FACES Issue No. 104 by FACES OMAN

Issue 104, September 2015

Family Attitude Class Entertainment Success

Editor’s Note

Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali Chairman & Editor-in-Chief / Mohammed Issa Al Zedjali

Chief Executive Officer / Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali

tyle and fashion…that is the defining tone of this issue. Taking a cue from Yves Saint Laurent’s famous quip, ‘Fashions fade, style is eternal’, we take you on a style trek to celebrate fashion on a style podium. While fashion trends rule the Special segment and the Style File, the regular pages present a peek into the varied nuances of style that go into creating a fashion statement. Our cover story takes a detour through traditional attire to highlight the exciting alterations and modifications in women’s wear, which have, for obvious reasons, not witnessed a parallel change in men’s wear. We present perspectives of experts who ascribe it to the sanctity of traditional wear and the very nature of men’s r An eye fo fashion, globally, which is generally skewed towards FASHION style than fashion trends. The prospect of initiating a ‘Food Bank’ in Muscat is the topic under discussion in Centre Stage, as Dar Al Atta’a gets set to propel the project into reality, following ar Menswe sh approvals from relevant authorities. Change4Life, a gets styli concept initiated by fitness enthusiasts at Petroleum

Business Director / Sophia Raman Editorial Consultant / Suzy Fontes Art Director / Pushpender K. Sharma Head of Advertising & Marketing / Aziz K. Baker Business Unit Head / Pooja Saxena

Published By / Muscat Media Group PB 770, PC 112, Ruwi, Oman Tel: +968 24 811953 . Fax: +968 24 813153 Printed At / Ruwi Modern Printers LLC Tel: +968 24816952

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Copyright 2015 FACES / All material published remains the copyright of FACES. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. FACES cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material.

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C.R. No: 1003704

25 TOURNAMENTS! 20 COUNTRIES! 1 GLOBAL GOLF EVENT!

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Contents In This Issue

FACES Features 16 Cover Story

From pricing and variety to style and trends, the aisles of fashion are leaning heavily towards women’s wear, with clothes and accessories that are forever changing

22 In Conversation

Mohammad M. Ghaddar, Chairman of Golden Home LLC, is a man with the proverbial Midas touch, as he savours success in every business venture e he initiates

FACES Style 38 In The Luxe

Welcome to the world of Haute Couture...

40 Look Good What is fashion if it is not accompanied by style that accentuates your charm and allure…?

42 Style File -

24 In The Spotlightt

Lured by the enchanting vistas of the country and the bold lifestyle of women in the villages, British artist Helen Couchman toured the country to capture portraits rtraits of Omani women

26 Centre Stage

As the world gets set to mark Food Day (on October 16) a local NGO is hammering out the administrative nitty-gritty’s to set up a food bank that will put a stop to food wastage

FACES Foodie 28 2 8 Feast On

‘Urban Indian Canteen’, the tagline of ‘RazmAzaan’, the scrumptious new addition to Muscat Avenues Mall’s food scene, is a perfect testament to the restaurant’s culinary presentation

FACES Health F

32 Health Check - ‘Lack of physical activity is a major -

risk to health’ was the message behind the ‘Change4Life’ symposium held at PDO Dr. Praveen Patil of Burjeel Medical Centre, talks about the need for early diagnosis to tackle osteoarthritis and osteoporosis

Centrepoint’s latest Autumn/Winter Collection focuses on 70’s inspired

FACES FA ACE Travel

36 3 6 Explore E xp Oman Get a footing on the new season with an invigorating trek up Muttrah

FACES Razzmatazz 10 Star Light Anne Hathaway may have lamented in a recent interview that she is losing roles to younger actresses, but there is no stopping this glamorous young actress from getting plum roles

pieces for the family

12 Razzle Dazzle

Muscat based fashion designer Sherin Mansoor is all set to wow fashionistas at the upcoming Tiffany’s Fashion Week Paris

14 Tittle Tattle

FACES Elements FA 48 Take a Spin There is a sporty exuberance about the new Hyundai Veloster Turbo that has helped chart its success

52 At Home Take your fashion sense out of your wardrobe and lavish it on your home décor plans

FACES SPECIAL

50 Fashion Time Get ‘dressed to the nines’, literally, as the following pages take you on an inspirational fashion journey

Latest celebrity gossip from the world of Hollywood

Heard through the grapevine...

FACES Digest

64 Movies & Books Reviews of upcoming movies and books

67 Gadget Notes Roundup of new gadgets in the market

Magical Dunes ‘Dunes by Al Nahda’, a new paradise set in the golden sands of

LC Waikiki in Oman

Paving the way for fashionistas to explore newer avenues, Turkeys leading fashion chain, LC Waikiki, has opened its first store in Oman. The retail chain, specialising in clothes and accessories for men, women and children was formally opened earlier this month at Oman Avenues Mall, in partnership with the Apparel Group. Originating from France in 1985 and fostered in Turkey, LC Waikiki is a Turkish multi-cultural fashion brand that has a modern approach to retailing with a global appeal. LC Waikiki adopts the philosophy, ‘Everyone deserves to dress well’, offering a dynamic range of accessible yet stylish clothing to suit different styles and tastes, allowing its customers enjoy the advantages of affordable fashion.

Wadi Al Abiyad, is on its way to woo guests from all over the world. Located atop the picturesque dunes, a mere 45-minute drive from Al Nahda Resort and Spa in Barka, it is the closest desert resort to downtown Muscat and the United Arab Emirates. Launched earlier this month at a soft opening witnessed by media representatives from the region, ‘Dunes by Al Nahda’ is dotted with well-spaced villas and suites. It features 50 Ultra Luxury Tents; separate seating area and individually controlled air-conditioning. It brings together luxury and simplicity in a classy and true 5-star way and devotes itself to wellness. The special Hot Sand treatment, a spa experience, is their signature therapy. Its location atop the sand dune, offers an unrivalled view over the surrounding with undulating sand dunes, desert and mountains in the distance.

‘Al Mouj Muscat’

It is, literally, a ‘wave’ of change, as Oman’s leading integrated tourism complex, The Wave, Muscat, gets a new brand identity. The Wave, Muscat has embraced its Arabic translation to become ‘Al Mouj Muscat’, with a logo derived from the calligraphy of the former logo and elements from the JV Partners - the typeface and colours from the Ministry of Tourism logo, and the new Majid Al Futtaim branding. With plans in place to expand the thriving waterfront community with a new school, more hotels and a harbour-side piazza, the development is in the last stages of finalising its much-anticipated new masterplan. Following the rebranding, Al Mouj Muscat has launched Juman, a highly exclusive new collection of premium apartments. The six iconic buildings of the gated Juman Precinct open out to marina or ocean views.

Chopard Happy Hearts

Happy Hearts collection from Chopard promises to do just that: give you happy hearts! The Geneva-based company has revisited this collection by approaching it from a completely different angle; the traditionally openwork hearts now welcome ‘solid’ turquoise, onyx or mother-of-pearl hearts placed along slim white or rose gold chains. These series of colourful, openwork hearts are also interspersed with tiny hearts housing moving diamonds. Happy Hearts are heirs to a longstanding tradition at Chopard, of which the finest hours have long since been marked by Happy Diamonds. Khimji’s Watches is now showcasing the collection from Chopard at its showroom in Shatti Al Qurum.

September 2015

Dubizzle is now OLX

‘Flavours of Oman’ at Al Bustan Palace

Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel, is inviting guests to immerse themselves in Omani traditions and culture with a new, tailor-made destination experience named ‘Flavours of Oman’ (the package is valid from September 15 to December 31). The journey showcases the various attractions of Oman, taking guests from the historic souk in Nizwa and the heights of Jebel Al Akhdar, to the newly opened Six Senses Spa at Al Bustan Palace, a stately haven for treatments that go beyond the ordinary. The luxury hotel package allows guests to explore the alleys of Nizwa souk, a part of the Nizwa historic fort, with a guided tour around the array of stalls displaying silks, incense burners and traditional Omani goods. The excursion continues to Jebel Al Akhdar.

Dubizzle,an online website for classified ads, has rebranded its platforms (desktop, mobile and app) to OLX. The web domain has changed to olx.com.om and all traffic generated towards A dubizzle.com is now directed to olx.com.om. new o do app called ‘OLX Arabia’ is also available to download. ting und Ten Middle Eastern markets are now operating under the OLX brand name and are now part of a global network that reaches over 240 million monthly active users and generates over 17 billion page views per month. For the users, everything remains the same; users’ account details and their ads remain the same. Users can log in using the same method as before and will find their ads.

1947, a new landmark in Ghubra

Foodies in Ghubra have a new destination in their neighbourhood, following the opening of ‘1947’ restaurant. A novel concept from the owners of the popular Ananthapuri Restaurant, 1947 pays homage to the year in which India won its independence. Its structural façade is reminiscent of pre-independence days, while the décor is a tribute to its leaders with portraits highlighting their contribution to the freedom. Patrons can look forward to traditional Indian cuisine in a unique and engaging ambience that is heaped with the history of India’s freedom movement. “At 1947, patrons can enjoy sumptuous Indian delicacies with a generous dose of history on the side,” says Biby Jacob, Managing Director.

New premium salad range at McDonald’s In a bid to fulfill its commitment to offer balanced food options that cater to different customer tastes and lifestyles, McDonald’s Oman (Al Daud Restaurants LLC) has launched new premium salad range as part of its permanent menu. The refreshing additions - Chicken Caesar Salad, Quinoa Fattoush and Feta Garden Salad – are now available in all McDonald’s restaurants. The Quinoa Fattoush offers a traditional taste from Arabia with a ‘power’ twist of quinoa; the Feta Garden Salad also contains nutritious quinoa seeds with a mix of feta cheese cubes, baby spinach, corn, rocca, yellow capsicum, juicy cucumbers and cherry tomatoes mix, topped off with a mustard vinaigrette dressing. The premium Chicken Caesar Salad comes with crunchy romaine lettuce cuts, topped with tender grilled halal chicken strips, crispy bread croutons, shredded Parmesan cheese and a tasty Caesar dressing.

September 2015

Anne has her way Anne Hathaway may have lamented in a recent interview that she is losing roles to younger actresses, but there is no stopping this glamorous young actress from getting plum roles

nne Hathaway is only 32 and has no reason to complain about aging, but when she recently pointed out to a magazine that she was losing roles to younger actresses, it came across more as a tongue-in-cheek statement, as she hastily added that she has no reason to complain, having benefitted from it herself. “When I was in my early 20s, parts would be written for women in their 50s and I would get them. And now I’m in my early 30s and I’m like, ‘Why did that 24-year-old get that part?’” she quipped in an interview with an entertainment magazine. But she is optimistic about her career and has several reasons to feel on top of the world, all the awards notwithstanding. “All I can do right now is think that thankfully you have built up perhaps a little bit of cachet and can tell stories that interest you, and if people go to see them, you’ll be allowed to make more…” she mused. Having established herself as a multifaceted actress, proving her potential in diverse films, she has a lifetime of fresh new roles ahead of her, with the recently released film, ‘The Intern’, adding to her crown of glory. The film, starring Robert De Niro, Nat Wolff and Adam DeVine, carried the bold tagline, ‘Experience never gets old’, as if attesting her versatility in the film industry. Talking about that film, she’d told a magazine that it is fun to work with seasoned actors. “I think of age as a fluid thing. But when you get to work with someone like Bobby, you have such a

September 2015

beautiful range of work to learn from before you even meet them,” she had stated. Born in Brooklyn, New York, to Kathleen Ann (McCauley), an actress, and Gerald Thomas Hathaway, a lawyer, Anne had that primary connect with acting. Not surprisingly, she found her niche when she got the first major role in the television series ‘Get Real’ in 1999. She followed that with ‘The Princess Diaries’ in 2001 and its sequel as a young girl who discovers that she is a member of royalty, which won her widespread recognition. Shortly after, Anne made a conscious effort to move away from family-friendly films, like ‘Havoc’ in 2005, opposite Josh Peck, wherein she appeared topless. Following this she was seen in ‘Brokeback Mountain’ opposite Health Ledger and Jake Gyllenhal. However, in one candid interview she pointed out that doing family-friendly films didn’t mean she was similar to those characters or that she objected appearing nude in other films.

Her aspirations have always been to do good work. As she is quoted to have said, “Quite frankly, I didn’t become an actor to become a movie star. I have never dreamed about being the most famous person on the planet. I just want to do really good work.” In another context, she reiterated similar sentiments: “So, as long as I’m a working actor, I can improve. I want to work with people that frighten me and excite me, and characters that I don’t believe I’m the best person for the part but I’m still gonna try anyway. Those are my favorite roles…”

Selena Gomez getting too old? She is all of 23 and nowhere near old, but not everyone thinks so... Selena Gomez, it appears, is old enough for youngsters to not know that much about her early work. In an interview, Selena is quoted to have said that she did another interview with a young girl and that she talked about ‘that show she used to be on’ and all she got back was a blank facial expression - the girl had no clue what she was talking about. Selena says that made her feel old.

Amal Maher’s ‘Sekkat Salama’ Egyptian singer Amal Maher seems to have it all. She has one of the finest voices in Egypt, the Gulf adores her and keeps asking her to sing at private occasions and public concerts, she has won an award for the best female album, and now she is on the Star Academy show. She shared the show with the Lebanese multi-talented artist, the singer, writer and composer, Marwan Khoury. What is more, Amal Maher is working on another album project; titled ‘Sekkat Salama’, which promises to be a huge success.

Kaley Cuoco and Ryan Sweeting call it quits After less than two years of marriage – 21 months to be exact, The Big Bang Theory star Kaley Cuoco and Ryan Sweeting announced that they are calling it quits. In a statement given to ‘People’ magazine, Cuoco’s representative said: ‘Kaley Cuoco and Ryan Sweeting have mutually decided to end their marriage. They ask for privacy at this time. No further statement will be issued regarding this matter.’ Kaley Cuoco divorce rumours have been circulating for months, but the actress repeatedly denied that she and Ryan Sweeting were having issues.

Kourtney Kardashian plans to leave Scott Disick broke? Not just leave him broke, she plans also to ruin his career, claim sources. It has been almost three months since Kourtney Kardashian left Scott Disick, but it looks like the relation has only gotten worse. Although they supposedly reached a custody agreement, they are said to be still at war over everything - from visitation schedules to spousal support. Their relationship has deteriorated to the point that Kourtney is now said to be feuding with Kris Jenner simply because she expressed some mildly pro-Scott sentiments in an interview.

Ivanka Trump to be a mother again Ivanka Trump, businesswoman and popular television personality, has revealed that she and her husband Jared Kushner are to be parents again. In a photo posted on her Instagram account she wrote that she had a special announcement on Facebook. The Facebook post had a video of her kids Arabelle and Joseph saying their birth order, with Ivanka holding the number three in front of her baby bump.

September 2015

Tittle

“Everyone professionally (was on board). The only person was my mother. My mother only knows Meek from what she sees in public, in the media. She met him now, but she just wants to make sure he’s a nice guy. She’s overprotective of her daughter.” - Nicki Minaj admits that her mom wasn’t okay with her dating Meek Mill at first.

“It was my dream for it to become a classic Christmas song. I am so proud of the song’s impact as it continues to create memories for fans each year... I am thrilled to be able to bring the story of the song to new generations of families with the picture book.” - Mariah Carey is excited that her ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ is heading to bookshelves.

“She was on the show for a long time. She’s also a beautiful woman. It makes people wonder. She’s a very straightforward person. If there was something she felt the world needed to know that would help this case or help any women who had been abused, she would say something.”

14 14

- Zoe Kravitz says her mom Lisa Bonet would September Se S Sep ep pttem mb be er 2015 20 01 15 5 keep shut if she knew something not about Bill Cosby’s past.

“I didn’t know I would be affected by it all this way, but I am. It’s difficult to give your daughter away.”

- Steve Harvey says he didn’t expect to get choked up when discussing giving his daughter away.

cover STORY

Fashioning Ideas

From pricing and variety to style and trends, the aisles of fashion are leaning heavily towards women’s wear, with clothes and accessories that are forever changing and evolving

istory tells us that stilettos were a gender-bender in the 17th and the 18th centuries with most Western men wearing heeled shoes as an expression of power. But somewhere down the line, with high heels literally changing feet, fashion for men became more sedate, with the focus generally on style than on fashion. Whether that had anything to do with women ruling the footwear trend or not, men’s fashion seemed to have lost its fizzle much before designers realised the infinite options of dressing women in new styles and creations. In the current fashion-obsessed world, it is women’s wear that gets far more coverage than men’s fashion, be it in the print media or at fashion shows that cater to business houses and fashionistas. It appears that there is hardly any cut or pattern the designers can weave into men’s fashion to create newer trends, unless they get ready to break the fashion gender barrier with androgynous fashion. The focus is more on style than on fashion when one talks about the men’s wear. As one fashion

September 2015

expert noted, ‘Men can have style, but it seems they can’t have fashion.’ Not surprisingly, the options in women’s-wear are, seemingly, unlimited with designs that can be classified anywhere between fabulous and breathtaking to weird and shocking. The same, however, cannot be said about men’s fashion. “Men, by and large, are much more conservative about their dress than women, and they have fewer garment options to boot,” explains a designer. While women can flit from skirts and gowns to pants and dresses, men have only the quintessential pant to fall back on, the sagging pant trend, notwithstanding. Designers have, with reason, blamed men themselves for an abject lack of exciting changes in their fashion ensemble, as men have not taken any step to shake their lackadaisical approach to all things fashion and shopping. They seem to love the idea of blending and are content in their tees and jeans on casual occasions with a suit or a shirt and tie affair for official work. Men tend to be conservative in their clothes, say experts, pointing out

that men’s wear is, usually, driven by tradition and authenticity…which is starkly evident in Oman too. While women’s wear, even the traditional abaya has undergone a metamorphosis of sorts with designers intelligently weaving in changes without altering the premise of tradition and culture, men’s dishdasha has remained unaltered since ages. The bright white traditional attire has adopted only minor alterations to welcome fabric in pastel shades, with the tassel earning an element of novelty in the colour and material used. Understandably, the traditional attire has to maintain its sanctity, but what about the general concept of fashion… Why hasn’t men’s fashion, globally, witnessed any change over the years, despite all the starkly evident changes in the fabric, cuts and appendages in women’s wear? Here’s what experts in the field of fashion had to say on the subject, as they highlight the inherent challenges in the field of designing and gauge the mood in the society for all things fashion in men’s wear.

cover STORY Models presenting gowns from Amal Al Raisi’s Dar Alaseel boutique

Market challenges There are a number of challenges that fashion designers face, but from my personal experience I would say that having a very poor market is the major one. For any designer, materials are a big part of the inspiration for any creation, and we really lack the most basic items in our market. As far as men’s fashion is concerned, it has been in the spotlight in the last two years. Though there have not been any changes in the traditional outfits, it has created awareness regarding the different types of men’s wear that we have, which has, further, encouraged the new generation to experience wearing a variety of outfits on special occasions. I believe that this is the starting point to put attention and effort to come up with something new and this will show results in the coming years. Also, I believe that the society is now getting more familiar with the role of a fashion designer, which means our work is being more appreciated; it is now more acceptable to see men in the fashion field. I believe more is to come in a few years…

Design challenges I usually try to focus on diversity in fabric and textile and choose colours carefully, knowing how powerful colour can be in conveying a mood and creating that first impression. But there are challenges on the way; they include: -

Arwa presenting her designs

Amal Al Raisi

- Amal Al Raisi is a self-taught fashion designer and founder of Dar Alaseel, an exclusive boutique that caters to women, with a mission to make fashion statement pieces while respecting traditions.

Good source of local textile materials High production cost High cost of raw materials Scarcity of professional tailors Customers seeking cheaper products over quality

Men’s fashion hasn’t seen any change over the years, because changing traditional men’s wear is a taboo. Designers and also the community is not ready to see this change. - Arwa Moosa Al Musafir is a business graduate who started designing as a hobby and created her own brand three years ago with Arwa’s Boutique in South Mawaleh.

September 2015

Culture dictates

A model in Amna’s evening wear

cover STORY

Amna Al Sabri

The main challenge faced by Omani designers is creating abayas or outfits that are suitable for Omani costumers - for example, long sleeves and modest clothes that cover up. Most Omani designers have to match their design with their culture so it is sometimes a challenge to create high fashion designs, as seen in Europe, and try to mix it with the Arab culture. Some of the other challenges that abaya designers face these days is also that they have to be up-to-date with the newest trends; abaya designs tend to go out of fashion very fast, as there are many local designers that compete with each other around the Gulf. There is, however, a big change in Arab men’s fashion nowadays. They are more into fashion and are inspired by the new trends that are set in Europe. Its effect can be seen in the traditional wear as far as colours and accessories are concerned. We notice that their dishdasha, the white outfit that they wear daily, is now made in many different colours and materials, according to the season and weather. Yes, there are many male and female emerging designers who are now designing men’s traditional and casual wear. - Amna Al Sabri is the designer and proprietor of ‘Style Passport’ boutique in Azaiba and ‘Harayer Al Khaleej’ in Shatti Al Qurum.

A fashion forward vision Oman, for the past seven years, had what we call fashion retailers, sellers and buyers, but not so many designers. With the sudden spurt in the growth of Omani fashion designers, we can recognise a boost in the Omani fashion market in mainly three categories: traditional Omani wear, Abayas and evening gowns. My reason for listing the above is to throw the spotlight on the lack of variation in terms of competition, as most designers are replicas, in some way or another, of the designer next door. So, I would say the biggest challenge faced by Omani designers, at the moment, would be competing for the same market level and not using the variety and space they have to create new dimensions or a fashion forward vision. I do believe fear has no place in the fashion field; a designer must have the tools to be bold and outspoken in what they Hajer Belochi

September 2015

cover STORY

have to offer from the designs they gift to the world and when a designer has that they would know exactly how to balance everything out.

A model in Hajer Belochi’s design

The reason for lack of changes in men’s fashion, I believe, is to do with the restrictions on traditional wear. In the Middle East region, Omani men’s wear is quite unique and one could be spotted out of millions. Women, on the other hand, can get away with it as we have more variations. So keeping that identity is actually healthy from my point of view, since it’s about the traditional wear. I still see no harm in few alterations in the type of fabric and details used within the dishdasha; but keeping the base while manipulating the details is key to a creative touch. But I do see the future bringing in some changes and, yes, we already do have Omani designers that cater to men’s wear. I guess they just need more spotlight and motivation to sparkle. - Hajer Belochi is an Omani fashion designer and fashion lecturer, whose design work, featured in her popular Instagram account, hajerbelochicouture, includes a host of women’s and kids wear for all occasions.

Customer appreciation Any newly started business, without any background or support from predecessors in the field, will prove to be a real challenge to the initiator. But fashion designers love their work and as such don’t feel it is a challenge, as much as it would if they were challenging themselves to make something creative and unique. If we were to list the external challenges, it would include delays in getting approvals as well as the lack of clear link between different sectors. Besides, customers don’t always appreciate or believe in local designers; the quality of their creation and the hard work they put in to do their best for the country is lost. Also, there are financial problems, as there is no support from the banks for SME’s and the processes involved can make it very difficult for any business because of the high percentage of interest; whatever they make will go again to cover the loan.

Hala Abdullatif Hassan Al Balushi

A model displays Hala’s traditional wear

A lot of Omani designers have started working on traditional men’s wear and they present them from the

September 2015

Hala’s traditional wear

cover STORY

heritage point of view with unique touches that will not affect the traditional fibre. One of the famous designer is Mohammed al Subhi, and, as far as the Omani casual wear is concerned, the only Omani brand is Razza from Dr. Sami Al Zadjali. Fashion in Oman is, indeed, booming now and it covers all regions in Oman. A lot of people have started it as a business and they are learning and studying more about it. Sometimes, it is the other way around, as people study and then have their own home business until they build a name and establish their own boutique. - Hala Al Balushi is the owner of Dar Hala Boutique in Al Khuwair; she is also the organiser of Oman Designers’ Forum for fashion designers and the Manager of Business Support Human Resources at Omantel.

Arabic inspired designs Muscat Fashion Week had set a bar in the country, whereby we brought world-renowned women’s wear designers to showcase their Arabic influenced couture, so our youth and public could learn and adapt. Our future plans were to bring in men’s fashion but it was too premature to do that, then and now. What we are witnessing today are these young talents, attempting to stage shows with their take on Arabic inspired/influenced designs, but it’s all in its infancy…though it is an encouraging way forward. Menswear, especially western style outfit, has been adopted by mostly the younger Omanis, for a more hip and casual look; but when it comes to what we dress locally, it’s in our nature to stick with the national dress, the dishdasha, for its practicality. Although this has been spruced up with colourful fabrics, tassels with matching caps and massar, yet we have kept its original cut and design intact. Omanis of working age and beyond are proud to wear their attire on a daily basis, as we rarely venture out to dress in western style within the country; whilst travelling we conform to western dress, as it’s suitable. - Malik Al Hinai is the Director of Bait Al Baranda and organiser of the popular Muscat Fashion Week

September 2015

Models in Arabic inspired designs at the Muscat Fashion Week

cover STORY

Oman’s nascent fashion industry Dr. Mona Kamal Ismail, Dean of Scientific College of Design*, talks about Oman’s growing fashion industry as she highlights the options and choices for aspiring designers How would you describe the current fashion scenario of the country? Fashion design field is still in its decisive stage. However, it is a growing field where local designers have their presence, both in the local and regional market. From a global perspective, how would you rate Oman’s fashion industry? Oman’s fashion industry is still a growing market that is going through several stages of experimentations. What are the design aesthetics that fashion designers need to follow in Oman? Designers should consider norms of the local culture to be able to fit it in the local market. Design aesthetics include issues such as colour, proportion, line, etc. As far as men’s traditonal wear is concerned, colours have been integrated in the dishadasha to match the massar, but I do not see any major change in the near future. Most local fashion designers appear to be catering to the upper middle class clients. Do you see this ever changing? Yes, it is always more profitable to cater to the upper and middle class. In addition, it is also more interesting to work with a bigger budget. It is important to note that special occasion or festival dresses are much more flexible because they are worn under the abaya. However, I see this changing and there will be a focus on mass production due to the exposure to other markets through social media. It is the social media that provides, daily, thousands of fashion related images. What is required to make a mark in the global fashion scenario? Fashion designers should cater to the global market as well through their presence in international shows. The international market has accepted designers from the Middle East and the region such as Elie Saab and Azza Fahmy.

What are the challenges faced by wannabe designers in the country? Challenges would be to integrate creativity and cultural norms and traditions. Designers should be able to modernise the traditional attire and convince the local market of the need to change. Are local designers limited by the lack of availability of fabrics and other fashion accessories to realise their creativity? Fashion designers might somewhat be limited by the lack of availability of fabric and accessories, but the presence of the Internet provides access to the entire world. Designers have to start actively engaging through local events like the ‘Fashion Week’, which is organised as part of the Muscat Festival. The event featured several international names; the Scientific College of Design has also participated in several shows. Designers should collaborate and have an active role in organising fashion related events, locally, through government and private sponsorship. Perhaps, expand to the regional market in the Gulf area, and then internationally. I think the growth should be gradual to gain experience through practice * The Fashion Design programme at the Scientific College of Design offers interdisciplinary education based on a set of theoretical and practical courses. The programme covers history, theory, and computer aided courses as well as design studios of specific types of garments, accessories design, and theatrical costumes.

September 2015

in CONVERSATION

Ahead of the

curve Mohammad M. Ghaddar, Chairman of Golden Home LLC, is a man with the proverbial Midas touch, as he savours success in every business venture he initiates

is affable mien may defy the stereotype of a typical businessman, but his strong family connect does personify the popular saying, ‘there is a woman behind every successful man’. At his tastefully designed home in the island premises of the luxurious Al Mouj Muscat, Mohammad Ghaddar, Chairman of Golden Home, comes across as a family man for whom business happened casually, and not the other way around. He candidly conveys his need to concur with his wife Grace, as he traces his life in the world of shoe business, which he has now diversified to include real estate and restaurant. The mood is domestic, as his elder son interjects with his witty innuendos and daughter Dina, who he fondly refers to as ‘his princess’, poses little queries about her pet bunny, during the tête-à-tête with FACES. It was September of 1976, recalls Mohammad, when he came to Oman from his hometown in Lebanon, with members of his family, to start a small shoe shop near the Ruwi Police Station. Things weren’t easy those initial days, as there was only one road leading from Seeb to Ruwi and

September 2015

everything was very laidback, he notes. Those days the family also had a blockmaking factory, but it didn’t really take off. Following the departure of the family members back to their home country, he moved his shoe operation to Sabco Commercial Centre, the first shopping mall of its kind in the country, under the banner of ‘Shoe Palace’. The year was 1983 and things were looking bright in the capital Muscat. In 2002, when he married Grace, he already had two shoe shops to his name. Soon, fortune turned in his favour and his hard work paid off. “Now I have 11 branches spread all over the capital and outside, including Salalah,” he points out. He then diversified his operations to include real estate, with eight properties in The Wave, Muscat (recently renamed as Al Mouj) and elsewhere in the region, in addition to a Lebanese restaurant, Leylaki, at The Walk, as well as a safety equipment company called ‘Protect’, under the umbrella of his business enterprise, ‘Golden Home’. From the initial days, ‘Shoe Palace’, Mohammad’s pet venture, has been catering to savvy clients with products sourced from Italy, Germany, Spain and England. “I am the best supplier of men’s Arabic sandals in the entire Gulf

region,” he states proudly. Although there are challenges in catering to shoe connoisseurs with the best that the designers around the world have to offer, in terms of top quality products at affordable prices, he has never compromised on quality, he asserts. With business operations that span nearly four decades, he has a long list of loyal patrons who know just what to expect at his ‘Shoe Palace’. He admits that things have changed and even tastes and purchasing powers of his customers have undergone changes, but what is most striking in all this, he points out, is the physical transformation of the city from one road to a complex network of highways and infrastructure. “There were no malls… Sabco was the first and only shopping centre in all of Oman,” Mohammad remembers. Reiterating similar thoughts, Grace adds:“I have been here for 12 years and even I have seen the drastic changes in the country. When I first came, it took us a while to find the right furniture; we hardly saw cars when we drove around the roads at night...” But with several ambitious plans up his sleeve, Mohammed is well tuned to the changes in the market and sees positive vibes emanating from the immense changes taking place in the country.

in CONVERSATION

Up Close & Personal With

Mohammad Ghaddar The home I grew up in...

My greatest regret...

It was a big home with six children, a loving mother and a very persevering father who was patient, wise and religious as well.

That I married late.

You may not know it but I’m no good at...

Be a pilot…I always wanted to fly.

Gauging people and their intentions from first impression. I just take them at face value.

When I became a father.

Flying planes.

Everything inspires me.

I would pursue a degree in business.

When I was a child I wanted to... The moment that changed me forever... My greatest inspiration... My hero…

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, a wise leader and a model, benevolent ruler.

If I could change one thing about myself...

There is nothing I would want to change. I dream of...

Being a good father and a successful businessman.

What I see when I look in the mirror...

I see that time is passing very quickly and there is still a lot to accomplish.

You may not know it but I’m very good at… If I have time to myself...

My house is...

My life. It is a warm loving place where I can relax and energise.

My favourite holiday destination...

Venice, Italy.

My favourite weekend spot in Oman…

Sharqiya Sands.

I will not leave my house without...

My phone, my car key and my wallet. Things I like about Oman…

The friendly people; its rich natural

diversity; and the long coastline – but, above all, the safety it caters is something that is very much appreciated in our time.

On top of my wish/bucket list is...

Good health and prosperity of my children. My family is everything to me. My success mantra is...

I believe in karma - what goes around comes around.

In 10 years’ time, I hope to be...

Established in my business and running an advanced shoe factory here. Alongside, I want to diversify into real estate and the restaurant business.

“I believe in karma - what goes around comes around”.

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Photographs: Pushpender Sharma

in the SPOTLIGHT

Portraits of Omani Women Lured by the enchanting vistas of the country and the bold lifestyle of women in the villages, British artist Helen Couchman toured the country to capture portraits of Omani women

“I am sure there are lots of reasons for this, but I just thought it was interesting to pursue it and that it would be an opportunity to try,” she notes. “I thought I will travel around the country, introduce myself to people and see what they say over cups of coffee,” she adds.

Helen Couchman with Omani Women

hen Helen Couchman, a London based artist, first visited Oman in 2012 on a photographic assignment commissioned by a charity, she was privy to a mirage-like scene of two women in traditional attire, walking in the middle of a desert - an altogether commonplace event, but one that set the premise for her long tryst with the country and its people. “This is quite normal in Oman… but not for me,” she says. “It was the middle of the day and the weather was really hot. They didn’t speak any English and I didn’t speak any Arabic, but they invited me for coffee and I had a lovely time. It got me thinking about Omani women, their farm work and how beautifully they are dressed. They really struck me and I made up my mind to return back and take portraits of Omani women.”

September 2015

That experience set the tempo for Helen’s consecutive trips to Oman, which has resulted in a colourful and vibrant compilation of portraits in a book titled ‘Omani Women’. Scheduled to be launched on October 12, on the sidelines of an exhibition of the same name at Bait Al Zubair’s Gallery Sarah, the book is a testament of her connect with Oman, established during her camping trips through the length and breadth of the country, as she captured portraits of women going about their work. Talking to FACES, earlier this month, during a quick trip to the country to finalise the printing, she pointed out that the project took time to take off as she lacked the necessary fund. Nevertheless, on her return back home to London she initiated research on Oman and soon learnt that photographic work featuring Omani women was almost nonexistent.

A map of Oman, inserted in the book, outlines the places Helen has travelled to and camped out along with a friend. She says she opted to camp out as it gave her the freedom to go to remote places while keeping the trip within the budget. In the three separate trips (the first one was from Haima and around the coast, the second around Salalah and the third to Musandam and the adjoining

in the SPOTLIGHT

places) that she took to compile the book, she talked to about 300 people and captured 146 portraits. “Not everybody said ‘yes’ but that was expected; for me it was more about talking to women about their fashion, about Oman, about me…it was an exchange,” says Helen. Her Arabic is limited to casual greetings, but she managed with smiles and waves. “That helps a lot,” she muses. Language, however, was not the only challenge, as the project required her to walk up to strangers in the streets. “I wasn’t just talking to the women; I was talking to their husbands, to their friends… I didn’t face any conflicts, but I know some people definitely didn’t agree, so I had to be quite brave to speak to people...” she notes. ‘Omani Women’ marks Helen’s third venture in the field of books; all of them portraitures, as she feels photography lends itself to books; she sees it as an art form rather than as a coffee table item. “The great thing about books for me is that when I make a series - I often work in series - it allows me to curate that series in a way that people can see the whole rather than the part... The concept is important for the collection that’s why books are handy for me as a structure. The drawings I have done so far didn’t need to be collated this way,” she maintains. Her first book presents portraits of migrant workers preparing for the Olympics in Beijing; they are all taken in the same position and composition, unlike the current one, which is more focused on the individual. Her second book, titled Mrs. West’s Hats’, is a tribute to her memories of her grandmother. In it she has portrayed herself wearing her grandmother’s hats while depicting different emotions. “It is really about exploring my feelings for her,” she points out.

afforded a woman artist to focus her camera lens on women of Oman’, making it an unusual venture. She writes about the collapsing of time that runs as a backdrop to Helen’s experience of Oman, one of which saw her conversing with a local man who connected her expedition to that of Wilfred Thesiger’s, some 80 years earlier. The exhibition of Helen’s works at Gallery Sarah (from October 13 to November 5) will feature 33 of the selected portraits from the book. Having exhibited her works (photography, drawing and print making) widely, both in the United Kingdom and internationally, often producing new bodies of work during her residencies, Helen’s rendition of ‘Omani Women’ will be a perfect gift to the nation as it observes Omani Women’s Day on October 17.

Consciousness ‘Consciousness’, an exhibition of a visual journey attempting to peer beneath the coat of existence and into the unspoken, through unique live performances, film and visual arts, is currently on at Gallery Sarah. The exhibition, which will run until October 10, is the work of Estabrak Al-Ansari, a London bred International artist whose works have previously been showcased at the likes of TATE Britain, London UK. It plays on the ideas of reality and fiction as well as using water-based elements as a physical representation of cultural discourse.

Her latest venture is unlike the previous two, which had elements of uniformity about them. She celebrates variety in ‘Omani Women’, with regional differences in the traditional attire presenting a new perspective. It was, in effect, the layers of fabric in the traditional attire of women that held her fascination. The variety of choices it offers the wearer is what got her attention, she maintains. In the book’s foreword, Dr. Sussan Babaie calls it a ‘rare privilege that

September 2015

Centre STAGE

g n i k a r o s W ard nk w o t od Ba Fo As the world gets set to mark World Food Day (on October 16) in its quest to eradicate hunger, a local NGO is hammering out the administrative nitty-grittyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to set up a food bank that will put a stop to food wastage, while catering to the less privileged in the society with wholesome meal options

elieve it or not, approximately 500 kilos of cooked, untouched food is thrown everyday in Oman! According to a hard-hitting report, published by a local daily early last year, this is an unavoidable problem; one that is beyond the control of the people associated with the preparation of that food. In that report, the journalist pointed out that the top five hotels in the capital throw away, approximately, 500 kilograms of cooked and untouched food - everyday! The report irked Barka Al Bakry, established social worker and founder member of the Association for Welfare of

September 2015

Handicapped Children, the Early Intervention and the Al Noor Association, who pursued the subject with the journalist and even Barka Al Bakry met up with the concerned authorities in the hotels to assess the problem and find a way forward. The result is the establishment of a Food Bank, which is all set to revolutionise the way excess food is stored and distributed, provided all the requisite approvals fall in place and the process is expedited in association with Dar Al Attaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;a, which will act as the nucleus of the project.

May Al Bayat

While some individuals have been unofficially collecting excess food from private functions held in hotels, the hotels themselves, as a rule, do not give their food out, owing to the possibilities of negative fallout if the food turns stale. The hotels are also keen to find appropriate measures to dispense the cooked, untouched food,

Centre STAGE points out Barka, adding that they are wary of initiating any work until they get an approval from the government. Based on the feedback from F&B managers of the top hotels who are willing to be a part of the Food Bank with the requisite approvals, Barka, along with Dar Al Atta’a officials has drawn up a document outlining the project and the budget involved for one year. Unfortunately, there have been several blocks on the way. Talking to FACES about the project in the days leading to the World Food Day, Barka Al Bakry and May Al Bayat, Marketing Director of Dar Al Atta’a, discussed the potentials of the project and the importance of early approval. The project, they note, was first submitted to the Ministry of Social Development, who advised them to get the approvals from the Muscat Municipality. Following negotiations and finalising of the document to suit the requirements of the authorities, the project was submitted to the Municipal Council, and the same was approved. However, the approval stipulated that they specify the location as well as the logistics of collecting, storing and distribution. “They wanted us to have all elements of the actual project in our hands… But how can we incur the expenses of buying trucks, storage coolers and employing people – before the final approval?” asks Barka. Things could have been easier, notes May, if the association had received an approval to conduct a feasibility check for six months or one year, based on which the approval could be given to continue or stop. “Now we are basically stuck in between,” she points out. As per the project plans, once the approvals are in place, the food

will be distributed through Dar Al Atta’a. “We will discuss with the hotels to retain the food - cooked, but untouched food, including bakery items like breads and cakes - in the cold room every night. The same will be collected early morning and brought to the centre, from where it will be either repacked or distributed in bulk to labour camps and mosques. We will get our volunteers to collect for specific areas where it is needed,” explains Barka.

Plans are also on to coordinate with other charities and welfare organisations to collect and distribute the food for their use, with Dar Al Atta’a as the main hub for distribution (the items will be stored and distributed from a place that will be rented for the purpose). Once the approvals are in place, the next step would be to approach sponsors to meet the expenses of putting various aspects of the project in place. “There will be requirements for specific coolers for the food collected…there will be packaging involved with the expiry dates and times specified,” adds May.

storage, utility bills and wages of the staff, among others. “We need major sponsorships for this… We need to set up a complete office to coordinate the work with the hotels and people,” she points out. The outcome of this Food Bank will be massive, considering that it would cater to labour camps and the less privileged in the society, many of who hardly eat vegetables and fruits. As Barka learnt during her survey, most labour camps feed their workers two rotis and tea for breakfast, rice and daal for lunch and two rotis and daal for dinner. “So imagine how a project like this would help. You see how beneficial it would be…” she states. As per the plans, the project would be initiated with bakery items, as they have longer shelf lives. Poultry items would be included only when the Food Bank is well set and all the little issues are ironed out. With success stories of similar food banks coming from Dubai and Riyadh, the chances of making this Food Bank a reality are on the higher side

It is a huge project in terms of money and manpower, she admits. Not only will the staff be required to work in shifts, the food will have to be collected from the hotels and brought in special trucks to the main location from where volunteers will help out to dispense the same. This means sponsorships for trucks, rental of the place, refrigeration rooms for

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feast ON

RazmAzaan: A new way to eat Indian

‘Urban Indian Canteen’, the tagline of ‘RazmAzaan’, the scrumptious new addition to Muscat Avenues Mall’s food scene, is a perfect ct testament to the restaurant’s culinary presentation tation

ith the essence of Indian canteen surreptitiously incorporated in the meal plan and the razzmatazz of urban lifestyle embodied in the creative décor and the seating within – including the seemingly contradictory rustic flooring RazmAzaan has aced it on all counts in the fast widening culinary horizon of the capital. Located in Oman Avenues Mall, the chic new shopping destination, the restaurant has all the

right gastronomic shades to make it a must-visit foodie point for diners seeking an element of Indianness in their culinary trysts, be it casual or a long leisurely three-course meal. A brainchild of Oman’s ace golfer Azaan Al Rumhy, the restaurant is designed to cater to diners who have a penchant for Indian food with a burst of Mexican twist and a fitness design. Hints of sportsmanship and athleticism, rather healthy diet, can

Photographs: Pushpender Sharma

September 2015

feast ON

be evinced in little knickknacks; one coaster reads: ‘We serve better than Nadal’. The menu itself is strongly focused on light cuisine, with the table mat littered with interesting quips – ‘No extra pounds-to the pocket or the tummy!’ The mood, however, is laidback, with quaint wooden benches and stools in the outer vestibule of the restaurant adding to the effect of the ‘Canteen’ theme that comes through

in the artistic décor – be it the row of mason glass jar lamps overhead, the vibrant electric feel of the wall art on one end, the glass-panelled live kitchen, the varied seating arrangements or the pricing. The feel of being transported in time helps create the mood for a scrumptious meal or even a hurried stopover, with easy price making it a complete canteen experience. The options for takeaway, with rolls that can be enjoyed while mall walking, present a new perspective to the canteen theme. To quote a line from the

tablemat: ‘Strolling and shopping is bound to exhaust you and there’s nothing better than an Indian take away to rejuvenate your senses on the go! Take Away to rejuvenate your senses! Grab a quick bite. It will help you shop some more…’ RazmAzaan, a blend of two names, is a funky takeoff on the word ‘razzmatazz’. ‘Papercats Hospitality’,

which handled the turnkey operations of the restaurant, gave creative hues to the concept of eating Indian food in a unique setting, simplifying it with the introduction of canteen into its scope and approach. As Kishore Singh of Papercats Hospitality explains, the focus is on making eating an entertaining, vibrant, healthy as well as delicious

Azaan Al Rumhy with the RazmAzaan team

September 2015

feast ON

experience. Little tongue-incheek quips and quotes on the tablemat and cute coasters present the creative flourish within the restaurant. Like this one: ‘BTW, in India and Oman too, many people eat with their hands. We’d love it if you gave it a try too – They say food tastes better that way. There’s only one way you can know!’ While our leisurely luncheon, a couple of days before the soft opening of the restaurant, was a typical knife and fork affair for most part, that food does taste good when it is eaten with bare hands, is undeniable. What grabbed our eyeballs, more than the invitation to eat with hands, where the new introductions in the presentation of various dishes. While the welcome drink, buttermilk flavoured with roasted cumin and mint leaves, came in little goblets, the complementary papad and dips was a box affair, with miniature papads placed within the box and topped with an assortment of dips and chutneys. brea br eak k free free from fro rom m “The idea is to break concepts of eating established co tion,” notes Kishore, and presentation,” adding that the focus is on ea a sy providing an easy xperie e nce, dining experience, ibition ns or “without inhibitions comforr t formalities”. The comfort nsured d in i every y factor is ensured

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aspect of the food business, from friendly staff to the pricing and the actual cuisine. Although the stress is on canteen food, the restaurant has incorporated, in its extensive menu, items like RazmAzaan French fries, Mexican rolls with a twist, multigrain bread, Tandoori chicken salad, Indian fish taco, etc., which do not, normally, feature in regular canteen menus. Besides, every dish on the menu is specified as gluten free, dairy free or vegan to help diners chose their healthy options. Our lunch proceeded with an array of tasty mocktails that set the temp for our long lunch affair. Our starter counter included ‘Grilled Calamari’, a platter plat pl atte terr of o grilled calamari rings that are a healt lthi hier er a lter lt erna nati tive ve tto o healthier alternative the regular fried ones; ‘Tandoori

Hamour’, which featured chunks of Omani hamour cooked on slow tandoor; ‘Paneer Olive Tikka’, a novel twist to the mundane cottage cheese, which is stuffed with olive and baked in clay oven; grilled quail presented in a crackling mini barbecue stand and the famous ‘RazmAzaan Special’, ‘Tandoor ‘e’ RazmAzaan’ – pickled wild sea bass, spiced quail supreme, coconut and herb king prawns, lamb seekh kebab – presented in individual tandoor pots on the table. If that was not enough, we gave in to the urge to tuck into ‘Daal RazmAzaan’, which is served in mini buckets, to the accompaniment of breads. And to finish off, we savoured Teacup Phirni ‘Teacup Phirni’ – rose flavoured rice m o u s s e with passion fruit pulp and kiwi fruit.

August 2015

Health CHECK

Change for Life

Raoul Restucci, PDO’s Managing Director addressing the symposium

‘Lack of physical activity is a major risk to health’ was the message of a symposium held under the patronage of PDO’s ‘Change4Life’ campaign

Campaign organisers and speakers at the Change4Life symposium

tudies have consistently shown that physical activity produces clinically significant improvements in glucose control of people with type 2 diabetes. Yet, physical activity lags behind in the management of the target group, observed Dr. Thamra Said Al Ghafri, Director of planning at the Directorate of health services, Muscat. She was talking on ‘Physical activity in the management of Type2 Diabetes’ at the Change4Life Symposium held at PDO’s (Petroleum Development of Oman) Ras Al Hamra Recreation Club (RAHRC). Earlier this month, PDO’s Ras Al Hamra fitness club, in collaboration with the Arab Physical Culture Federation, organised the Change4Life symposium to spread awareness on habits and methods that will contribute to a longer and healthier life. “The focus was on

September 2015

increasing awareness of diabetes risk, with speakers expounding the importance of physical exercises and activity for different ages and genders, with pointers on stress reduction and healthy dieting and tips on maximising energy,” said Saada Al Aufy, a member of the organising team. The PDORC Fitness Group includes voluntary members of the staff of PDO, whose objective is to promote and emphasise health awareness issues that affect both PDO staff and the society at large. Over the years, the group has supported the Cancer Department at Sultan Qaboos University, Maghrib Hospital’s free eye operation for children who have lost their eye sight, National Genetics Association, National Cancer Association, Down Syndrome Association and National Diabetes Association by raising funds and awareness in educating the citizens.

As a part of this initiative, the Change4Life campaign was launched in 2012 to illustrate the importance of a healthy lifestyle. This year’s symposium was organised in partnership with regional medical professionals and offered members of the public an opportunity to meet, share and increase knowledge of the causes, consequences, treatment and methods of preventing diabetes. Presentations and discussions included correlation between lifestyle choices i.e. lack of exercise, poor diet and unhealthy habits and the increased likelihood for diabetes and subsequent changes in the quality of life, among others. Obesity and physical activity Level of physical activity and obesity was the topic discussed by Dr. Maryam Arab from Kuwait. She highlighted a recent report from Kuwait’s Health Ministry - made in collaboration with the World Health Organization – which revealed that 78 percent of Kuwaiti women were obese or overweight and 72.2 percent were physically inactive. As far as Oman is concerned, a report by the Omani Ministry of Health in 2011 has shown that 53.6 percent of Omani women were overweight or obese. She attributed obesity to the consumption of excess calories and a sedentary lifestyle, while engaging

in activities that consume less energy. Presenting a paper titled ‘Measurement of physical activity and sedentary behaviour among women’, Azza Al-Habsi from Oman and Prof Hashem Al Kilani from Jordan explained the importance of monitoring physical activity levels and sedentary behaviour in defining public health priorities. They referred to a recent study that measured activity levels and sedentary behaviour of adult Omani women. The study found that sitting while at work and doing other leisure activities on non-working days formed the greatest proportion of total sitting time. Vigorous activities were less common in the majority of demographic groups.

effectiveness of physical activity in the management of the disease. A crosssectional interview based survey, conducted between April to May this year, found that only 22 percent of the participants met the WHO physical activity recommendations.

Physical activity & Type2 Diabetes Referring to a study done on the impact of physical activity on Type2 Diabetes, Dr. Thamra pointed out that very few Omani adults with the said disease are physically active, despite the strong evidence on

According to him, longer duration and greater severity of diabetes may further increase the risk of dementia. He advocated early treatment, as it ensures less cognitive decline over time compared to diabetics who are not treated.

Diabetes and Dementia Dr. Hamed Al Sinawi, Chairman of Oman’s Alzheimer’s Society, in his paper on ‘Alzheimer’s disease a global health challenge’, stated that diabetes increases the risk of dementia. Several studies have found that diabetes is associated with a 47 percent increased risk of any dementia, a 39 percent increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and a 138 percent increased risk of vascular dementia, he pointed out.

Health CHECK

Dietary factors and chronic diseases In a paper titled ‘Selection of Healthy Nutrition’, Prof Mostafa Waly of Sultan Qaboos University, listed dietary fibre, folic acid, antioxidants, phytonutrients and bioactive components as important dietary factors associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases. Health related fitness & Vitamin D Vitamin D deficiency is a major concern in this part of the world, noted Dr. Osama Lala and Prof Hashem Kilani. “Many people in Oman do not expose their skin to sunlight... They avoid heat through shade and rely on air conditioning, whether at home, at work or in automobiles with tinted windows,” they said, listing a variety of reasons, including clothing style and the advice to avoid sun, as reasons for Vitamin D deficiency. Other topics covered by experts at the Change4Life symposium included ‘Dehydration, Rehydration and Performance Exercise’ by Professor Hazza Al Hazza, Saudi Arabia; ‘Eat less and neat more’ by Dr. Omar Obaid, Lebanon; ‘Biological Rhythm and Body Weight Control’ by Dr. Osama Lala, UAE; ‘Nutrition and Exercise’ by Dr. Ghazi Daradkeh, Qatar; ‘Low back pain and biomechanical exercise’ by Prof Fawzi Khuday and Prof Hashem Al-Kilani, Lebanon and Jordan.

What is physical activity? Bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that results in an expenditure of energy. Physical activity is defined by its duration (amount of time spent in a physical activity session), intensity (rate of energy expenditure), and frequency (the number of physical activity sessions during a specific time period). :KDW LV SK\VLFDO ÀWQHVV" A measure of a person’s ability to perform physical activities that require endurance, strength, or flexibility. ([HUFLVH Exercise consists of activities that are planned and structured, and that which maintain or improve one or more of the components of physical fitness. Exercise is often associated with fitness maintenance or improvement only. “When you exercise regularly, you build stronger muscles, even if you do not work out with weights. Muscles use more calories than fat throughout the day, even while you are resting,” states Hazzaa M. Al-Hazzaa from King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

September 2015

Health CHECK

It’s all in the

Bones

Dr. Praveen Patil

‘Serve up bone strength’, the theme behind the 2015 World Osteoporosis Day (October 20) campaign, came under sharp focus as Dr. Praveen Patil, Orthopaedics Specialist of Burjeel Medical Centre, highlighted the need for early diagnosis to tackle osteoarthritis and osteoporosis

xercise, to maintain physical fitness and adapt to a healthy lifestyle, is often sacrificed at the altar of a sedentary lifestyle or busy work schedule. The importance of regular physical activity is, usually, lost until a health issue crops up; people even tend to dismiss aches and pains as trivial problems. But most ailments start in their mild forms, like osteoarthritis. “It might start with a knee pain,” says Dr. Parveen Patil, Specialist – Orthopaedics of Burjeel Medical Centre, as he talks about the symptoms, the importance of early diagnosis and treatment options for osteoarthritis and osteoporosis in the following article.

tissue due to a lack of blood supply) of bone, etc., are other causes of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritic patients suffer from severe pain, as the disease progresses, even as they rest. Deformity of joint affecting the surrounding soft tissues is seen in the terminal stages. This will affect the quality of life, ranging from normal day-to-day activities to limiting him/ her to the bed or chair.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the common form of arthritis, affecting large population worldwide. It occurs due to wearing down of protective articular cartilage over a period of time. It can involve any joint in your body with increased incidence for hands, knees, hips and spine. Osteoarthritis starts gradually, involving the joints; but once the disease sets in, it can’t be cured. Only with early diagnosis and staying fit by maintaining a healthy weight can the progression of the disease be slowed down. This will improve the pain tolerance and the function of joint. Osteoarthritis starts with pain and tenderness over the joint. Gradually, it limits the movements of the joints with stiffness and grating sounds; unwanted bony spurs around the joint limit its function.

Elderly individuals and women are more prone to the condition in comparison to others. Obesity, sports and traumatic injuries to joint, genetic diseases, deformities around the joints are the catalyst for osteoarthritis. Gout (a kind of arthritis), Rheumatoid arthritis (joint inflammation and pain in the feet, hips, knees, and hands), Avascular necrosis (death of bone

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Diagnosis includes close and detailed examination of the affected joint and clinical correlation with the x-rays and MR images and joint fluid analysis, if required. Osteoarthritis doesn’t have any cure; treatment is only aimed at reducing pain and maintaining the joint movement. It includes: -

Analgesic medications with hot and cold fomentation to relieve pain. Exercises and weight reduction.

Nutritional supplements like Glucosamine and chondroitin benefit during treatment. Intra articular injections to lubricate the joints and osteotomies (surgical cutting of a bone or removal of a piece of bone) to realign the bones are tried in selected patients. Total knee replacement is the end stage for the management of osteoarthritis.

Lifestyle changes, mental strength and belief to cope with pain and treatment will determine how much impact osteoarthritis can have on oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition with softening of bones, making them weak and fragile and more likely to break. It increases the risk of fracture, commonly around the hip, wrist and spine. Osteoporosis occurs when addition of new bone deposits cannot replace the loss of old bone stock. It affects men and women of all races, especially Asian and European women; postmenopausal women are at higher risk.

Early screening and diagnosis with medications and healthy lifestyle can prevent bone loss and strengthen the bones. But osteoporosis doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t present with specific symptoms. Pain in the back, stooped posture, fractures occurring frequently, loss of height over a period of timeâ&#x20AC;Śall point towards the need for a diagnosis. However, all post-menopausal women and men aged 50 and above should be evaluated for osteoporosis risk and undergo Bone Mineral Density Testing (BMD measures the density of minerals in the bones using a special X-ray), Vertebral imaging and biochemical markers testing.

Causes: -

Lifestyle alcohol

factors abuse,

including smoking,

Vitamin D deficiency, high salt intake, low calcium intake, and sedentary lifestyle are the risk factors for osteoporosis. It is also commonly seen in thyroid problems, sex hormone deficiencies, parathyroid and adrenal gland disorders. People on long steroid medications and other medications for transplant rejection or cancer are more vulnerable. Autoimmune diseases, Rheumatological conditions and others can also cause the disease.

Health CHECK

Diagnosis includes BMD testing and vertebral imaging along with early morning samples of biochemical markers. Osteoporosis can be treated with oral medications, depending upon the severity of the disease. This includes bisphosphonates, hormonal therapy, calcitonin, Vitamin D and calcium supplements. Newer advances like Denosumab injection and Teriparatide have given an edge against osteoporosis.

September 2015

explore OMAN 36

Boot up and hike up Get a footing on the new season with an invigorating trek up Muttrah

ith the weather getting ready to shed its hot stance and revel in the wintry notes of the most popular season of the region, some of the trekking trails closer home are screaming for a dekko. The one at Muttrah is a great lure for anyone with moderate fitness level. Its proximity to the city and the nature-strapped scenes it promises to unfold at every stage of the trek, make it one popular trekking destination. Packed with an excitingly diverse range of terrains, from steep slopes and open plains to groves of green foliage and little water pools with oasis-like landscape, the trek will be anything but disappointing. It is this very diversity that makes it an ideal track for both avid hikers as well as novices seeking to savour Oman from its natural fortress. With every turn adding to the surprise element of picturesque reliefs amid the rugged mountain, the trek is bound to open up several vistas for photography, making it one memorable trip.

August 2015

The trek could, in fact, turn into a leisurely picnic, if the backpack can hold more than the requisite water bottle and a towel. A little green grove, half way through, could prove to be the most private and exclusive picnic spot for a stopover. There are little pools of water, trapped from previous rains, which also present an interesting break in the long trek.

How to get there:

Log on to www.omantourism.gov.om to check out the exact trekking route. The path is clearly marked – from the start to the finish, however, a word of caution for lone trekkers: it is best to hike in a group unless you are a frequent hiker here and know the route at the back of your hand. With the base of the Riyam Park as the start point, you could easily manoeuvre the route by following the C38 marker made by the Tourism Ministry. A copy of the map, provided in the website, clearly indicates all the important points – from the start, which is easily accessible from the parking lot on the right side of Riyam

According to trek notes on the website, there are several well-placed stone slabs leading up the hill, which have been used by countless generations of visitors from Muttrah and the interior to help them climb the last hills before they entered the gates of Muscat. ‘At that time, the only way to get to Muscat was by sea or over this path’, it mentions.

Park, opposite the trekking route, to the finish on the other side of the mountain. Start early… Although the temperatures are bound to dip in the coming weeks, it is best to start early or wait until the late afternoon to make the most of the trek without letting the sun add to the weariness of the nearly two-and-a-half to threehour trek. The cool morning breeze will help in making the initial first lap easy. But if you are not a morning person, start in the late noon and reach the finish before the sun sets on the horizon. It is a 2.5km stretch with the highest point at 150-metre altitude; the markers - yellow, white and red blocks - painted along the route, act

explore OMAN

as guidelines for trekkers to stick to the right path. There is also an old diesel pipeline that runs at the start point, adding to the ease of locating the track.

As the climb progresses, you will be amazed at the views the mountain offers you from every vantage point. Although most part of the track can be completed by holding on and walking erect, do not be embarrassed if you feel the need to scramble or go on your haunches to ensure you do not unnecessarily slip on some slopes, especially as you descend and get to the other side of the mountain. The trek ends just around the graveyard, where you would need to turn left to reach the end of the trek. To avoid the walk back to the car park on the other end of the mountain after the long and weary trek, you could have one trekker park his/her car at this point. Remember to wear appropriate shoes and clothing and enjoy your trek in the city

Photographs: Reena Mathias

August 2015

in the LUXE

Couture

Shock

In the sizzling world of Haute Couture, price is of insignificance as a handful of elite couturiers cater to a very small number of high fashion ladies who are willing to shell out a fortune on a single dress $45,000 to $100,000… That, apparently, is the price of a designer dress! But there is a reason for that exorbitant cost, argue designers. Each item that comes out of a designer’s workshop is a handmade work of art that involves a minimum of 20 tailors and seamstresses toiling for hundreds of hours to attain that perfection. According to a fashion magazine, the haute couture dressmakers are paid $75,000 a year. And a buyer profile, identified by the magazine, points out that only around 2,000 women in the world have the buying power for these designer items. Couture, it explains, ‘are custom made/made-to-order clothing (as opposed to offthe-rack), beginning with the client choosing the design from the look books and making an appointment to consultation and follow-ups leading to the creation of a muslin/toile of the ordered garment and the final fitting of the garment. Here’s a quick peek at some of the most expensive couture wear that have adorned celebrities.

Jennifer Lawrence’s Dior Couture creation

Jennifer Lawrence’s 2013 Oscar outing in a Dior Couture creation was an eye-grabber. The blushpink ball gown might have made it difficult for her to climb the stairs to collect her Oscar award for Best Actress, but it caused a stir among fashionistas and made it a much talked about Dior Couture. Price: $4 Million

Nicole Kidman’s iconic Oscar dress

The year was 1997 and Nicole Kidman, then married to Tom Cruise, made a red carpet entry at the Oscar in an iconic dress; she wore the chartreuse chinoiserieembroidered John Galliano for Christian Dior dress. Price: $2 Million

Cate Blanchett shimmers in Swarovski crystals

Cate Blanchett sizzled at the 2014 Oscars in an Armani Privé creation. The skin-toned outfit accentuated her figure and her looks with Swarovski crystals doing their magic. Price: $100,000

September 2015

Fashion followers would also remember that Cate Blanchett was the toast of all fashion magazines at the 2007 Oscars where she also wore an Armani Privé dress designed out of a teal/silver mesh fabric and covered with Swarovski crystals. Price: $200,000

in the LUXE

Cate Blanchett’s Oscar outing

Cherlize Theron in an all-white ensemble

Charlize Theron’s all-white ensemble from Dior Couture may have simple written about it, but that didn’t hide the fact that it was highly exclusive. The custom-made gown featured an overall treatment of crystals to add to Theron’s glamour quotient. Price: $100,000

Jessica Biel’s Chanel look

Jessica Biel put her best foot forward at the 2013 Oscars in a shimmer dress from Chanel. She complemented the dress with an assortment of jewellery from Tiffany and Co. Price: $100,000

Kate Winslet’s mint green affair

At the 2007 Oscars, Kate Winslet wowed fashionistas in a mint green figure-hugging dress. It was her colour choice that got the gown talked at in various circles. In fact, Winslet was voted as the Best Dressed Star during the event by showbiz magazines and websites around the world. Price: $100,000

Anne Hathaway’s Valentino gown

Anne Hathaway made a splash as she walked the red carpet at the 2011 Oscars in a Valentino red gown made from the finest silk faille. She got more than her share of admiring looks as she completed the look in a $10 million Tiffany & Co. ‘Lucinda’ necklace. Price: $80,000

September 2015

look GOOD

Complement fashion with style What is fashion if it is not accompanied by style that accentuates your charm and allure…? Naturally endowed with good looks or o not, there is no crooked feature or skin blemish that is beyond the reach of the cosm cosmetic products churned out by manufacturers who th have made style and good looks their business. While there is no denying that what is right for one may not be for another, ano beauty industry also has its dictums, rather trends, which could effectively cu cut across all limitations. A quick look at the easy to follow trends for the season will help you put your right (read that as stylish) face forwar forward. Here goes…

Barely there makeup

This might seem like a dampener dampe after broaching the topic on the importance of cosmetics, but the focus is not so much on avoiding makeup, as much as it a neutral look. Work the makeup to create is on applying it subtly to present pre luminous skin, natural eyes and a matte lips for an earthy chic look. A dash of blush and even girlish pink cheeks can accentuate that barely there made up look. Less, in this case case, is ‘defiantly’ more.

Morning-after look loo

But if you are a die-har die-hard makeup fan and need it to sustain your day, try out the new big trend of morning-after makeup look. This look, similar touch hed-up-m to the touched-up-makeup-from-last-night look, is about presenting y, lived-i a smudgy smudgy, lived-in one that creates an illusion of one who parties hard.

Bring Brin ng on the 60s

While fashion industry has taken to the 1970s, makeup trend has accommodated decades stretching from the ‘60s to the ‘9 ‘90s. That brings back bold twiggy lashes, separated in clum clumps - your perfect chic statement for the season.

Shadow play Sha

Eye shadows s are all the rage: from colourful combinations that reminiscent of birds to plain, natural looks. You could also are re opt ffor a single coloured shadow with a dash of iridescent plum on the lids.

Get cat

Swoo Swooping cat eyes will add a cool factor to your seasonal look. The length l and sharpness of the cat eyes could range from grace graceful to frighteningly bold, depending on your mood.

September 2015

LIFESTYLE MANTRA

CASUAL THURSDAY

By Sophia Raman

Tan it up

Tan may not be an option for those naturally endowed with the so-called wheatish complexion. But if you are looking to match the looks of models presenting the fall/winter 20152016 collection, go for a sweeping blush for that special ‘back from holiday’ look.

Liquid liner

If your beauty kit is furnished with a liquid liner, you are almost ready for the new season. Give an edgy touch to the minimal look with bold graphic lines and designs, and, if you have the gumption to follow top models, create a combination of futuristic and ancient Egyptian pharaoh style. Thick, inky swipes of liner are also in.

Eye decor

Accessorise with lines of rhinestones under the eyes and use carefully trimmed false eyelashes to shape an intense look. Subtle metallic sparkles and sequined details are perfect for a night out.

Brow and strong

Give your tweezers a break this season; define your face with strong, thick brows. Use gels and brushes, if you must, to create a bold look.

Red and redder

Red boasts a range of hues, but it is the classic and the really red one that has the season in its grips.

Dark is in

It is the season of bolds. Paint your lips with dark shades of Bordeaux, plum and deepest black in matte or iridescent colours.

Plain too

If you plan to make the barely made up look your signature style, opt for less overall definition with a matte look, something that reminds you of a whisper of soft rose hinting at a bloom.

Gloss is back

The lip-gloss look that wowed fashion followers in the ‘90s is making a youthful comeback

IF THE OFFICE FOLLOWS A CASUAL DRESS CODE FOR THURSDAYS, IS IT APPROPRIATE TO COME IN JEANS AND A TEE?

ost offices in the capital do follow a casual dress code on Thursdays, but some officegoers tend to confuse ‘casual’ with a justout-of-the-bed look in their creased shirt/tees and old denims. Casual, or otherwise, every office has its own decorum, which can, in no way, be sacrificed at the altar of fashion. With the weekend mood setting in on Thursday, dressing in tune to the temperament might make office work seem a breeze, but what you wear should not become a handicap if an important meeting crops up without prior notice. Tie, the quintessential office-wear, is not the only thing that could be shed to give your Thursday a neat casual feel. Depending on your office set up, check out the best options to turn up in smart casuals. Here are a few simple do’s and don’ts that could ensure you are fitted right for your casual Thursday: 1. Do not wear flip-flops to work, even if your company has a flexible ‘casual dress’ code; you could, instead, opt for chic flats. 2. Cargo trousers and T-shirts with funny or awkward messages are best saved for your weekend outing in the city or the beach. 3. If jeans are deemed okay in your office, go for darker colours – indigo might be your best option – and smarter fit. Distressed and baggy jeans are not for office. 4. Look smart in flared jeans by pairing it with a striped shirt. 5. However, if your office leans on the conservative side, despite its casual Thursday policy, go with printed slacks and pumps. 6. Flimsy tops are not meant for office and could prove to be a big distraction and add to the backlog of work, come new week.

September 2015

style FILE

Go Retro

Centrepointâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest Autumn/Winter Collection focuses on 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspired pieces for the family

Centrepoint is making retro look chic in its latest collection for Autumn Winter. It ed seasonal colours has embraced and styles that are bound to g effortlessly keep you looking n-trend this comfortable and on-trend season.

Septemberr 2015

style FILE

The Splash collection includes trendy pieces in shades of autumnal colours such as brown, blue and red. The collection is retro-chic and captures key styles that can transition from day to night. In keeping with the season, there are a variety of jackets, dresses and trousers for the entire family. Women can sport fun, yet sophisticated looks thanks to a wide selection of winter jackets that have faux fur trims or collars and can be matched with a bright pair of leggings or vibrant accessories such as neck pieces or bags to keep the look fresh. The new range of leather boots can complete the look with finesse. For the ones who prefer a bit of glam, flaunting dresses in the season’s trending hues are available and can be paired with a variety of faux fur coats and leather boots.

The footwear options at Shoemart include a retro-chic style for ladies with three different collections titled ‘70’s Flare’, ‘Sports Luxe’ and ‘Dark Opulence’. The collection includes opulent heels and flats, which offer equal levels of comfort and style.

September 2015

style FILE

Men’s collection offers a variety of options and can move easily from causal to chic, simply by a swap of a key jacket. Further, style stars can look forward to adding flair by accessorising with a bright tie or a trendy bow tie. The latest range of comfortable and on-trend shoes ensure style from head to toe.

Men’s footwear section comes equipped with trendy moccasins, high top sneakers and boots, while the children’s section is given a modern makeover with classy boots and an array of multi-coloured strappy sandals to complement any look.

September Se S eptember 2015

style FILE The Babyshop styles for little ones reflect a colour scheme of pastels and dark hues and patterns reflecting flora and fauna. The collection includes pieces like jerseys, cardigans that include key details like sleeve frills and autumnal themed prints like leaves and popular animals. Boys can get the comfortable and casual look with the vibrant range of T-shirts, shirts and shoes. The relaxed bottoms make it easy for kids to jump and move around. Girls can look pretty in this season in the colourful range of leggings, jackets and dressy tops, which can all be teamed with the latest collection of vibrant coloured shoes.

September 2015 20 2 015 15

style FILE

Sherin’s International Outing Sherin Mansoor

Muscat based fashion designer Sherin Mansoor is all set to wow fashionistas at the upcoming Tiffany’s Fashion Week Paris

f dreams are made of the stuff that Sherin weaves into her fashion creations, they have every chance of becoming a reality on the runway. Transforming from a wannabe fashion designer to a couturier of international repute, in less than three years, is nothing short of a dream. For Sherin Mansoor, an Indian fashion designer based in Oman, has turned her fancy for dress designing into a brand that has earned repute on the global fashion scenario, having showcased her ‘Sherin’ creations at various international events.

Her new haute couture designs will soon receive an impressive audience at the Tiffany’s Fashion Week Paris, beginning on October 4. “My collection this year is mainly western gowns with my statement touch of Mughal/Indian style,” she told FACES. The dresses are designed to make the wearer feel like a queen – “The richness of the fabrics and cloth is all you need to feel regal,” she says. A native of Bhopal in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Sherin has mastered the art of subtly fusing her cultural tapestry with western nuances. Her creations project an unusual twist of south Asian and western fusion. Interestingly, she belongs to the tribe of dedicated designers who not only design their creations but also stitch it themselves.

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September Se S ep pttem ember ber 2015 be 20 015 5

A homemaker who kept her passion for fashion designing limited to outfits for her family and friends, Sherin found her calling to reach international level when Facebook posts of her work found resonance with a global fashion outfit called Arab Group, based in London. Soon after, the Arab Group Fashion Awards in 2013 saw her collection getting displayed at the Mayfair Hotel in London. She capped that with the Best Designer award and a deal with Lady K of the House of iKons to feature her works at the London Fashion Week’s spring/summer collection in 2014.

Things, however, were not easy for Sherin, despite the ‘overnight success’ she achieved and followed through. In fact, before the London Fashion Week, her attempts to find recognition locally received no takers. The moment of recognition came when she had celebrities wearing her designs at the Cannes International Film Festival - Jessica Clavette, French film producer, wore Sherin’s couture at the Cannes Festival. Sherin’s couture piece also made its way at the La Jolla Film Festival in California, with presenter Shannon Aspell wearing her bespoke piece. She proudly calls herself a designer from Oman and remembers the time she was introduced as a designer from Oman when receiving the Best Designer in the World award in London. “I don’t think it is necessary to be Omani to represent Oman. I love this country and have been living here for 20 years now. It is my home,” she states

ESQUE IT WITH ALE

LET’S TALK GRUNGE! IF IT’S RIPPED, IT’S BETTER OFF TRANSFORMING INTO A WASHCLOTH…

runge adapted a slightly changed definition in 2015 and has become the go-to name for ripped up black attire (and grey if you fancy.) Kanye West (for Adidas), Alexander Wang and Nicola Formichetti have all debuted collections at New York Fashion Week by now and they all had one thing in common - to write it up in simple terms – they are all selling ‘Edgy’ (overpriced) clothes that are compromised of your standard daily casual wear, but… ripped up. Hobo Chic? I mean homeless people have nothing going on for them so let’s make them fashionable! Hipsters across the world are standing in line to purchase those items, but my only question is…why? W What has fashion c come down to that w now deem this we a really cool and as i interesting. Ripped j jeans aren’t the w worst (as long as y your rips are short, sweet a and classy), but a head to toe look that looks like the result of a cat fight? Too much. May Maybe it’s because my mom taught me to give my clothes a new duty as soon as a hole pops up (what do wa washing machines really do?) and ma maybe it’s because grunge isn’t fla flattering and isn’t cool enough to dub as Avant-garde but I vote ag against them being popular, what a about you?

Ale Zadjale Za is a 21 year-old award-winning fashion fashio designer; he is the brain behind the ‘Esque By Ale’ line of clothing

September 2015

take a SPIN

It’s the all-new Hyundai Veloster Turbo

There is a sporty exuberance about the new Hyundai Veloster Turbo that has helped chart its success

uccess certainly talks in numbers. A quick drive around the city roads will illustrate the early success that the new Hyundai Veloster Turbo has been savouring. From just a handful of Velosters preening on the roads of Muscat to a regular show of bright shiny Veloster Turbos zipping around, the car has fast made its mark in this car-loving country. Its sporty mien and the sprightly features have made it a hit with many a young (and even the not-so-young) driver in the capital. Bold design, cutting edge technology and highpowered performance has given it a youth-focused outlook and a sports car persona, one that was accentuated when Ali Al Habsi, Oman’s football star and Brand Ambassador for Hyundai in Oman, launched the vehicle early this year at OTE

September 2015

Group’s flagship Hyundai showroom in Wattayah. As expected, the arrival of Veloster Turbo has propelled Hyundai’s model portfolio in Oman into top gear. With the sportiness of a coupé combined with the roominess of a sedan, this new car has the makings

of a winner. Behind the wheels of this spunky model, the fun element heightens the driving experience through a high-powered engine and a selection of savvy specifications and technological infotainment features. Our Veloster Turbo, a bright white machine, was an attention-grabber with its compact structure and tapered

take a SPIN body creating a feel of speed and the ready look of an athlete on the track. We were game to try its size for sportiness as we took it for a spin around the loops and bends of Al Fahal Street. And what a pretty sight it proved to be. While smooth manoeuvring adds to its value, the ease in slotting it into any parking spot creates an edge that most office-goers seek during peak hours in public places. Featuring a more powerful 1.6 Turbo GDI engine, capable of producing a maximum of 204 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque, the new Veloster Turbo can reach 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds, which is 1.4 seconds faster than a standard model; it has a top speed of 214 km/h and comes with a standard fit 6-speed manual gear box or the option of a 6-speed automatic. What is more, you can take advantage of advanced in-car technology via Hyundaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class-leading multimedia 7-inch touchscreen, which allows easy-access technology at the touch of a button. On the safety front, the assurance of two airbags and a state-of-the-art braking package, including four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking

System (ABS), got our thumbs up. The ABS includes Brake Assist, which provides maximum force when a panic stop is detected. This system is, apparently, supported by Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) so as to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on vehicle loading conditions. Veloster loyalists would be quick to note that the exterior design has been upgraded to include an updated bigger front grille that comes in a menacing black coating, bolder side sills and a revised rear bumper with diffuser vents. And if you are a keen observer, you will quickly note that the pair of round tail pipes also contributes to the sporty exterior styling. There is moreâ&#x20AC;Śthe new Veloster Turbo is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels as standard and the steering wheel comes with a choice of three different designs, and the option of adding leather trim. Equipped with stylish alloy gas/brake pedals, you can be assured of revelling in the sporty feel both in the exterior as well as the interior. Like its predecessor, the new Veloster Turbo also comes in a unique 3-door design, with the glass rear hatch and optional panoramic sunroof giving the interior a spacious feel. While the front seats have a spunky sporty look, it is the sport-bike-inspired dashboard, detailed with intricate Turbo stitching, that makes it all the more interesting

Sept Se September ptte p em mb be er 2015 2015 20 15 Photographs: Pushpender Sharma

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Fashion SPECIAL

An eye for

FASHION Get ‘dressed to the nines’, literally, as the following pages take you on an inspirational fashion journey

Trend talk for men…………….......... 50 Fall/Winter trends for women…....... 52 Colour codes for the new season..…. 54

Menswear gets stylish Get set for fall/winter 2015-2016 with luxurious furs, a neo-Seventies revival and burgundy shades Seventies are beckoning

Neo-seventies is the underlying theme of the season, with the influence of rebels and rock of the 1970s fashion making a big comeback. From flyaway collars to flares and graphic details, the style is subtly woven in all the modern interpretations of the 1970s fashion. Watch out for flared pants, as they get set to make a big splash this season.

Subtly androgynous

Check out the season’s revised take on masculinity with androgynous fashion; it is a trend spearheaded by J.W. Anderson who subtly blurred gender boundaries in a delicate statement.

It is burgundy

With winter urging warm and comforting tones, it is burgundy that is called to the forefront of the season.

Baggy touch

Do not confuse the baggy trend with sagging pants. These are baggy trousers that are set to overtake straight-legged or skinny cuts.

Men and fur

September 2015

Although winter dictates warm clothes, fur might seem too farfetched for this part of the region. But the focus is on trends and you could easily move away from cropped fur with showstopping styles (always oversized) in blacks and browns that reach the thigh or the knee.

Fashion SPECIAL

The leather pant

With designers resurrecting the leather pant, you could go all out with your skin on skin.

Leopard prints are in

Well, well, well…leopard print is making a bold reappearance in men’s winter wear.

Brown it up

Feel earthy in brown and its many shades; the palette is making a comeback alongside burgundy.

It is velvet

Go for the preppy look as velvet makes a comeback. Opt for velvet trouser or a jacket and feel stylish this season.

Coat note

The bigger the coat the better for the winter, that is if you plan to travel to cold destinations. The trend is set to sway towards oversized coat in double-layered cashmere, padded or alpaca wool. Remember, your fall/winter coat should reach just below the knee for a distinct allure.

For the love of scarves

Not just any scarf… The trend dictates a long scarf with a slightly aristocratic air that can be tied around the neck or hidden under the shirt in a cowboy-style.

Rollneck and winter

Winter wardrobe demands a rollneck, more so this time around as it makes a comeback with new styles for the new season. The key here is layering it right.

September 2015

Fashion SPECIAL 52

Fashion inspirations Get ready for the new season with a trend check for fall/winter 2015-2016 Heed the fashion notes of seventies summer, as you get ready to interject your fashion mood with influences of graphic black and white, military style, folksy tribal and even hard-hitting punk.

Here goes…

Get graphic: Whether it is checks, stripes, diamonds, zebra prints or Rorschach influenced motifs, graphic black and whites are in. Sequin call: Do it up in sequins, as designers have pulled all stops on sequined evening wear. All about velvet: Sizzle in a long flowing velvet gown if you have an evening out planned soon. 0LOLWDU\ ÁDLU This one is inspired by military apparel. The style is woven into navy blue jackets, silk stripes, pompoms and long black capes with epaulettes (ornamental shoulder piece on an item of clothing) and leather buttons. Slick vinyl: Vinyl is in and how… If you must know, vinyl trench has never gone out of style; pair it with over the knee boots if you are in wintry climes. Breton stripes: Form-fitting or otherwise, Breton stripes will make the season all the more special for you. It’s all folksy: This is a continuation of upscale hippy look with seventies influenced items that include slouchy shapes, patchworks of silk and velvet with a mash-up of bohemian prints. The trend is hippie and bohemian as it brings intriguing looks to your wardrobe.

September 2015

Fashion SPECIAL

Colour me marshmallow: Baby blue, candyfloss pink, spring chick yellow and almond green… Your winter colours have moved away from the intense summer ones to welcome pastels and bonbons. Jersey dresses: Last winter may have given you flares and chunky knits in your dresses; this time around your winter gets jersey treatment. Leopard mark: Leopard print on acid in glorious Technicolor - fluro paint, acid-bleached, yellow, red, turquoise blue and canary yellow - is a rage for the season. Shine right: A high-shine wet-look has been adopted by many a designer in their fall/winter collection. From tulle scattered with sequins and silver thread to jersey and metallic update of the classic 1960s aluminum, it’s a shine season for you. It’s all in the concept: Get a taste of conceptual dresses as designers get creative with dresses that remind you of origami, pillowcases and drafting tables. Punk it up: Focus is on leather – almost head-to-toe, as designers splurge it on skirts and jackets; ripped fabrics and metallic details are in too. Back is beautiful: If you have been overlooking the back of your outfit, give it a break this season. It is all about cape backs on dresses, jackets, blouses and even parkas. Curve talk: Time for the bell shape to lead you to the fluid silhouettes of the 20s and 30s with body-hugging tunics and skirts flared at the hem. Bomb that: Get into the seasonal cool mode by topping any outfit with a bomber jacket. Coats and tones: Two-toned coats are what you need to make this season special. Flowery ways: Embroidered flowers have an eternal charm. Opt to embroider it selectively on garments with lots of colours. Fur up: Arctic fur is not something the weather here would require, but if travel plans are on for the winter, get your hands on one. Look for the ones that reflect indigenous cultures and costumes of the more northerly climes if you want to look truly trendy. Quilt notes: Another trend to keep you warm this winter might not have many takers in this part of the world, but, again, travel to cooler climes would require you to invest in a trendy quilted jacket.

September 2015

Fashion SPECIAL

Colours and seasons

When fashion trends talk in coloursâ&#x20AC;Ś

ashion gurus have given their forecast for the coming spring/summer 2016. They have identified five key palettes that are bound to rule the seasonal dictates - Backyard, Soft Nostalgia, Seaside, Desert Bloom and Heirlooms.

Vibrant mid tones

Seaside presents a range of vibrant mid-tones. Watch out for bubblegum pink, shades of coral - coral is the new pink this season, with salmon undertones - and melon, orchid and aqua and shades of yellow.

Jewel tones

The heirloom palette includes jewel tones with reds and greens continuing to play a significant role. Also in are shades of dark burgundy and brighter ruby; blues and dark teal colours influenced by green; navy as an influential base colour with indigo presenting a strong option; and grape purple as a new fashion colour.

Neutrals

The Desert Bloom colour palette combines earthy neutrals with emerging fashion colours. For example, base hues of khaki, hazy taupe (darker grey casted neutral) and twine are infused with dark roast and olive. Combinations like red casted rust and orange casted copper, marigold yellow with significant orange influence are other colour choices to watch out. Persimmon combines desert orange with pink for a sunset fashion colour, while moonstone blue makes it to the palette.

Pastels

It is all about soft nostalgia in the pastels palette, led by blue hydrangea. Opt for saturated colours: saturated blue alternative, mid-tones of pink ranging from peony to whitened ice pink, peach tinted rose champagne and purple casted Lilac; saturated hues of wisteria purple, lemon chiffon and sea glass green... Lemon chiffon brings yellow to the pastel range with creamy undertones.

Brighten up

Backyard bright palette is anchored by warm and cool hues, with green playing a pivotal role in spring green and a brighter shade of grass. Other colours include brightly saturated yellow, candy apple, electric blue, and periwinkle. The last one is the most popular blue of the season; a brighter summer alternative to electric blue.

September 2015

Advertorial

Unwanted Hair:

Causes & Remedies

Laser has proven to be the most effective solution for unwanted hair, says Kaya Skin Clinic experts

or many women, dealing with unwanted hair is a daily struggle. Body hair is directly related to femininity, as it is not typical for a woman to have excessive hair in places such as the face and arms.

Excessive hair growth is diagnosed as either hypertrichosis or hirsuitism. Hypertrichosis is usually a genetic problem and commonly seen in some communities. But hirsuitism is characterised with the growth of excessive coarse and long beard-like hair on the face and body in women; it is associated with hormone disturbances. Hair is found on the face, and all over the body, in females in two different forms: fine, soft hair on face and chest called vellus hair and thick, coarse hair in areas like underarms and scalp called terminal hair. Soft, vellus hair gets converted into coarse terminal hair in some women, and remains that way due to the presence of androgens (male hormones produced in the ovaries and the adrenals).

The common causes of increased androgen production are: 1. Polycystic ovarian disease/syndrome (PCOD, PCOS): It is a very common cause of hirsuitism. The ovaries develop multiple small cysts which produce male hormones; it is associated with irregular periods, irregular ovulation, weight gain, acne, and increased hair growth on the face and body. 2. Ovarian tumors: Androgen producing tumors in the ovaries lead to hirsuitism, even change in body structure and voice in females 3. Adrenal tumors: Women suffering from hormonal imbalance have great emotional and psychological disturbances; it affects the self-esteem of college and school going girls and young married women. Often, this hair is removed by threading and shaving, which can be embarrassing and tedious.

Before opting for laser hair reduction, it is very important to consult a dermatologist, who will check the hair type, skin type. Once hirsuitism is diagnosed, certain blood tests, ultrasound needs to be done to ascertain the cause of increased hair growth and other symptoms like acne, obesity etc. Following this, treatment has to be started by an endocrinologist or a gynecologist, and, alongside, start the laser hair removal. If treatment is not given simultaneously, hair reduction will not be satisfactory. After proper medication, and hair reduction with the help of the laser, there is a remarkable change in the appearance of the hair on the face and body. It makes the lady happier and confident with improved self-esteem.

Laser Hair Reduction

Laser hair reduction has become a blessing for women having hirsuitism and hypertrichosis. It is a permanent method of hair reduction. While lasers are a wellestablished method of combating body hair, they come at a price of physical discomfort, pain and time consumed. Kaya Skin Clinic just launched a whole new class of laser technology. kaya ultima, is this next-generation laser hair removal. It is faster, painless and keeps you hair-free for the longest period ever between sessions. The treatment needs 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 sessions and it targets larger areas with a single beam, unveiling smooth skin in a single pass, which makes it faster. It uses a special cryogen-based Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) that delivers instant cooling to the epidermal layer of skin, making it painless.

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About guys and ties

ie, the quintessential item in the world of men’s fashion, may have had an insignificant beginning as a cravat in the early 17th century, but it has since grown in its scope and continues to hold fashion, literally, in its viselike grip Whether it is seen as a mundane item or a fashion statement, the much-celebrated tie has remained a source of style sustenance for men over the years, more so for officegoers around the world. It provides a stylish edge that helps differentiate between casual and formal wear. Even when one is wearing a business suit that displays but a part of the tie, a tie is the first piece of clothing that grabs the attention. And when the tie complements the shirt and accentuates the wearer’s personality, a professional touch is assured in the overall look.

But how do you find the right tie to match your style?

Here are some tips to help: - Go for good quality silk ties that are muslin lined; they are durable and the colours hold well. - Ties should be proportional to your body: pick diagonal stripes if you are tall and thin; large patterned one if you are big. Solid or subtly patterned ties do not fail. - Ensure that the tie fits well by picking the one that hangs straight; remember that the end of the tie should fall at the middle or bottom of the waistband. ur tie - Width of the tie matters as well. Ideally, your should be about two and a quarter or two and ore! three-quarter inches at its widest point. Not more! - On the colour front, follow the colours that suit your skin tones – yellow-based colours for warm skin tones; blue-based for cool skin tones. g for - Go for the four-in-hand knot if you are looking o big a simple knot, as it is neither too small nor too and perfectly triangular. Besides, it works with every collar.

September 2015

‘A well-tied tie is the first serious step in life.’ – Oscar Wilde

Make sure that your knot has a little dimple to give it that special look. Save the silk ties for office and pick skinny ties for parties; for formal affairs go for bowties and pocket squares. A solid black tie is perfect for formalwear occasions and even for a leather or jean jacket.

Now that you know the right way to go about picking and styling your tie, check out the common tie mistakes that you need to avoid.

man DATE

Poorly tied ties

Whether you have picked the most expensive silk tie or have the perfect match for your shirt, a poorly tied tie can make a big dent on your look. Some of the common mistakes, akes, ones that you need to avoid at all costs, are: – Tie tied short or too long – Knot that appears flimsy – Knot that does not seem to fill the gap between the collar – A knot that shows any part of the narrow end of the tie

Too short for comfort

At no cost should your tie end above your waistband, even if you are tall. Some tie brands come in sizes to suit tall men.

Jarring colours and patternss

The colour and pattern of your tie should hould easily suit the outfit. Keep the loud patterns and colours away from your office wardrobe. wardrobe Choose a shade that compliments your shirt and suit.You could get liberal with your tie selection when you wear a dark navy or charcoal suit with a white shirt.

Creased and stained

The tie acts as the focal point of your outfit and so has to be crisp and clean. Before you tie the knot, check to see that it is not wrinkled and/or stained.

Ties and the dress codes

Some dress codes and occasions require you to wear a particular style of tie. Check the same out before picking your tie.

Add variety to your ensemble

Even if your tie collection is very limited, do not wear the same tie two days in a row. People may not notice your trousers, but a tie is never inconspicuous.

Do not go overboard with accessories

Necktie accessories like clips and bars, tiepins and tie chains are all very well, but it is best to opt for the ones that are sleek and elegant. Besides, es des, most ost of o these tie jewellery have become obsolete over the years.

Say no to novelty ties

Ties that carry big pictures are best saved for special occasions. They are a no-no for office

September 2015

at HOME

Home Fashion Take your fashion sense out of your wardrobe and lavish it on your home décor plans

Have a flair for all things fashion? Want to extend your fashion ideas from your wardrobe to your living room? Get on this home fashion bandwagon and learn a trick or two to up the style quotient of your home.

Colour, colour…

Right, it all begins with the colour you chose for your walls, the accents in the room and your furniture. It is important to have a planned colour palette, but if you are beguiled by the options available, choose the ones that have been on the popularity chart in the recent years. It is best to go with colours that can be easily paired with a wide range of colours and that means any neutral colour is good to go as it gives you the liberty to switch your wall whenever a new colour is added to the mix.

And while on the topic of paints, you could take it one step further by painting doors and trims in bold colours. Enveloping the entire room in a saturated paint colour will create a sense of warmth and add to the ambience you want to project.

Accents matter

Yes, colour is important, but even if your walls are white, check out to see how your accents are complementing each other, as accents play an important role in home décor. When opting for accent pieces like vases, sculptures, lamps and pictures, follow a minimalistic approach as you can easily change them to suit the trends. Besides, too many accents can overcrowd your room.

Furniture ensemble

There is nothing that screams fashion or trend than the furniture you choose for your home. Although contemporary furniture is not everyone’s first choice, it does help create a focus. The smooth strong lines of contemporary furniture

September 2015

looks good with any design venture and can be easily adapted into the current trend. But if new furniture is not on the agenda, try moving it to add a sophisticated touch. Do not hesitate to experiment…

Accessorise and stylise

Give your room a made up look with right accessories. Follow up the furniture routine with accessories that give the room its own special personality. Some simple steps to follow would be filling shelves with books, sofas with throw pillows and place bowls with candles. Add a style element by placing your favourite books on a console table or even

Fabric play

Whether you can personally work on the fabrics to create some artistic needlew needlework or not, you co could easily a alter the look o of your room w with even in inexpensive fa fabrics. For example, p pillow covers iin trendy accent colours or a slipcover on a furniture piece can work in your favour. Remember, however, to pay equal attention to the colour as well as the texture when choosing the fabric.

Gold and beautiful

A little shine will not hurt… There is a feel of glamour about shimmer that can be easily achieved by incorporating it in the balusters of your staircase, the knobs on the cabinet, light fixture or a mirror.

at HOME

the dining table. The way you stack the books itself could up your home fashion. Wild arrangements in bathrooms and dining room can also create an element of elegance.

Rug talk

They are inexpensive, come in moody colours and patterns and are designed to instantly add to your home décor. Yes, the quintessential rug can do so much for your room. Go for the unconventional when positioning them and opt for unusual furniture plan to add to the fun element.

Light up

Right lighting choices can do a whole lot of good to your home décor plans, yet it is one of the most ignored aspect of decoration as people tend to stick with the fixtures that have been there. Whether you go for a new chandelier or move an existing fixture from one room to another, you will not be disappointed. Complement your lighting with your furniture to get a unified look.

only require a few quick changes by way of lamp or new throw pillows. The objective should be to make your home as fashionably comfortable as is possible. Besides, what is fashionable for one, need not be for another…

Your fashion quotient

After all is said and done, it is all about you. For although there are exciting new trends to follow, home fashion is not the same as your clothes that are forever on a change mission. Most home trends remain for a couple of years and even when it does, it might

September 2015

NBO customers to benefit from Internet banking services

National Bank of Oman (NBO) has redefined how its customers use the Internet banking portal to transform their modern banking experience. The updated portal, which is available in both Arabic and English is designed for an intuitive customer-friendly experience, providing new ways for its customers to interact digitally with the Bank through innovative features, to make banking more accessible than ever for NBO’s customers. The updated NBO Internet banking portal is seamlessly interactive and provides easy access to essential information, such as branch and ATM location. Other key features include the ability to request for e-Statement registration, the ability to protect cheque payment by linking Current Accounts to Savings Accounts, as well as the chance to repeat or re-do previous transactions with a single click.

Oman Air supports people with special needs In a new initiative, Oman Air has made exclusive arrangements to assist people with special needs, who are on low incomes, to make their air travel easier. The initiative is being organised in partnership with the Oman’s Ministry of Social Development and underlines the carrier’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. Announcing the move, Oman Air’s CEO, Paul Gregorowitsch, said: “Oman Air is pleased to be working closely with the Directorate General for People with Special Needs, for the benefit of the people with special seeds, who are also on the low-income brackets on their airline tickets requirement. The tickets will enable them to access treatment or education or take part in other relevant activities.”

New season at Shangri-La’s B.A.B. Lounge Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa commenced a new season at the B.A.B. lounge, early this month. Located on the rooftop of the popular Bait al Bahr seafood restaurant, the B.A.B. Lounge has a stunning panoramic view over the ocean with a dramatic mountainous backdrop. The lounge provides a contemporary luxury environment with a selection of canapés and light snacks accompanied by the relaxing entertainment of the resort’s resident DJ, Angela Pandelis. Angela, who is no stranger to the lounge scene after featuring at international venues, will be playing an eclectic mix of ‘chill-out’ tunes developing to a more up-tempo repertoire as the evening progresses.

Eighth annual Box Appeal Park Inn and Radisson Blu Hotels in Oman are participating in the Box Appeal, an annual charity initiative organised by the Radisson Blu and Park Inn by Radisson hotels. Now in its eighth edition, the month-long campaign kicked off on September 15th across seven countries in the Middle East and South Africa. People interested in being a part of the charity can pick up a box from either of the two participating hotels. Boxes can be filled with personal hygiene essentials such as t-shirt, cap, disposable razor, shaving cream, deodorant, items such toothbrush, toothpaste, talcum powder, small hand towel, comb, soap antibacterial and shampoo. The filled boxes can then be dropped off at either of the two participating hotels from where they will be distributed by volunteers to the underprivileged in Muscat.

September 2015

ESO opens office in Dhofar In partnership with Nama Group, The Environment Society of Oman (ESO) has opened an office in Dhofar as part of its ambitious expansion plans. The inauguration was held under the auspices of H.E. Shaikh Salim bin Aufeit bin Abdullah Al Shanfari, Head of Dhofar Municipality, and was attended by ESO board members and staff, Nama Group representatives and sustainability committee members, government representatives and senior management of major companies operating in the Governorate. As a sign of its commitment, ESO has planted 100 native trees saplings at public schools in Dhofar, enhancing forestation in the area with the support of Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Wealth, Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs and Nama Group.

Oman Sail & Oxy Oman train female sailors to become instructors Occidental of Oman, Inc Smile Hypermarket brand launched Hanoon Modern Project LLC announced the launch of its new brand ‘Smile Hypermarket’ at an event held at Grand Hyatt Muscat Hotel, earlier this month, under the auspices of H.E. Sayyid Khalid Hilal Saud Al Busaidi and Othman Salaeh Al Siyabi. The formal ceremony was attended by a host of guests, including Ismail Chakkarath and Jasim Kuniyil. The event showcased detailed information about Smile markets, whose branches are to be opened in Al Khuwair, Mabela, Saham, Al Falaj and Salalah. It combines the concept of supermarket along with department store, as it offers an array of varied products under one roof.

(Oxy Oman) and Oman Sail have completed the first phase of their vision to empower the sporting ambitions of women in Oman. The Women’s Programme has successfully trained six Omani women to become certified sailing instructors, and Oxy Oman will now move to the second phase of the programme - Oman Sail’s Community Programme - to train 40 girls from government schools across Muscat, Sur and Mussanah. The six recruits were selected after demonstrating their ambition to learn and proving their physical capabilities. They have completed a series of training sessions to develop essential skill sets including technical knowledge, leadership and coaching capabilities, and also gained international experience.

The Chevening/Bae Systems launch Oman Scholarships BAE Systems, the global defence, security and aerospace company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the British Embassy in Oman to sponsor The Chevening/BAE Systems Oman Scholarships. The Chevening Scholarship programme is the UK Government’s global scholarship scheme, which gives future leaders from across the globe the opportunity to undertake a one-year Master’s degree in a number of subjects at a university in the UK. BAE Systems’ support to the Chevening Scholarship programme will give four Omani students the opportunity to study for a Masters’ degree in engineering or a related subject in the UK. H.E. Jonathan Wilks, British Ambassador to Oman, commented: “The UK is committed as a priority to supporting the development of Oman’s biggest asset, its people, particularly in the areas of science, engineering and technology.”

September 2015

Mitsubis Mitsubishi Lancer EX 2.0 now at a lower price low General Gene Automotive

All-new Mazda2 #SuperStriker a hit with buyers The all-new Mazda2, available in Comfort and Prestige sedan and hatchback models at TAC, the sole distributors of Mazda range in Oman, brings a level of functionality and added-values that exceeds the expectations for a car of this class. Winner of the 2014-2015 Car of the Year Japan award, the all-new Mazda2 #SuperStriker is bigger in size than its predecessor offering a lot more space, comfort and stability for both driver and passengers. Based on KODO - Soul of Motion design, the all-new Mazda2 features a chiselled exterior and a plush interior with more space and a bigger boot than before – thanks to an 80mm increase in wheelbase. It offers outstanding safety, eco-performance and the brand’s trademark driving pleasure due to its low-weight body, agile chassis and the brand-new SKYACTIV engines and transmission.

Company, official distributors Comp of M Mitsubishi Vehicles in Oman, Oman is now providing its customers cu an exciting opportun opportunity to own their very own performance packed star Mitsubishi Lancer EX 2.0 at an unbeatable price, starting from just RO 5,850. Even at this price point, customers will still enjoy the piece-of-mind motoring thanks to a 6-year unlimited mileage warranty and roadside assistance. Aside from the entry-level family-oriented GLS 2.0, the Lancer EX is also available in two other flavours – the balanced GLX 2.0 and the sporty GT, which have also retroactively had their prices reduced. In addition to the lowered price, all Lancer EX models come complete with free registration, 6-year unlimited mileage warranty, 6-year roadside assistance and a 3-year 50,000km free service package.

Audi Q7 wins premium interior design award

The new Audi Q7 has been named ‘Best of the Best’ in the German Design Council’s Automotive Brand Contest 2015. The new Audi R8 is being honoured in three categories. In addition, the Audi prologue concept cars are receiving ‘Special Mention’ for exceptional innovation. In all, Audi is receiving 16 awards at the fifth edition of the competition. With the award for the Q7, Audi takes first place in the Interior Premium Brand category. The SUV impresses with its progressive interior design and high-end technical solutions. ‘For the new Q7 generation, the design has succeeded in implanting a feeling of expansiveness, roominess and cultivated elegance,’ the jury stated in its reasoning. In addition, the Audi R8 is also being honoured for its design. The sports car is the winner due to outstanding achievement in the categories ‘Exterior Premium Brand’ and ‘Interior Premium Brand.’

Irresistible offers from Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima, which breaks new ground for the mid-size sedan segment is one of the most engaging vehicles in its class. Nissan from the house of Suhail Bahwan Automobiles has been receiving rave reviews on its seasonal offers on Sedan models that last till October 16, 2015. Auto enthusiasts can now avail exciting benefits on the Nissan Altima 2.5L and 3.5L that include cash gift up to RO 750, free service serv for two years or 20,000kms (periodic maintenance on only), free registration, 6 years unlimited mileage warr warranty and easy and convenient financing options options. Flexible EMI’s can also be tailor mad made for any individual requiremen requirement from in-house Auto Finance team. Customers can also ge get unlimited access to Nissan Nissan’s prestigious vehicle line up u at the comfort of their homes h or offices.

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Mercedes-Benz drives clarity of growing model portfolio With the growth of the Mercedes-Benz model portfolio forecast to include more than 30 models available on the worldwide market by 2020, MercedesBenz has announced a new, simple and logical vehicle nomenclature system that will ensure clarity for the millions of Mercedes-Benz lovers around the globe. Based on model series, different body variants and drive systems, the new system will come into operation in Q4 of 2015, and will begin with the Mercedes-Benz SUV range, followed by the Roadsters in 2016. The model designation is always an acronym made up of one to three upper-case letters. The different types of engine are indicated by a lower-case ower-case letter. The system centres around the he h e five core model series, A, B, C, E and S, which will continue providing orientation entation for customers.

Geely Emgrand X7 with 6AT Geely Emgrand X7 - the first SUV to receive 5-star rating ting in the China–New Car Assessment Program (C-NCAP) test and the first SUV to have ‘6+1’ air bags configuration – is a world class model. Loaded with modern and innovative ative features, the Geely Emgrand X7 SUV is equipped with able DSI 6AT and 2.4L CVVT engine that gives highly reliable gine and quality performance. Apart from excellent engine most performance, the Geely Emgrand X7 also offers utmost safety. Based on the safety system of Geely Total Safety Management (GTSM), the Emgrand X7 is designed in accordance with the 5-star standards of E-NCAP and 5+ standards of C-NCAP. The model has ‘6+1’ air bags configuration. ‘6’ are conventional six air bags in frontal and side parts and ‘1’ is the KABs (knee airbags), which are rarely seen in models of the same class.

Renault rolls out new Duster Renault is keeping up with its offensive in the SUV-S segment by launching the new phase of the ‘roomy and sturdy’ Duster in GCC. New Renault Duster has been widely upgraded while retaining its very own model personality. The new Duster now has a reasserted exterior design and a renewed inner space; brand new technological features improving every single journey. The new Renault Duster can rely on its new front exterior design, combined with enhanced interior comfort and practicality. In addition, a range of advanced technological features have been included to deliver an even higher level of satisfaction during every single journey. All these evolutions will continue to entice a growing majority of families looking for an affordable yet fully-equipped SUV, with a robust design and an unbeatable price-spaciousness ratio.

Maserati in n the starting g blocks for 2016 Following the launches of the 6th generation Quattroporte and the Ghibli, Maserati’s first four-door E-segment sedan, in 2013 and 2014, 2015 marks a year of i. The Italian luxury car brand reports a consolidation for Maserati. rease across the Middle East, India and solid 6.1 percent sales increase Africa region for the first half of 2015 compared to the same ls most in demand were period of 2014. The models dels Quattroporte the two luxury sedan models Turismo and and Ghibli, with the GranTurismo GranCabrio occupying an even e sports more exclusive niche in the gment. coupe and cabriolet segment. nother 2016 is set to become another rati as milestone year for Maserati st ever it expects to launch its first luxury SUV, the Levante. Vehicle testing has recently taken place at an undisclosed area in the UAE.

September 2015

Chill Out

Movies Mo

Movie Review Director

Breck Eisner

Cast

ND I N G

CHART TOPPERS

Vin Diesel Rose Leslie Elijah Wood Michael Caine

1. The Hills - Weeknd 2. What Do You Mean? - Justin Bieber 3. Can’t Feel My Face - Weeknd 4. Watch Me - Silento 5.

Good For You Selena Gomez & A$ap Rocky

6. Hotline Bling - Drake 7. Locked Away R. City & Adam Levine 8. Cheerleader - OMI 9. Cool For The Summer -Demi Lovato 10. Downtown Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Eric Nally, Melle Mel, Kool Moe Dee And Grandmaster Caz

September 2015

The Last Witch Hunter Live Forever. Hunt Forever. Do you believe in witches? ‘The Last Witch Hunter’ will make you… The modern world, apparently, holds many secrets; the most astounding of all is that witches still live amongst us. This movie is all that stands between humanity and the combined forces of the most horrifying witches in history. These are vicious supernatural creatures intent on unleashing the Black Death upon the world. Armies of witch hunters battled the unnatural enemy across the globe for centuries, including Kaulder, a valiant warrior who managed to slay the all-powerful Queen Witch, decimating her followers in the process. In the moments right before her death, the Queen curses Kaulder with her own immortality, forever separating him from his beloved wife and daughter in the afterlife. Today Kaulder is the only one of his kind remaining, and has spent centuries hunting down rogue witches, all the while yearning for his long-lost loved ones. However, unknown to Kaulder, the Queen Witch is resurrected and seeks revenge on her killer causing an epic battle that will determine the survival of the human race.

Book

s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget

Upcoming Releases Pan

Hugh Jackman, Garrett Hedlund, Rooney Mara, Amanda Seyfried, Cara Delevigne, Levi Miller

The Martian

Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kate Mara, Kristen Wiig, Sebastian Stan, Sean Bean

During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity to find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Meanwhile, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring ‘the Martian’ home, while his crewmates are plotting a daring rescue mission.

The action adventure follows the story of an orphan, 12-year-old Peter (Levi Miller), who finds himself whisked away to the fantastical world of Neverland. Adventure awaits, as he meets new friend James Hook (Garrett Hedlund) and the warrior Tiger Lily (Rooney Mara). They must band together to save Neverland from the ruthless pirate Blackbeard (Hugh Jackman). Along the way, the rebellious and mischievous boy discovers his true destiny, becoming the hero forever known as Peter Pan.

Legend

Tom Hardy, Emily Browning, David Thewlis, Christopher Eccleston, Chazz Palminteri, Tara Fitzgerald, Taron Egerton

The true story of the rise and fall of London’s most notorious gangsters, Reggie and Ron Kray - portrayed by Tom Hardy in a double performance. Legend is a classic crime thriller based on the secret history of the 1960s and the extraordinary events that secured the infamy of the Kray twins. The film is based on the book The Profession of Violence: The Rise and Fall of the Kray Twins by John Pearson, which deals with the rise and fall of the Kray twins; the relationship that bound them together, and charts their gruesome career to their downfall and imprisonment for life in 1969.

Book Review A Vintage Affair Author: : Isabel Wolff Phoebe Swift leaves a plum job to open her own vintage clothing shop in London. It’s the fulfilment of a dream for Phoebe... She soon comes across an elderly Frenchwoman with an impressive wardrobe collection and one piece in particular that catches her eye — a child’s sky-blue coat. As the two become friends, they discover an astonishing connection that proves clothes aren’t just fabric and thread but a link to someone’s past.

The Devil Wears Prada

Author: : Lauren Weisberger Andrea Sachs, a small-town girl fresh out of college, lands the job as the assistant to Miranda Priestly, the high profile, fabulously successful editor of ‘Runway’ magazine. But it isn’t easy working for Miranda – ‘The boss from hell’. As things escalate from the merely unacceptable to the downright outrageous, Andrea begins to realise that the job a million girls would die for may just kill her. And even if she survives, she has to decide whether or not the job is worth the price of her soul.

From the Memoirs of a Non-Enemy Combatant Author: Alex Gilvarry Unveiling America’s high fashion and Homeland Security, ‘From the Memoirs of a Non-Enemy Combatant’ tells the story of designer Boy Hernandez, a Filipino immigrant, New York glamour junkie, Guantánamo detainee. Locked away indefinitely and accused of being linked to a terrorist plot, Boy prepares for the tribunal of his life with this intimate confession that charts one small man’s pursuit of the big American dream.

September 2015

Chill Out

Movies Mo

Web World

Homeschooling your preschooler With several websites dedicated solely to homeschooling children from preschool years to their tweens, parents have myriad options to explore and find resources that are just right for their ward. One such is www. hslda.org, which leads you on to your homeschool quest with several drop down menus that help to create your own specific plan. The ‘You Can Homeschool’ bar is where you can get started if you are new to the very concept of homeschooling. It leads you on to a new page that helps you get started, with specific sections that present curriculum, organisation and resources, among others.

Homeschooling: Getting Started

This section presents an interesting titbit about how things have moved in the world of homeschooling. In the 1970s and ’80s, homeschooling is said to have experienced a renaissance with a few parents questioning whether the public education system or existing private schools were right for their individual child. They wondered if they might be able to do a better job and the concept of homeschooling gained support.

Homeschooling is not a new concept but online resources have given it an all new flavour

So what curriculum should you use?

To answer this question, click on the ‘Curriculum’ bar and find easy guidelines, alongside a host of ‘Additional Resources’. You will not be surprised to learn that there is no such thing as the perfect curriculum, but you will be assisted with some approaches and materials that seem suitable, rather a better fit for your child than others. This could, for many reasons, differ from child to child, even in the same family.

Riddle Time

1 2 3 4 5 66

What happens to a frog’s car when it breaks down?

Begin early

If you are contemplating on home schooling your toddler, now is the time to start. Begin by researching all the options available and follow that up by setting a few goals. To give it a more organised look and feel, chart a course for homeschoolimg with tips and suggestions packed in the ‘You Can Do It’ section. Go on, say ‘Hi’ to homeschooling!

Riddle Time Answers (August 2015)

Where did the sheep go on vacation? Answer: The baaaahamas

Why do cows wear bells?

2 3 4

How do you stop an elephant from charging?

What did the momma buffalo say to her son before he went to school? Answer: Bison!

What did the duck say when he bought lipstick? Why was six scared of seven?

September 2015

Where do mice park their boats? Answer: At the hickory dickory dock. What is a cheetah’s favorite food? Answer: Fast food! What do you call an exploding monkey? Answer: A baboom!

Book

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Gadget Notes

Oculus proclaims dawn of ‘virtual ual reality era’

Facebook-owned Oculus VR is wooing software makers with ith the ce with promise of a budding ‘virtual reality era’ and an alliance streaming television powerhouse Netflix. The new Gear VR model is 22 percent lighter than its predecessor, more comfortable to e wear and has improved controls. The hardware works with the current year’s line-up of Galaxy smartphones. The first Rift virtual reality headset is on track for release in the first quarter of next year, followed shortly thereafter by the debut of Touch controllers designed to let people reach in and interact with faux worlds. Asus, Dell and Alienware will release personal computers with processing and graphics power configured for Rift virtual reality, and bearing a logo to show they are ‘Oculus Ready’.

Illuminate with LuminAID PackLite Spectra

Electricity outage is not a problem in this part of the world, but emergencies can occur anywhere and at any time. Invest in a LuminAID PackLite Spectra, which will ensure that even in the event of an emergency, you will still be able to have a source of light. It can spice up a poolside party too with the inclusion of 7 distinct color modes and multi-color fade, in addition to the mainstay LED light. The LuminAID PackLite Spectra can inflates into a lightweight, waterproof, portable lantern if the situation and need arises, where a solitary full charge is able to deliver up to 12 hours of LED light on low setting. Sporting a 35 Lumen output, it comes with a high efficiency monocrystalline solar panel to ensure that you will have a source of light charged up whenever the sun comes out to play. It will take anywhere from 7 to 10 hours of direct sunlight to charge up fully.

Nuyu Sleep System for more restful sleep

Good news for the sleep deprived… The nuyu Sleep System is designed to complement the body’s natural circadian rhythm for more restful sleep. This is unlike other sleep devices that merely monitor and report sleeping data; the nuyu Sleep System takes a more active approach under the covers, by automatically changing bed temperature through the night. The Bluetooth-connected nuyu (pronounced ‘new you’) is designed to mimic the temperature changes caused by the body’s circadian rhythm. It consists of a washable, torso-sized (2 x 3 ft, 0.6 x 0.9 m) mattress pad that rests under fitted sheets. It uses a hose and water tank to control the temperature of the pad; the system warms up the body to help it relax and fall asleep faster.

Bites There were three people applying for the same job. One was a mathematician, one a statistician, and one an accountant. The interviewing committee first called in the mathematician. They said: ‘We have only one question. What is 500 plus 500?’ The mathematician, without hesitation, answered ‘1000’. The committee asked him to leave and called in the statistician, who was

asked the same question. The statistician pondered the question for a moment, and then said: ‘1000... I’m 95% confident’. He was also thanked for his time and sent on his way out. When the accountant entered the room, he was asked the same question: ‘What is 500 plus 500?’ The accountant replied: ‘What would you like it to be…?’ He was hired!

Presenting the Bloodhound Supersonic Car

Make way for the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC), a rocket-powered car that could break the world land speed record and travel at over 1,000 miles per hour (1,600 kilometres). The SSC is an engineering marvel that its builders hope will inspire a new generation of engineers like the Space Race during the Cold War. With a fighter jet engine and rockets, the sleek 135,000-horsepower car is as powerful as 180 Formula One racing cars and will go faster than a bullet. Dubbed as airplane on four wheels, the $23 million car is a jumble of hi-tech that relates as much to aeronautics and aerospace as to the automotive industry.The cockpit looks like the one on a jet, including the oxygen mask.

A duck, a skunk and a deer went out for dinner at a restaurant one night. When the time came to pay, the skunk didn’t have a scent and the deer didn’t have a buck… So, what did they do? They put the meal on the duck’s bill. There were two cows in a field. The first cow said ‘Moo’ and the second cow said ‘Baaaa’. The first cow asked the second cow, ‘Why did you say baaaa?’ The second cow replied, ‘I’m learning a foreign language.’

September 2015

Chill Out

October 2015

FUTURESCOPE Aries

perfect but life is not perfect, and people are not perfect. Just accept that not everybody can live up to your high standards. It is especially important to be patient with children and aging parents during this month. They are not asking for money, they are asking for your time and love.

You are on top of your game during October. You are not only going to be very busy, you are also going to feel completely energised. Try not to spend all that energy; things are bound to get even more hectic towards the middle of the month. Wait for better projects to fall in place towards the second half of October. Investigate all financial investment opportunities properly before following your heart.

Scorpio

You have a lot on your plate this year, and there are some more things that you need to do. You are working hard and your bank balance is increasing. This is great, but make sure the bank you are with is offering you good investment options. You could, perhaps, visit an independent adviser; but stay away from property investments, as they can become a burden. Take calm and quiet walks to stay fit.

Taurus

You will finally have some time to relax and take it easy. During the last couple of months family and friends have piled a lot on your plate; now is the time to incorporate the word ‘no’ into your dictionary. The traumatic events that you had to deal with recently will melt away. Think twice before you act, and ask yourself if you are actually enjoying life. Look back down the road you have travelled and stand tall.

Gemini

This is a great time to enjoy friendships. Your home is the place where your friends feel they can relax while enjoying your company. However, be careful with your money this month; don’t be tempted into any investment plans. Keep your cash in your bank, and take another look at things in 2015. Your health is quite good, but remember that good digestion is essential to basic health. Go for less spicy food.

Cancer

Your home life and personal relationships seem to have suffered a bit lately but they are now being revived again. But for that to happen you need to spend sometime working on it. The people in your life have taken a bit of a back seat lately, so you now need to spend some time with them and make them realise that you are there for them. You don’t need to buy expensive gifts; giving freely of your time will do.

Leo

Positivity is a concept that you are very familiar with, and at the moment you are so optimistic and positive about life and things in general that it is spreading. You are also in a very romantic mode, and you are probably planning a romantic surprise getaway for your partner. If you are an unmarried Leo, now could be a good time to propose. Just remember, it is not the price or the cost of the getaway that matters - it is the thought.

Virgo

You may experience some strains in your personal relationships this month. It may not be your fault but you need to be pro-active in sorting it out. You expect everything to be

September 2015

Movies Mo

Eminem

(October 17, 1972) Born Marshall Mathers, Rapper Eminem became an international sensation after the release of his first single, ‘My Name Is’. He won the Best Rap Album Grammy for three consecutive albums: The Slim Shady LP (1999), The Marshall Mathers LP (2000) and The Eminem Show (2002). He also received the Academy Award for Best Original Song for ‘Lose Yourself,’ from the 2002 film 8 Mile, in which he also starred. He is featured in Nicki Minaj’s song ‘Roman’s Revenge.’

LIBRA

(Sep 24 – Oct 23) There are a lot of new ideas and thoughts floating around in your head at the moment. This is great but you might need some help channelling your thoughts. Begin by calming your mind. Try to find some classes that teach yoga or meditation, as it will help to declutter your mind. During October you will meet and find new interesting friends. Some of the connections that you make will be fleeting, while others will turn into life long relationships. One of them could be very special and could either lead to a love interest or a business partnership. One of the ideas buzzing around in your head could lead to an exciting new venture.

Sagittarius

You could end up in the public’s eye this October. Your passion and strong sense of community will guide you, and whatever the cause is, it will be close to your heart. Many people will start holding you in high regard. You have spent a lot of time focusing on your home, but now you feel you need to step out of your comfort zone. Your health is good at the moment and this is because you have brought positive thoughts into your life.

Capricorn

You have a lot of social activities planned during this month. You may want to have a little look at your social calendar, and make sure you actually enjoy the activities that you take part in. If you don’t enjoy them, drop them out of your calendar and focus on what you do enjoy. The problem is that sometimes you take on too much, and end up doing nothing. Remember, that you can’t do everything.

Aquarius

You need to look out for yourself this month. You are not normally accident-prone but the month of October can be a difficult month. If you are planning to engage in any risky activities such as sky diving, you should definitely think twice. This is not the month to travel. Health wise you seem to have overdone it a bit during the summer so this is another reason to lay low, and rest up. Look after your money.

Pisces

If you are planning on a trip, keep an eye on your luggage. It may not be worth packing your most expensive dress or shoes. You may be at a risk of losing parts of your luggage, so make sure you have travel insurance. Your health is good, and you are experiencing an energy burst from somewhere. This is just as well, as you will have a very busy month, and you want to make the most of it.

Book

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Weird News

Killing spider with a lighter?

A Michigan man caused a blaze that led to the eruption of a suburban Detroit gas station when he saw a spider sitting by his fuel door and tried to set it on fire. The man admitted that he has an excessive fear of spiders and so he pulled out his lighter and attempted to burn it. The surveillance camera at the gas station shows the motorist examining the gas tank and reaching into his pocket for the lighter. The video then shows flames erupting along the side of the car, the pump and the pavement. The man later doused the fire with an extinguisher, but the spider cannot be seen in the video.

Orange thief

A man in Florida is accused of stealing more than 4 million pounds of citrus, valued at approximately $540,000. The story begins when Bradley Reiter, 61, agreed to three contracts to harvest local citrus groves in March 2014. Although he is not a licensed citrus dealer, he harvested oranges and grapefruits from the groves, but never paid the grove owners. He raked nearly 50,000 boxes of fruit from five different growers and has now been booked in the Polk County Jail on charges of scheme to defraud, grand theft and dealing citrus without a license.

Dennis the Menace statue returned

A bronze statue of the rambunctious cartoon character, Dennis the Menace, was stolen in October 2006 from a city park in in Monterey, California, the hometown of its creator Hank Ketcham. The statue had mysteriously disappeared; no one knew what happened to the three-and-a-half-foot, 200-pound statue until last month when it was found at Brothers Scrap Metals in Florida. The statue was close to being melted down until a relative of the scrap yard’s owner recognised the cartoon character and learned of the statue’s theft via the Internet. The statue, valued at $25,000 to $30,000 was returned to the City Hall.

Invisibility cloak nears reality

The cloak of invisibility, a common feature of most science fiction stories, may be moving closer to reality. Scientists have successfully tested an ultra-thin invisibility cloak made of microscopic rectangular gold blocks that, like skin, conform to the shape of an object and can render it undetectable with visible light. Although the experiments involved cloaking a miniscule object, researchers believe the technology could be made to conceal larger objects, with military and other possible applications. The cloak, 80 nanometers in thickness, was wrapped around a three-dimensional object shaped with bumps and dents. The cloak’s surface rerouted light waves scattered from the object to make it invisible to optical detection.

Fashionable facts

Did you know that it was not acceptable for women to wear shorts in public until World War 2? z The word ‘jeans’ comes from the cotton pants worn by ‘Genes,’ the local term for Genoan sailors. z The Ancient Greeks exercised naked…this is where the word ‘gymnasium’ comes from (Gymnos means naked in Ancient and Modern Greek). z The first fashion magazine was published in Germany in 1586. z The five most common clothing materials are linen, cotton, polyester, and rayon. z Evidence for the first clothes dates somewhere between 100,000 to 500,000 years ago. z Simple needles made out of animal bone first appeared about 30,000 years ago. z The bikini was named after the island Bikini Atoll, where the US military was testing its bombs in World War 2. Its creator, Louis Réard, believed the revealing suit would create a shock like that of the atomic bomb. z Men’s shirts button on the right, and women’s on the left. z Dresses and skirts are commonly seen as women’s clothing in the West, but in other parts of the world, men wear them as frequently as women do. z More than 2 billion t-shirts are sold each year. z A person’s social rank and profession in the Medieval Ages was represented by the color of their clothing: nobility wore red, peasants wore brown and gray, and merchants, bankers, and gentry wore green. z In Rome, purple clothing was exclusively reserved for emperors and magistrates. z It was once taboo to wear black unless one was in mourning (Victorian widows were expected to wear black mourning clothes for two years after their husbands’ deaths). z The skirt is the second oldest piece of clothing, outdated only by the loincloth.

September 2015

Airlines

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Emergency

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Airlines Emergency Cinema Beauty

Airlines Flight information ....................... 24519456 Aeroflot ....................................... 24704455 Ahlan Lounge ............................. 24519088 Air Arabia ................................... 24700828 Air France ................................... 24562153 Air India...................................... 24762111 Air Maldives ............................... 24566046 Air New Zealand ......................... 24700326 Bangladesh Airlines.................... 24701128 British Airways............................ 24568777 Cathay Pacific ............................. 24789818 Continental Airlines.................... 24816565 Egypt Air .................................... 24794113 Emirates Airlines ........................ 24404444 Ethiopia Airlines ......................... 24660314 Gulf Air .......................24703222, 80072424 Iran Aseman ............................... 24660313 Japan Airlines ............................. 24704455 Jet Airways ..................24787248/24787246 Kenya Airways ............................ 24660317 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines ........... 24566737 Kuwait Airways ........................... 24701262 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 Shaheen Air International ........... 24817021 Singapore Airlines ...................... 24791233 Sri Lankan Airlines ..................... 24784545 Swiss International Air Lines ...... 24796692 Syrian Airlines ............................ 24797567 Thai Airways ............................... 24705934 Turkish Airways ................ 24703033/ 2778

September 2015

Emergency Hospitals

Al Nahdha Hospital ..................... 24837800 Khoula Hospital........................... 24560455 Muscat Private Hospital .............. 24583600 Royal Hospital ............................. 24599000 Al Raffah Hospital .................. 98294371/70 KIMS Oman Hospital ................... 24760100

Electricity

Muscat / Muttrah ........................ 24714300 Ruwi ............................................ 24701821 Salalah ........................................ 23219188

Water

General Enquiries ..............................1442 Muttrah ...................................... 24795775 Salalah ....................................... 23290222

Cinema

City Cinema Ruwi ................. 2456 7664/68 City Cinema Al Shatti ........... 2456 7664/68 City Cinema MGM................ 2456 7664/68 City Cinema Sohar ............... 2456 7664/68 Star Cinema ................................ 24791641 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540855 VOX Cinemas - MCC...................22344444

Cinema Beauty Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments Retail Sports Travel & Tour Operators Eat Out

Beauty Al Lilac Beauty Center ................ 24483994 Al Nahda Resort and Spa, Barka ................ 26883710 Ayana Spa ................................... 24693435 Beauty Centre ............................. 24697585 Beauty Today .............................. 24568991 Chi Spa, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa ....................................... 24776666 Daksha’s Salon ............................ 24562596 Emirates Medical Center............ 24604540 Essence Spa................................ 24603225 Europe Beauty Centre & Health ................. Club, CBD ................................... 24797813 Europe Beauty Centre & Spa .................... Wadi Kabir.................................. 24815805 Grand Spa................................... 24695766 Grand Spa (Bareeq Al Shatti)...... 95588880 Hana’s Slimming & Skincare ....... 24697270 Holistic Skin & Hair Care ............ 24601134 Hollywood Beauty Centre ........... 24568292 Kaya Skin Clinic ................ 24601700/4300 Kottakal Arya Vaidya Sala ........... 24701555 Manal Beautician ........................ 24479655 Muscat Beauty Salon ................... 24562541 Muscat Slimming Centre ............ 24565687 Nadia Beauty Salon ..................... 24689777 Nails Spa ..................................... 24699440 Raz Hair and Beauty Salon .......... 24692219 Saharz Beauty Centre ................................ ................................24695151 / 24696161 Signature .................................... 24490282 Sri Sri Ayurveda Clinic .............................. ..................................24480874, 92800793 The Chedi, The Spa .................... 24524400 Tips & Toes Nails Spa.................. 24603969 The Spa Bar for Men ................... 24698681 Touch & Glow Beauty.................. 24791979 VLCC .......................................... 24695157 Perry's Saloon ............................. 24538539 Zayna Spa, MRM ..........................26871555

Airlines Emergency Cinema Beauty Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments Retail Sports Travel & Tour Operators Eat Out

Oman on your ÀQJHUWLSV

Name of Location: Jasmine ................. Al Khuwair ............ Al Khoud................ Al Hail.................... MSQ....................... Ruwi....................... Ruwi....................... Azaiba.................... Azaiba.................... Al Amerat............... Al Qurum............... Al Mawaleh........... Azaiba Slimming Centre..................... Al Khuwair............. Darsait................... Darsait .................. Sohar...................... Sohar...................... Salahlah................. Salahlah................. Al Goubra.............. Al Goubra.............. Al Hail....................

Telephone Type of Number: Location: 24571337......... Premium Facility 24483700......... Mixed 97983710......... Mixed 95163854......... Ladies 24600232......... Mixed 24792126......... Men 24797542......... Ladies 24498138......... Ladies 24617024......... Mixed 24877773......... Mixed 24662956......... Mixed 24553803......... Ladies 24498239......... Ladies 24480966......... Ladies 24798916......... Men 24798917......... Ladies 26759380......... Men 26759381......... Ladies 23290692......... Men 23291143......... Ladies 24116840......... Men 24116842......... Ladies 24188601......... Mixed

Health Clubs Al Falaj Health Club ........................24702311 Al Majan Hotel ................................24592900 Al Qurum Resort .............................24605945 Adamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fitness Center ....................24684989 Balance Health & Fitness ...............24564132 Bodylines, Al Sawadi ......................26795545 Body Speak ......................................24765578 Crowne Plaza...................................24660660 Fitbody Gym....................................24601970 Fontana Club Radisson Blu ...........24487777 487777 Future Health Club .........................24600030 600030 Grand Hyatt Club Olympus ...........24641234 641234 Golden Tulip ....................................24510300 510300 Hammer Gym .................................24483399 483399 Horizon Fitness Center ..................24571337 571337 InterContinental Muscat ...............24680000 680000 Muscat Holiday Inn ........................24487123 487123 Samaa Health Club .........................24694892 694892 Qurum Beach Resort Hotel ...........24605945 605945 Crowne Plaza Salalah .....................23235333 235333 Hilton Salalah ..................................23211234 211234 Sohar Beach Resort.........................26841111 841111 Sky Club, Park Inn ..........................24507888 507888 GYM, MRM .....................................26871555 871555

Hotel & Hotel Apartments Muscat Region

Al Bustan Palace Hotel ................ 24799666 Al Bahjah Hotel ........................... 24424400 Al-Khuwayr Hotel Apts ............... 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn ................ 24596400 Al Fanar Hotel ............................. 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel .............................. 24702311 Azaiba Hotel Apartments........................... ................................24490979 / 99424470 Beach Hotel ................................ 24696601 Bowshar Hotel............................. 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat ..................... 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat.................. 24660660 Golden Tulip Seeb...................... 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat .................... 24641234 Haffa House Hotel ....................... 24707207 Holiday Inn Muscat ..................... 24487123 InterContinental Muscat ............. 24680000 Best Western Hotel ..................... 24692121 Majan Continental Hotel ............. 24592900 Marina Hotel ............................... 24711711 Mina Hotel .................................. 24711828 Muttrah Hotel .............................. 24798401 Nuzha Hotel Apts ........................ 24789199 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Park Inn ...................................... 24507888 Qurm Beach House Hotel ........... 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat.......... 24487777 Ramada Qurm Beach .................. 24603555 Ramee Guestline Hotel ............... 24564443 Ramee Dream Resort .................. 24453399 Ruwi Hotel .................................. 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites...................... 24691200 Qurum Beach Resort Hotel ......... 24605945 Shangri Laâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Barr Al JissahResort and Spa .....................24776666, 800708102 The Chedi Muscat....................... 24524400

Al Dhakliya

Nizwa Hotel................................. 25431616 Al Jabal Al Akhdar Hotel............. 25410500 Adam Motel ................................ 25434975 Al Diyar Hotel ............................. 25412402 Bader Aslam Motel ..................... 25435007 Bahla Hotel ................................. 25420211 Matan Motel ................................ 99062641 Majan Guest House..................... 25431910 Tanoof Guest House.................... 25411601

Al Batinah

Al Nahda Resort & Spa ............... 26883710 Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Millennium Resort ...................... 26871555 Sohar Beach Hotel ...................... 26841111 Al Wadi Hotel .............................. 26840058 Al Suwaiq Hotel .......................... 26862241 Green Oasis Motel ...................... 26846442 Ghurnata Hotel Apartments........ 26844539

Al Sharqiya

Al Ashkara .................................. 25566266 Al Qabil Resthouse ..................... 25581243 Al Raha Tourism Camp ............... 99343851 Al Sharqiya Gardens................... 99332264 Al Sharqiya Sands Hotel ............. 99205112 Al Wasil Camp ............................ 99332264 Desert Safaris ............................. 25593232 Golden Sands Camp................... 99445092 Ibra Hotel.................................... 25571873 Mahoot Hotel .............................. 25504401 Marsa Sur Hotel Apartments....... 25540784 Masirah Motel ............................. 25504401 Ras Al Hadd Beach Hotel ........... 25542031

Al Wusta

Ghaftain Rest House ................... 99485881 Ghaba Rest House ...................... 99358639 Haima Motel ............................... 23436061 Qatbit Motel................................ 99085686

Dhofar

Hilton Hotel Salalah .................... 23211234 Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah ...... 23235333 Haffa House Hotel Salalah........... 23295444 Al Hanna Hotel............................ 23290274 Al Jabal Hotel .............................. 23210611 Al Mazyuna Hotel........................ 23293340 Al Nassr Hotel ............................. 23294815 Al Saada Tourism Complex ........ 23225250 Bamasir Hotel ............................. 23293340 Darbat Hotel ............................... 23295877 Dhofar Tourist Hotel.................... 23282300 Redan Hotel ................................ 23292255 Salalah Beach Hotel Apts ............ 23235999 Salalah Hotel ............................... 23295332 Samahram Hotel Apts ................. 23295444 Thumrit Tourist Hotel .................. 23279371

Al Dhahira

Al Buraimi Hotel.......................... 25652010 Abha Hotel.................................. 25654700 Al Aeilat Hotel Apts .................... 25654330 Al Baraka Oasis Hotel Apts ......... 25650955 Al Dhahira Hotel ......................... 25650492 Al Masah Hotel ........................... 25653007 Al Raha Hotel Apts ...................... 24701898 Al Sharq House Hotel Apts ......... 24702399 Hamasa Hotel.............................. 25651200 Ibri Oasis Hotel........................... 25489955 Nafahat Al Burami Hotel Flats ..... 25654777

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Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments

Musandam

Khasab Hotel .............................. 26730267 Qada Hotel ................................. 26731664 Isra Hotel Apartments................. 26730562

Se September ep ptte em m mbe ber 2015 be ber 2015 20 15

Sports Basketball

Oman Basketball Association .... 24796780

Boating

SEARCHING

Retail Sports

Retail Al Araimi Complex ..................... 24566180 Al Khamis Plaza .......................... 24562791 Al Harthy Complex ..................... 24564481 Al Wadi Commercial Centre ...................... .................................................. 24564782 Alasfoor Plaza ............................. 24564686 Capital Commercial Complex (CCC) ...... .................................................. 24567338 Jawaharat Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shatti Complex ....... 24692113 Khimji Megastore........................ 24708075 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540222 Sabco Center .............................. 24562761

Bowling

Al Masa Bowling ......................... 24693991 Oman Bowling Centre ................ 24480747 Seeb Novotel .............................. 24510300

Classes

Al Falaj Hotel (Martial Arts, Tennis, ........... Swimming).................................. 24702311 Grand Hyatt Muscat (Aerobics, Ballet, Salsa, Yoga for women) ............... 24641234 InterContinental Muscat (Fitness workouts, Aqua Aerobics, Spin, Pilates+) ... 24680000

Cricket

Oman Cricket Club .................... 24703142

Cycling

Muscat Cycling ........................... 98453580

Diving & Snorkeling

Centrepoint

Al Khuwair ..................96473101, 24601569 Fahad Plaza, Ruwi ....................... 96725845 Muscat City Centre .................................... ..................................96473113, 24558063 Sohar .......................................... 95119656 Salalah ........................................ 23289260

Muscat City Centre

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Blu Zone Watersports.................. 24737293 Desert Adventures ...................... 95201107 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Dimaniyat Diving ........................ 24795545 Global Scuba .............................. 99317518 Gulf Leisure ................................ 24693561 Musandam Extra Divers.............. 99877957 Muscat Divers ............................. 99355671 Muscat Diving and Adventure Cente......... .................................................. 24485663 Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours ........... .................................................. 92645889 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Sub Aqua Dive Centre Salalah .... 92471073 SEAOMAN, MRM .........................24181400

Muscat City Centre (Mall) .......... 24558888 Bata (Footwear) ........................... 24558855 Emax (Electronics) ..................... 24558062 Home Centre .............................. 24558063 Max (Fashion) ........................ 24558981/82 Origem (Fashion)........................ 92648542 Oysho (Fashion).......................... 24558865 Rado (Watches) ........... 9776492, 92247101 Salsa (Fashion) ............................ 24558631 Sunglass Hut ............................... 24558869 Zara (Fashion) ............................. 24558887 Zara Home .................................. 24558869

Golf

Muscat Grand Mall

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Al Sawahil Horse Riding ............. 95177557 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153

Muscat Grand Mall ..................... 22000000

Capital are Yacht club ................. 24737712 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Grand Hyatt Boat House ............. 24641234 Gulf Leisure ................................ 99819005 Marina Bander Al Rowdha .......... 24737288 Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours ............ .................................................. 92645889 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107

September 2015

Almouj Golf Club........................ 22005990 Ghala Valley Golf Club ............... 24591248 Muscat Hills Golf Club ................ 24510065 Mini Golf, MRM ...........................26871555

Hiking

Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ....... 24485663 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107

Horse Riding

Qurum Equestrian School........... 99832199

Ice Sports

Ice Skating Centre ...................... 24489492

Jet Skiing

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545

Kayaking

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ...... .................................................. 24485663 Rob Gardner ............................... 99239658 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240

Motor Sports

Bikers Oman ............................... 99556430 Harley Davidson Owners Group ............... .................................................. 99310853 Oman Automobile Association ................. .................................................. 24510239

Rock Climbing

Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ........................................ 24485663 Rob Gardner ............................... 99239658

Rugby

Muscat Rugby Club .................... 24604890

Running

Muscat Road Runners ................. 24692903

Sailing

Castaways Sailing Club ............. 24594613 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153

Sport Fishing

Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Grand Hyatt Boathouse ............... 24641234 Gulf Leisure ................................ 99819006 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ...... .................................................. 24485663 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Marina Bandar Al Rowdha .......... 24737288 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Water World Marine ................... 24737438

Squash

Al Falaj Hotel .............................. 24702311 Al Sawadi .................................... 26795545 Crowne Plaza Muscat.................. 24660660 Grand Hyatt Muscat .................... 24641234

Tennis

Oman Tennis Association ........... 24751902

ABC Tourism ............................. 244582663 Adonis Oman Travel & Tours 24693371 Advantage Travel & Tours ........... 95220095 Airborne Travels......................... 24479295 Al Azure Tours .......................... 244565745 Amazing Arabia ..........24701454/99310005 Al Ahlam Tours ......................... 244892612 Al Areesh Wahiba Camp ............ 99317107 Al Daleel Tours ........................... 23296503 Al Ghadeer ................................. 99325441 Al Ghubayra ............................... 24812874 Al Haditha ................................... 24603587 Al Hashar Tourism & Travels ....... 24836100 Al Hasn Araimi Travel ................. 24799966 Al Maskry Tourism & Travels ...... 24595241 Al Naheem .................................. 24478192 Al Noor ....................................... 99318822 Al-Qandeel Travel & Tourism ..... 24643877 Al Raha Tourism Camp ............... 99343851 Al Sawson ................................... 24485637 Arabian Sands Tour Services ...... 24785027 Arabian Sea Safaris..................... 24693223 Arabian Trails ............................. 24475437 Arise Travel and Tour ................. 24605825 AST Tours ....................24571311, 23298085 Bahwan Travel Agencies............. 24797405 Choice Holidays ......................24660364/7 Desert Discovery ........................ 24493232 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Eihab Travels .............................. 24683900 Elite Travel & Tourism................. 24485020 Empty Quarter Tours .................. 99387654 Ena Tourism ................................ 23298500 Global Tours ............................... 24484156 Golden Oryx Tours ..................... 24489853 Gulf Leisure ................................ 24693561 Gulf Ventures .............................. 24559985 Kanoo Travel ............................... 24700249

Khasab Travel and Tours............................ 26730464 Kurban Tours & Travel ................ 24699886 Mark Tours .................................. 24782727 Marmul Travel and Tours ............ 24482868 Majan Travel ............................... 24785728 Mezoon Travel ............................ 24796680 Midland Tourism......................... 24566524 Moon Travels ............................. 24793551 Nahar Tourism Oasis .................. 99387654 National Travels & Tourism (NTT) .............. 24660376 Nomad Tours .............................. 95495240 Nomadic Adventures and Tours................. 99336273 NTT Tours............................... 24660378/70 OTTB ........................................... 24789845 Oasis Tours .................24499922, 99440441 Oman Geo Tours......................... 24600914 Oman Discovery ......................... 24706424 Oman National Transport ........... 24490046 Oman World Tourism .................. 99252680 Orient Holidays .......................... 24478902 OUA Travel ................................. 24559900 Premier Tours ............................. 99222620 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Remal Al Sharqiya Tourism......... 24544525 Rusayl Travel .............................. 24510012 Salalah City Services .................. 23299663 Salalah Tourism........................... 23292289 Sama Al Wasil Tourism Village................... 99604004 Shanfari Travel and Tours ........... 27602710 Sumahram Falcon ....................... 95774166 Sun and Sand Tours .................... 99373928 Sunny Day Tours, Travel & Adventure ........ 24490055 Steps Travel and Tourism............ 24488891 Tour Oman .................................. 24799966 United Tours ............................... 24787448 Zahara Tours ............................... 24400844

4 SEARCHING

Travel & Tour Operators

Sept Se September epttem e b be er 2015 20 2 015

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5 SEARCHING

Arabian Al Deyar ...........................................24603553 Next to Shatti Plaza

Kababji ............................................24488846 Al Khuwair

Al Khanjar ........................................24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Kargeen Café AL Harthy Complex ........................24560531 Centrepoint .................................... 24694048 MQ Complex ...................................24692269

Al Istanbuli ......................................24480900 Next to Rawasco, Al Khuwair Al Reef Al Lebnani ..........................24485775 Al Khuwair, Opp Safeer Bld Al Tanoor .........................................24776540 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Al Zafran ..........................................26841111 Sohar Beach Hotel Arab World Al Ghubrah ......................................24491734 Ruwi High St. ...................................24798119 Automatic Al Khuwair .......................................24487200 Azaiba...............................................24499981 Bareeq Al Shatti...............................24605735 Qurum..............................................24561500 Seeb ..................................................24424343

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Beirut Restaurant ............................24568411 Near Qurum Roundabout Bin Ateeq Al Khuwair .......................................24478225 CBD ..................................................24702727 Camilia Restaurant and Cafe.........24706663 CBD Irani House ......................................24698098 Al Khoud ..........................................24545741 Azaiba ..............................................24491921 Jabal Lebnan....................................24698098 Al Noor Plaza, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos Al Jood Restaurant .........................24472630 Al Khuwair

September 2015

Samar .............................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa Samat (Iranian food) MQ.....................................................99 889394 Qurum................................................24605515 Shahrazad ........................................24776565 Al Husn Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Shiraz................................................24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Tarboosh Opp Sabco Centre...........................24565673 Al Ghubrah ......................................24498553 The Arabian Courtyard .................24524400 The Chedi Muscat The Khanjar Omani Cuisine ..........24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Turkish House .................................24488071 Al Khuwair Ubhar ...............................................24565689 Bareeq Al Shatti Wadi Hadramout Restaurant Al Khuwair ......................................24475282 Al Bahar, MRM ................................26871553

Cafe’s

Al Ahli Cafe ................................ 24424400 Al Bahjah Hotel Al Falaj Coffee Shop ................... 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Al Fursan ................................... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel Al Maha ...................................... 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn Al Makan Café Muscat City Centre ..................... 24545311 Shatti Al Qurum .......................... 24404200 Al Mas......................................... 24491105 Bowsher Hotel Deluxe Atrium Tea Lounge ..................... 24764000 Al Bustan Palace Barista ......................................... 24571531 Sabco Centre Cafe Barbera .............................. 24603505 Near Shatti Cinema, Shatti Al Qurum Café Capuccino .......................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel Café Ceramique ......................... 24566617 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum

Caribou Coffee........................... 24694473 Bareeq Al Shatti

Mood Café Madinat Plaza ............................. 92125639 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24538752

Casa de Cafe .............................. 24499565 Midan Hotel Suites

Patisserie .................................... 24479344 Risail Complex, Seeb

Colombian Aroma Cafe .............. 24693131 Bareeq Al Shatti

Petit Café .................................... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel

Coffee Republic........................ 244703739 Qurum City Centre

Pink Berry................................... 24558113 Muscat City Centre

Costa Coffee Seeb Intnl Airport ....................... 24519734 MQ .............................................. 24692858 Muscat City Center..................... 24535895 Oasis by the Sea ......................... 24605574 Alasfoor Plaza ............................. 24571236 Lulu Bowsher .............................. 24503861 Bareeq Al Shatti .......................... 24692699 MBD ............................................ 24793169

Pooldeck ..................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

Chado Tea Lounge..................... 24500773 Oasis By The Sea D’Arcy’s Kitchen Jawaharat A Shatti ....................... 24600234 MQ .............................................. 24699119 Glacier Café Markaz Al Bahja ......................... 24540200 Zakher Mall ................................ 24540391

Café de Lotus.............................. 24560439 Al Khamis Plaza

Gloria Jean's Coffees .................. 24662940 Fun Zone, Qurum, MGM........................................... 22009295

Café G Patisserie ........................ 99531999 Madinat as Sultan Qaboos

Golden Bean Café ..................... 96969645 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum

Café Samaharam......................... 24707207 Haffa House Hotel

Grind Floor ................................. 24487777 Radisson Blu

Café Torque ................................ 24500773 Azaiba

Le Mermaid Café ........................ 24602327 Near Grand Hyatt Muscat

Café Unique................................ 96684686 Ruwi

Majlis al Shams ........................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

Richoux cafe .............................. 22005165 Opera Galleria Ground Floor Rumours Cafe ............................. 24692121 Coral Hotel Muscat Second Cup CCC, Qurm ................................. 24566616 Shatti Al-Qurum .......................... 24699951 Bareeq Al Shatti .......................... 24697776 Sirj Tea Lounge ........................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Shalashil Café ............................ 24498008 Star Hotel Apartments, Ghubra Starbucks Ernst and Young bldg ................. 24567644 Jawaharat A’Shatti ....................... 24601457 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24558861 MQ .............................................. 24699367 Borders, Muscat City Centre....... 24558636 Qurum City Centre ..................... 24470588 Surf Cafe ..................................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Sidewalk Cafe and Deli .............. 24563058 CCC, Qurm Naseem Lounge, MRM .................26871553

6 SEARCHING

Café Vergnano 1882.................... 24692370 Madinat as Sultan Qaboos

Mokha Cafe ................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Mokha Cafe ................................ 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat

September 2015

Far Eastern Bamboo Kitchen ......................... 96969645 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum China Mood ................................ 24764000 Al Bustan Palace InterContinental - Muscat China Town ................................. 24567974 CCC, Qurm, MBD Chinese Durbar .......................... 24486688 Al Khuwair

Chinese Garden ......................... 24489414 Al Khuwair, Near Ice Skating Rink Chinese Palace ........................... 99563368 Al Wadi Commercial Centre

SEARCHING

Pal Meera.................................... 24692368 Shatti Al Qurum

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Golden Dragon ........................... 24697374 Madinat As Sultan Qaboos Golden Oryx .............................. 24702266 Rex Road Jade Garden................................ 24605945 Al Qurm Resort

Chicking Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540200 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24489575 Cold Stone Creamery ................................ 24470614, 95202436 Qurum City Centre Coral Express ............................. 24540200 Markaz Al Bahja Dairy Queen Jawaharat A’Shatti ....................... 24693031 Lulu, Ghubrah ............................. 24504504 Seeb Intnl Airport ....................... 24519468 DQ Grill & Chill .......................... 24693031 Jawaharat A’Shatti

Lai Thai ....................................... 98025189 Al Khuwair

Domino’s Pizza ............................ 24479111 Al Khuwair

Magic Wok Muscat City Centre ..................... 24537118 Qurum City Centre ..................... 24470596 Mamasan .................................... 24210452

Dunkin’ Donuts Ghala .......................................... 96177967 MQ .............................................. 96177967 Shatti Cinema ............................. 96177967

Marjan Rest. and Pool Bar ........... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat

Gourmet Burger Kitchen............. 24558065 Muscat City Centre

Meji’s Aroy Thai .......................... 99839595 Shatti Al Qurum Narjeel ........................................ 24560606 Asas Oman Hotel Apartments Palayok ....................................... 24797290 Ruwi High Street, opp. OC Centre Al Khuwair Shang Thai ................................. 24483083 Al Khuwair slip road Silk Route Chinese & Thai........... 24696967 Al Noor Plaza, Madinat As Sultan Qaboos Royal China ............................... 24571339 Shatti Al Qurum Hot Pot & Grills ........................... 24404291 Bareeq Al Shatti Thai Basil .................................... 24499565 Midan Hotel Suites, Ghubrah The Noodle House ...................... 24558377 Muscat City Centre Tokyo Taro .................................. 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Wasabi Sushi............................... 24699490 Bareeq Al Shatti Mydan, MRM ...............................26871553

Fast Food

September 2015

Il Gelato Di Bruno ....................... 95275987 Oasis By the Sea Hardees ...................................... 24477774 Al Khuwair, Wattyah, Al Khoud, City Centre One number for all the four stores Hot and Crispy ........................... 24699524 Al Masa Mall, Sarooj Just Falafel................................... 22009922 Muscat Grand Mall KFC ............................................. 24477777 One number for all the 21 stores Ruwi, Qurum, Al Khuwair, MCC, QCC, Lulu Ghubra and Darsait, Near Airport, Azaiba Roundabout

McDonald’s Al Khuwair .................................. 24482046 As Sarooj..................................24691033/4 Muscat City Center..................... 24545773 Book Roundabout ....................... 24421119 Qurm Behind CCC ..................... 24565798 Papa John’s Pizza Lulu, Ghubrah ............................. 24501111 MQ .............................................. 24697220 Qurum ........................................ 24571100 Muscat Intl Airport...................... 24519468 Ruwi ............................................ 24793153 Al Khoudh ................................... 24546516 Penguin Ghubrah ..................................... 24493963 Seeb............................................ 24422004 Sultan Qaboos University ........... 24413144 Pizza Inn Ruwi ............................................ 24784555 Al Araimi Compex, Qurum ......... 24566661 Pizza Muscat Al Khuwair .................................. 24483393 Al Harthy Complex ..................... 24565618 MBD ............................................ 24817715 Pizza Hut ..................................... 24822500 Wadi Kabir, MBD, Rex Road, Qurum, CCC, QCC, MSQ, Al Khuwair, Ghala, Bowsher, Ghoubra, Airport, Al Khoud, Mawallah, Mabella, Barka Subway Oman Oil, Qurum Jabal .............. 24666704 Al Khuwair .................................. 24593963 Al Masa Mall ............................... 24604664 CCC............................................ 24560327 MQ .............................................. 24694774 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24558080 Wally’s Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540200 Al Masa Mall ............................... 24543154 Al Khuwair .................................. 24502929

Indian

Lazeez ........................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa

Aaryans ..................................... 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel

It’s Mirchi ................................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel

Ananthapuri .............................. 24706226 Opp. Muscat Municipality, Darsait

Mumtaz Mahal ............................ 24605907 Qurum

Annapoorna ............................... 24810396 MBD

Mughlai Zaika ............................. 24568200 Wattayah

Biryani House ............................. 24488478 Al Khuwayr

Omar Al Khayyam Restaurant .................... Ruwi ..........................24703035/ 24707082 Al Khoudh ..................24535001/ 24539718

Copper Chimney........................ 24780207 CBD Curry House ............................... 24564033 Wattayah Mullapanthal ............................... 95267540 Ruwi Chowpatty .................................. 24488829 Al Khuwair Daawat ........................................ 24787980 Ruwi Divine ......................................... 24705070 Ruwi Dosteen Restaurant ..................... 24622850 Seeb Happy Village ............................. 24564995 Qurum Horizon Restaurant ..................... 24798252 Ruwi Hot Pot Restaurant...................... 24700691 Near Khimji’s Mart, Darsait Kamat Al Khuwair .................................. 24479243 Ruwi ............................................ 24783300

Passage To India ......................... 24568480 Behind Hatat House Princess ...................................... 24482213 Al Khuwair Punjabi Dhaba ............................ 24787755 Darsait

Puranmal...................24707172 / 24706969 CBD Sagar .......................................... 24794114 Ruwi Saravanaa Bhavan ................ 24704502 / 07 Near Ruwi Roundabout Spicy Village.............................................. Al Khuwair .................................. 24475518 Rusayl ........................................ 24510120 Nizwa ......................................... 25431694 Sohar ......................................... 24843238 Sur ............................................. 25544594 Customer Care ............... 800spicy (77429) Sayujya Restaurant...................... 24816909 MBD

Italian

Swagath Veg Restaurant.............. 24707676 Ruwi

Capri Court ................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

The Indus Restaurant .................. 22022888 Opera Gallaria - Shatti Al Qurum

Come Prima................................ 24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Muscat

Keranadu .................................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel

Taj Samarkhand Restaurant ........ 24582040 Muscat Oasis Residence, Bowsher

Khana Khazana............................ 24813466 Ruwi

Tawa Magic ................................ 24703300 CBD

Mediterranean Grill.................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

Khyber ........................................ 24781901 CBD

The Great Kabab Factory............ 24478373 Al Khuwair

Koliwada .................................... 99421778 MBD

The Taj ........................................ 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

O Sole Mio .................................. 24487777 Radisson Blu - Muscat Trattoria ...................................... 24210451

Kumkum...................................... 24714114 Muttrah

Woodlands.................................. 24700192 MBD, Ruwi

Pane Caldo ................................. 24698697 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex Pizza Express .............................. 24696169 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al-Qurum Tuscany....................................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat

September 2015

SEARCHING

The Bollywood ............................ 24565653 Qurm, Behind CCC

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

International Al Bandar Lounge ....................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

SEARCHING

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Japengo....................................... 92892868 Qurum

Al Aktham ................................... 24489292 Al Khuwair, behind OIB

Jean’s Grill .................................. 24567666 Sultan Center

A’Rifaak ...................................... 92558842 Al Khoud, Main Street

Jungle ......................................... 24561600 Qurum Rose Garden

AlExandria.................................. 24561611 Qurum, next to Sabco Center

Khaboura Cafe............................ 24592900 Majan Hotel

Al Khiran Terrace Restaurant ..................... Al Bustan Palace ......................... 24764000

Khalab .......................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa

Sundowner’s Beach Bar............... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Al Waha Lounge ......................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

La Brassiere ............................... 2471 3707 Muttrah

TGIF ............................................ 24488899 Al Khuwair, City Seasons Hotel

La Mer ........................................ 95038487 Shatti Al Qurum

The Beach Restaurant ................. 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

Left Bank ..................................... 24693699 Below Mumtaz Mahal restaurant, Qurum

The Chedi Pool Cabana.............. 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

Le Jardin...................................... 24510300 Golden Tulip Seeb

The Crepe Cafe .......................... 24558530 Muscat City Centre

Beach Pavilion Restaurant and Bar Al Bustan Palace ......................... 24764000

Love At First Bite ......................... 24601737 Shatti Al Qurum

The Serai Pool Cabana ............... 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

B+F Roadside Diner................... 24698836 Bareeq Al Shatti

Musandam Café.......................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

The Restaurant ............................ 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

Blue Marlin ................................. 24737940 Marina bander Al Rowdha

Musandam Restaurant ................ 26730267 Khasab Hotel

The Coffee Shop ......................... 24704244 Ruwi Hotel

BreadTalk.................................... 24603033 Bareeq Al Shatti

Nando’s ....................................... .... 24561818 Opp CCC Muscat City Centre

Tinello......................................... 24502570 The Treasurebox Hotel

Assira Pool Bar............................ 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Bait Al Bahar ............................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

Bread and Co.............................. 24698379 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al-Qurum Buffet Restaurant ......................... 24697967 Bareeq Al Shatti Chilli’s Muscat City Center .................... 24558815 Qurum City Center .................... 24470700 Circles ........................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Class Room ................................. 24813141 National Hospitality Institute, Wadi Kabir Coral Reef Cafe .......................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Coffee Shop ................................ 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Four Seasons ............................... 24707207 Haffa House Hotel Golden Spoon Al Khuwair .................................. 24482263 Seeb Souq................................... 24424204 Hamburger Nation ...................... 24558077 Muscat City Centre

iFoods ......................................... 24121114 18 November St, near Sultan Centre, Azaiba

September 2015

Neptune Bar................................ .... 24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Nouras Al Shatti .......................... .... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel Odyssey ...................................... .... 24824240 Oman Dive Centre, Bandar Jissa sa Olivos.......................................... .... 24487777 Radisson Blu Retro ........................................... .... 24571339 Shatti AL Qurum RBG Grill .................................... .... 24507888 Park Inn Muscat Samba ......................................... .... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr rr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Slider Station .............................. .... 24698990 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al Qurum rum Stomach ...................................... .... 24692486 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex Sultanah ...................................... .... 24776666 Al Husn Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr rr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

Trader Vic’s................................. 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Tropicana.................................... 24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Muscat

Long Bar and Xyro ...................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Nirvana ......................24781901/ 97015530 CBD

Mediterranean

O'Malleys .................................... 24487777 Radisson Blu

Bellapais .................................... 24521100 Risail Complex

Periwinkle’s Pub ......................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Mediterranean Grill ................. 246803000 InterContinental Muscat

Piano Lounge .............................. 26776666 Al Bander Hotel, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah

Tomato ........................................ 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Azure, MRM .................................26871553

Pubs & Lounge Al Ghazal .................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Al Jizzi Lounge ............................ 26841111 Sohar Beach Hotel Al Marrah Pub ............................ 24424404 Al Bahjah Hotel Barrio Fiesta ............................... 24592900 Majan Hotel Churchill’s Pub............................ 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn

Mexican Pavo Real .................................... 24602603 MQ Senor Pico................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Mydan, MRM ...............................26871553

Sama Terazza ............................. 24507888 Park Inn Muscat Sports Bar ................................... 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn The Hut ....................................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

The Wahiba ................................. 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Club Safari.................................. 24602327 Grand Hyatt Muscat Copacabana ............................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Duke’s Bar ................................... 24660660 Crowne Plaza

The Lazy Lizard ........................... 24487777 Radisson Blu

Club Bar ..................................... 24704244 Ruwi Hotel

Steak & Grill

Feeney’s Irish Pub....................... 99262821 Al Qurum Resort

Grill House ................................. 24603660 Grand Hyatt

Habana Cafe ............................... 24602327 Grand Hyatt Muscat

Just Grilled.................................. 24601290 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al Qurum

John Barry Bar............................. 24641234 Grand Hyatt

Kobe’s Sizzlers .........24563220 / 24564092 GBM Building, Qurum

Layalina Bar ................................ 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn

The Safari Rooftop Grill .............24641234, .................................................. 24641114 Grand Hyatt Muscat

Pub......................................... 24702311 Le Pub.............. Al Falaj Hotel

Is your enterprise missing in our lists?

Rock Bottom Cafe’ ...................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel

Please mail u us the details editor@faces editor@facesoman.com or call us on: + 9968 24563382/24563385 Entry! For a Quick E

SEARCHING

Tapas & Sablah ........................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

September 2015