Gulf Insider August 2016

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French luxury jeweller Jacques Cartier’s visit to Bahrain in March 1911

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Changing Lanes Bahrain After 5 Years Business

Saudi Property Sales ‘Down More Than 50%’ Special Feature

Bahrain Becomes 71st Most Expensive City In the World Business

Productivity in Middle East Declines Special Feature

Bahrain After 5 years

Profile

sumeet jhingan

Business

A Look at India-Bahrain Ties

14 16

22 Hotel Review

Reem Al Bawadi Motors

2016 Chrysler 200C

Affairs

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Manama Shapers: Hamad Al Mahmeed

22

Marbella and the Middle East

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Can you copy a savile row suit?

26

Travel

Style

Society

Business Events

Simply unparalleled online presence that connects region’s most inspired communities.

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Publisher & Editor in Chief - Nicholas C. Cooksey

Dubai makes it to the top five global cities favored by entrepreneurs and families.

A recent survey finds that 43% of the GCC workforce is demotivated - lack of career development, low salary, poor organizational culture are some of the reasons cited for employees’ dissatisfaction.

We caught up with Sumeet Jhingan, GM of Capital Club Bahrain, who told us about his plans to promote the Capital Club Bahrain and the hospitality sector in the Kingdom.

We visited the newly opened Reem Al Bewadi restaurant at Ramada Manama City Centre - and loved its food and ambiance!

Saudi Arabia is sending seven athletes along with four women athletes for the Rio Olympics while Bahrain will be participating in the Rio Olympics with 42 athletes.

Bahrain has moved up 20 places in the world’s most expensive city index of Mercer’s 2016 Cost of Living Survey – from 91st position to 71st position. With utility bills massively on the rise but no change in the pay scale, how will Bahrain’s expats, who will no longer be cushioned by subsidies that Bahraini families will continue to benefit from, survive the inflation? … and lots more!

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Arabia’s Intelligent Magazine Established since 2004, Gulf Insider is the multi award winning Arabian business and current affairs magazine that also covers property and expat news, interviews, car reviews, travel features, even a bit of art and fashion.

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Meet the 23 year old Saudi billionaire playboy with a fleet of gold supercars imported from the Middle East.

Since arriving in London in March, Saudi billionaire Turki Bin Abdullah, 23, has made international headlines for the extravagant display of wealth.

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Saudi property sales ‘down more than 50%’

S

audi property sales have plummeted by more than 50% as investors hold off due to the expected impact of a new land tax, according to press reports.

Total weekly sales fell 56.7% to SR1.9 billion ($506 million), the lowest weekly level in a decade, according to a report in Arab News.

This was due to low demand as investors wait for an anticipated drop in prices due to a new tax on undeveloped urban land in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia’s cabinet in June approved the details of the tax, which applies to owners of vacant land in urban areas, and comes as part of an attempt to address the kingdom’s housing shortage.

Fees will first be applied to undeveloped land with an area of 10,000 square metres and more, and later apply to plots of more than 5,000 square metres.

The new tax is expected to spur development and help reduce property prices by up to 40%, according to reports.

VAT Will Increase Inflation across the GCC … According to Recent Survey by CFA Society Emirates

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he introduction of value added tax (VAT) may harden inflation across the GCC region according to CFA Society Emirates. With VAT set to be introduced by 2018, 82% of the respondents said that this will lead to higher inflation rates. They noted that demand for luxury goods will be affected the most by additional VAT costs followed by cars, tobacco and real-estate. Meanwhile, CFA professionals saw healthcare as the sector which will be least impacted by the additional VAT costs.

Another “significant” finding was that 80% of the respondents said that they would consider moving abroad if an income tax were to be introduced, since 59% of them revealed that the GCC’s tax-free environment was a key factor in their decision to reside here.

On the corporate level, employers will not consider relocating if corporate tax is introduced as per 59% of the respondents, although 41% of them believe otherwise.“CFA professionals see VAT as a paradigm shifting reform in the GCC’s fiscal policy and are unanimous that it will lead to higher inflation,” Amer Khansaheb, president of CFA Society Emirates said, after releasing the survey, which assessed the impact of introducing VAT across the GCC.

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Gulf Insider August 2016

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Special Feature

Bahrain Becomes 71st Most Expensive City in the World

$ Mercer’s Middle East 2016 Cost of Living Survey shows Bahrain has moved from the 91st rank to the 71st in just one year!

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Gulf Insider August 2016

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any cities in the GCC region witnessed a jump in their rankings, pushed by other locations’ decline in the Mercer’s Middle East 2016 Cost of Living Survey. Expats are shelling out higher rental costs in the GCC cities particularly in Abu Dhabi and Jeddah.

Manama, Bahrain is at 71 witnessing a jump of 20 places from its position last year; Riyadh is now the 57th most expensive city in the world, a big jump from its 71st place in 2015. Other cities also climbed in their rankings compared to last year; Doha is at 76th, up from 99th last year; Muscat is at 94th, up from 117th in 2015; Kuwait comes in at 103rd, also climbing from 117th position in 2015; and lastly Jeddah is at 121st, jumping from 151st last year.

According to the survey, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have topped the most expensive cities to live in the Middle East. While Dubai is the 21st most expensive city in the world, Abu Dhabi comes in at 25th, jumping from 33rd last year.

Rob Thissen, Talent Mobility Consultant at Mercer Middle East said, “These rankings uniquely combine day-to-day expenditure on goods and services such as food, clothing and transportation, with rental prices. While prices of most goods and services are considered to be cheaper in Saudi Arabia compared with Europe, it is the expatriate rental market that pushes cities like Riyadh and Jeddah up the ranking.”

“What this means is that once again, cities in our region have become more expensive to send people to, with

Special Feature

expatriates expecting increased cost of living and housing allowances. To the contrary, when sending staff out of the Middle East, multinationals have to be wary that cost of living allowances are likely to go down, and have to clearly explain and communicate this to their staff to avoid lengthy discussions”, he adds.

We spoke to Hamad Al Mahmeed, Chief of Research and Strategic Planning, The Office of the First Deputy Prime Minister about Bahrain’s jump from 91st to 71st position in the list of most expensive cities in the world.

He said that since it is a ranking, it is important to compare things relatively as several countries, including Bahrain, experienced a jump in the rankings partly because they are pushed up by other countries’ declines.

He said, “If we compare to our GCC neighbours, all have faced the same upward trend. In fact, as an example, Dubai (21st) and Abu Dhabi (25th) have been ranked the most expensive cities to live in the Middle East and Riyadh is 14 spots ahead of Bahrain at 57th rank indicating a higher cost of living than Bahrain.”

According to Hamad, inflation in Bahrain has been relatively stable in the past, ranging between 2-3% in recent years. The ongoing reforms to redirect government subsidies (in light of declining oil prices) ought to have some effect.

He is hopeful that the longterm benefits towards sustainable

development far outweigh the cost of higher prices. “Inflation is expected to stabilise at a rather healthy rate of 2% by 2017 - a rate that could have a positive impact on business and employment”, he adds.

Meanwhile, the Consumer Price Index released by Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority in March 2016 shows “Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and other Fuels”, “Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco”, “Food and non-alcoholic beverages” and “Transportation” as the major groups causing a rise in Bahrain’s CPI, obviously due to subsidy cuts. The CPI or inflation between March 2015 and March 2016 is 3.3%, economists expect this figure to increase further.

Beginning this March, expats are not entitled to any subsidies for utilities.

However, Bahrainis will continue paying at subsidized rates excluding the ones with more than one household and big companies and industries. The move is a part of a three-year campaign that plans to end subsidies by the year 2019.

Earlier, expats used to get accommodation and car allowances in addition to their monthly salary, but now such allowances have been done away with. Moreover, rising living costs will have an impact on the education sector as well. Expats sending their kids to an international school might have to revise their annual budget for school fees. In addition, there may be extra expenses such as school uniforms, text books, and extra-curricular activities.

Talking about electricity bills, if we

Major Inflations This Year Commodity

Before Subsidy Cuts

After Subsidy Cuts

Australian lamb

BD1.5/kg

BD2.6/kg

Local chicken

BD1/kg

BD2.3/kg

Electricity (2-room flat)

BD32.4

BD46.8 (BD104.4 by 2019)

Water (2-room flat)

BD5

BD12.5 (BD41.9 by 2019)

Jayyid Fuel (per L)

100fils

125fils

Alcohol (King Robert 750ml)

BD5.5

BD7

Tobacco (Dunhill 1pk)

900fils

BD1.4

School fees per annum (Yr.8 British curriculum student)

BD4821 (in 2015)

BD5205 (in 2016)

take an average consumption for a flat to be 3,600 units for electricity and 62.5 units for water, the bill would usually cost BD32.4 for electricity and BD5 for water, before subsidy cuts. But without subsidies, there will be an increase in the utility bills of a small two-bedroom flat going up to BD104.4 and BD46.9 for electricity and water, totaling BD151.3 in 2019.

The electricity bill for a two-bedroom flat has increased to BD46.8 (3600units x 13fils) after the new tariffs were launched in March this year. It is estimated to climb BD64.8 (at 18 fils/ unit) by next year, and in 2018 it will be BD82.8 (@ 23 fils /unit). In 2019, it will jump to BD104.4 (at 29 fils/unit). This means within few years the electricity tariff will triple.

The average tariff for water for a two room flat was BD5 (@80 fils/unit) with the average consumption of 62.5 units. It has increased to BD12.5 (200 fils/unit) from March and is expected to rise to BD18.8 (300fils/unit) in 2017.

Furthermore, it is predicted to increase to BD31.3 (@500 fils/unit) in 2018.

Gulf Insider spoke to Sameera Pathan, an expat from India, to know the predicament of a common man.

Sameera lives in a two-bedroom flat with her husband and two kids. She said that the rent has increased and food has become costlier too. Earlier they used to go out a couple of times in a month, but now they get take away only once a month. Their grocery bill has almost doubled leaving them with no option but to get only the basic stuff.

When asked about the rise in electricity tariff, she said that their electricity bill has increased by 5 BD. “In order to control our electricity bills, we make it a point to sit in one room. Also, I have given clear instructions to my kids to switch off the lights before leaving the room and turn off TV and laptop when not in use”, she said. She is hopeful that these small steps will make a difference in controlling their electricity bill.

On being asked if they will consider going back to India, she said that though inflation has made things a little difficult, they are managing and are trying to stick to the budget. Going back is definitely not on the cards, she adds.

Gulf Insider August 2016

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Business

Elite Grande Wins ‘Elegant Luxury Hotel of the Year for Bahrain’

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our-star luxury hotel Elite Grande has won the coveted ‘Elegant Luxury Hotel of the Year for Bahrain’ award. U.K based Luxury Travel Guide Awards bestowed the award after a rigorous assessment carried out by its professional team.

Elite Grande Hotel is one of the four hotels of the Elite Hospitality Group in Bahrain. Located in the heart of the Seef district of Bahrain, the hotel impressed the judges with its impeccable hospitality. They were particularly impressed with the hotel’s gym and fitness centre offering a spectacular view to its guests. The gym is equipped with cardio and weight machines for fitness

freak guests. For those looking for a more relaxing trip, the hotel has a stylish steam and sauna room too.

The hotel offers an enjoyable Sheesha experience at the H20 Sheesha Lounge on the rooftop where guests can also relax by the rooftop pool and indulge in some fresh and fruity cocktails and lipsmacking snacks. The judges also loved the subtle colour schemes of the suites at the Elite Grande hotel.

Mr. Patanjali Sharma, General Manager of Elite Grande Hotel said, “We are indeed delighted to receive the ‘Elegant Luxury Hotel of the year’ award; it is a great recognition of the commitment to excellence demonstrated by Elite Grande

Hotel’s team. The hotel has succeeded in maintaining high standards of service and continuously offering guests from the entire world pleasant and exceptional experiences.”

Elite Grande has also been nominated for the Best 4 Star Hotel Award held by Food & Travel Awards in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism. In addition, Elite Grande Hotel has been awarded the certificate of excellence by TripAdvisor, Booking.com and Expedia. With its prime location and loyal guest list, the hotel continues to be the preferred choice of international travelers from across the globe.

Al Haddad Motors highlights the versatility of the Mercedes Benz

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l Haddad Motors is honored to offer Mercedes Benz’s diverse, prominent range of world-class vehicles. Mercedes Benz always succeeds in engineering excellence across every car type, hitting all the checkpoints from hatchbacks to salons to SUVs, with the most notable versatility of brilliance displayed on the beauty, the Mercedes Benz A45 AMG and the beast, the Mercedes Benz G500, which makes its debut at the Al Haddad Motors showroom.

The A45 AMG features a hugely improved interior, an

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Gulf Insider August 2016

AMG exterior with sporty AMG badges, body kits, and a stiffer suspension, an arsenal of technology upgrades, and an engine that that gives that signature, powerful AMG engine burst. “With the A45 AMG we have reinvented the compact segment, taking everything you loved about the A-Class – its spaciousness, fuel efficiency and functionality – only this time around, it is designed to look and feel even more like a Mercedes AMG.” says Graeme Newport, General Manager of Al Haddad Motors.

In the other corner, we have the Mercedes Benz G500.

The G-Class is a car like a building: the imposing nature of the 2016 model stays true to its iconic values. Its ground clearance and robust off-road capability are second to none, with its unique frame and design; the G-Class always stands out from the crowd: the beast. “Introducing the G500 to the Bahraini market was a no-brainer.” added Graeme Newport.

“The G-Class is so popular and desirable in Bahrain, that we wanted to introduce a ready-to-go companion to the indemand G63 AMG, and the G500 is the perfect partner.”

So which would you like to go for, the beauty or the beast? Stop by Al Haddad Motors to test drive both models and take your favorite one home.

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Business

URGE NT !

Productivity in Middle East

Declines

GCC economies will have to make more productive use of their workforces in order to sustain economic growth, according to a new ICAEW report.

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conomic Insight: Middle East Q2 2016, produced by Oxford Economics, ICAEW’s partner and economic forecaster, says that productivity growth will become vital as GCC economies continue to diversify away from oil-driven investment and public spending. At the same time, countries will need to create millions of jobs for new entrants to the labour market.

Despite strong GDP growth and previously high oil prices, the GCC region’s overall productivity performance has not been encouraging. Between 2002 and 2015, it made zero or negative contributions to GCC economies at the whole economy level, and showed only marginal improvements when focusing on the non-oil sector. By contrast, output per worker contributed 1.5pp in Singapore and 4pp in Vietnam per year 20

Gulf Insider August 2016

over the same period.

However, this obscures a number of structural movements within the GCC region’s economies – diversifying into new sectors, accommodating an expanding workforce to achieve this and increasing female participation.

Is productivity really ‘everything’?

The extractive sector has an ongoing role to play in funding government spending and thereby boosting living standards in the region. Extraction is probably the highest value-added activity in the global economy, in terms of the value of output relative to labour inputs.

There is also a clear correlation across the Middle East between the share of an economy accounted for by extraction and output per worker.

However, the importance of extraction

in Middle Eastern economies can skew productivity comparisons in two ways.

Firstly, a fall in productivity in extraction (if, for example, manpower is maintained despite a fall in output in mature oilfields) can lower productivity measured at the whole economy level. Secondly, as employment opportunities are generated in non-extractive sectors, this will lower the overall level of output per worker, even if workers in non-extractive sectors are becoming more productive.

In other words, even if non-oil sectors individually have rising productivity, the pace of diversification away from the highly productive extractive sector may be sufficient to lower whole economy productivity.

Even non-oil productivity disappoints As such, what matters is productivity

Business

performance in the areas of the economy where most Middle East employees work; specifically the nonextractive sector. Unfortunately, more detailed comparisons of productivity performance using an extractive/rest of the economy split are only possible for a small subset of economies, since it requires data on output (typically available) and employment by sector (less so). A breakdown of output per worker growth is available based on data only from four economies; Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Disappointingly, even after separating the extractive and non-extractive sectors, productivity performance in the region is not particularly impressive. Output per worker in the non-extractive sectors of Kuwait and the UAE fell around 1–2% per year on average from 2002–2015, rose only very modestly in Bahrain, and by 1.5% per year in Saudi Arabia.

However, even this disaggregation leaves Saudi Arabia’s performance some way short of output per worker growth in many Asian economies.

Productivity comparisons not the whole story Oxford Economic’s research does not just tell a story of relatively disappointing productivity growth. It also underlines the extent to which the working-age

The region’s productivity performance in recent years is not encouraging. population has grown over the past 15 years in most economies across the region. For the majority, this represents a mix of natural increase in the native population and an influx of expatriate workers. The two fastest growing populations, Qatar and the UAE, saw annual increases in their working age cohorts of between 8% and 11%, largely driven by inward migration.

Much of this increase in immigration is to support diversification of economies towards domestically focused service sectors, as well as developing infrastructure to support them. In the economies for which detailed data is available, 60–80% of job creation since 2002 has been generated by service firms, with a further 10–20% in construction and a smaller contribution from manufacturing, which tends to be the most productive non-extractive sector.

Increased female workforce participation is particularly pertinent in this respect. Although there is still a long

way to go before matching participation rates of other regions, the percentage of females in the workforce has risen steadily in recent years in most of the region’s economies. On aggregate, the female participation rate has risen around 3pp in the region from 20002015, compared to falling by over 4pp in Emerging East Asia.

Data does not allow disaggregation of increased female participation across sectors. However, assuming the sectoral distribution of female employment is similar to other parts of the world, it seems probable that women in the region are more likely to work in retail, hospitality and public services, rather than more capital intensive sectors. Rising female participation thereby impinges upon output per worker growth at the whole economy level. Nevertheless, increased female employment is clearly positive in the wider perspective of diversity and better use of countries’ labour forces.

Interestingly, survey suggests that women are increasingly targeting higher value-added service sectors such as banking and financial services. Success in this respect would support both overall GDP growth and productivity growth.

Familiar concerns cloud the outlook Sustaining progress made in diversifying economies, improving female participation, increasing wider native-born employment prospects and reducing youth unemployment, are key to the region’s short-term success, as familiar concerns weigh on the economic outlook.

The tightening in financial conditions has become more pronounced this year, reflected in rising interest rates, tighter bank funding conditions, stock market weakness and rating agency downgrades. With governments set to run large deficits in the coming years and issue larger amounts of debt, there is a key risk that firms will be ‘crowded out’, struggling to raise the finance needed to fund investment. In turn, this will have a damaging impact on productivity performance in the years ahead.

ICAEW Economic Insight: Middle East Quarterly briefing Q2 2016.

Gulf Insider August 2016

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Special Feature

changing lanes

Bahrain after 5 years Gulf Insider learned about new developments and revamps coming to the Kingdom’s transportation network.

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ost trade in Middle East has been with countries outside of the region. In 2009 trade between Arab countries accounted for only 11% of the total trade and nearly all of it was carried out by road transport.

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are both taking steps to improve land transport.

One development which involves both of these countries is the building of a new bridge connecting northern Bahrain with eastern Saudi Arabia. (There is already an

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Gulf Insider August 2016

existing link – the King Fahd Causeway.)

“You will not recognize Bahrain after five years,” Mr. Mohamed Mohsen Chief of Special Projects – Roads from Ministry of Works told Gulf Insider, adding: “There are many upgrades coming to the roads here and I assure you Bahrain won’t look the same.” He explains that all major junctions in the Kingdom will be converted to flyovers.

“The Shaikh Jaber, Shaikh Zayed, Isa bin Salman al Khalifa highways will be enlarged and widened. The congested

Saar interchange is also to be turned into a flyover in the next two years,” he comments. Mr. Mohsen also spoke about a possible fifth crossing linking Sitra to Manama as well as plans of the Bahrain North Road which will link Manama to Muharraq’s North Town, the location where the new bridge connects to Saudi Arabia.

According to IQPC, both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in their road infrastructure. The road infrastructure and transportation sectors

Special Feature

government and its investors are adamant on investing in the country’s road infrastructure. He mentions the only major challenge is time and the priority given to each location’s revamp.

“There are sufficient funds to carry these projects through, but we cannot start on them all at the same time, because this will paralyze all of Bahrain.

Existing traffic has to be diverted and not to mention, the different ministries involved in transportation infrastructure have their own sets of priorities.”

“At the same time, we need to factor in the railway routes and ensure they don’t conflict with the roads,” he continues. “There is a lot of work and cost of diverging services involved.”

Despite the massive undertaking the Ministry of Transportation and others are about to embark on, Mr. Mohsen is highly motivated and aims to resolve all of Bahrain’s congestion zones as well as make more way to accommodate higher number of visitors into the Kingdom.

Image: Khalid Al-muharraqi / © Muharraqi Studios

in Saudi Arabia have been allocated $16.8 billion (SR63 billion) in 2015. An estimated $8.9 billion (SR33.5 billion) will be spent to fund nearly 2,000 kilometers of new roads, expansions, railways and infrastructure projects. Bahrain will spend more than $2.5 billion on infrastructure projects including major road networks and construction in the next 10 years.

These projects will be funded by A $10 billion GCC Plan, which aims to boost public spending and accelerate the growth of Bahrain’s economy.

However, a 2011 ESCWA report cites a study claiming that investment for transport infrastructure in the region was facing a US$ 40 billion shortfall.

Gulf Insider asked Mr. Mohsen if there are sufficient funds to implement the major plans proposed, also considering the recent increases in energy costs and the recently announced railway network which will comprise of 16 stops around the Kingdom.

Mr. Mohsen assures that there are no financial issues since the GCC, Bahrain’s

“You will not recognize Bahrain after five years,” said Mr. Mohamed Mohsen Chief of Special Projects.

According to IQPC, these projects, whether large or small, will create opportunities, not just for prime contractors and consulting companies with expertise in road and bridge building, and tunneling, but also for subcontractors in a range of fields, including, but not limited to, bridge modelling, fabrication, tensioning, scaffolding, surfacing, materials provision (e.g. concrete, steel, asphalt) and formwork.

Gulf Insider August 2016

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Life

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o.

N e l i f o r P Insider

Sumeet Jhingan New GM of Bahrain’s exclusive Capital Club

T

hough at the time of our interview Sumeet Jhingan has only been 7 weeks in Bahrain, he reveals that he has big plans for the Capital Club. One of them includes inviting some of the world’s top chefs to visit Bahrain to create various and diverse cuisines for Capital Club members. Further, just to make things interesting, he hopes to set them a challenge that they must use 70% local ingredients and 30% international ingredients in all their concoctions (the club already prides itself on purchasing between thirty and forty percent fresh local produce for its restaurant).

Caterer Magazine ranked Sumeet at 10th position in the Top 50 Power List 2015 Franchises.

With a diploma in Hospitality Management and an MBA in Human Resources, Sumeet Jhingan brings more than 17 years of experience in International Food & Beverage operations. He began his hospitality journey in Melbourne, Australia and over the years he has worked with Michelin chefs in Melbourne, New Jersey and New York. Sumeet has also worked for Club Corp International managing their Leisure and Golf club in New Jersey.

Caterer Magazine ranked Sumeet at 10th position in the Top 50 Power List 2015 Franchises.

Before joining Capital Club Bahrain, Sumeet was working as the Director of Operations for GFD Group, a chain of casual and fine dining restaurants in the UAE. One of his achievements while working with this group was bringing 5

of Top 50 chefs in the world, including 3 Michelin chefs to the UAE, only company in the MENA region to achieve this feat.

Sumeet tells us that unlike hotels and restaurants in Bahrain, the Capital Club is not in the business of supplying to a ‘mass-market’ but instead tailors everything it offers for a relatively small and elite client base. “Corporate leaders and businessmen come here to dine, network and socialize and the Club offers them unparalleled personalized service. While great food and ambiance is our trademark, we take special care to maintain our guests’ privacy and focus on their individual taste and preferences”, he says.

Sumeet tells us that the last Ramadan was the most successful for the Capital Club in terms of business. He says that he hopes to stay in Bahrain long term and to play his part in promoting both the country, and its hospitality sector.

His innovations to achieve this aim includes the establishment of a formal and officially sanctioned training program for Bahrainis in the industry.

Furthermore,

he is working on bringing Michelin and Celebrity chefs from around the world to the Kingdom and Capital Club will act as a platform to show off their culinary skills.

“We will be working on promoting Bahrain globally and encouraging these chefs to open restaurants in the country.

This will increase jobs for Bahrainis and also elevate the level of hospitality.

Our first Chef, who will be joining in September, is from South America and is among the Top 30 in the world”, he concludes.

For more details about the Capital Club visit www.capitalclubbahrain.com 24

Gulf Insider August 2016

Bahrain Culture App

tHiS iS a FrEE EVEnt Cultural Hall GolD SPonSorS

Platinum SPonSor

SilVEr SPonSorS

Business

A Look at India-Bahrain Ties

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Business

A

s Indian Independence Day is on 15th August, we take a look at the bond that India and Bahrain has shared over the years. The relationship between India and Bahrain goes back a long way to the time of the Dilmun civilisation in 3000 BCE when the latter served as a trade link between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley civilization.

One-third of Bahrain’s total population of 1.3 million are Indians, making them the largest expat community in the country.

A healthy economic and trade relationship between the two countries also prompted a lot of Indians to move to the Kingdom to set up their businesses.

Be it retail, food and beverage, infrastructure or education, Indians have carved a niche for themselves in Bahrain and other parts of the Middle East.

We spoke to the Director of Gajria Holdings, Mr. Vijay Baloor on India Bahrain relations. He said that India and Bahrain enjoy excellent bilateral relations, be it political, cultural or economical. The trade and commercial exchanges go back 5,000 years. Bahraini traders used to successfully carry out trade of Bahraini pearls with spices from India. Many Bahraini merchant families had trading links with India, and they have lived and operated offices in India, trading mostly in the food industry.

Mr. Baloor said, “Our family has been doing business in Bahrain and other parts of the Gulf for over a century. We are happy that Bahrain’s infrastructure is conducive to entrepreneurs, the people are friendly so all in all it’s very comfortable to do business here.”

The recent visits of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, HRH Crown Prince and senior ministers to India, accompanied by other highlevel dignitaries and business leaders has reinforced the bond between the two nations. Lately, a host of Bilateral Agreements and Memorandums of Understanding have also been signed between India and Bahrain.

Leading Indian corporations like Tata Consultancy Services, Tech Mahindra, Chemco Plastics, ICICI Bank, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank and State Bank of India have offices in Bahrain.

Last year, an Economic Development Board (EDB) delegation visited India to attend ‘Vibrant Gujarat’ Global Business Summit in Ahmedabad and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) annual conference in Jaipur, where the EDB was an event sponsor. During the visit, EDB representatives met with Indian businesses who were looking for an opportunity to enter Bahrain and the fast-growing GCC market.

Commenting on the visit, Mr. Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive of the EDB said, “The Economic Development Board is capitalizing on the historic relations that link Bahrain with India to strengthen the cooperation between the two

A healthy economic and trade relationship between the two countries also prompted a lot of Indians to move to the Kingdom to set up their businesses. countries in vital sectors including ICT. We aim to promote the achievements of Bahrain and the strength of its economic infrastructure, as well as its position as a gateway for Indian businesses to establish their presence in the region.”

Mr. Maran Nagarajan, Founder of Kaar Technologies and National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) delegation leader said, “Bahrain is an important business partner for India and we are glad for the opportunity this visit gave us to meet our counterparts in the ICT sector. We are keen to learn more about the investment opportunities in the Kingdom and enhance our relations with the private sector in Bahrain. This will serve our objective of increasing the presence of

Indian ICT firms globally and in the GCC countries in particular. Bahrain offers an excellent professional talent pool which can be utilized by the Indian ICT companies to gain foothold in the GCC region”.

In order to further strengthen economic ties, EDB has established international offices in both New Delhi and Mumbai to offer assistance to Indian investors interested in setting up business in Bahrain.

Earlier this year, a delegation of Bahraini and Indian businessmen had visited ‘Make in India Week’ in Mumbai, India. The event showcased the potential of design, innovation and sustainability across India’s manufacturing sectors in the coming decade.

The BIS delegation aims to highlight the business and investment opportunities in Bahrain, build relations and meet prospective investors. Chairman of Dadabhai Group and Bahrain Indian Society (BIS), Mohammed Dadabhai said, “We are delighted to take part in this important event. We will make an effort to promote the business friendly environment in the kingdom and to attract the Indian companies to invest in Bahrain.”

Two leading Indian businessmen based in the Gulf, Mr. Yusuffali M.A. Managing Director of EMKE Lulu Group of Companies and Dr. Ravi Pillai Chairman of RP Group of Companies have backed Bahrain as their preferred investment destination.

Mr. Yusuffali said, “We want to send a message to everyone including those planning to enter Bahrain that their investments are secure and there is no need to worry. I have invested in several major projects because the economy is strong”.

It is noteworthy that the Lulu chain of hypermarkets owned by Mr. Yusuffali employs 22,000 Indians in the Middle East.

Dr. Pillai said that he also has invested a hefty amount in schools and other projects and that “situation was well under control under the wise leadership.”

Both the leaders believe that Bahrain is on the path to economic progress, and therefore, the right place to invest for business.

Gulf Insider August 2016

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Affairs

Saudi Arabia’s Olympic Team for Rio 2016 Saudi Arabia announced on 17th July that it will be sending seven athletes to the Rio 2016 Olympics, with no female inclusion. However, Reuters latter reported that a spokesperson for the Saudi Olympic Committee declared afterwards the committee’s approval for sending four female athletes to Rio. According to the Committee’s Chief Executive Hosam Alqurashi, the names of the male and female Olympic team members were announced separately due to sensitivities regarding gender segregation and women in sports.

Saudi Olympic sportswomen will compete at the 2016 Olympics through “wildcard entries”, as they have not fulfilled the entry standards.

Qualification remains nearly impossible, considering governing bodies continue to refuse holding sporting competitions or qualifying events for females.

Simply pursuing sports is a feat in and of itself for Saudi women, who are continuously discouraged from participating. They have few training facilities to access. But this may change soon as the kingdom has declared authorizing women’s “sports halls” as an aim to be fulfilled by 2020. Currently, the official girls’ public school curriculum in the kingdom does not include sports and females are prohibited from attending events in sports stadiums.

“Our society can be very conservative.

It has a hard time accepting that women can compete in sports,” Prince Fahad Bin Jalawi Al-Saud, a consultant to the Saudi Olympic Committee. “Wearing 28

Gulf Insider August 2016

sports clothing in public is not really allowed. For these cultural reasons, it is difficult to bid for certain big international events.”

Saud was commenting on the kingdom’s suggestion that it could host a men-only Olympic Games, with Bahrain holding the women events.

The idea was directly shot down by the International Olympic Committee.

Earlier this year, activists from the hacking collective Anonymous started a petition demanding that the IOC ban Saudi Arabia from the 2016 Olympic Games, accusing the kingdom of violating human rights.

The Saudi 2016 Olympians have their eyes set on the kingdom’s fourth Olympic podium-finish. Since the 1972 Munich Olympics, Saudi athletes have brought home two bronze Olympic medals for equestrian, along with a silver for athletics. They have also won a gold and two silvers in Paralympic athletic events.

Bahrain Sends Largest ever Olympic Team to Rio 2016 Meanwhile, Bahrain is also gearing up to take part in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With the emergence of new talent, the number of participants going for the Rio Olympics have increased compared to last year. This time there are a total of 42 Bahraini athletes who will be participating in wrestling, swimming, athletics and shooting.

Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Supreme Council for Youth and Sports Chairman and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, will be heading Bahrain’s delegation to the Olympics.

Hotel Review

Reem Al Bawadi

at the Ramada Manama City Centre Scrumptious Food and Great Ambiance Will Woo You at Reem Al Bawadi.

A

fter winning accolades in the UAE and other parts of the Middle East, the famous Arabic restaurant Reem Al Bawadi has opened its doors to Bahrain at Ramada Manama City Centre. This is the 11th franchise of Reem Al Bawadi in the GCC and the first branch in Bahrain.

Marka Group, the company behind this chain, intends to open more branches in the Kingdom. The restaurant had a soft opening last month which had turned out to be highly successful.

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Hotel Review

The outlet is a family location and does not serve alcohol, though there is a large shisha room adjacent to the restaurant.

The first thing that you will notice when you enter Reem Al Bawadi is its warm and homely ambiance. The Lebanese gourmet eatery is set in an almost rustic style setting. The dĂŠcor and atmosphere are clearly designed to create a cozy feeling for diners.

The outlet is a family location and does not serve alcohol, though there is a large shisha room adjacent to the restaurant.

There is also an even larger outdoor terrace which will be perfect for when the weather starts to cool down.

Executive Chef Hossam Jabban brings more than 20 years of culinary experience to Reem Al Bewadi. He has worked with five-star hotels and resorts in Dubai and Bahrain. Prior to Bahrain, Hossam was working with Sheraton Jumeirah Beach

Resort & Tower in Dubai. He also served the royal family for six years.

Chef Jabban wowed us with his mouth-watering dishes. Different types of cuisines were laid out in a wellpresented manner. From freshly baked breads to meat to juices. I had the pomegranate juice. It was delicious just like everything else on the table.

As we were relishing the delicacies, General Manager Urs George Platz passed by to say hi and asked us if we were enjoying our meal.

When asked about his own favorite dish, Chef Jabban replied that though he prides himself in everything that he cooks, but that the sea food collection made by him is particularly irresistible.

Fortunately, we also had the pleasure of gorging on the sea food platter freshly cooked by him.

Ramada Manama City Centre is within walking distance of the City Centre mall. After a shopping spree at the mall, you can indulge your taste buds with a delectable meal at Reem Al Bewadi.

We highly recommend this awardwinning restaurant to all food lovers who are looking for sumptuous food combined with unbeatable hospitality and a warm homely atmosphere.

Reem Al Bawadi is open from 12.00 pm - 12.00 AM on weekdays and 12 pm - 2 am on weekends. For reservations call Tel. +973 1710 4044 Gulf Insider August 2016

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2016 Chrysler 200c Review by Nick Cooksey

T

he 200C comes in a 2.4 litre (four cylinder) and 3.6 litre (6 cylinder) versions. Both come with automatic nine speed gearboxes and the larger 3.6 litre has AWD (All Wheel Drive), which is unusual for a Mid-sized salon, differentiating it from other cars offered in this midsize class with the exception of Ford’s Fusion and Subaru’s Legacy.

The car I was driving had the powerful 3.6 litre V6 engine that provides 295 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. When I put my foot down on the North Manama Causeway, heading for Bahrain Financial Harbour, the car took off in an impressive way and held solid on the road at speed with excellent steering and breaking abilities.

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Motors

2016 Chrysler 200 2.4l - BD 8,400 2016 Chrysler 200 3.6l - BD 11,000

The 200c drives like a luxury car and comes fully loaded, both in its powertrain and options. There’s blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, a backup camera, AC seats (great for this region – one day all cars will have this feature as standard), rear cross-traffic alert, excellent sound system, and all sorts of other goodies.

Another useful feature for this region is its remote start enabling you to get into a cool car before every journey.

The exterior is attractive with smooth and flowing lines. It reminds me a little (just a little) of an Audi A7.

The interior feels high-quality with quality leathers and soft plastics on the doors and the dash. The ergonomically designed seats are well sculpted and comfortable. The leather felt to me noticeably softer and of a higher quality than the leather on the Toyota Camry I drove just a few months ago.

This car’s interior is well laid out and attractive on the eye. There’s a big 8.4inch touchscreen system which is easy to use.

The price for the 200c may seem a little high for a mid-size salon, but remember it’s fully loaded with all sorts of technological wonders to make your life easier.

To arrange your own test drive of a 2.4L or 3.6L Chrysler 200c, call Ahmed Zayani on +973 1723 8822

When I put my foot down on the North Manama Causeway, heading for Bahrain Financial Harbour, the car took off in an impressive way and held solid on the road at speed with excellent steering and breaking abilities.

Price Comparison (Fully loaded options) Mazda 6 BD12,000 Toyota Camry BD11,500

Ford Fusion BD12,000

Gulf Insider August 2016

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Property

The Dubai Villa that costs

AED 50 Million

T

his 6 bedroom Villa is set in lush gardens and located in Al Barari. It has all sorts of security including an in-house fingerprint and facial recognition system and 19 cameras. Special features include a 6 seater home cinema, a main kitchen plus 2 staff kitchens, and a private gym. The agents, Luxhabitat, say that the seller will also include the luxury European cars in the garage at no extra cost (a Rolls-Royce, a Porsche, and a Range Rover).

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Opinion

Ask Each month we will be putting a legal problem to legal consultant Ali Al Jabal to answer.

A full service law firm for Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman, founded in 1995 by Mr Ali Al Jabal

This month - Unfair Dismissal Problem: I was surprised to find via email, that my Company had sent me my termination letter after working hours on Thursday 24th May 2016. Additionally, my approved vacation started on the Friday 25th May 2016. Therefore, I couldn’t have actually received my termination letter.

I was also officially sick on the Thursday 24th May 2016 and could not confirm receiving my Termination letter (without any signature or delivery of the letter to my hands). As a Manager, I have done a lot for my Company and have acquired many improvements during my employment. I even received a bonus for successful completion of my probation period and my Directing Manager at last month’s meeting promised to give me a bonus for my second quarter, I just can’t understand it!

As you can see I am extremely confused and hurt and this has all come to me as such a surprise. Could you 36

Gulf Insider August 2016

tell me if this legally constitutes unfair dismissal?

Answer: Essentially, all employers have the right to dismiss their employees.

However, there are legal safeguards imposed to ensure Employee protection.

It should be preliminarily stated that the termination of service of employment during an employee’s leave constitutes unfair dismissal. Methodically speaking, the notice sent to you is legally binding and obtaining your signature is not necessary. All that is needed is a confirmation receipt that the letter was sent or such notice was delivered by registered letter with a note of delivery to the most recent address supplied by the Employee.

However, when an employer issues a notice to the worker for termination of the employment contract during any leave (sick or annual leave), the notice period shall only be reckoned from the day following the end of his or her leave.

Legally speaking, an employer shall not terminate the contract of employment during the worker’s leave. As this breach has occurred in your case unfair dismissal can be established and you will thereafter be entitled to compensation.

This is further compounded, by the fact that your Employer terminated the contract of Employment, without providing you with a reasonable opportunity to amend your poor efficiency or decline. Based on the apparent facts, as you have not received any warnings about the decline in your performance or any other work relatedmatters, your employer will be liable to award you compensation.

To contact Ali Al Jabal at Al Jabal Consultancy Attorneys and Legal Consultants Tel: +973 17 530 400 E-mail: info@aljaballaw.com www.aljaballaw.com

Affairs GLOBAL SHAPERS COMMUNITY MANAMA

is as passionate about work as me. This has made my job much easier.

Manama Shapers Interview with Hamad Al Mahmeed, Curator and Shaper, Chief of Research and Strategic Planning, The office of the first Deputy Prime Minister.

W

hy did you join the Global Shapers Community?

The Global Shapers Community is a network of Hubs developed and led by young people of different backgrounds who are not only driven in their careers, but also passionate about contributing to their communities.

I believe it is a great initiative since young people are greatly underrepresented in global affairs, even though they make up 50% of the world’s population. The community was established to ensure that the youth has a seat at the table; to be part of the decision making that affects our lives, at all levels – locally, regionally and globally.

I joined the Global Shapers because I believed it would be an effective platform to help me achieve my goal of making an impact on my country’s social and economic development. I also joined for many personal gains such as the opportunity to establish a strong network of similar minded individuals and leaders around the globe.

To me, the community with its motto: “Shape your future” provides a cohesive and strong network of young leaders who collaborate to shape a better future, which is further aided by engaging with the World Economic Forum community and its members.

What are the challenges you face in your role as Chief of Research and Strategic Planning?

As they say, find something that you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life. I’ve been blessed because I have a job which I enjoy so much, and so, most of the time it doesn’t feel like work. However, it does not come without challenges. One of the challenges is staying on top of domestic, regional and international affairs at all times. With developments in the global arena occurring so rapidly these days, our office has been on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Having said that, a job that isn’t challenging limits one’s personal growth and potential. I’m thankful that I have a strong and cohesive team who

Please tell us about your project Khibra that you are currently working on.

Khibra in Arabic means experience.

And that’s exactly what we aim to do connect people.

In a nutshell, Khibra is a platform that connects people to experiences and knowledge that enables them to fulfill their potential and shape their future. Khibra offers direct, up-todate mentoring, coaching, internships and volunteering opportunities for individuals; and in return it also provides entrepreneurs & NGOs access to a pool of talented individuals that enables them to build ambitious and entrepreneurial teams. These connections, experiences and services are facilitated through an online portal that is being developed by the Manama Global Shapers Hub in partnership with Tamkeen.

Additionally, the Manama Hub is connected to the World Economic Forum Community, including the Young Global Leaders (YGL’s), who are shaping the future of the world in business, government, academia and media.

Through Khibra, the Manama Hub would like to connect the knowledge and experiences of the WEF global community to Bahraini entrepreneurs through mentorship and coaching.

What are your goals as a Shaper?

As a shaper, my ultimate goal is to positively contribute to my country’s social and economic development.

To give back to the same community that has shaped me and given me the opportunities that I’m forever grateful for.

How do you utilize your free time?

I enjoy exploring the world, and I aim to visit as many countries and cities as I can. I am also a sailor, although recently I haven’t had enough time to do that as much as I would like. Football is also a big passion of mine, both watching and playing.

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Business

Dubai ranks in top 5 global cities

Dubai ranks among the top 5 global cities favored by entrepreneurs and families

G

lobal real estate advisory firm Knight Frank has released its ‘Global lifestyle Review’, which assesses the most important lifestyle elements that individuals consider when relocating their businesses and families overseas.

Factors ranged from cost of transport and distance to airport; to number of Michelin star restaurants and cost of beverages in 5 start hotels.

With Hong Kong and London leading the way, Dubai came in 4th in terms of importance to entrepreneurs, along with Geneva, Sydney and Vienna.

Dana Salbak, Associate Partner and Head of Research at Knight Frank elaborated further saying: ‘businesses and young entrepreneurs are focused on the ease of doing business, political safety and security, availability of highquality formal entertainment such as

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fine dining, all of which Dubai offers, so it’s natural to see clients motivated and drawn to the city. This is of course in addition to the tax-free environment and wide-spread of free-zones which facilities business and trading activities.’

Dubai also ranked 5th with families following Luxembourg, Vienna, Hong Kong and Geneva.

To this regard Dana added: ‘Dubai caters to nearly all family priorities so it comes as no surprise that it’s highly favorable. It provides good internationalgrade education systems, creates communities for like-minded people to interact (such as AlSerkal Avenue for arts and culture), and offers a variety of family-friendly activities, most of which can be enjoyed with 365 days of sunshine. This is in addition to personal security and safety.’

Kingdom of Bahrain Like Dubai, Bahrain is also amongst the favoured places to live and do business. According to a recent survey by HSBC Bank, Bahrain tops the list of the countries where expats prefer to live. The island country is an ideal choice for expats owing to low crime, friendly atmosphere, and good educational facilities. It’s a small market but is among the top 20 countries in the world for economic openness and financial regulation. As regards to dining and entertainment, Bahrain is home to a myriad of fine dining restaurants and clubs for the party goers.

Al Jabal Consultancy Attorneys and Legal Consultants

Mohamed Al Wasti Partner

Khadija A. Al Hussain Partner

Saleh Al Nashabh Lawyer

A full service law firm for Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman, founded in 1995 by

Mr Ali Al Jabal Mansoor Nadhar Lawyer

Areas of Specialisation: Mohamed Ismael Lawyer

Banking & Finance Bankruptcy & Corporate Restructuring Corporate & Commercial Litigation Dispute Resolution Intellectual Property Rights Insurance Mergers & Acquisitions Private Equity

Project Finance Property & Real Estate Oil & gas Maritime Aviation Debt collection Legal drafting & Contract Reviewing Telecommunication Law

Office No. 703, 7th Floor, Diplomat Tower, Diplomatic Area, PO Box 11455, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 17 530 400 E-mail: info@aljaballaw.com Website: www.aljaballaw.com

Business

Bahrain approves

new law allowing 100% foreign ownership

F

oreign investors in Bahrain will now be able to enjoy 100% ownership of businesses in various sector after the government approved an amendment to the existing Commercial Companies Law. The aim of the new law is to spur growth in the economy and so generate, among other benefits, more jobs for Bahrainis. It is hoped that the new law will help to attract more businessmen to invest in various economic sectors. It is

also meant to enhance the government’s performance and revive certain trade segments.

“Bahrain will stand a good chance to improve its rating on the index of Facility of Starting Business – an asset which will encourage leading international firms to establish in Bahrain – the gate to the GCC and the region,” said the cabinet in a statement.

The new law will allow 100% ownership in residency, food, administrative services, arts, entertainment and leisure,

health and social work, information and communications, manufacturing, mining and quarrying, water supplying and professional, scientific, technical and real estate activities.

According to Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry committee member Khalid Al Ameen, it was “about time” for Bahrain to allow foreign investors full ownership, who is quoted by the GDN as saying; “If you think about companies like IBN or Apple, do you really think they’ll want to come to Bahrain with (the caveat) of having a business partner who’ll just give them a headache over 5%?”

Under the new law, foreign companies will be legally allowed to run businesses that were previously only open to Bahrainis.

Growing fashion trend in Iran attacked by the staterun IRIB TV2 station.

Iran hits out at slogans on clothing

C

lothing with Western slogans or words in English is apparently causing anger and alarm in Iran.

That’s the suggestion of a state-run broadcaster, which condemned the growing trend of men and women wearing shirts or other clothing displaying words or messages such as ‘Love’, ‘Not Normal’ or ‘Keep calm I’m Queen’.

Set to dramatic music and featuring a number of interviews on the street, the

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report on IRIB TV2 said there has been an increase in ‘obscene’, ‘satanist’ and ‘antireligious’ English-language messages on T-shirts and other clothing.

The report, translated by BBC News, shows a number of people walking in the streets of Tehran with shirts that are apparently causing offence, including one reading ‘Don’t ever say you’re not good enough’.

Another shot shows a woman in an outfit with ‘Keep calm I’m Queen’ on the

back - a play on Britain’s famous ‘Keep calm and carry on’ wartime slogan.

In the report, viewers are told the word ‘queen’ is a US slang term to describe ‘men who look like women’, BBC News reported.

Local retailers were defiant, telling the station the clothing is in high demand and blaming ‘import mafia’ for bringing it into Iran.

Image: FARS News Agency

Bahrain

Telecom insider BATELCO OFFERS HIGHER INTERNET SPEEDS TO BUSINESS CUSTOMERS Batelco has come up with new Business Internet packages offering enhanced speeds to its business customers at the same price. In addition, Batelco is also introducing two new internet speeds for business customers, of up to 20Mbps and up to 40Mbps.

Batelco Bahrain CEO, Muna Al Hashemi said that Batelco is focused on providing a complete portfolio of solutions for the Enterprise sector and that they are glad to provide internet speeds of up to 40Mbps.

“We understand that the business sector is the backbone of Bahrain’s economy and the availability of the latest communication solutions is of paramount importance. We believe our efforts in delivering enhanced Internet services with no increase in rates is of great benefit in supporting business excellence,” Mrs. Al Hashemi added.

Batelco Bahrain CEO, Muna Al Hashemi

TRA BAHRAIN LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN ON MISUSE OF SIM CARD Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has launched a campaign “Your SIM Your Responsibility” in order to increase awareness about mobile SIM-card misuse and how consumers can protect themselves.

Taiba Al Binali, TRA’s acting director of consumer affairs and media said, “People need to register their SIM cards, they need to know how many SIM cards are in their name and who is using it. The legal and financial risks you put yourself in by not taking these precautions are serious, and you can be held accountable for them.

She said that consumers should make sure that SIM cards are not registered in their name without their knowledge. Residents and visitors should cancel the SIM cards registered in their names if they are leaving the country permanently to avoid identity theft or fraud.

“Keep a close eye on the campaign to learn more about how to stay safe from SIM related fraud”, Taiba added.

TELECOM CONSUMERS IN BAHRAIN BETTER OFF BY 74 MILLION DINARS IN 2014 THAN 2008 According to an independent report titled “Consumer Surplus and the Impact of Competition for Telecommunications Services in Bahrain” released by TRA, consumers of mobile and fixed broadband services in Bahrain were at least BD74 Million better off in 2014 than they were in 2008. The report was prepared by the expert economic consultancy Berkley Research Group (BRG).

The study affirms the effectiveness of policies and regulatory actions undertaken

by TRA in developing a competition led market for the provision of innovative communications services, available to all. The competitive environment formed by regulatory and legislative developments in Bahrain’s telecommunications sector between 2008 and 2014 led to a substantial decrease in the prices of telecommunications services and consumer saving was achieved.

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Advertorial

VIVA showcases

Smart technologies Vinli

The most advanced connected-car system in the world

Vinli is a connected car device that plugs into the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port of cars. Most vehicles sold in the market that are model year 1996 or newer will have an OBD-II port that the Vinli connected car device plugs into. Installing Vinli is as easy as plugging a USB drive into your computer.

Free Mobile Apps

Vinli works with any iOS or Android compatible smartphones Availbale from Apple Store and Google Play

Live Smart! Get Vinli with your existing Broadband Plan

New and existing broadband customers can get Vinli based on the BD5 installment add-on over a 12-month contract.

Device

Upfront

Installment (12months)

Vinli

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BD5

Additional Features Wi-Fi: Vinli comes with an embedded SIM Card. Using this SIM Card, Vinli can act as a Wi-Fi Hotspot to provide in-car Wi-Fi Crash Detection: Using the embedded sensors, Vinli can detect a crash and immediately notify the pre-defined contacts via SMS Roadside Assistance: Using the GPS module, Vinli will list nearby maintenance and roadside assistance shops in case of a flat tire or dead battery.

Service Shop: Vinli will show the maintenance milestones and provide detailed information on the health of the car App store: Vinli comes with its own appstore. You can download the smart car apps from Vinli app-store

Terms and conditions apply.

Learn more and download user guide www.vin.li

Mobile Health Kit

Additional Features

VIVA Bahrain has partnered with King Hamad University Hospital and iHealth to introduce the all new pack of VIVA Mobile Health devices.

VIVA Mobile Health Kit includes award-winning blood pressure monitor and blood glucose monitor that sync directly with free mobile apps and make monitoring, viewing, storing and sharing of health vitals simple and comprehensive.

Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor

Free Mobile Apps

Automatically track and manage your key health vitals with free mobile apps.

Availbale from Apple Store and Google Play

Live Smart! Get VIVA Mobile Health Kit today Device

Amount

VIVA Mobile Helath Kit

BD75

Learn more and download user guide www.ihealthlabs.com 42

Gulf Insider August 2016

Forget the wires and tubes. This no hassle monitor makes it easy and convenient to check your own blood pressure, anytime and anywhere.

Measure blood pressure directly from your smartphone. Record systolic / diastolic numbers, heart rate and pulse wave. View historical readings through colorful displays and generate customs graphs. Share results instantly with friends, family or doctor

Wireless Smart Gluco- Monitoring System

The iHealth Wireless Smart Gluco- Monitoring System lets you measure and recover your glucose levels using a portable testing kit and your Bluetooth-enabled mobile device. View results in five seconds and save up to 500 results. Set up reminders and view glucose and insulin trends in multiple ways. Track test strip quantity and expiration dates with the QR code automatically with no counting or coding required.

Telecoms

Additional Features

Malak-e

Monitor your children anytime, anywhere

Malak-e Watch is a tracking watch for children that allows parents to easily locate, monitor, and contact their children anytime, anywhere. Malak-e Watch can be configured to allow children to call their parents at any time. A mobile app enables parents to stay connected with their children at the touch of a button.

Free Mobile Apps

Malak-e works with any iOS or Android compatible smartphone. Availbale from Apple Store and Google Play

Live Smart! Get Malak-e with the new Postpaid Plan Device

Upfront

Installment (12months)

Malak-e

Free

BD5

Locate: Parents can locate their children through the Malak-e application downloaded on their iOS or Android supported smartphones Secure area (geo-fence): Parents can set a security area on Malak-e’s smartphone app and be notified whenever the child goes out of the defined security fence Location history: It is possible to check location history Voice and SMS: Voice and SMS capabilities Predefined contacts: Call up to 3 pre-configured numbers and receive calls from 8 pre-configured numbers as well Smart notifications: Notifies parent / pre-defined numbers whenever the watch is dropped, collides with an object or removed from the child’s hand Emergency calls: The watch has an emergency button that enables the child wearing the watch to trigger emergency calls and SMS notifications Voice mail: It is possible to send voice mail to the watch SMS notification: When the SOS button is pressed, an SMS can be sent to predefined numbers with a hyperlink to show the location on a browser Quiet time: To avoid distractions when the kid is at school, it is possible to define different time segments during which the watch will be in Silent Mode Manage multiple watches: It is possible to manage multiple watches (up to 8) from the same application

Terms and conditions apply.

Netatmo

Home security camera with face recognition

Netatmo is a smart home camera with face recognition technology. When your children or elderly parents pass in front of the camera, Netatmo sends their names directly to your smartphone. The camera also alerts you when it sees a stranger, which helps you better protect your home. Thanks to face recognition, you can disable video recording and notifications completely for individual people, such as your adolescent or partner.

Free Mobile Apps

Netatmo works with any iOS or Android compatible smartphone, not to mention the Apple Watch. Availbale from Apple Store and Google Play

Live Smart! Get Netatmo with your existing Broadband Plan New and existing broadband customers can get Netatmo based on the BD5 installment add-on over an 18-month contract.

Device

Upfront

Installment (18months)

Canary all-in-one home security system

BD30

BD5

Additional Features l l l l l l

Stunning Full HD videos Superior night vision Free video storage Extensive 130-degree field of view Entirely private SD card storage Secure Bank-level encryption

Learn more and download user guide www.canary.is To learn more about VIVA Connected Life please visit www.viva.com.bh/connected-life

Gulf Insider August 2016

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Travel

Marbella and the Middle East – A Longstanding Relationship

E

uropean elite and Hollywood stars often frequented the emerging glamorous resort town of Marbella, but when added Middle Eastern royalty such as the King of Saudi Arabia and his entourage began spending part of their summers on Spain’s sunny southern coast, Marbella became a preferred destination for many Middle East buyers and visitors. Sheikhs and other wellheeled visitors from Saudi Arabia and other parts of the Middle East followed, and before long they traded in their suites at the iconic Marbella Club Hotel for private villas and penthouses in the town’s finest addresses.

The Golden Mile was a particular 44

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favourite, wedged in as it is between Marbella town and the glamorous nightlife of Puerto Banús. These were heady days, when it would not have been impossible to spot Sean Connery, James Hunt and Adnan Khashoggi in one of the famous marina’s haunts, close to where King Fahd’s luxurious yacht lay at anchor in the harbour. The port could not accommodate his largest yachts, which were diverted to Porto Cervo and the French Riviera, but such was the Saudi royal family’s love of Marbella that King Fahd had a magnificent palace built and a lavish park landscaped on the fringes of the palm-lined Golden Mile.

Others followed, including the colourful businessman Khashoggi, whose private

hunting estate was later to become the luxurious country club we now known as La Zagaleta. An exquisite mosque was also built on the Golden Mile, marking this area as a particular favourite of those Middle Easterners who over the years have bought luxurious sea fronting penthouses and built beautiful villas.

Successive generations of people from the Middle East have since spent their summers in Marbella, creating a tradition and indeed a link between the regions that remains as strong as ever.

Why Marbella is so popular Many of the reasons why Marbella is so popular amongst Middle Eastern

Travel

while the residential areas and properties include everything from beachside to hill club, and from compact modern apartment to palatial mansion. Prices can therefore range from €200,000 up to over €35 million, depending on the budget and preferences, but people from the Middle East also feel a connection to this region because of its long historic ties. Nowhere else in Europe is the culture as close to that of the Middle East, as is seen in the white plaster architecture of the area, many historic monuments and in elements of

Successive generations of people from the Middle East have since spent their summers in Marbella, creating a tradition and indeed a link between the regions that remains as strong as ever. buyers is that it offers some of the best weather in Europe, with over 300 sunny days a year, but manageable temperatures, a beautiful setting between green mountains and the Mediterranean, and a very high level of luxury services and amenities. The latter includes golf, spa resorts, racquet clubs, fine dining and top brand shopping, but also medical clinics, international schools and every service from private tutoring to chauffeured limousines and yacht and aeroplane chartering.

The marina in Puerto Banús and the international airport at nearby Málaga offer linkages to main destinations in Europe and the Middle East, along with a growing network of private air travel,

Andalusian culture and cuisine. Perhaps related to this is the fact that many investors say they feel more welcome and better treated than in other similar resort areas.

What Middle Eastern buyers look for?

Today, Marbella is highly cosmopolitan, with a vibrant upmarket social scene that includes people from across Europe, Russia, the Middle East and Latin America. They are all drawn by the glamour and lifestyle of Marbella but do have specific wants and preferences that can vary by region

and country. “From our long experience with clients from the Middle East we know that they prize homes that offer privacy and tranquillity, a prime address close to, but seldom right within Puerto Banús, and sufficient space to accommodate and entertain family and friends,” says Pia Arrieta, Managing Director of DM Properties Knight Frank. “Other amenities appreciated in a property include staff facilities and good housekeeping infrastructure that is modern and functional but out of sight.”

Security and services are also important, especially in the form of luxury apartment complexes with manned security, concierge and insitu spa, gym and swimming pools.

Gated villa communities are also in demand, partly because families want to know their children can play safely in an environment without transit traffic.

In terms of architecture the younger generation of entrepreneurs and professionals are keen on sleek modern styles that are currently in vogue, while somewhat older buyers – often government officials and diplomats – still prefer more classical homes with Mediterranean and Arabian design features that include shaded areas, cooling patios and shuttered windows.

“Our Middle Eastern clients tend to know this region well, having visited here many times before. They expect high standards of luxury and services, focusing primarily on villas and penthouses in top locations close to Puerto Banús and the Golden Mile, though increasingly are also open to newer up and coming areas such as Marbella east and the New Golden Mile,” says Pia. “Most people want holiday homes, with a significant number buying for investment and a smaller number using the property as their main residence.

In recent times we have also seen a growth in middle class buyers looking for more affordable apartments, and naturally the Golden Visa offered by the Spanish government is an added form of attraction, but at the heart of the demand for Marbella real estate is a longstanding love affair with the setting, amenities and lifestyle it offers.”

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Style

A

CAN YOU COPY A

SAVILE ROW SUIT? A suit from London’s Savile Row costs many thousands of dollars. Is it possible to have a suit of the same quality made in Asia for far less?

We decided to find out.

By Akhil Sharma 46

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bout two years ago, I became interested in the garments of Davide Taub, the head cutter for Gieves & Hawkes, a house in London at which Alexander McQueen apprenticed, and which has a reputation for designs that are both elegant and daring. A cutter is the equivalent of a designer, and Taub is considered by some to be the finest cutter on Savile Row. When I saw Taub’s clothes, I was struck with desire. It was this desire, combined with the fact that one of his suits starts at around $8,000, that made me wonder if I could get a tailor in some less expensive part of the world to copy one of his garments.

This idea did not seem outlandish to me, since I travel to Asia regularly. I was also aware that handmade clothing is not necessarily associated with luxury there, as it in the West.

I was concerned, though, about copying Taub’s designs—in effect stealing his intellectual property. To me, this seemed cretinous. With the hope of getting Taub’s blessing, I e-mailed him and asked if he would be willing to comment on and perhaps advise a tailor who was trying to copy what he had done. I told him that I would write an article about this attempt at reproduction.

Not only did Taub say yes; he also offered to give me a garment, so that it could be taken apart and so that the tailor who was trying to reproduce it would have the best possible information. His reasoning was that something made by Gieves & Hawkes could be taken apart but not put back together again in as lovely a form.

Last February, I met with him briefly, and we sat in a hotel-lobby restaurant.

Taub is slender, dark-haired, bearded.

He tends to be so quiet—not initiating conversations but instead waiting for the other person to speak—that he can seem aloof.

I had brought with me a jacket that I’d had made by a tailor in India, whom I thought I might hire to copy Taub’s work.

He turned it inside out and spread it out over the table. A pained look appeared on his face. After a moment, he asked me how much the jacket had cost to construct. I said two hundred and fifty dollars.

Style

I asked him what faults he was finding in the jacket. He hesitated, but I pressed him. He then explained that the stitching around the buttonholes was very rough, and that this is such a basic mistake that it even has a name: the squashed bug. As Taub analyzed the jacket, I realized that there were also differences between what I had asked the tailor to do and what he had actually done. For instance, I had asked him to sew the canvas, which gives the jacket much of its shape, and not to fuse it, since the latter can cause the jacket to begin puckering after a few years. The tailor had told me that he had done as I requested, but Taub said that this was not the case. (Later, I called the tailor in India. He said that he had not expected I would find out about the fusing. He sounded angry at me, as if I had created a problem for myself.) Taub continued to offer me a jacket to take apart.

I began to think that I should abandon

my project. A high-quality suit made with high-quality cloth, wherever it was made, was bound to cost at least six or seven hundred dollars.

Still, something had happened to me.

I had become like a child who wants one particular toy.

I was to go to Vietnam for an article, and I began searching the Web to see who in Vietnam tried to operate at the standards of Savile Row. Eventually, I found Luis Antonio Torres who runs a business making privatelabel garments for brands. He reputedly hires the finest tailors in Vietnam, whom he pays multiples of the going rate there, and he brings in tailors from Europe and Japan to teach them what they don’t already know.

Every resource that I checked suggested that Torres was the person in Vietnam who was most likely to be able to produce a suit that approached Savile Row quality. When I spoke to him about

my article, he told me that it would cost $700 to construct the jacket and $180 to construct the pants. I would have to pay for the cloth as well. Torres’s shop is a center for a certain type of local élite.

While I was there, a Vietnamese man parked a white BMW SUV outside the shop, came in, and spent twenty-six hundred dollars on clothes. Torres took my measurements. A very pretty young woman stood beside him and wrote down numbers as he called them out.

A few days later, I returned to the shop and Torres asked me to put on a trial jacket. He sat on a stool and had me button the coat and raise my arms. As he made me turn this way and that, he kept marking up the garment with a piece of chalk.

Torres was both calming and professional. At one point, I told him that I hoped to lose weight. “We all dream,” he answered.

About three weeks later, the finished

The fact that one of his suits starts at $8,000 made me wonder if I could get a tailor in some less expensive part of the world to copy one of his garments. suit arrived. The jacket appeared in every way modest, except for the buttonholes and the endless amounts of topstitching, which, for those in the know, show that a garment is handmade. I put on the jacket.

It fit, though not meaningfully better than an off-the-peg one that had been altered. I examined myself in the mirror.

Almost every seam, tab, and stitch was by hand. The suit was nowhere near as good as one cut by Taub. I felt a sense of ridiculousness for having wanted something that was so far beyond my reach. I lay on my sofa and stared at the ceiling.

Gulf Insider August 2016

47

Life

Watering the

Camels

E

very day in the desert in Saudi Arabia, hundreds of camels run towards water troughs as part of a drinking ritual that takes three hours to complete. The animals, who can drink up to 30 gallons in under 15 minutes, are held in a line by keepers before being released one group at a time.

When the beasts surge forward towards the troughs, they kick up a cloud of dust in their wake. Although camels can walk over 150 kilometers without a drink, they will take on water every day if it is available. To conserve fluid when the weather is hot, they often rest beside each other in tight groups. Because their body temperature is cooler than the surrounding air, this minimises sweating.

Contrary to popular belief, camels do not store water in their humps.These actually contain up to 80 pounds of fat, which can be used when food is scarce.

Images: LiveLeak

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

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ROLEX SUBMARINER VS.

SEIKO MARINEMASTER Christopher Chia shares his experience of owning two of the most iconic dive watches ever made, Rolex Submariner and Seiko MM300

H

ere are my thoughts on the Submariner (Ref.114060) and how it compares to my favourite dive watch, the Seiko SBDX001 aka MM300.

The first thing that impresses me about the Sub is its accuracy. It’s running at -1 sec per day, which is very good.

Rolex has advertised their 904L steel as superior to the others and I have to agree with them. Before owning the Sub, whenever I handled a Rolex watch, I felt that there was a certain “smoothness” in the way the bracelet was linked together. The intangible feeling of quality.

What can I say, I like them both very much. The Sub, at 40mm fits my wrist better than the MM300 which is bigger and thicker. Having said that, the MM300 gains points with its beautifully sculpted case and those brushed and polished surface. These coupled with the shiny bezel insert, makes it a blingy watch, which I like. I am guilty of washing the MM300 with toothpaste occasionally to make it shine even more!

Here is a summary of my “amateurish” comparison between these 2 diver watches.

Submariner

MM300

Accuracy

-1 sec

+6 sec

Case

Smaller and fits better on Thick and beautifully sculpted, my wrist, case design not as very blingy which I like interesting

Bezel insert

ceramic

not ceramic but has a wet shinny look that changes its shade from jet black to grey according to light conditions

Dial

Beautiful jet black

Not as black as I would have liked

Bracelet

Good quality with the Rolex “smoothness”

Not as good, the gap is quite big on the first link nearest the lugs, it doesn’t bother me though

Clasp

Glidelock is nicely executed

Not as well executed as the Sub

Drilled lugs?

No! That’s the reason why I haven’t use other straps on it

Yes! It’s super easy to change straps

Lume

Not as strong, but the blue lume is sexy

Shines like a torch

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49

Property

coming soon...

GCC’s Awesome property projects

Dubai rainforest This new set of towers in Dubai will have its own indoor rainforest.

T

he Rosemont Hotel & Residences is a massive, double-tower complex that’s currently being constructed under the direction of ZAS Architects Dubai.

Part of a the new Rosemont global hotel brand, the $550 million project will consist of two towers rising over 50 stories each, adding up to over 2 million square feet on a 140,000-square-foot site.

One tower will be a hotel, and the other will be serviced apartments, all slated to open in 2018, and it will have the world’s first indoor rainforest.

The 75,000-square-foot rainforest will have a café, stream, and space for “adventure play”, according to information provided by ZAS Architects Dubai.

The lot — in the upscale Al Thanyah neighborhood, near Ski Dubai and the Mall of the Emirates — was previously vacant.

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To make sure the rainforest functions, despite being located in a building in one of the most arid desert climates in the world, water will be collected and stored from condensation. The rainforest area will present a “unique all weather atmosphere” with shade and mist sprays from trees, and there will even be “activity trails” to explore the rooftop rainforest.

Every room in the two towers has been designed to have a view of the gulf.

The hotel section will be managed by the Curio Collection by Hilton. Pricing information is not yet available, but the nearby five-star Burj Al Arab goes for upwards of $1,600 a night.

The infinity pool will be glassbottomed, cantilevered, and lit from below — which should make your daily laps quite an experience. Those with a fear of heights need not apply.

Affairs

If You Want To Be Rich,

Don’t Get An MBA

In her book, “The MBA Bubble,” Mariana Zanetti, an MBA graduate of IE Business School in Spain, argues that getting an MBA is a waste of time and money.

The following has been excerpted from the book with her permission.

T

he first thing I am going to say about wealth is that many authors who write about prosperity and wealth make it clear: A job will not make you rich.

If you want to be wealthy, at some moment of your life, you will have to create a source of income other than your salary. This is an evident and crushing reality: If you sell your time to others, you will quickly reach a limit in your capacity to generate income.

In his book “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” Robert Kiyosaki said that the rich do not work for money; they generate assets that work for them. If you want to learn how to work for money, go to school.

If you want to learn how to work even harder, you should get an MBA. OK, some top managers earn millions (and they are therefore millionaires).

Some people still think they can get to those positions with an MBA — as if the Businessweek study, which found an MBA does not have a causal relationship with professional success, was not convincing enough.

Do you want some more proof that an

If you want to be wealthy, at some moment of your life, you will have to create a source of income other than your salary.

MBA will not get you there? If you look at the degrees of CEOs of the CAC 40 (the main stock exchange index in France), you will see that the MBA is nothing but an “optional” degree.

In some companies, it is still desirable to climb the corporate ladder. These companies represent a very low percentage of the companies in the market, and you do not need an MBA if your biggest ambition in life is to climb to a top management position.

But let’s go back to the topic that

interests you: how to be rich. If you want to be rich, you must be an entrepreneur, investor, or both. By a simple matter of statistics, your probability of becoming a rock star, sports star, or Standard & Poor’s CEO are very low (and believe me, the MBA will not increase your probability of becoming a Standard & Poor’s CEO).

The richest men in the world are entrepreneurs and do not have MBAs. Many of them have no degree at all or quit college when they realized that it was only teaching them to be employees and to obey.

Today these people hire the ones who have degrees. Consider the cases of Mark Zuckerberg with Facebook, Bill Gates with Microsoft, Steve Jobs with Apple, Amancio Ortega with Zara– Inditex, Richard Branson with Virgin, or Ingvar Kamprad with Ikea.

And there are a lot of anonymous rich men and women who have never sat in a college classroom to learn how to be corporate slaves.

An MBA may not make you rich, but it can open doors.

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51

Art

Bahrain’s Photo History

Celebrate the island’s cultural spirit with our monthly local series.

Sheikh Isa’s guests Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa ruler of Bahrain (reigned 18691932) in the corner of the room (holding a sheathed sword with both hands a symbol of authority for arab Sheikhs at the time) Yusuf Kanoo on the left mugbil al thukair’s face peeking out on the right in addition to jacques cartier’s white shoe and their walking sticks at Sheikh Isa’s house in Muharraq, March 1911.

Literary Salon Jacques Cartier, seated 3rd from the left in formal arab attire mugbil al thukair and Yusuf Kanoo seated 2nd & 3rd from the right respectively with three unidentified gentlemen (in what appears to be mugbil al thukair’s literary salon at his house in Manama a precursor to the literary salon he founded two years later in 1913 with a number of local literary figures) march 1911.

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Gulf Insider August 2016

Sheikh Isa’s guests From left to right: mugbil al thukair, Yusuf Kanoo, and jacques cartier on the doorstep leaving after being received by Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa at his house in Muharraq, March 1911.

Art

The Old Customs House The old customs house in Manama, March 1911. (stood on the site of Bab Al Bahrain)

Bahrain’s Freshwater Submarine Springs jacques cartier and his assistants accompanied by their host mugbil al thukair are shown one of Bahrain’s many undersea freshwater springs near the island of Muharraq march 1911.

Bahraini Merchants from right to left: Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo, Salman Bin Hussain Matar, Jacques Cartier, Mugbil Abdulrahman AL Thukair, and an unidentified pearl expert march 1911. (contrary to earlier accounts about the location of this picture local historians believe that it was taken during Jacques Cartier’s visit to the house of prominent pearl merchant, Salman Bin Hussain Matar, in Muharraq)

Al Thukair’s Luncheon (al thukair’s guests) from right to left: Maurice Richard Cartier’s sales assistant, Yusuf Kanoo, Jacques Cartier, host mugbil al thukair, and an unidentified guest at al thukair’s house in Manama, March 1911.

Ready for the Plunge Fully geared up for the dive march 1911.

Pearl Merchants Two pearl merchants at al thukair’s house in Manama, March 1911.

Gulf Insider August 2016

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Society

American Express Middle East Iftar

business Events Dragon City Ghabga

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Gulf Insider August 2016

Society

Four Seasons Charity Iftar with Sovereign Art Foundation and RCO Opening of Reem Al Bawadi Restaurant

Gulf Insider August 2016

55

Society

Al Rashid Group Ghabga IPI MENA Hosts ‘Fast for Peace’

56

Gulf Insider August 2016

Society

Opening Ceremony of Chinese Folk Arts Exhibition Meet and Greet with UAE Exchange Officials

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57

Last Word

The Most Effective Way to

Get Things Done

L

et’s say you’ve gotten yourself completely organised.

You’ve created a fantastic workflow system. You’re on top of the world – in control like you’ve never been before.

Congratulations. This is a great place to be.

But unless you consistently know the answer to one very important question, no amount of organisation or systemisation ever will matter in reaching your full productivity.

This vital question is: “What is the most important thing I should be working on?”

The practice of asking and answering this question in relation to this year, this quarter, this month, this week, this day, this hour, changes you more than almost any other question you could ask yourself.

The need to understand yourself and the big picture connection between who you are as a leader/owner and what you seek to accomplish in your business may not seem obvious to you at first.

So many business owners have a continual spinning sensation, almost like vertigo, as they operate in a vacuum without any clear ability to know whether they are focusing on what will truly give them the momentum they desire.

Know where you are going. Know what to focus on. Discriminate, and you are like a high performance machine (a combination of effectiveness and efficiency).

Simple Prioritization Techniques First, you need to be completely organized and have a good work flow system and you need to know yourself and what you seek to accomplish.

Then, try a couple of the following simple techniques: 1. Often it works to simply settle on what the most important priorities are 58

Gulf Insider August 2016

Know where you are going. Know what to focus on. Discriminate, and you are like a high performance machine and stay focused on these. For example, maximizing the customer experience to bring more value is often what is most important to move a business forward and create more profits.

2. Use the Urgent/Importance Matrix.

The idea of measuring and combining these two competing elements in a matrix has been attributed to both former US President Eisenhower and Dr. Stephen Covey.

Eisenhower’s quote sums up the concept of the matrix perfectly: “What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important.” Covey brought the idea into the mainstream and gave it the name “The Urgent/ Important Matrix” in his 1994 business classic, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

This simple technique helps you discriminate between what is important and what is urgent, and dramatically helps you prioritize better. You can easily explore the steps to using the matrix tactically; but I find that all an entrepreneur really needs to do is eliminate the distracting, non-urgent, and unimportant tasks then refocus time for both urgent and important ones.

There are always going to be calls to react to urgently, but (in the big picture) not so very important aspects in every position. But knowing the difference, and making certain you make time to move the important objectives and projects forward is critical.

Many other tools and techniques are available, but as with most higher-level skills, prioritization depends more on you and your ability to create that alignment between your vision, objectives and values and your decisions rather than the techniques or tools. Once you have that foundation in place, feel free to explore whatever you find that will support you in prioritization.

Awareness is the key. The more you observe, the better your understanding and the better you will be at focusing your attention proactively on what matters most while you concentrate and focus on the task at hand - working on the most important thing right now.

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We are an emerging creative culture.

We are creative minds put together.

We ideate for your brand and create an identity for your business that boosts your business.

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