dancing night,” informed Heaton.

It was Heaton who came up with the idea to organise the festival. “Film has always been my passion as I worked with the indus-

and Action, Public Service and Social Issue, and GoPro movies Additional Events: Film workshop, Editing workshop, Social Media Skill Development, Bollywood Dance Night Website: gutech.edu.om, student-filmfestival-2016/#tab-id-1

e I ca m a . So id Canad pt. I d try in the conce the vih up wit h to check itting a c resear before subm ersity, iv ability al to the un e,” she s propo upported m s e who aton, th said. rding to He n incluAcco ill create a filmlw ng festiva ace for you p sive s . ows s l all far, maker festiva ho D e h T m “ fro sirah Is sters young aw, and Ma er parts in Ibra, S from any oth ir films e r land, o n, to enter th ebsite.” a of Om the festival w val has h ti throug said the fes nse so spo She ood re flection of g d e s. receiv ms are a re ttitude far. “Fil g social a really in d il e a iv v ece pre s. One ave r We h l short film in the fu beauti om Nizwa has had fr entry on category our Fati n anima ,000 views o . id over 18 page,” she sa tee will it cebook ging comm s based d A ju the movie . “We rs te a c evalu riety of fa to d evale a on a v t up a detail rks will e have s process. Ma ry telluation rded for stoity and a be aw %), creativ dience u 0 ing (3 lity (30%), a ), and a origin ment (20% 0%) to e engag al quality (2 .” technicthe winners onclude c decide stival will The fe .

2 y1 on Ma

WHO CAN ENTER The event is open to all nationalities.

Interested can submit their films online through gutech.edu.om/student-filmfestival-2016/submission-form Entries close on May 8.

CONTACT JT Heaton (Phone: +968 9465 2331) Follow the fest on social media facebook.com/GUtechfilmfest instagram.com/gutechfilmfest twitter.com/gutechfilmfest1

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

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PRAYER TIMINGS

FIND-IT-ALL CINEMA SCHEDULE

6.30 PM Baaghi (2D) (Action) –PG Cast: Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor 11.45 PM

@ AZAIBA

@SOHAR

SUR Midnight Special (Adventure) (PG) Cast: Micheal Shannon, Joel Edgerton 3:30, 7:15, 11:45 PM. I Am Wrath (Action | Crime | Drama) (12+) Cast: John Travolta, Rebecca De Mornay 5:30, 11:55 PM. Baaghi (Hindi | Action | Romance) (TBC) Cast: Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor 9:15 PM. The Jungle Book 3D (Adventure) (PG) Cast: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley.

6:15 PM. Bastille Day (Action) (12+) Cast: Idris Elba, Richard Madden, Kelly Reilly.

2:45, 10:15 PM. Synchronicity (Mystery | Sci-Fi) (15+) Cast: Chad McKnight, Brianne Davis 4:30, 8:30 PM.

CITY CINEMA Contact (10 am to 6PM) 24567664 | 68 www.citycinemaoman.net facebook.com/citycinemaoman SHATTI Midnight Special – (2D) (Drama) (PG) Cast: Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton 3:00, 9:15 & 11:30PM I Am Wrath – (2D) (Action |Crime) (12+) Cast: John Travolta, Rebecca De Mornay 7:15& 11:30PM Take Down – (2D) (Thriller) (PG12) Cast: Dominic Sherwood, Phoebe Tonkin 3:45 & 10:00PM Mothers Day – (2D) (Comedy| Drama) (15+) Cast: Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson 5:30PM Dhay Fe Abu Dhabi – (2D) (Drama) (PG) Cast: Hassan Hosni, Eid Al Thahiri 7:45PM Green Room – (2D) (Crime |Horror) (TBC) Cast: Anton Yelchin, Imogen Poots 11:45PM Precious Cargo – (2D) (Action) (12+) Cast: Bruce Willis, Claire Forlani 5:15 & 9:30PM The Jungle Book - (3D) Drama| Family) (PG) 3:30, 5:30 & 7:30PM MUSCAT GRAND MALL Take Down – 2D (PG12) Thriller Cast: Dominic Sherwood, Phoebe Tonkin 4:00, 9:40 PM Precious Cargo – 2D (12+) Action Cast: Bruce Willis, Claire Forlani 6:00 PM The Jungle Book – 3D (PG) Adventure 12:15, 2:45, 5:00, 7:00 PM I Am Wrath – 2D (12+) Action |Crime | Drama Cast: John Travolta, Rebecca De Mornay 2:15, 7:50, 11:45 PM Gold Class : 9:00 PM Midnight Special – 2D (PG) Adventure Cast: Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton 12:30, 9:15, 11:30 PM

I Am Wrath – (2D) (Action |Crime) (12+) Cast: John Travolta, Rebecca De Mornay 7:15& 11:30PM

Gold Class : 3:45, 6:45, 11:00 PM PANORAMA MALL Bastille Day –2D (Action) (12+) Cast: Idris Elba, Richard Madden, Kelly Reilly 3:45 & 11:30PM Midnight Special –2D (Adventure| Drama | Sci-Fi) (PG) VIP LOUNGE Cast: Michael Shannon, Kirsten Dunst 3:45, 9:00& 11:15PM Midnight Special –2D (Adventure) (PG) 3:45, 6:15, 9:15 & 11:30PM I Am Wrath –2D (Action |Crime | Drama) (12+) VIP LOUNGE Cast: John Travolta, Rebecca De Mornay 6:45PM I Am Wrath –2D (Action |Crime ) (12+) 8:15 &11:45PM Top Cat Begins –2D (Animation) (TBC) Voice Overs: David Hoffman, Ben Diskin 3:30 & 5:30PM Baaghi –2D (Hindi| Action| Romance) (TBC) Cast: Shraddha Kapoor, Tiger Shroff 6:15, 8:45 & 11:15PM Precious Cargo –2D (Action) (12+) Cast: Bruce Willis, Claire Forlani 10:00PM

Mother’s Day– 2D (Comedy/Drama) (15+) Cast: Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson, Julia Roberts 4:45PM

Baaghi (2D) (Action | Romance) (PG) Cast: Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor 2:45, 6:15, 8:45, 10:15, 11:15 PM

The Jungle Book (MX4D) (Family) (PG) Cast: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley 3:30, 5:30, 7:30 & 9:30PM The Jungle Book - (3D) Drama| Family) (PG) 7:15PM

6:45 PM Manithan (2D) (Tamil) (Comedy) (TBC) Cast: Udayanidhi Stalin, Hansika Motwani 8:45 PM Sarrainodu (2D) (Telugu) (Action) (12+) Cast: Allu Arjun / Rakul Preet Singh 7:15 PM

AZAIBA Top Cat Begins (2D) (Animation) (PG) Voice Overs: David Hoffman, Ben Diskin 3:15, 5:00 PM Synchronicity (2D) (Mystery | Thriller) (15+) Cast: Chad McKnight, Brianne Davis, AJ Bowen 3:00, 4:50, 11:30 PM The Huntsman: Winter’s War (3D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Jessica Chastain 11:30 PM The Jungle Book (3D) (Adventure) (PG) 5:15, 6:45, 9:15 PM Fan (Hindi) (2D) (Thriller) (PG12) Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Joelle Koissi 3:15 PM Baaghi (2D) (Action | Romance) (PG) Cast: Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor 2:45, 6:15, 8:45, 10:15, 11:15 PM Hijrat (2D) (Pakistan | Drama) (TBC) Cast: Asad Zaman, Rabia Butt, Noman Ijaz

SOHAR Mother’s Day– 2D (Comedy/Drama) (15+) Cast: Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson 4:45PM Precious Cargo– 2D (Action) (12+) Cast: Bruce Willis, Claire Forlani 3:15, 6:45PM I Am Wrath– 2D (Action/Crime/Drama) (12+) Cast: John Travolta, Rebecca De Mornay 5:00, 11:30PM The Jungle Book – 3D (Drama, Family) (PG) 3:30, 5:15, 7:15PM Green Room-2D (Action/Crime/Horror) (15+) Cast: Anton Yelchin, Imogen Poots 11:55PM Midnight Special – 2D (Drama/Sc-fi) (PG) Cast: Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton 3:00, 9:00, 11:45PM Take Down – 2D (Thriller) (PG12) Cast: Dominic Sherwood, Phoebe Tonkin 5:30, 7:15PM Bastille Day– 2D (Action) (12+) Cast: Idris Elba, Richard Madden, Kelly Reilly 3:00, 10:15PM Baaghi– 2D (Action) (PG) Cast: Shraddha Kapoor, Tiger Shroff 9:15, 11:15PM Manithan– 2D (Comedy/Romance) (TBC)

RUWI Screen 1 Baaghi (2D) (Action) –PG Cast: Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor 2.30, 5.30, 8.30, 11.30 PM Screen 2 The Jungle Book (2D) (Adventure) –PG 3.00, 5.00, 9.30 PM Hijrat Pakishtani (Action) –TBC Cast: Asad Zaman, Rabia Butt 7.00 PM Baaghi (2D) (Action) –PG Cast: Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor 11.45 PM Screen 3 Fan (Thriller) –PG12 Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Joelle Koissi 3.30, 8.45 PM The Jungle Book (2D) (Adventure ) –PG

Cast: Udayanidhi Stalin, Hansika Motwani 8:45PM Sarrainodu – 2D (Action, Masala) (12+) Cast: Allu Arjun / Rakul Preet Singh 7:00PM

BAHJA CINEMA

BURAIMI The Jungle Book (3D) (Adventure) PG 7:30PM Top Cat Begins PG (Animation) Voice Overs: David Hoffman, Ben Diskin 3.15, 5.00 PM Green Room (Crime |Horror | Thriller) 15+ Cast: Anton Yelchin, Imogen Poots 6:45, 11.45 PM Baaghi (Hindi) (Action| Romance) PG Cast: Shraddha Kapoor, Tiger Shroff 3:30, 8.30 & 11:00 PM Midnight Special (Adventure|Sci-Fi) PG Cast: Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton 3.30, 9.30, 11.30 PM Synchronicity (Mystery| Sci-Fi| Thriller) 15+ Cast: Chad McKnight, Brianne Davis, AJ Bowen 5:30 & 8:00 PM Take Down (Thriller) PG (12+) Cast: Dominic Sherwood, Phoebe Tonkin 6:00 & 9:45 PM

I Am Wrath (Action / Crime / Drama) Cast: John Travolta, Amanda Schull 4.00, 8.00, 10.00, & 11.55 PM CP No: 1109 (12+) Take Down: (Thriller) Cast: Dominic Sherwood, Phoebe Tonkin 4.00, 6.00, 10.00, & 11.55 PM CP No: 1110 (PG12) Green Room: (Horror / Crime / Thriller) Cast: Anton Yelchin, Imogen Poots, Alia Shawkat 2.00 & 8.00 PM CP No: 1111 (15+) Top Cat Begins: (Animation) Voice Overs: David Hoffman, Ben Diskin 2.00 & 6.00 PM CP No: 1112 (PG)

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Arrival Operating time days

Dept time

Destination

Arrival Operating time days

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

TEMPERATURE

05:30 05:30 05:30

Maximum

Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

06:30 06:30 08:00 13:00 13:00 16.00 16.00

07:00 07:00 13:30 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00

Sohar Buraimi Buraimi Sohar Buraimi Sohar Buraimi

08:50 Daily 11:00 Daily 14:30 Daily via Ibri 15:45 Daily 17:40 Daily 18.35 Daily 20:20 Daily

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 17:30

Sinaw

Nizwa Yanqul

20:50

Daily

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

36 26 Minimum

0

RELATIVE HUMIDITY

55-15%

Daily Daily

07:00

Ruwi

10:25

Daily

06:00 06:00

Nizwa Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

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

Daily Daily

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

Fahud Yibal

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

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

Daily Daily

Marmul

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

Daily Daily

12:30 12:30

Fahud Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

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

LISTINGS

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

15:00

Salalah

Daily

07:00

Daily

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

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 07:30 07:30 13:00 13:00 15:30 15:30

Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH/SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

07:00 07:00 07:00

16:00 16.00 16.00

Fujairah Sharjah Dubai

11.45 13.30 14.00

Daily Daily Daily

Sharjah Fujairah Ruwi

16:30 18.15 23.00

Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence 24569603 Directorate General of Customs 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries 24510228 Public Relations Admin 24560099 EMBASSIES IN OMAN

Daily Daily Daily Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (ROUTE 102)

07:00

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

10:45 19:00

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101)

SALALAH TO DUBAI (ROUTE 102) 15:00

Ruwi Ruwi

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100) Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

06:00 14:30

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

10:30 11:15

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

GAUTAM MADHAV April 28, 2010

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54)

10:20 12:30

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) Sur Sur

Programmes are subject to change

NAAFIL KHALID April 28, 2013

ROYAL OMAN POLICE 07:30 14:30

Next Change: Jacobinte Swargarajyam (Mal) 24 (Tamil)

0

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

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

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

Sarrainodo (Telugu) (Action, Drama) Cast: Allu Arjun &amp; Rakul Preet Singh 3:00 PM Cinema Main \6:45, 9:45 PM Cinema-3\ Kali (Mal) (Comedy\ Drama) Cast: Dulquar Salmaan &amp; Sai Pallavi 6:30, 10:00 PM Cinema Main \ 3:45 Cinema-3 Theri (Tamil) (Action) Cast: Vijay &amp; Samantha 3:30, 6:30, 9:30 PM Cinema-2 Fan (Hindi) (Action\Thriller) Cast: Shahrukh Khan 3:45, 6:45 PM Cinema -4 From Friday: 6:45 PM Cinema-4 Manithan (Tamil) (Comedy) Cast: Udhayanidhi Stalin &amp; Hansika Motwani 9:45 PM Cinema -4 From Friday: 3:45, 9:45 PM Cinema-4

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52)

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

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

Daily Daily Daily

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

WEATHER

15:00 15:00 15:00

16:30 18:00 19:30

STAR CINEMA

WITH LOVE

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

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

SALALAH The Jungle Book (3D) (PG) (Adventure) 2:30, 6:30PM Midnight Special (2D) (PG) (Adventure) Cast: Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton 1:00, 3:15, 9:00, 11:30PM I Am Wrath (2D) (12+) (Action |Crime) Cast: John Travolta, Rebecca De Mornay 5:30, 11:55PM Top Cat Begins (2D) (PG) (Animation) 12:45, 4:30PM Precious Cargo (2D) (12+) (Action) 1:15, 7:15PM Mother’s Day (2D) (15+) (Comedy) Cast: Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson 5:00PM Bastille Day (2D) (12+) (Action) Cast: Idris Elba, Richard Madden 3:00, 7:15PM Baaghi (2D) (PG) (Hindi) (Action) Cast: Shraddha Kapoor, Tiger Shroff 8:30, 11:15PM Manithan (2D) (TBC) (Tamil) (Comedy) Cast: Udayanidhi stalin 9:00PM

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

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI) Destination

12.09pm 3.35pm 6.39pm 7.54pm 4.15am

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

@ SHATTI

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 International Hospital, Al Ghubra 22004000, 94267068/97049520 Al Hayat Clinic, Al Hail 22009455

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

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

C7

LIFESTYLE WATCH

Bamboo

Midnight Special

Fusion Massage

In theatres now

At Spaloon Oman

Scan to buy tickets

BUY

Scan for details

LISTEN Fast Car Swim Gear

By Jonas Blue

To take a dip

Featuring

in the pool

Dakota

Scan for details

Scan to watch the video

The Green Pasture’s Soil is Cracking Up

SALEH AL SHAIBANY

SO TO SPEAK

M

any expatriates are now considering the benefits of working in Oman.

The high cost of living due to huge inflation is taking away most of the pay package of foreign workers.

It is difficult now for an average expatriate to save enough money for a comfortable retirement. The only remaining attraction is that Oman is still an income tax haven.

Retailers and property owners get greedy and they want a bigger share of our money. To own a property in the Sultanate seems to offer a solution for some expatriates. It gives them an opportunity to beat the rent trap. But the property developers get them from maintenance charges and in most cases the cost is the same as paying rent.

You get to own the property but not the land the accommodation stands on. Maintenance cost will rise on the same rate as rental at 15 per cent per year.

The problem is that, Oman is now looking at rich international investors and not at residents who have toiled for years.

Private property developers are given a license to charge exorbitant prices to lure in foreign funds. About $7 billion worth of properties in the country have been sold mostly to non-residents in the last 10 years. They estimate the figure will triple in the next decade after the completion of the new developments.

What about ordinary residents who are already contributing to the economy? Majority of them earn just enough to keep their families going. About 70 per cent of residents say these new properties are beyond their financial means.

I am also amazed when government planners say that they are doing all this to create business and employment opportunities for nationals. I find that hard to digest.

Retail owners benefit most from the price rise and you don’t see more nationals being employed there. The truth is that in some sectors, retail outlets do not em-

ploy nationals at all. Property owners improve their bank balance by having their buildings constructed mostly by labourers. Yes, soaring building materials is a factor but how many nationals work in the cement and block factories?

Billions of dollars may pour in but they land in very few hands. It is like that kids’ game ‘pass the parcel.’ The parcel is going around the same circle each and every time.

And that circle is not getting bigger or extended to other circles. At the moment, ordinary nationals are content what comes their way but expatriates are different.

They have the choice of packing their bags when the financial heat is hotting up. It is not as lucrative as it used to be and the pasture in their own countries is getting greener.

We don’t seem to have any grazing land left since international investors take them at wholesale.

The bubble is beginning to come apart from the seams unless the harvest reaches all corners.

Well, we begin to hear words that were never spoken in the past from ordinary mouths. I hope they would find the right channels to dissipate harmlessly.

If it is all in the name of progress, then let the parcel pass to all hands.

WEEKEND UPDATE

DO

THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2016

LIFESTYLE

Rest Upon the Wind Comes to Muscat The play, inspired by the life and times of Khalil Gibran, will be staged at Al Bustan Palace on May 4

K

halil Gibran fans in Oman will get a chance to watch Rest Upon the Wind, a play inspired by the life and times of the celebrated poet, writer, and painter.

It tells the story of Gibran’s struggle to deliver the message of love and peace to his fellow human beings, about his guardian angel, Mary, and those who tried to destroy him— his businessman neighbour, Marzoo and his secret lover, Michelline.

Written and directed by Nadom Sawalha, the play celebrates the Arab sense of humour and family warmth through the relationship of Khalil Gibran and his sister Miryanna as they struggle to adapt to life in America.

Memories of childhood and his own spiritual awakening in Mount Lebanon are interspersed with the daily hustle and bustle of the Lebanese enclave of Chinatown, Boston.

The experience of migration and the longing for a new life are vividly portrayed in the play.

Launched in 2011 in London, Rest Upon the Wind, has been popular the world over with several shows in New York, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.

The play has stunning visuals, live music, and electric performances from the strong cast. The show will be held at Al Bustan Palace on May 4 at 8 pm. –lifestyle@timesofoman.com

WHEN & WHERE Khalil Gibran, Rest Upon the Wind (A unique English play on the life and times of Khalil Gibran) Date: May 4 (Wednesday) Venue: Oman Auditorium, Al Bustan Palace Time: 8pm Contact: Ashok Suvarna (+968 9932 4805)/ Imran Raj (+968 9987 8330)

Photography: Supplied

C8

D

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M T H U R S DAY, A P R I L 2 8 , 2 0 1 6

SECTION

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

RENT

D2

VACANCY

D4

CARGO

D7

D2

T H U R S D AY, A P R I L 2 8 , 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE FOR RENT

FOR RENT

DĂĚŝŶĂƚ ^ƵůƚĂŶ YĂƐ ͗^ŚŽǁƌŽŽŵͬKĸĐĞ Ăƚ 'ƌŽƵŶĚ &ůŽŽƌ͕ ϯϰϬ ^Ƌ Mtr. Facing main Road HAR Complex MSQ : 2,3-BHK Flats and 2 & 3 BHK villas with

ͬ ͕ĐĂƌ ƉĂƌŬŝŶŐ͕ ^ǁŝŵŵŝŶŐ WŽŽů ;'ĂƚĞĚ ŽŵƉůĞdžͿ Qurum : 6 BHK villa with garden, split Acs, shaded car parks, servant rooms DĂďĞůůĂ ͗ Ϯ ,< &ůĂƚƐ ǁŝƚŚ ;ďƌĂŶĚ ŶĞǁ ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐͿ Darsait : 1 & 2-BHK Flats with AC & Shop Ruwi : 2-BHK & 3-BHK Flats and shops Al Amerat : 2 & 3-BHK Flat , 3 & 4-BHK Villa with A/C

For viewing please call 99466729, 99316410, 92841690, 91313271, 24694088 or email us on :hartc@omantel.net.om

*Tourist visa arranged

3 BHK, 3 toilets near Indian School main Wadi Kabir & 2 BHK, 2 toilet near Honda road Junction.

Contact: 99737562 Office 55 SQ. Mtrs & 2 B /R new bldg in Bausher behind bank Muscat from owner. Contact: 92158031 Super deluxe 5 bedroom villa at North Ghubrah. Contact: 99369081 3 Rooms, 2 Toilets Flat for Rent.

18 November Street. Near Mars Hypermarket and The Chedi.

Ghobrah -Good for Commercial or Residential use. OMR 295/- month.

Call 94477222 1,2,3 BHK flats & villas.

Contact: 92144045 3 BHK without A/C Al Khuwair R.O 375/-. Contact: 92144045 2BHK with A/C Ghubra R.O 325/-. Contact: 92144045 1BHK M.B.D R.O 250/-.

Contact: 92144045 1BHK Mumtaz R.O 225/-.

Contact: 92144045 Room at Al Khuwair RO 110/-.

Contact: 95317247 1BHK with A.C Ghubra R.O 275/-.

Contact: 92144045 House for rent 1 bedroom & sitting room, 1 toilet & kitchen in Mawalah near City Center.

Contact : 96968104 House rent 2 bedroom, Majlis, 2 toilets, kitchen & parking in Mawalah near City Center.

Contact: 96968104 2 rooms flat for rent in Wattaya.

Contact: 99202602 Running beauty parlor for rent in Al Khuwair. Contact: 98689280 2 Bedroom flat near Kuwait Masjid, Wadi Kabir. Contact: 98498823 / 97608564

Two modern fully furnished & equipped offices available for rent at Jasmine Complex Al Khuwair:

FOR RENT IN RUWI

1) 152 M2 with reception, 1 GM Office, 2 meeting rooms, 26 working stations, pantry, network connection.

2) 132 M2 with reception, 7 offices, 6 working stations, 1 conference room, network connection.

1 BHK – SPILT A/C, BUILT IN WARDROBE &CENTRALIZED GAS. SPACIOUS 2 BHK.

FOR RENT

Commercial Space Commercial Space For Rent in Al Khuwair. Ideal for Coffee Shop / Restaurant / Office Space / Showroom 27sqm / 68sqm / 128sqm

Contact - 99469698

Contact: 96775026

Villa for rent 8 big room, 7 toilets, big hall, Kitchen & store Al Khoud.

Contact: 91153933

Brand new double bed room flats with two and three toilets, split ac, elevators available at Al Khoudh next to Al koudh health center.

Contact 99022675

Contact : 990 49 722 Flat in Wadi Al Kabir 2 bedrooms, 1 living room, 1 family hall, kitchen & 3 bathrooms. Contact: 99277787 Flat for rent : flat available at Hamriya & Wadi Kabir. Contact: 97380548 / 99680499 Warehouse 400 sqm behind Majan Hyper market near Bridgestone tyres, Ghala.

Contact: 95928800 / 98014921 Room for rent near Al Daser Rex road Ruwi. Contact: 92099367 / 99797645 Modern Office space for rent at MBD area near ATLAS Hospital with full local support by Omani if required. Contact: 98825806 / 98825806, Email: info@rns-group.com 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 Room or apartment for rent in Qurum. Contact: 99664703 Executive bachelor at Rex Road near Kamat Hotel telugu, kannada or Tamil. Contact: 99151508 New building 1BHK, 3 BHK flats with AC at Wadi Al Kabir behind Muscat Bakery. Contact: 99338133 / 92103604

Large Twin villa 6+6 rooms +2 halls +2 kitchens, Large independent compound, good for companies, staff accommodations /sharing families/executive bachelors.

Contact 98048207 2BHK Ghubra South with A/C, 300 R.O . Contact: 99342661 1BHK Darsait 200/- R.O. Contact: 94233661 2BHK Barka with A/C 160/-R.O. Contact: 99342661 2 bedroom Flat, semi furnished with spacious living areas comprising of 2 BR with attached bathrooms, a living room, separate bathroom and kitchen. The flat has Gym facility and secured under ground parking. Perfectly situated in Mumtaz Area nearby Temple and Church, rent RO 400/-. Contact 97487916 1BHK Ruwi & Qurum.

Contact : 99024730

Deluxe 1 & 2 bedroom flats, ideal for office / residence at Qurum near PDO. Contact: 97721313 / 95070421 Luxury fully furnished 2 bedroom flat at Al Khuwair for short or long term lease contract. Contact Atlas Real Estate & Rent a Car LLC. Contact Atlas Real Estate & Rent a Car LLC. Contact 94617563 / 92888376, tel : 24833848 / 24834888

Villa for rent, 4 rooms, big hall, 6 toilets, big living room, kitchen & store Bousher 750/-OMR. Contact: 91153933 Villa for rent room, toilet, hall, kitchen, store with furniture water & electricity included Bowsher OMR 300/-. Contact: 91153933 Room for rent big room, toilet, washing place including water & electricity Bowsher OMR 200/-.

Contact: 91153933

1 BHK at Walja. Contact: 95915154 1000 SQM industrial land in Misfah area with 3 rooms, 5 bathrooms, kitchen near Azaiba United 2 sides road facing large parking space. Ideal for workshop, staff camp, store. Contact: 99454425 1BHK new building with A/C curtains near Khimji Mart MBD. Contact: 99061408 / 99024039 Flat for rent in Ruwi, Mumtaz area 2 bedrooms. Contact: 24291500 / 91409667

Villa for rent, big hall, 4 room, 5 toilets, kitchen, store living room in Ghubra OMR 650/-.

Contact: 91153933 Flat for rent in South Mabela.

Contact: 95331177 / 95230355

1 BHK in Azaiba. Contact: 99385835 / 99428143 Flats in Wadi Kabir. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Office for rent in Mabela.

Contact: 99355330 2 bed rooms flat with hall, 2 bathrooms in Darsait near Muscat Municipality.

Contact: 92584715/ 24700120 Flats in Qurum. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 New flat at Al Wadi Al Kabir.

Contact: 96130797 / 92130703

Office space small in Azaiba.

Contact: 99428143

Fully Furnished apartments in Boucher (35) Contact 94051789 / 97201688

1BHK at Hamriya near Muscat Pharmacy & 2 BHK at Mawaleh near Mosque Sadiq Al Amin.

Contact: 99224748 / 99332297

Flat for rent 2 BHK 2 split A/C, 2 toilets, Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti Masjid. Contact 97007934 / 92629232

T H U R S DAY, A P R I L 2 8 , 2 0 1 6

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DAILY GUIDE

MANPOWER

FOR SALE

FOR RENT

FOR RENT IN AZAIBA 4 Bedrooms excellent villa with car parking Directly from the owner

Contact - 97094797 Flats in Darsait. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 1 Bed room, sharing K& T, R.O 100, 2 bedrooms , sharing K& T R.O 200/in AL Khuwair. Contact 95154331 Flats in Muttrah. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Offices in Ghala. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Shops / flats available in Honda Road, Ruwi & Mabellah Industrial area. Contact 24833972/ 24833974/ 99367448 Two bedrooms flat in Al Ghobrah near Oman Oil of 18 November Street.

OMR 330 Monthly. Contact 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955.

Flat for Rent 2 bed room Near ISM muscat Indian Scoole Dar sate Tel : 00 968 95158570 Brand new villas in Al Ansab.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Offices & Showrooms in Mutrah.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Duplex villa in QURUM 29.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Offices & Showrooms in Al Khoud.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688

Quality Warehouses for rent at Mizfa 550 sqm to 3400 sqm.

Contact 99332291 / 96046951 Warehouse at Wadikabir - total area 3500 sqm - covered warehouse (500sqm), office, accommodation (1000sqm), open area (2000sqm) please contact: 99273774 - 99202278 Four bedroom two floors luxurious and spacious residential villa in Al Hail North, near to the sea and Oman oil. Each room has its own bathroom. It has splits A/C’s and shaded car park. OMR 750 monthly. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955 For rent and investment Land industrial shops in Rusayl.

Contact: 99323957 / 95490842

FOR SALE

A well running pharmacy for sale at prime location. contact 99627621, 93240949

2BHK Wadi Kabir R.O 300/-.

Contact: 92144045 Flat for rent in South AlGhubrah 3 rooms, hall and 3 toilets, kitchen rent 450/-. Contact: 99335580 2BHK split A/C 200/- Monthly & 1BHK spilt A/C 150/- monthly new building good location Barka Market. contact 99342661 2BHK Big Size Flat Behind Bank Muscat, Wadi Kabir. Near ISWK. 97826454, 24815012.

New Rent house in Mabela.

Contact: 99880841/96053220 02 BHK residential flat opposite to Al Nahdha hospital.

Contact: 99342733 /99795241

Ticket Reservation Hotel & Bus Tickets 92820665 / 24711734

Steel Scrap materials for immediate sale.

Contact 99273774/ 99202278

910 SQ FT, 1 B/R fully furnished flat at Quepem – Goa. Contact: 97094797

Urgent sale of steel scrap only serious buyers kindly contact +968 96725423 for viewing the items.

ACC. AVAILABLE Room available attached bath behind Honda showroom at Wattaya. Contact: 96390334

Big showroom for sale and floor more than 200 SQM area in Ruwi main road. Contact: 93591485 or Whatsapp. Contact: 93333951 20 x40 containers.

Contact: 99354909 HD Scaffoldings, Shuttering Jacks, Wooden Planks, Shuttering wood assorted, Tower hoist (lift), Concrete Mixer, Bending Machine, Steel Fabrication Machinery (Searing/Cutting, lathe & Welding) including tools for immediate sale: Contact 99273774/ 99202278 Shop for sale near Oman House, Muttrah. Contact 99024362.

400 sq mtrs Commercial/Residential land in Mabela Phase 5 Block 2. OMR 165 Thousand.

Contact 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955 Dental chair, mobile dental X ray, instruments, 5 year old, sale for 1000 Rials only in Al Buraimi.

Contact: 92737149 Single colorful Bed and Sofa for Sale at Al Khuwair. Contact 92881849 /What`s up No 97290565

Big room with attach bathroom, kitchen in Muscat near Riyam Park RO 75/-. Contact: 95094028 Big room opp. Al Nahda hospital for ladies. Contact: 92505321 Room with attached bathroom for working ladies in a flat in M.B.D. Contact: 99694307 Villa for rent in South Mabellah, 3 bedrooms, sitting room, family Lounge, kitchen, three Toilets Contact 92212212 between 10 AM to 5 PM. Furnished room with A/bathroom in Al-khuwair33 for Indian Executive. Contact 95234062 A/C room rent 60 R.O Muttrah, opp. Khimji Mart.

Contact: 97477670 Furnished room / Bath for Executives Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 99336206 Room for rent at Al Khuwair for bachelor 115 RO with A/C bed, Elect + water. Contact: 95190627 Studio type furnished room with small kitchen, bathroom and big balcony behind KIMS hospital Cont 95405033 Rooms available with Kitchen facility at Ruwi. Contact: 91214897 Furnish bedroom with attach bathroom for executive bachelor.

Contact: 97704794 Furnished apartment for rent, two rooms, majlis, hall, kitchen. Near Carrefour al-mawalah.

Contact 99336776 Room with attached bathroom for a family in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 97167857

WITH TRADE LICENSE

WITH TRADE LICENSE

- Fully equipped, furnished & Recently Renovated - Size of the area - 359sq mtr - Under operation in a Prime location from 16 years

Under operation in a Prime location with experienced staff and stock

4 To 1- cents of house plots in prime location- visible distance from Kakanad Info Park for sale.

Prestige mall & proposed metro station coming up in the locality.

Contact – 0091 8547767911 / Email: sayed.m.fazal@gmail.com

ACC. AVAILABLE Separate entrance furnished bedroom with attached bath and kitchen for Executive bachelor in a villa opp. Star Cinema.

Contact: 99314807 ROOM for RENT for Filipino, spacious, new building in Al Khuwair near City Seasons. Water, Wifi, Electric Included. Call 97728418.

Room for rent with furniture.

Al Bustan village. Contact: 93687466 Sharing Accommodation available for working ladies opposite Al Nadhah Hospital. Preferably Indians. Room with seperate toilet and sharing kitchen.RO.90.

Contact 96524717 Room available in Mumtaz area 1 room, 1 Bathroom, Kitchen & 1 room, common bathroom. Interested pleasecontact 92680041 Mr. Altaf Sharing accommodation near ISD. Contact: 99657340 Room available for Executive bachelor at Al Hail.

Contact 96234708 Furnished room attached bath for Indian bachelor, Al-Falaj Ruwi & lady Wadi Kabir near Mars hypermarket. CONTACT 96202458/96761960 Room with attached bathroom and sharing kitchen available for Executive bachelor or small family at wadikabir Contact 93049849

ACC WANTED Wanted one room.

Contact 98026234 Looking for a villa in Amerat area.

Contact : 95405033

WANTED IELTS Coaching (academic) required nearby wadi Kabir area. Please call on mobile or msg on Whats up. Mobile no: 92927880/99012165

FOR SALE

Mobile number:

9232 1411

9232 1411

DRIVING

MV SALE Hyundai Accent 1.6, 2014 model, good condition. Contact : 95212017 Geely 1.3 model 2012 manual gear used 72000.

Contact: 96778006

Star Travel

Furniture and other treatment items for Ayurvedic clinic.

Contact 97986525

Single room available near Darsait Lulu. Contact: 92120626

Flats, shops and store for rent in Ruwi, MBD & Mumtaz. Contact: 97293708 / 92433127

Furnished office (61M2) for sale / rent Al Khuwair near Zawawi Mosque. Contact: 95611569

Luxury Apartments in Boucher (35). Contact 95056808 / 97201688

Expat leaving by 28th april,16, TV Philips 25 ‘’ with dish TV receiver, TV Trolley for RO.35 3 in one JVC CD, VCD, radio & audio player RO 25, dining showcase RO 15, 2 Godrej steel cupboards 25.

Contact 96764105 Excavator Volvo 240 & Hydraulic Hammers. Contact: 99209427

NRI

INDIAN RAILWAYS

Almost new beach/ garden lounge chairs /bar stools/ counter.

Photos can be sent 95865457

TAILORING SHOP

Mobile number:

Villas in Al Khoud.

Contact 95056808 / 97201688

Single room sharing B/K at Mumtaz area. Contact: 95212017

Flat in Al Khuwair opp grand mall 4 room 3 toilet + hall kitchen in 3 floor 400. Contact 99420346

2BHK flat shops / ware house space available for rent behind new ROP building at Honda road.

Contact 91165807

Car accessories, upholstery, oil & battery shop for sale in Seeb.

Contact: 92262284 / 98737197

1100.00 m2 com. & Res. plot at heart of Ruwi. Contact: 93666944

Fork lift Caterpillar (tool carrier cat it 28 f) oxy / PDO certified with excellent condition for sale.

Contact details: gsm: 99332937, land ph: 24446535

New building Wattayah main road, showroom & office space.

Contact 94300909

Space for printing press available at wadikabir with or without machinery. Contact 99328430

RESTAURANT FOR SALE

Expatriate driver 4 WD Jeep liberty 2007 model in excellent condition 165000 K.M , 2,500 R.O. Contact: 97008026

FOR HIRE Crane trailer, hiab. Contact: 99354909 Quality concept trading LLC Crane rental daily monthly cranes available for rent at attractive prizes Contact: 92870992

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

FOR LADIES Offer!! Treading Gold Facial & Pedicure just for 10 RO, Al Doom Parlour Ruwi: # 99619409

Prado 2007, Mazda 2000, lancer 93, 3 ton truck double cabin. Contact: 99454425 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2012, expat owned, company maintained, 125000 KMS, warranty up to 2018, expected price E 8500.

Contact: 99330509 Honda CRV, 2015, white, expat lady driven, 9000 kms, No.2 expected price 10500.

Contact: 99330509

BUYING Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299 Buying cars for cash.

Contact 90202090

LOST Praveen Thiyadiparambil has lost Indian Passport No. G 0470146.

Finder please handover to ROP

CHANGE OF NAME I Parmod Kumar holder of Indian Passport No F 8802863, son of Ishwar Singh having permanent residence in 326/19, New Pancham Nagar, Old DC Road, Sonepat, HR and presently residing in PB No. 478, PC No. 322, Falaj Al Qabail, Oman intend to change my name from Parmod Kumar to Parmod Jaglan for all practical purpose. Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P.Box No 1727, Postal Code 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

We, Palasmay Joseph George Wesley (name of father as per the passport, holder of Indian passport No K 8458067 and Nirmala Wesley (name of mother, holder of Indian passport No. F8466655) having permanent address in 5/69 Alankara ST, Uvari, Tirunelveli - 627568, Tamil Nadu (complete portal address in India) and presently residing at the following address in Bank Muscat, PB No 134, PC No. 112, Sultanate of Oman, hereby solemnly affirm and declare to change the name of our child Master Saam Paul Pelo (name as per present passport), holder of Indian passport No. K 9307463 date of issue 04/03/2013 issued at Muscat. The name of our child will be henceforth known as Saam Wesley (new name for all purposes). Any objection towards change of name of our minor child may please be communicated to Embassy of India , Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, PB No. 1727, PC 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

I Jafakash Chulliyodan Pattom Valappil holder of Indian Passport No G7767482, son of Ummer Kakkottakath Valappile Purayil having permanent residence in Raha, Thayatheru, Kannur, Pin – 670002, Kerala, and presently residing in PB No. 254, PC No. 131, Al Hamriya, Oman intend to change my name from Jafakash Chulliyodan Pattom Valappil old name to Jafakash Ummer for all practical purpose. Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, DiplomaticQuarters, AlKhuwair, P.BoxNo1727, PostalCode112,Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

I Sudheesh Kizhakkay Kuniyil Meethal Holder of Indian Passport No J 7416508, son of Vasu Kizhakke Puthiyotil having permanent residence in Meluha, Kavilampara (via) Moyilothara P.O, Kerala 673513 and presently residing in PB No. 98, PC No. 112, Ruwi, Oman intend to change my name from Sudheesh Kizhakkay Kuniyil Meethal (old name) to Sudhin Vasu (new name) for all practical purpose. Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P.Box No 1727, Postal Code 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

D4

T H U R S D AY, A P R I L 2 8 , 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT A reputed Engineering & Contracting company in Muscat urgently require an

Omani Receptionist cum PRO To work in their office in Muscat.

Interested candidate with a minimum of 2 years working experience should send their updated CVs to: inteccllc@gmail.com

ARCHITECT Engineering consultancy office (new) looking for Architect with experience in Oman (portfolio needed) hadi@hadi.om - 99441122

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE One of a Leading Excellent grade group of Companies is looking for a “Junior Accountant” ( Omani Nationals only ) for their Duqum office.

Interested candidates may send their CV by email to mkh.almajali@gmail.com Required SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, Graduate B.Com/MBA. Minimum 6 yrs of experience, Knowledge of Finalization & can handle accounts independently. Contact: mailoffice@fourseasonsoman.com

BEAUTICIAN Beautician required for Al Gazala beauty parlour, visa available.

Contact: 92534941

Sales Representative for Food Services Candidates with the below requirements can apply ONLY. • Must have food services experience (HORECA) minimum 6 Months • English speaking proficiency and English writing is must • If expatriate then NOC is must.

• The candidates who are available in Muscat can apply only.

Last date of Submitting the Application: May 2nd, 2016 Send your CV with recent photograph on:

admiralsoman@gmail.com

REQUIRED

AN AUDITOR With 6years of experience.

The candidates should be a commerce graduate experienced in auditing.

Interested candidates may mail their CV’s to: auditbureau2016@gmail.com

IT Required Customer Support Engineer for IT Company with minimum 2 years experience in ERP software, MS Sql, Tally & Focus etc.

Contact: 98825806 / 98825806, Email: info@rns-group.com Required Shop Sales man + Hardware Technician for IT Company with minimum 2 years experience.

Contact: 98825806 / 98825806, Email: info@rns-group.com

CATERING

DRIVER Urgently requires Hiab Driver & JCB Operator with valid Omani / GCC driving license, Mason having 5 years experience.

Contact: 24594868/ Fax: 24593880 Mobile 93210740 Email: info@sajgloballlc.com Urgently required a Driver.

Contact: 99291154

Urgently required Gynecologist& and General Practitioner with MOH license for polyclinic in Saham.

Contact: 91311990 Urgently required Staff Nurse with MOH license to work in a reputed clinic, permanent or for leave vacancy. Salary negotiable.

Contact 99048170 Wanted Staff Nurse for a dermatology clinic in Muscat .

Must have MOH license and NOC. Attractive salary offered. Email: clinicvacancy2015@gmail.com GP doctor needed for reputed clinic. Preferably with MOH license or with Dataflow & Paramatics pass Contact: 95388934

DOMESTIC HELP MISCELLANEOUS Wanted female Muslim cook for family at Qurum, visa available.

93387962

ENGINEER/MECHANIC. Construction company seeking Marketing Executives, Electrical Diploma Engineer & Civil Engineer. Should have Omani driving license. Email : info@greencover.net Required Indian Engineer road Construction 5/10 years experience Eligibility BE or Diploma Civil AutoCAD Estimation with Oman (D/L) & Indian Heavy Duty drivers.

Contact: 99882127 Email: georgymv@yahoo.com A leading company in the field of construction Contracting excellent grade required buildings Engineer with min 6 years experience in Oman. Should have valid Omani driving license.

Candidate should send C.V to eng08vacancies@gmail.com Urgently required subcontractor in construction for big projects.

Contact : 99416162

EDUCATION English Teacher required for a private school in Barka. Degree + B.Ed + IELTS. Send CV: alburj@alhakkim.com / GSM: 93211417 A well known private school is in need of Laboratory Assistant, English, Maths, Science & Kindergarten teachers.

Contact: 96910649 Email: staffing.oman@gmail.com

MEDICAL Required gynecologist GEN: practitioner lady lab Technician and pharmacologist immediately for a clinic in Suwaiq.

Contact: 95081010 Email: umchealthcare@gmail.com

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

(Male/Female) Any Nationality

MEDICAL

Wanted Male/female Indian cook with experience in Omani & Indian food for Omani Family. Visa available. Contact : Antony 99889459

SITUATION WANTED

Required candidates for following posts: Accountant, Storekeeper, Foreman Building Maintenance, Van-salesman (water), Helpers.

Candidates with Omani driving license preferred. Contact 99273774/99202278

SALES / MARKETING We are looking for photographer with experience of handling Photoshop and a ticket booking person with knowledge of travel and tourism. Interested candidate can forward their CV to consultancyvisa82@gmail.com Wanted Staff with 3 years experience in Oman in real estate field.

Contact: +968 95910186 Email: aburashid94dd@gmail.com Urgently required an experienced MARKETING EXECUTIVE cum PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR with minimum 5 to 10 years Gulf Experience, holding OMAN/GCC Driving License, for a Carpentry & Aluminium Division of a reputed Construction Company in Muscat.

Interested candidates those who can join locally may forward C.V. to e-mail: assaud@omantel.net.om or Fax: 24953530 Salesman required for electrical equipments with driving license & 5/7 years working experience.

Fax your C.V 24833043 (Jinan Enterprises) Urgently required Marketing Executive for a business agency at Barka. Graduate with D/L and minimum 2 years experience will be preferred, fresher can also apply.

Contact: 98908634 or Send CV to suntaka2015@gmail.com Omani Public Relations Manager / Marketing manager required for an office in Azaiba. Full time job. Omani citizens with Healthcare qualification or marketing experience only need to apply with English cv and photo to :arabhealth@alhakkim.com

SALES / MARKETING Required marketing / PR manager for a modern restaurant group in Oman , proficient in illustrator & Photoshop charismatic , proactive , creative & flexible excellent writing / Editing skills degree in relevant area fluent in English. Send CV to marketingpr2016@gmail.com Sales man for printing press with driving license.

Contact: 92177095 / 93850727 Email: manager@dsdoman.com Salesman for a printing press.

Contact: 99498949 Looking for Salesman with experience in vegetable and fruits sales, good conduct, fluent in English.

Should have driving license. Email CV on: info@eigllcoman.com Contact - 96339339

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Required Indian Mason – 5 nos., eligibility (minimum 5 yrs experience in road construction field).

Contact: 99882127 Email: georgymv@yahoo.com Thrust Boring contractor is required. Contact immediately99438397 Thrust Boring Supervisor is required. Contact immediately99438397 Electrician for Heavy Machines : experienced with mobile cranes and Wheel Loader (shovel) with a background in troubleshooting and reading a diagram .

Contact : 98856565 . email : hr@wadibaad.com Crane Hydraulic Mechanic : experienced with Mobile Cranes and should have knowledge with troubleshooting and hydraulic system diagnosis . Contact : 98856565 . email : hr@wadibaad.com

SITUATION WANTSIT.WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Qualified and experienced MBA post graduate with proven work exposure in Middle East & India, having more than 5.5 years of rich experience in accounts , project coordination and administration in (3.5 years UAE experience) oil and gas projects is currently looking for suitable job.

Contact 93953613, Email allen.mathew83@gmail.com Jordanian Senior Accountant 15 yrs experience in Oman finance & accounts. Contact : 92881223 Accountant 8 Years experience with D/L and NOC. Contact 97712084 Accountant 8Years Experience with D/L and NOC. # 97712084 Sudanese female Accountant excellent knowledge, MS Office, can work under pressure.

Contact: 97200130 Accountant available with NOC, 7 years experience in Oman.

Ready to join immediately.

Contact 98263394 Indian male , 29 B.com ICWA (pursuing) 7 years experience in accountant / audit with valid Omani D/L seeking for suitable placement, NOC available. Contact: 94706954 Email: ajurn33@gmail.com B.Com 3 years business process outsourcing. Contact: 94657273 ACCA finalist with 2 years of experience in a Construction Company as an Accountant in United Kingdom here on visit visa for 3 weeks from 12 April - 3 May. Contact: 99171627 Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement. contact 94879615,Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com

Indian male good experience in accounts, admin and ERP Tally 9 seeking for suitable placement.

NOC available. Contact: 92650835 Pakistani male MBA finance 8 years experience in Accounting & Finance GCC , D/L on visit visa.

Contact: 95035011 Email: mibm_af@yahoo.com Indian male, M. Com with 3 yr Oman Exp in Accounts with valid NOC & D/L on Visit Visa.

GSM : 94744575 A Graduate of Alexandria in Accounting has freelance interior designing, experience in different design programs & recorded projects achievements, willing to join suitable job for his qualification and talents.

Contact: +201003966769 Oman: 99602608 C/o Osman. Email: shadyhenaawy@gmail.com A Graduate of Alexandria Mechanical Power Engineering and certified International Procurement Manager CIPM basics of supply chain management BSCM - APICS seeking suitable job for his Qualifications. Contact: 20 01222399139 Oman 99602608 C/O Osman Email: samer_henawy@hotmail.com Senior Accountant Indian male with 6 years experience up to finalization in Tally with good MIS reporting knowledge having Oman D/L, NOC. Contact: 94035577 Email: azu090@gmail.com Junior Accountant Pakistani female with more than 2 years experience in tally with good knowledge in Accounts receivable having Oman D/L. Contact: 95287396 Email: mariamnaaz92@hotmail. com Accountant Indian male with 7 years experience up to finalization tally & accounts receivable SAP R/3, good knowledge of payroll having Oman D/L, NOC. Contact: 93733996 Email: thmsb182@gmail.com ICSI & B.Com qualified Corporate Secretary (female) with 2 years experience handling compliance of 200 companies in Indian seeks placement in compliance field or company incorporation & allied fields. Contact: 94863182 Email: meghnasunil6@gmail.com

Indian male, 25 yrs, Accountant, 2.5 yrs in Finance & Accounts, MBA Finance & HR, exposure in SAP, Tally, ERP 9 on visit visa.

Contact 96715420 / 91265020, Email : jijosrgo@gmail.com, simonjosephjc@gmail.com

Looking for driving job.

Contact: 97855341 With 15 years of Gulf experience in HR / Admin / logistics looking for suitable position. Fluent in Arabic / English with D/L. Contact: 95824598 Indian male, 20 years experience in Oman as personal assistant / office manager / executive secretary / administrator / business development assistant looking for a change. holding Omani driving license. local release available.

Contact 99168054

28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement.Contact 90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com Senior / Chief Accountant, having 12 years Oman experience in reputed firms seeks suitable job.

Immediate available. #99513082

Looking for driving job experience 3 years Pakistani.

Contact: 93804176 8 years experience in driving heavy D/L (PDO) H2S. Contact: 92091528 Pakistani male seeks job, have Oman driving license, 6 years experience in driving. Contact: 96915494 Light Duty Driver looking for job.

Contact: 96250185

Indian male – Post Graduation in HR, having 18 years of experience.

Working in Oman since last 12 years. Capable of handling HR & Administration. Well Acquainted with Omani Laws. Valid Omani License & car. Contact 96442435.

Light driver looking for job.

Contact: 96798075

A Young dynamic post Graduate with 10 years experience of Office Administration cum transport in charge in Oman to manage large fleet of PDO / Non PDO vehicles in addition having experience of managing the labor camp and staff with their mess valid Omani D/L. Contact: +968 - 92700274 Email: naqvi8084@gmail.com Indian looking for customer service, purchase front office Admin 5 years experience in UAE. Contact: 91744032 Indian female 26 years MBA (BBA, BIRLA Institute, Oman) seeking for full / part time job in Secretary / Admin / Customer Support / Office Assistant / HR. Contact: 93241466 / 92767450 Email: sujasunny2003@hotmail.com Filipino HRD especialist / material controller supervisor with 18 yrs experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: (+968) 98037142 / (+968) 92659817

Indian Male 19 years (8 Years in Oman) well experienced in HR / Admin in Oil & Gas, Construction fields with Oman D/L seeks suitable position. Release / NOC available call: 92854993.

Accountant Indian male B.Com with 8 years experience in Oman knowledge in tally ERP, SAP AX MIS upto finalization, NOC available. Contact: 96989872 Email: radhakrishnank2007@rediffmail. com

Looking for light driving job 2 yrs exp. Contact: 91625977

Lady Expat looking for full time job with visa. Interested fields are Admin, teaching, HR, back office.

Contact: 91739424 Email: jinsijobs@gmail.com

Sudanese Accountant, Alexandria University Graduate bachelor of commerce Diploma of Marketing professional photographer worked in PR and social media for 2 years looking for a job in public relations media, social media or marketing.

Contact: 96976240

Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa.

Immediately available.

Contact 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com

Driver want job. Contact: 93822195

ADMIN

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

ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in finance.

Contact: 99284193

Bangladeshi male light driver exp 4 years need job.

Contact: 92681457

Driver looking for job.

Contact: 94357030

Indian male 7 years experience as Accountant in Oman having Oman driving license looking for job, currently in Oman. NOC available. Contact: 92859733 Email: parthasarathy67@gmail.com

Senior Accountant Master (Fin) ACCA (PART) 14 years of experience in accounts & payroll working or focus, familiar with tally having NOC & D/L, available on immediate basis. Contact: 98579882 Email: khalidbinfarid@yahoo.com

DRIVER

Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license, looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time.

Contact: 95933288 Teacher female 27 yrs, MCA 5 yrs experience in teaching in India currently on visit visa seeking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 96709509 Email: viyannifd@gmail.com

DRIVER Driver with car. Contact: 91362320 Looking for job as light vehicle driver 5 years experience.

Contact: 92640278 3 years experience D/L looking for job. Contact: 94531957 Light driver wanted for suitable placement. Contact: 95656941 Looking for a job light duty driver.

Contact: 95141473 Light duty & heavy duty driver, GCC valid D/L looking for job (overseas). Contact 95175192, Email : oman.manpower@yahoo.com

Part time Accountant up to finalization audit & assignments.

Contact: 91126314

Looking for jobs light vehicle license, 5 years experience with Toyota Corolla car.

Contact: 96345442 / 96789570

Part-time Accounting up to finalization, Auditing, Taxation and Project Finance assistance Contact: 91044655

Indian light driver having 2 years experience in Oman knowing language English, Hindi & Arabic need job. Contact: 97366822

Light Duty Driver looking for job.

Contact: 96780325

Light Duty Driver, 3 years 6 months experience. Contact: 95768440 Experience driver looking for job.

Contact: 95113612 Driver 3/6 years experience, I have 2 years experience out door sales man in led light, Pakistani, Oman experience 6 years.

Contact: 94565993 / 92627855 Family driver available.

Contact 92943094

DOMESTIC HELP Housemaid/ baby sitter looking for job (overseas). Contact 95175192

Office cleaning boy available on contract basis. Contact: 94262954

DESIGNER/DRAUGHTSMAN Young Indian female, BSc Interior Designer, with 2 years experience seeking for suitable placement.

Contact: 91102695 / 92191721 Architect Interior designers 3d Visualizer, 8 yrs exp, Indian male, have Omani D/L available.

NOC & local release.

Contact: 92710047 Architectural Draftsmen diploma in construction technology with 6 years experience in drafting and detailing as per British standard in Oman with valid Omani license looking for suitable opportunity Noc available. Call 94375897.

Free lance /part time autocad works (ARCH/ MEP) 2D/3D PH: 97103168 Piping designer with 14 years experience working with PDO, OXY for 10 years NOC available.

Contact: 92582356 Revit, Autocad D/man, expected salary 200 OMR PH :92279784 Filipino Senior Revit/AutoCAD Draftsman with 20 years professional experience is looking for suitable job in Oman.

Please Contact: 96489798, (+974) 66653780.

EDUCATION/TRAINING Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement.

Contact : 99739415 / 92091528 Teacher Female , Phd in Chemistry having 3.5 yrs of Experience in India. Staying here on Family Visa & seeking for a suitable placement.

Contact – 99675828, Email Anupam.tiwari67@gmail.com Indian Lecturer M.Phil, M.Com, MBA DMM , 3+ years of exp in college & 2+ years exp in corporate seeks a suitable position.

Contact: 90369540 Email: abilashraji@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. An Electrical engineer with 4+ yrs of experience in Electrical network (MT, LT) with professional computer skills seeking for work.

Contact: 99841736 / 93955381/ +149922698343 Email: e.kmmh@hotmail.com

T H U R S DAY, A P R I L 2 8 , 2 0 1 6

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED Mechanical Engineer & Project Manager Sudanese 29 yrs, more than 3 yrs experience in Mining Company, Profession:Production & manufacturing, safety, fire fighting designing, Engineering Management, sales – Muscat, Oman.

Contact 968 93642704, Email : mohamedfdl87@gmail.com

Sales & Marketing specialist with 16 yrs experience in Oman in MNC retails telecom lubes construction related industry handled various projects, holding valid Oman driving license, release available.

Contact 96960991

INDIAN MALE, MARKETING & HR SPECIALIST,

Oman experienced Lawyer

25 yrs, Master degree with 2 yrs of experience both HR & Marketing, now on visiting visa.

Indian male, BA, Arabic, LLB, MBA Knows English, Arabic with over 9 yrs in legal field, now working as a legal advisor in Muscat, seeks suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact 96972939 / 96096723 Email : lijubn@gmail.com, jerrin007@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian male BE (ECE) having 1 year experience in Engineering and 8 years experience in medical transcription seeking suitable placement currently on visit visa. Contact: 90658764 Email: princekjohn555@yahoo.com Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrsexp seeks suitable position ina reputed company. NOC available.

Contact 96789711 Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine. Available NOC release.

Contact: 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable.

Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com HSE Engineer (B.E Mech+Diploma Safety+NEBOSH+OSHA) over 10yrs. Exp, (Visa Release Letter (NOC) available), seeking suitable placement, Mob:97061817, Email:jayanammu1977@gmail.com Civil Engineer diploma 3 years Sudanese National experience 4 years at construction sites.

Contact: 91183608 Telecommunication Engineer 35 years experience with Omantel company, Hindi , English & Arabic.

Contact: 91204243 / 94372096 / 99751612 5 years experience in supply chain (warehouse logistics) procurement.

Contact: 90644186 Indian male 24 yrs ITC Electrical 2 years experience looking for job.

Contact: 95428225 Email: basil064@gmail.com Electronics and Instrumentation Engineer, B.Tech Indian male 24 years with 2 years Indian experience looking for suitable position available in Oman on visit visa.

Contact: 91228010 Indian male Structural Engineer (M.Tech) with 3 years Indian experience in designing searching for suitable job placement.

Contact: 98334396, Email: hashmath_ali@yahoo.com Quantity Survey works part time / freelance (civil). Contact: 95719108 Quantity Surveyor (Civil) 11 years with Omani driving license, local release available.

Contact: 95719108 Electrical Engg : M 32, having 8 yrs experience in MEP/ EPC projects with MEDC, OETC & PAEW, C.E.P holder with D/L, seeking for better opportunity.

Contact: 93949885 Email: vamshhikodela@gmail.com Associate Engineer Electronics with 3 years of experience in Satellite & CCTV searching for placement. Contact: 99832706 Sudanese Mechanical Engineer +13 years experience in heavy equipments maintenance experience in Oil field. Contact 96583270 Proposed position Safety Officer experience 04 yrs and 6 months qualification NEBOSH IOSH MS, OSHA, fire safety certificate, Master in Social Science.

Contact: 93644060 Email: saffar49@gmail.com B.Tech & Diploma in Mechanical having 3 years exp. in India looking for suitable job. Contact : 90542737 Electrical B.E.C Engineer Pakistani male 24 years looking for a job. Contact: 94049812 / 92958112 Civil Engineer having 7 years, 8 months experience with driving license immediately joining having NOC. Contact : 99294954 Electrical & Electronics Engr, knows autocad & revit.

PH: 93837973 Purchaser (construction) with 4 years experience & driving license.

NOC available looking for similar job. Contact: 98956725

Indian male, B.Tech, Software Engineer well knowledge in computer applications, android technology technical support on visit visa seeking suitable placement in IT or BPO. Contact: 99014938 / 93841724 Email: officialpakku@gmail.com B.E Mechanical Engineer, Indian male 34 years, having 10+ years experience in MEP building construction field (HVAC, Firefighting and Plumbing) with Omani D/L. NOC available.

96978380;prajithks@gmail.com 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 Civil Engineer 8 years experience.

Contact: 90183630 Indian male, Structural Engineer looking for job in structural design field. Having 6 years of experience in design field. Residing in Muscat.

Contact: 91176187 syam036@gmail.com Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman.

Contact:98921022 B.Tech Mechanical Engineer 3 years experience in maintenance and commissioning of compressors, refrigeration system and other industrial Equipments in an engineering services company on visit visa looking for suitable placement. Contact: 91106765 Email: tamooraslam123@gmail. com Electrical Engineer having 16 years experience in switchgear / transformer / over head lines & trading for sales / procurement & project execution with valid Omani D/L. Contact: +968 95994727 Email: qurm340@gmail.com Diploma of Associate Engineering in Civil technology 14 years experience in project of construction works like buildings, roads, oil & gas field on visit visa expiry date 11/06/2016 looking for good job in Oman. Contact: 00968 92161978 Email: qazijahangeer@gmail.com Civil Eng exp 15 years NOC available looking job change Gulf experience over 12 years in Oman, 8 years experience handled MOH – project, MOS projects, MOS – projects. Contact: 98036290, cmsarasu@gmail.com Indian male 23 years, young dynamic looking for draughtsman in civil. Contact: 94553406 Email: choudharyibrahim93@gmail.com Female Electrical Engineer, excellent knowledge, Graduated with distinction, can work under pressure. Contact: 98133281 Indian female M.Tech in VLSI Design B.Tech in electronics with valid IELTS score 6.5 now in family visa experience in teaching & and admin. Contact: 90195131 Email: chinj.89@gmail.com

Indian male 26 B.Tech Civil Engineer 3 year’s 8 months Experience at building construction. In Oman 2 year’s experience N.O.C available seeking suitable placement Contact : 97396269 Email : usmanshaik42@gmail.com An Iraqi civil with more than 30 years experience in (Iraq and G.C.C) looking for a job, (N.O.C) available. Contact: 96561306 Email: iq.bgd.mnsr@gmail.com Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact:97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Civil Engineer (B.Tech) Indian male 24 yrs having 1+ year experience in Industrial construction with good communication skills and software knowledge, looking for suitable position available on visit visa.

Contact 968 - 99779538 / 98694939 Email: arunsathyan92@gmail.com Male QC inspector Mechanical, NDT 20 years experience valid Oman D/L , release available.

Contact: 91001104 Electrical Engineer Indian male 30 years, having 5 years of experience in industrial automation & utility maintenance in Indian (MRF Tyres) holding valid Oman D/L. Contact: 92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com Indian male B-tech 8 years experience as senior electrical project engineer / QC engineer on visit visa seeks suitable placement.

Contact 94094543 Email: anwar425@gmail.com

HOSPITALITY Indian male, 28 yrs, B.Sc Hospitality Science with 5 yrs experience in Hospitality & banking sectors in Oman & India seeks suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact 91383167

IT Software testing professional 6 yrs exp , Engg Graduate.

Contact: 91739424, Email: jinsijobs@gmail.com Procurement Coordinator Indian male 30 yrs B.Com (computers) 4 years experience in Saudi Arabia in Construction Company, looking for any suitable position on visit visa till 15 May 16.

Contact: 0968-98590811 Email: ibrahimhashmi220@gmail.com INDIAN FEMALE, 23 years, BSCCS Diploma in IAD graphics, well knowledge in computer applications 6 months experience presently in Sohar seeking suitable placement. Contact: 96670907.

Email: ammuch.4@gmail.com Indian Electronic Technician 5 years exp CCTV, Telephone, video door phone, NOC available.

Contact: 99803912

Mechanical Engineer M.Tech 2 yrs, experience HAVC firefighting CAD. Contact: 90150913 Email: mahmanmechengg@yahoo.in

Indian female M.Sc Computer Science seeking suitable placement in Muscat area.

Contact: 98660672

Site Supervisor, Diploma in Civil Engg (cert attested) knows autocad revit, salary exp: 250 Ph : 92279784

IT Support Engineer, Exp 3 years in Oman 2 years in India.

Contact 94672759

Mechanical Engineer (B Tech) Indian male with 1 year experience on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact : 90510800, Email : muhammedjaseem07@gmail.com Sr. Electrical Engineer with17+ yrs of exceptional exp in spear heading strategic planning and project management initiatives & executing various high rise residential & commercial building as well as roads and highway project with proficiency in installation, seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization.

Contact 96570891

Female 24 yrs, 3 years in IT programmer now in Oman looking for suitable job.

Contact: 96350234 9 years of Software Test Consulting and business analysis experience in various CBS (Core Banking Solutions) and other Banking related solution implementations with deep understanding of Islamic Banking. Completed CDIF CIMA Diploma in Islamic Finance and ADIF - Advanced Diploma in Islamic Finance conducted by CIMA, UK. NOC available. Contact: manivannanbalaji@gmail.com GSM: 9393 8086

Qualified Certified Management Accountant (CMA-USA) and cost and management accountant (ACMAIndia) with over 25 years experience in Sultanate of Oman in finance, banking and administration is seeking a suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact 97351649, advocatesharaf@gmail.com

Contact 95986767

IT

SALES / MARKETING

B.Tech (IT) experience in Networking server & desktop management in corporate environment looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 92954613

Indian male, 29 years BSc, Graduate, with Omani driving license and 7 years of sales experience in home appliances, IT products, mobile and traffic safety equipments currently working on employment visa, NOC available seeking for suitable placement immediately.

Contact 97890607 Email: ashrafambar@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Female, 24 Years - MSc Biotechnology. Worked in International Crops Research Institute For The Semi Arid Tropics for project work as trainee. Looking for suitable job. Mobile: 92619048, Email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com Filipino Male, 28 years Old. Looking for job, Have experience in Rent a Car/ Cargo & Logistics / Real Estate/ Customer Care Executive / Sale Executive & Marketing/ Shop In- Charge with driving license, w/ good computer and communication skill.

GSM: 97761075 Male having visa, 3 years in Oman with valid D/L seeks suitable placement. Contact: 95453393 Indian male 27 years BBA, Administration marketing & sales accounts, MS Office can work under pressure now on visit visa looking for suitable position.

Contact: 90739819 Indian female master degree one year experience seeking suitable placement in any field.

Contact 97792820 Email: pnjli.1991@gmail.com Indian male, 28, post graduate, 6+ yrs exp in Oman in sales (back office) & credit control with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable placements. NOC available.

Contact: 920 66 523 BS in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 years(Power Plants).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com

MEDICAL Indian male BE (ECE) having nine years experience in medical transcription / health care & documentation seeking suitable placement as Medical Transcriptionist Insurance Coordinator or Medical Secretary, currently on visit visa.

Contact: 90658764 Email: princekjohn555@yahoo.com Indian Bsc Female Nurse with 6.5 years exp, 4 years in KSA. Passed Oman Pro Metric with 69%, completed data flow. Presently in Muscat in visit visa looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 94744900, 94742834, jincyalphonese@gmail.com

MANAGER Procurement / Contracts head Indian 20 yrs wide experience in top MNC areas Civil, MEP, Fire, road, PDO & oil field with Omani driving & NOC available. Contact: 93737496 Procurement and Projects Manager having 10 years UAE experience, MBA Graduate with 6 sigma & CPPM seeking suitable position.

Contact: 90772927 Purchase/Planning & Logistics Manager, MBA (Finance), 14yrs.

Oman Exp. with D/L, NOC available, looking for suitable position.

Contact: 93826090, Email: jskanchan01@gmail.com Egyptian male 36 years Warehouse Manager, 7 years in Sultanate of Oman, 1 year in UAE, and 3 years in Egypt.

Contact: +968 97200468 Email: ayman_mano1979@yahoo.com

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Looking for part time job Secretarial / Data Entry / Documentation available every day after 5:00 pm Friday / Saturday full day area preferred Ruwi/ CBD/ MBD / Al Khuwair. Contact: 90414827 Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment. Call: 95244761

10 yrs experience in Oman in logistics / purchase have Oman D/L looking for suitable placement.

Contact 96410767. email :harishkts@yahoo.com Procurement / Estimation male 15 years experience in Oman working with reputed company seeks suitable placements. N.O.C available.

Contact: 93508898 Email: reghunair01@gmail.com Indian Male, 30yrs, 7 year experience in marketing, (3 years Exp. in Oman & Saudi) seeking suitable placement in Sales & Marketing.

DL & NOC available, Contact: 93329021, gokulmohank85@gmail.com D/L, NOC available looking for salesman job, 1 year experience.

Contact: 91210380 10 years ICT Business development & project management exp in Oman looking for suitable senior position. Contact: 98987654 Senior Sales Executive, 10Yrs Exp, India seeking immediate job.

Contact #+968 98444359, +91 9880637906.

E: ahmed.shabbirsyed@gmail.com Indian female, BSc, B.Ed, MBA, Marketing having 3 years experience, seeks suitable placement in marketing field. Contact: 95041134 Email: divya.vini@gmail.com 35 years male, Lebanese holding British passport, 10 years of experience in procurement, Omani Government tenders, setup marketing plans & strategies, importing, Organizing events, management, have car, NOC available. Contact 94123939 Email: 002015r@gmail.com 24 years experience Sr. Management professional as Profit centre head. Industry electrical trade looking for a suitable position in Oman / UAE. Contact: 91195418 Email: ab_9616@rediffmail.com 26 yrs Indian male MBA Marketing Sales / Marketing Executive, 3 yrs experience now available in Muscat on visit visa seeking placement for immediate joining.

Contact: 95978874 Email: ansariafsar550@gmail.com Indian male 37 years MBA graduate in marketing with 9yrs of experience in UAE in field of brand promotions & marketing with UAE D/L on a visit seeking suitable position. Conatct 95792820

SKILLED LABOUR Electrician looking for a job, 6 years experience. Contact: 96001823 Shovel, JCB, Grader, Excavator, Operator GCC valid D/L looking for job(overseas), looking for job.

Contact 95175192

MISCELLANEOUS Indian male, 24 yrs, B. Com Graduate more than 1 year experienced in accounts planning to come for a family visit in oman seeking for a suitable placement .

Contact : 99339544 / 99743709 Indian male : looking for any suitable position, Data Entry/ Secretarial/ Documentation Level. 10+ years working experience. Gsm: +968 - 90414827, Mail: devenjayanthnair@rediffmail.com Looking for a part time accounting & admin job. Contact 99196621.

Indian Female looking for a part time opportunity (Graphic Design/ Teaching/Research Assistant/ Business Development/Administration) Contact: 95811820 or sankarikm06@gmail.com

An experienced Chartered Accountant With over 25 years in varied industries, presently working with a reputed group in Muscat, looking out for a suitable change.

Contact - 96491030

MISCELLANEOUS IT professional, B.E. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support/Retail sales.

Contact 91496939.

Indian male, Fire & Safety Engineer having 1 year experience on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 95208305 Email: nirmalk558@gmail.com A/C & Fridge Technician 25 years experience in Oman India seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95680380 Indian female, 27 yrs, B.E (Telecom) with 3 yrs exp in IBM (India) as Senior Security Delivery Analyst. Now on family visa seeking for suitable position.

Contact: 95600437 Tea boy looking for job Name: Man Bahadar Contact No. 97859837 Indian male, M. Com with 3 yr Oman Exp in Accounts with valid NOC & D/L on Visit Visa, available to join immediately .

GSM :94744575 Electrical & Electronics diploma engineer Indian male 22 years, 2 years experience currently in visit visa. Contact 93047707 adilm89@gmail.com Indian Female, 29 Yrs Age, M.Sc Microbiology, looking for Job any reputed organization / Hospitals, seeks suitable position.

Contact : 95218424 / 9610 6604.

On Family Residence Visa.

Indian male 34 years MBA finance & marketing 7 years experience in India accounts & Administration, currently in Muscat on family visa. Contact: 98104991 Email: sureshkr01@gmail.com Indian Female, M.Sc Computer Science, Seeking suitable placement in Muscat Area. Contact : 98660672 Indian B-Com Graduate 1 year Experience in market survey, Valid Driving License, looking for any suitable post. Contact: 92567020 / 96930392, shwayanad@gmail. com Indian male, M. Com, 11 years experience in the field of accountancy and Stores. Good knowledge in SAP, Tally, oracle, MS office and Excel seeks suitable placement.

Contact 92859733 Senior Accountant, NOC available, more than 5 years exp., born & bought up in Oman, Accounting upto finalization, computer skills tally9, Sage ERP ACCPAC 500(6.0A), Vcams, Audit ,valid Oman driving license, languages known English, Arabic, Hindi. Can join immediately.

Tel: (+968) 96339599, E-mail(ahmedmohdkhan@gmail.com) Indian male, M.Com, 7 years Oman experience in the field of accounts and valid oman driving license & NOC . Good knowledge in SAP, Tally, oracle, MS office and Excel seeks suitable placement.

Contact 92859733 Indian male 42, BE-Civil 13 years experience in Road construction. looking for suitable placement. having valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 95225214, Email: Sudheerrokkala73@gmail.com Indian Male 28 years, Mechanical Engineer (Diploma) with 2 years’ experience, Automobile ITI NCVT, CSWI-BGAS Painting QC Grade-2, NDT Level-2, ISO Lead Auditor QA (IRCA), Piping QC & Isometric Drawings, WPS & WPQR, available on Visit Visa, looking for a suitable job.

Contact: 90653733, libinthomaslt@gmail.com The Business Development Manager, Iraqi, Exp. 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 flow & marketing projects & investments & tenders & real estate. #92385033

D6

T H U R S D AY, A P R I L 2 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

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

SITUATION WANTED HSE Engineer, Indian male, 4 Plus years experience in Oil & Gas, Working in Shclumberger, NEBOSH,IOSH, & NDT Certified, M Tech in HSE. CONTACT-krish.569@gmail.com Mobile- +91 9867016808 Indian female 27 yrs, Diploma in Aviation & Hospitality management, seeking suitable placement.

Curnetly in Oman, NOC Available.

Contact 94880684 Safety Officer 3 years of experience in safety certifications: BE (Electrical and Electronics Engineering),NEBOSH, IOSH, DHSE, first aid.

Contact +97474018995, email:midhunmich@gmail.com skype:midhunmike Bachelor in Hotel Management Having 13 years experience in Catering Industry in all aspects of Operations with D/L looking out for a suitable placement.

Contact 90654826 Email: mailingsaikiran@gmail.com Indian Female on a visit visa having master degree seeking suitable placement in any field, 1 ,5 year experience in HR .

Contact+968 91467576.

Indian male network cabling technician (19-years Gulf experience) seeking for suitable placement.

Contact 0091-8089909265 (India), Email: mohithavp@gmail.com Indian female, MBA, Diploma in Aviation & Hospitality mgt (IATA), having 4 yrs of exp, on family visa seeks job in Oman.

Contact-9910 4529, 95679557, e-mail-jkramya91@gmail.com 27 years old Indian male looking hospitality jobs in Hotel. Experience in customer service, front desk, housekeeping supervisor, captain, cashier,guest relation manager.

Contact. +968-90351742Email. samubaid6@gmail.com

9 yrs exp Site Engineer in Civil & Shade Structure. 2d, 3d draughtsman (HOLDING OMANI DRIVING LICENSE) seeking job.

Contact: 93790601

Indian male physiotherapist with 3 years of experience, with (moh license and NOC available. seeking suitable placement.

Contact 99767528, 91317863

LAND SURVEYOR: Male, more than 12 years’ experience in land/ pipe line surveying in Oman and UAE. Looking for suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact 91215843

Indian, 32 years, passed M.A. English M.Sc Psychology, DHM & B.Ed in English with 4 years experience seeking for part time or full time job. Contact: 99869535 Email: sahadkeyi33@gmail.com

ELECTRONICS ENGINEER Indian/ male/24Yrs,Bsc.Electronics & Communications,ITI,1.7 Years experience as Service Technician in India, on visit Visa, looking For a Suitable Placement.

Contact :92794176 , E-mail: prathyushkp9@gmail.com

Indian with 3 years for experience in sales and marketing fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam looking for suitable job.

Also hold valid Driving License, currently in oman Mob : 93451439

Marketing Communications Coordinator Indian, 25 years GCC experience in Media, Advertising & Marketing ATL + BTL branding. Contact: 93031168 Email: arn14256@gmail.com 27 yearsold Indianmale looking Jobs in documents Collection executive.Experience in collection executive.

Contact. +968-90358068 Email wasimsaif04@gmail.com Indian male, 26 years old BA Graduate having 1 year experience in accounts finance field. Looking for suitable Job On visit visa immediately available.

Contact. 9565 9415 Anishkhan991867@gmail. Com

HSE Engineer, Indian male, 4 Plus years exp. in Oil & Gas, Working in Shclumberger, NEBOSH, IOSH, & NDT Certified, M Tech in HSE. #krish.569@gmail.com, Mobile- +91 9867016808 Indian Male, 40 Years, B. Com, having 10 years experience in Oman, Tally &ERP- looking for suitable placement ( Local release and Oman driving license available. Tel- 92469789 Electrical diploma Engineer Indian male 22 years, 2 years experience in control panel contact 93047707 adilm89@gmail.com

Indian Male 42 year’s, MBA, Sr. Material controller having 12 years experience in Oman with reputed companies. Having Oman driving License, Seeks suitable replacement immediately. Available NOC. Cont. 00968-92944026, Email – charanjeet35@yahoo.co.in

Indian Male 42 year’s, MBA, Sr. Material controller having 12 years experience in Oman with reputed companies. Having Oman driving License, Seeks suitable replacement immediately. Available NOC. Cont. 00968-92944026, Email – charanjeet35@yahoo.co.in

ELECTRONICS TECHNICIAN Indian/male/24Yrs,Bsc.Electronics & Comm,1.7 Years experience as Service Engineer in India. On visit Visa, Looking For a suitable placement. Contact : 92794176 E-mail:prathyushkp9@gmail.com

Female Dentist with MOH license and NOC, 7 years experience 2 yrs out of them in Oman looking for a job. Contact 97401243

Indian male Executive Secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seeks suitable placement. #99514286 Indian male Kerala, B.com & B.PE. Currently on visit visa, looking for a suitable job in Accounts, Store keeper etc. Ready to join as early as possible. Contact:-93301023, email:- sajith3969@gmail.com NOC available, Indian Male - MBA (HR) and B.E (E.I.E) with total 9 years of experience in HR & Admin and Business Development (3 yrs of Gulf exp.) can join immediately Contact 91240251 / kvaradhan@hotmail.com

IT System Administrator 6 yrs experience, male, Filipino Desktop, Laptop and printer Support, Backup administrator, Router and switch Network, Server Administrator. +968 94134295 Female dentist with MOH license and NOC ready to join 7 years experience 2 of them in Oman.

Contact 97401243 M. Sc Computer Science – 2 year Experience – in India, looking suitable Placement. Email:-elvisgt6@ gmail.com, Mob:-+91 9497482305 (INDIA), Oman:-98291626.

Indian, 30 years, B. Com with 2 years Oman experience in Tally ERP-9 available in Muscat seeking suitable positions. Contact on 95186652

Having 10 years exp. in Admin & HR in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat and seeking for suitable placement.

Contact No.: 97693456. email : muralimahdav77@gmail.com ELECTRONICS TECHNICIAN Indian/male/24Yrs,Bsc.Electronics & Comm, 1.7 Years experience as Service Engineer in India, On visit Visa, looking for a suitable placement. Contact : 92794176, E-mail:prathyushkp9@gmail.com B-tech Civil with honours, Civil Engineer (structures) Experience more than six years.

Contact 91431483. Email mohsinyousuf86@rediffmail.com HSE Engineer,Indian male, 4 Plus years experience in Oil & Gas .Working in Shclumberger NEBOSH, IOSH, & NDT Certified, M Tech in HSE. CONTACT-krish.569@gmail.com contact +91 9867016808 PART TIME ACCOUNTANT available, well experienced in accounting up to finalization. knowledge in tally also. contact. 92643875 Chief Accountant 25 years experienced looking for part/full time accountant job.

Contact: 95598477 / 98803439

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

ELECTRONICS ENGINEER Indian/ male/24Yrs,Bsc.Electronics & Communications,ITI,1.7 Years experience as Service Technician in India. On visit Visa, Looking For a Suitable Placement.

Contact :92794176, E-mail:prathyushkp9@gmail.com Pakistani male 23 years old experience in travel agency - ticketing looking for a suitable job, NOC available. Contact: 93253759

SITUATION WANTED EDUCATION/CLASSES/COMP./WEB.

CATERING SERVICES We do industrial catering service, Canteen / mess, 3 times packed meals and all types of catering events.

Contact: 92188777 / 99249899 Pest control & Building cleaning all kinds of pest control building. Cleaning tiles / Marble polishing monthly/ Yearly contracts available.

Contact: 98814733 /98814740 Al Husn Cleaning L.L.C

PALEST CONTROL TABA SERVICE LLC 100% Professional Aīordable Rate !!!

Ants, Rodent, & cleaning On monthly, Harmless & Odourless

CALL - 91464586 Window & split unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact: 99557080 Split unit & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance.

Contact: 96236476 Split unit & widow unit A.C servicing & maintenance.

Contact: 95323517 / 93769089

SERVICES

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

in Azaiba and Ruwi

• Learn in two months • Satisfaction guaranteed

Tel: 95244310 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 WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price. Contact: http//webviewoman

We Provide Cleaners, Office boys, Cleaning Contracts, General cleaning etc.

Al Mudakhir National Est. LLC Contact : 94277020

Split & window A/c installation & maintenance specialist package & ducted units. Contact 98667326 GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 A/C Maintenance & Servicing, Fridge, Washing machine & Dish washer repairing, Painting & Cleaning services, Electrical & plumbing.

Contact 99447257 / 97014234 / 24504281 we do building maintenance all kind of works. Contact 99247663

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. contact 24793614/ 99314807 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Pest control treatments, Ocean center LLC Contact 99344723 House shifting.

Contact 99708138

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

Complete building maintenance Midawa Trading Est. Contact: 94614479

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

House Shifting Packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013

Al farzdaq Al Fedi Trad and Cont Maintenance services electric, plumbing and A/C. Contact: 96524904 /94285064

Split A/C servicing R.O 10 only.

Contact: 94217681 /99210141

Marble crystallization & grinding, Ocean center LLC Contact: 99344723

Marble crystallization & grinding, cleaning & carpet shampooing.

Ocean center LLC. Contact 99344723

All MEP & Civil shop drawings.

Contact : 93070771 Email : designjob2014@gmail.com

Muscat Driving School established for over 15 years drive safe with MDS. Meet our professional friendly Instructor. Contact: 99773651 / 95840670 Sohar 26844412 Ruwi / Darsait 24781123 MGM 24399951 AL Khudh 24536348

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

Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722 CAD drawings Archi/ MEP CAD – comply BIM. Contact: 91233975

TRANSPORTATION Transportation available on rent 10 ton Hiap Trailers. Contact 94207475 / 95649231/ 97982842 Transportation available Ruwi to Al Khuwair, Ghubra & Azaiba.

Contact: 91103909

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

TOURS Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours contact 98029602, 92808636 We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898

TOURS

Moon Travel L.L.C

Saudi Arabian Government approved agent

Umrah Package by Road & Air Bus Departures- Apr 19, May 03, 17 & 31.2016 Ramadan Schedule - Jun 06, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26 & 30.2016 Contact: Tariq Al Balushi - 99218069 Ahmed Maseehuddin - 99353611, Oĸce: 24790746/24706217

SITUATION WANTED BUSINESS Investment Required Minimum OMR 500,000 to transfer 5 Excavators big + 5 Tippers 2015 Astra, working on good profitable Excavation projects. Assured income 36 %.

98867530 / 99120532 engrfaheem@hotmail.com

Required partner investor to build an apartment in Al Mobelah.

Contact: 99355330

GOOD NEWS Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis, massage, steambath, obesity, Spondylitis, Ideal Care Ayurvedic Clinic, 18 November Street, Azaiba.

Contact: 99639695 / 97397320 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact: 24475280 / 95371664 / 2504980 www.siddhayur.com 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

RENT A CAR

Investment opportunity for lucrative building and decorative product. Contact: 99421513 Email: borderlineomn@gmail.com

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver.

Contact: 99839898

MATRIMONIAL Keralite Muslim parents invite proposals for their daughter 22 yrs with MSC Psychology + MBA HR, residing with parents in Oman. Good alliance sought form boys from well to do settled family preferably working in Oman / GCC. Interested Contact: 00968-94443037 27 years RC Girl working as a staff nurse in MOH Sur seeks suitable alliance from Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode. Contact: 92115860

TRANSPORTATION Driver with car.#93346085

Malankara Catholic Male Nurse (28) from Thiruvalla working in Nizwa Private Co. Alliance invites parents/nurses working in Oman.

Contact 968 98267338, 0091 9287215726 Indian male Roman Catholic 40yrs divorcee working in Muscat.

Seeks suitable alliance from widow/ divorcee/ single.

Contact 96059801.

TRANSPORTATION Transportation required from Qurum to WadiKabir at afternoon only 1 PM. Contact - 99012165

Transportation. Contact: 95190627 Transportation. Contact 92015894

Transportation. Contact 99508282

RENT A CAR Best Rates for Saloon Contact: 97869042 / 95730550 sales@modernreem.com

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T H U R S D AY, A P R I L 2 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

SITUATION WANTED DINING DELIGHTS

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