Gulf Insider November 2016

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SAUDI JOYRIDERS

Britain to open new naval base in Bahrain Viva Bahrain launches new auto-payment system The rich kids of Dubai

Saudi authorities declare war on “car drifting”

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36 Car Review: Volvo S90

Contents

November 2016

22

Car Insider

24

Affairs

HMS Juffair, Britain’s new naval base to open in Bahrain.

22

Interview with Maryam Al Sadah

31

Telecom Insider

32

Hotel Review

36

Business

40

Car Insider

46

Property

48

Saudi Authorities declare war on car drifting

26 Affairs

42

40

Viva Bahrain launches new auto-payment system

26

The Domain’s Le Sauvage

Invita celebrates 10 years of passion

Gulf Insider went to Oman to test drive the new Volvo S90.

32

Dubai starts building $1 billion ‘world’s tallest’ skyscraper.

… and much, much, more!

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Publisher & Editor in Chief - Nicholas C. Cooksey

Dear Reader,

Editorial - Ainne Frances dela Cruz

Greetings and a warm welcome to our latest issue of Gulf Insider!

What you will find in our pages is a collection of inspired and instructive articles written by real, honest, people – most of who live in Bahrain. Please also visit us online, both via our website and also our Facebook page (which is approaching 100,000 followers). Here you will find other features and useful information not covered in this print edition - and feel free to leave comments on the articles to share your thoughts.

We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader of Gulf Insider.

Wishing all our readers a great month ahead!

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SAUDI JOYRIDERS

Issue 142

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Issue 141

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Britain to open new naval base in Bahrain

Citibank launches new online banking platform

Viva Bahrain launches new auto-payment system

Dubai-Property Prices Dropping

The rich kids of Dubai

Emirates’ $21,000 Upgrade

PORSCHE

Saudi authorities declare war on “car drifting”

Media

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PANAMERA TURBO Gulf Insider goes to Germany to test drive the fastest luxury sedan in the world.

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GCC Review

Expats in KSA Hit by New VISA Fees Lexus GS F Porsche 718

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

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

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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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Bab Al Bahrain in the 1940’s

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A snapshot of days gone by.

Jarada, one of the favorite destinations of beach-goers.

Dubai, the world’s 4th favorite destination!

This candid photo of Shaikh Hamdan, with Dubai’s ruler Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

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Finance

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Bahrain gears up for the World Islamic Banking Conference

The World Islamic Banking Conference (WIBC) is the largest gathering of global Islamic finance and banking leaders. This year, Bahrain is the proud host of the WIBC.

Thomson Reuters, Ithmaar Bank, Grant Thornton, Al Baraka Banking Group, Ernst & Young, Islamic International Arab Bank (IIAB), Path Solutions, Bahrain Economic Development Board, Luxembourg for Finance, Natixis, Capital Intelligence Ratings, Eiger Trading Advisors Ltd, SAB IT, Shariyah Review Bureau, Deloitte, ELIAN, AAFAQ Center for Research in Islamic Economy, DDCAP Group, Fitch Ratings, Bank AlKhair, S & P Global Ratings, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad (BIBD), E-marefa and many more.

Highlights of the Event H.E. Nurlan Kussainov, Deputy Governor - National Bank of Kazakhstan H.E. Hamood Sangour Al-Zadjali, Executive President, Central Bank of Oman Sheikh Salman Mr. Riaz Riazuddin, Deputy Governor, State Bank of Pakistan H.E. Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Governor, Central Bank of Bahrain

T

he World Islamic Banking Conference (WIBC) has established its reputation as the world’s largest and longest running platform for global Islamic Banking and Finance Leaders for over 23 years. WIBC 2016 is set to continue the legacy of excellence, innovation & growth gained in the past 2 decades by introducing fresh topical content and reaching a wider audience.

With its strong focus on cutting edge content, WIBC remains the strategic event for staying on top of the global and regional trends that will shape the Islamic financial services industry in the near future.

This year the conference revolves around the theme “Economic Uncertainties: Vigilance & Growth”, reflecting the fact that global economy finds itself at an important inflection

12

Gulf Insider November 2016

point. WIBC 2016 is aimed at enabling Islamic finance to converge, strengthen and grow itself as an ecosystem whilst equipping leaders with breakthrough insights to navigate the complexity of the global financial system.

Partnerships Along with the strategic support of the Central Bank of Bahrain, the conveners of WIBC, Middle East Global Advisors (MEGA) have partnered with a powerful lineup of premier organizations. They include Kuwait Finance House (KFH), Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Finance Accreditation Agency (FAA), World Gold Council, GFH Financial Group, Khaleeji Commercial Bank, Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB), Al Salam Bank Bahrain, Boubyan Bank, Simply Sharia Human Capital, Bank of Khatoum International (BOKi),

This year, WIBC will see the launch of Enterprise Excellerate on the 5th of December: a platform that will gather professionals from the Fintech and Digital Banking industry as well as startups and will aim to support the creation of an entrepreneurial ecosystem within the region in order to remain competitive with the global trends. It will also see the launch of intelligence reports including Thomson Reuters Sukuk Perceptions & Forecast 2017, The Bahrain Islamic Venture Capital Report, Islamic finance development report (all three of which are by Thomson Reuters), Simply Sharia – Women in Islamic Finance report, and the Ernst & Young Digital banking report.

The event also boasts of high profile keynote speakers like H.E. Dr. Ahmed Abdulkarim Alkholifey, Governor, Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA); H. E. Alexander P. Torshin, State Secretary - Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Russia and H.E. Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Governor, Central Bank of Bahrain and many more.

The event will take place on December 5-7, 2016 at Art Rotana Hotel, Amwaj Islands. For more information, go to www.wibc2016.com.

GCC Review

Bahrain MP calls for reduction of expat allowances A Bahraini lawmaker has called for reducing expats’ allowances by 50pc on October 26, 2016.

“The bonuses expats receive in Bahrain are not available for Bahrainis.

Some expats receive monthly housing allowances of up to BD500. These amounts can be saved to benefit the economy,” Financial and Economic Affairs Committee member Al Mahfoudh suggested.

Al Mahfoudh cited a similar procedure followed in Kuwait. “Kuwait recently reduced the allowances and bonuses granted to expats. This experiment should be implemented in Bahrain as it was proven to be beneficial for the national economy of Kuwait,” he said referring to the reduction of around KWD90 (BD168.5) to KWD60 (BD74.60) off expats bonuses in Kuwait.

“Our national duty motivates us to find alternative revenues and reduce our public spending. These funds should be directed to the right place,” he added.

“Our national duty motivates us to find alternative revenues”

Discrimination upsets female students in Abha Female students of science and education colleges at King Khalid University in Abha have launched a Twitter campaign to end what they call discrimination against them as the authorities check their smart phones every morning and they have to wait long time in queues at the gate under the sun until their phones are inspected by security guards.

This is in line to the Security and IT Department of the University who issued a text message saying violating privacy of others by taking photos by mobile phones or publishing material that undermines national security or causes sedition would be considered a crime and violators will be punished in accordance with the law.

The students gave petitions to the Deans of Colleges requesting the use of cell phones with cameras, citing that it is allowed in most Saudi universities as well as at King Khalid University’s Medical College in Samir District. The lack of a suitable reply to their plight inspired the students to launch a social media campaign which proved successful.

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Gulf Insider November 2016

RENTS DROP IN UAE FOR 2016 Rental prices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have fallen over 2016 according to a recent report. In Dubai, The Bayut.com UAE Market Report Q3 2016 indicates an overall downward movement of rents compared to Q2 2016. The average apartment rent in the city dropped to more than $34,000 (AED125,000) per annum in Q3 2016, down 2% from the Q2 2016 average with the average yield for the quarter across all bed categories calculated at 5.5%.

Property experts at Bayut.com explained: “There was a clear slowdown in the drop in rental values in Dubai, which could be attributed to the market slowly recovering from the bigger drops in previous months.” The Abu Dhabi property market experienced a 4% downward adjustment in the average apartment rent in Q3 2016.

Although the falling rents have made accommodation in the Emirates more affordable, the strength of rental yields mean the units offer an equally lucrative proposition for investors. (source credit Construction Week)

GCC Review

SAUDI MAN DIVORCES WIFE 2 HOURS AFTER WEDDING FOR TAKING SELFIES

SAUDI CIVIL SERVANTS ACCUSED OF LAZINESS Saudi ministers’ are claiming that many civil servants in the kingdom only work one hour a day and the country faces bankruptcy unless they become more productive. Local media reports that 2 of the kingdom’s senior officials had called for further cuts in the public sector otherwise the country faces bankruptcy within 4 years. Civil service minister Khaled Al Araj told a TV debate on Saudi TV that civil servants barely put in 60 minutes’ work per day in the office and have little incentive to work. Legal adviser Abdullah Al Ghamdi was quoted as saying: “One-hour workday is an exaggeration and insulting to employees.” However, Al Ghamdi added that productivity was very low in government departments, adding; “This is a fact that no one can deny.” (source credit - Arabian Business)

Saudi ministers’ are claiming that many civil servants in the kingdom only work one hour a day.

2 MONTHS JAIL FOR TORTURING MAID A Bahrain court sentenced a mother, 67, and her 46-yearold daughter, to 2 months each in prison for torturing their domestic servant. The torture included burning the victim with a hot iron.

The duo’s request to exchange their jail sentences with community service was declined due to the ‘gravity of their crime’. We cannot believe such medieval behavior still occurs.

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Gulf Insider November 2016

A groom in Saudi Arabia divorced his wife 2 hours after their wedding because she sent pictures of the marriage ceremony to her friends, despite an earlier pledge not to share wedding photos or video clips with anyone. “There was an agreement between my sister and her fiancé that she would not use social-media applications such as Snapchat, Instagram or Twitter to post or send her pictures,” the bride’s brother said. “ It was included in the marriage contract and became binding. Regretfully, my sister did not honour the pledge and used Snapchat to share pictures from the wedding ceremony with her female friends, resulting in the shocking decision by the groom to cancel their marriage and call for divorce,” he said.

“Following the marriage ceremony, the groom took his bride to the hotel where they had booked a room,” a relative said. “However, as soon as the bride was in the room, she started using her mobile phone. Her groom tried to get closer with her and become more intimate, but he was shocked when she ignored him, not responding to his words or action. When he asked her about the reasons, she answered she was busy responding to her friends who were congratulating her on her marriage. The groom asked her to delay answering the messages, but she refused and became angry. When he asked her if her friends were more important than he was, the bride answered that they were.”

The relative said that a divorce case was filed and the court referred it to the reconciliation committee to assess if the newly-weds could be reconciled, the relative added. (source credit- Gulf News)

GCC Review

Meet the man who has to explain the Saudi strategic shift DUBAI IS WORLD’S NO. 4 DESTINATION

Saudi Arabia’s energy minister, Khalid Al Falih, has been responsible for negotiating with some of the world’s biggest energy companies over joint ventures in the kingdom’s gas sectors. He became a player on the international oil scene when King Abdullah, Saudi Arabia’s ruler at that time, sought his help in invigorating the Saudi economy when the government decided to bring overseas expertise into the hydrocarbons sector. He has gained credit for juggling conflicting interests and helping to break the public sector’s grip on vital industries.

He has gained credit for juggling conflicting interests and helping to break the public sector’s grip on vital industries.

At the moment, Mr. Falih is charged with communicating a shift in strategy as the oil price slide has created a ballooning fiscal deficit and slowed economic growth. In doing so, his approach to OPEC peers and rival producers has been more conciliatory than his predecessor, Ali al Naimi, from whom he took over last May. In his upcoming biography, Mr. Naimi describes Falih as an “exceptionally talented individual”.

Today, he finds himself entrusted to deliver Saudi Arabia’s economic vision — a role that only “increases his ability to influence policy decisions, making him a more effective important leader in Opec”, says Gary Ross, executive chairman at New York-based consultancy Pira Energy. (source creditFinancial Times)

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Gulf Insider November 2016

Dubai has retained its position as the world’s 4th most popular travel destination, and the top-ranked destination in the Middle East, according to latest Mastercard Global Destinations Cities Index. In the top 20 global destination cities by international visitor spending, Dubai jumped to the top rank in the world, in the global index.

Dubai also recorded a total international visitor spending of US $31,3 billion (AED 114,2 billion), a third higher than the secondranked London, estimated at $19.8 billion (AED 72,7 billion). This also implies a much higher spending per international visitor per visit in Dubai, which is US $2,050 (AED 7,520), compared with $994 (AED 3,650) in London.

Now in its 7th year, the Global Destination Cities Index has ranked Bangkok as the world’s most visited city and London as the top-ranked in Europe and ranked second globally. (source credit Hotelier Middle East)

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince says the country not ready for women drivers Saudi Arabia is not yet ready to end the world’s only ban on women driving cars. Deputy Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, who has amassed increasing powers since his father King Salman came to the throne, said the topic was not about Islam but about cultural norms.

“Women driving is not a religious issue as much as it is an issue that relates to the community itself that either accepts it or refuses it,” he said, according to local media reports.

Elsewhere, the Prince has indicated that he is supportive of increasing women’s rights in the country.

During his lifetime, previous monarch King Abdullah opened the first coeducational university, named the first female deputy minister and said women can vote and run in municipal polls, despite strong opposition from religious clerics.

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GCC Review

Bahrain MP’s amend proposal for sanitary services so only expats pay The Representatives’ Council is studying imposing fees on sanitary services provided to citizens and residents in the Kingdom. In its previous discussions with the government, the committee consulted Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry, which stated that “amending the existing sewage and surface water discharge, by imposing fees on sanitation services for certain categories would contribute to compensating the huge spending of the government in this field.”

The proposal was originally submitted by the government to the previous council (2010-2014) and it stipulated that fees should be imposed on all beneficiaries. However, this was rejected by the majority of MPs who made some amendments to benefit citizens by excluding them and only imposing the charges on non-Bahrainis. (source credit- Daily Tribune)

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Gulf Insider November 2016

Amendments to law proposed for the marriage of Saudis to non-Saudis Some 17 amendments have been recommended to the law governing the marriage of Saudis to non-Saudis. For example, a Saudi man planning to marry a non-Saudi woman must be earning at least SR3,000 a month, have suitable accommodation, must not be less than 40 and above 65 years of age. A non-Saudi woman must not be less than 25 years of age and the age difference between the two must not exceed 30 years.

For a non-Saudi man to marry a Saudi woman, he must submit proof that he has no criminal records in his country as well as in the Kingdom, a medical report to prove that he is free of infectious and genetic diseases. In addition, he must get a written undertaking from the Saudi woman he is planning to marry that the marriage does not mean his eligibility or the eligibility of her children from him to get Saudi citizenship. (source credit- Saudi Gazette)

in si de r CAR

Saudi AUTHORITIES DECLARE

war on car drifting According to Saudi traffic authorities, at least one driver gets into an accident in the Kingdom every second, while at least 20 people - mostly young Saudi men - die per day to speeding, drifting or reckless driving.

T

he subculture of joyriding has become such a phenomenon in Saudi Arabia that it has its own label: “tafheet,” or drifting. It is the act of tire-burning performed by cars before a flash mob of youthful admirers.

The Kingdom this week announced a significant increase in penalties, such as traffic fines and stricter legislation,

Saudi youths demonstrate a stunt known as “sidewall skiing” (driving on two wheels) in the northern city of Hail. - Reuters photos

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Gulf Insider November 2016

“Drifting is viewed as a national hobby in Saudi Arabia, just like football,”

in the hope that that it will curb the phenomenon.

A man holds Saudi Arabia’s national flag as he rides with a driver performing a “sidewall skiing” stunt as part of a National Day celebrations in Tabuk.New amendments to the traffic law code stipulate that a driver caught drifting on a first offense will receive a SR20,000 ($5,330.85) penalty, in addition to the car being impounded for 15 days. A second-

Motors

A man holds Saudi Arabia’s national flag as he rides with a driver performing a stunt known as “sidewall skiing” (driving on two wheels) as part of early national day celebrations in Tabuk. (Reuters) time offender will be fined SR40,000 and referred to court to determine whether a prison sentence will be handed down.

A third time offender will see that fine increase to SR60,000 in addition to potential jail time and car being confiscated permanantly.

National hobby?

“Drifting is viewed as a national hobby in Saudi Arabia, just like football,” Saudi photographer and car enthusiast Erfan Matcharan told Al Arabiya English.

“Unfortunately, I don’t photograph those who drive on the streets and highways because many don’t like their license plate and faces seen in public… they can get in trouble with the authorities.”

Efforts to provide legal and safe spaces for car enthusiasts have been evident over the years. “I’m one of the most ardent of those opposed to tafheet being practiced on the roads, after I personally experienced the deaths of two friends,” he said. “One died a few years ago, while the other died just last year.”

Suicide attempts The statistics regarding deaths due to reckless driving are so daunting that it prompted Saudi writer Adel Alharbi to call for the criminalization of drivers caught speeding and joyriding.

He recently in Al-Riyadh in which he compared the number of deaths due to dangerous driving to those dying at the

Drifting in Saudi Arabia has received considerable attention from global media in recent years.

VICE Sports was so interested in the issue that it dedicated an entire documentary to it, garnering nearly 1.5 million views.

Saudi-Yemen border because of the war.

“A reckless driver should be treated equally to terrorists who commit suicide attacks in the name of religion,” Alharbi told Al Arabiya English.

“Just like them, dangerous drivers are attempting not just suicide, but also harming innocent people around them.”

According to him, while most Saudis welcome the stricter rules and increased fines on drifting, many think it is not enough.

“While raising awareness is obviously

a first step in getting our youths to understand the dangers of driving recklessly, we need to criminalize the act to get people to think twice next time they drift, speed or even cross a red light.”

Global fascination Drifting in Saudi Arabia has received considerable attention from global media in recent years. VICE Sports was so interested in the issue that it dedicated an entire documentary to it, garnering nearly 1.5 million views.

British-Sri Lankan singer M.I.A featured drifting heavily in the video for her song “Bad Girls,” with men in thobes (Gulf robes) attempting the infamous “Saudi glide,” where they hold on to passenger doors while gliding the roads on sandals.

“Car drifting emerged after Riyadh was planned, and oil became the main driver of the economy,” Pascal Menoret writes in his book “Joyriding in Riyadh: Oil, Urbanism, and Road Revolt,” “All of a sudden you have wider roads and 18, 19, 21-year-olds with access to cars and the space to make drifting easier,” Menoret told Al Arabiya English.

Saudi professional drifter Saeed Almouri, who was featured in the VICE Sports documentary, told Al Arabiya English that there’s no definite solution at the end of the day: “Attitude and mindset has to change inside Saudi homes. It starts with the family who have to show their son has to earn the right to drive a car, not simply giving him one and then allowing for abuse of skills later.”

Gulf Insider November 2016

23

Affairs

HMS JUFFAIR

Britain to open new naval base in Bahrain.

B

ritain will this month open its first permanent military base in the Middle East in over 40 years. The new Royal Navy facility in Bahrain will house up to 600 UK military personnel. HMS Juffair, which will be opened by Prince Charles, will become the staging-post for Britain in the Middle East and is designed to assert influence over the Gulf.

It is Britain’s first new permanent military base in the Middle East since 1971. It will protect ships bringing oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz. In 2012, Iran threatened to close the strait in response to international sanctions.

Although it is too shallow for Britain’s new super-sized aircraft carriers, the base will be used by special forces and by Navy destroyers, frigates and minehunters to fight extremists in the region and launch missions against Islamic State.

British diplomatic sources said: ‘The project could save [Britain] millions because they won’t have to travel back to the UK.’ The opening comes as the UK is pushing to strengthen economic and military ties in the region. It will be 24

Gulf Insider November 2016

One of the main reasons for the base is for it to be part of a contingency operation in case any country tries to block UK commercial ships from passing through the Straits of Hormuz. used as a forward operating base and a place to plan, store equipment for naval operations and accommodate Navy personnel, as well as troops from the other services.

One of the main reasons for the base is for it to be part of a contingency operation in case any country tries to

block UK commercial ships from passing through the Straits of Hormuz.

The ships carrying oil and gas from countries such as Qatar pass through the heavily-trafficked waterway every 48 hours.

The shipping waterway connects the Arabian Gulf to the rest of the world and Iran regards its proximity to the channel as a key strategic asset and has become a flashpoint.

A Royal Navy source said: ‘If we miss out on too much oil and gas then the lights will start to go out.’ He said Britain would start to feel the effects as soon as two weeks.

Ships can also be repaired at the base in Bahrain’s Mina Salman Port.

In 2014 when the project began, British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: ‘This new base is a permanent expansion of the Royal Navy’s footprint.

It will enable Britain to send more and larger ships to reinforce stability in the Gulf.’

A British Ministry of Defence spokesman added that it would provide ‘enduring utility for Royal Navy and other military personnel in a region of strategic importance.’

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Associate Partner

Affairs GLOBAL SHAPERS COMMUNITY MANAMA

the team. Being a part of that instilled in me the values of selflessness and giving back and helped me realize that I wanted to better serve my community.

Manama Shapers Interview with Maryam Al Sadah, Programme & Communications Analyst at UNDP.

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hat does your role as Programme & Communications Analyst for UNDP involve and what challenges do you face in this role?

My role requires me to wear two hats: one as a programme analyst, and the other as a communications analyst. As a programme analyst, I implement programme strategies with a focus on youth development, socio-economic development and inclusion. As a communication analyst, I design and implement strategies for communications and outreach. It is a wonderful, challenging role that keeps me on my toes most days!

One of the key challenges that I face is translating our research and concepts into programs that is implementable.

Ultimately, our main goal is to provide support through our programmes towards achieving national prioritieswhich is a huge responsibility.

How has being the Program Coordinator for Rayaat helped you in your current role?

Rayaat is a brilliant, non-profit program 26

Gulf Insider November 2016

My goals as a Shaper are to better serve my community, to raise awareness on gender equality in our region. that provides scholarships to students in Bahrain. As a Program Coordinator, I was responsible for coming up with new, innovative ideas to improve the Rayaat experience, among other things.

The flexibility I was given to be creative permitted me to think outside the box, and provided me with the confidence I needed to grow professionally. However, I think the main thing about working for Rayaat that shaped who I am today is the hard, selfless and passionate work that I witnessed every single day from

How are you able to live your passions (social development, gender equality, and youth engagement) in your job?

My job provides the perfect platform for me to engage myself in my passions.

Since the nature of our work involves serving the communities we are found in, I am able to experience first-hand the impact programmes and initiatives have on them. Almost all our projects include aspects of social development, gender equality and youth engagementfor example, there is currently a project being developed that aims to promote inclusion for individuals with special needs through increasing their access to wheelchairs that offer them more mobility than standard wheelchairs.

Why did you join the Global Shapers community?

The Global Shapers community is unique in that it is a global network of under 30 year olds working together in different cities to improve their communities. I’ve always wanted to “make a difference”, but I knew doing so alone would be difficult. Now, with 20 other likeminded, inspiring individuals it is definitely possible!

What are your goals as a Shaper?

My goals as a Shaper are to better serve my community, to raise awareness on gender equality in our region and to think about sustainable solutions to the challenges Bahrain is currently facing in areas such as the environment, education, housing and others.

What do you like doing in your free time?

I like to read and write. I recently finished “When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi, and it is taking me some time to recover! When I’m not reading or writing, I am daydreaming about traveling.

Bahrain

Telecom insider BAHRAIN MP RAPS TELCOMS Telecom firms, which “unjustly charge” clients for unwanted promotional messages, should be brought before law, according to a lawmaker. Parliament’s Financial and Economic Affairs Committee Member Jalal Kadhem Al Mahfoudh called upon service providers to be held accountable and demanded they immediately cease “rippingoff” their clients.

There has been a rise in the number of complaints from mobile network users in Bahrain with regard to receiving unwanted messages and advertisements. The parliamentarian pointed out that both postpaid and prepaid users have fallen prey to such bogus promotional campaigns. “Any organisation has the right to promote its services through proper media. But, they should never violate the client’s privacy and charge them for unwanted services,” he added. (source credit - Daily Tribune)

The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is dead When it was first introduced, the Note was an instant hit selling 1m units in its first two months. By the time its second version came out less than a year later, Samsung had sold 10m Notes. Its success most likely surprised Samsung too, given its scattergun approach to product development at the time.

But, after dozens of exploding batteries and a botched replacement programme, some analysts predict that Samsung’s entire Note product line is finished for good.

It seems likely that Samsung’s efforts to wring ever more power from these tightly packed devices may have contributed to the Note 7’s tendency to overheat and even explode. It remains to be seen if the beloved Note will make its way back to the stores.

Competition ‘helps Bahrain telecom customers save $195m’ Telecom consumers in Bahrain saved at least BD74 million ($196 million) in 2014 compared with 2008 as a result of the competitive environment in the kingdom’s telecommunications sector, a study has revealed.

The study prepared by the Berkley Research Group (BRG), emphasizes the importance of competition, TRA said. It suggests that prices could increase by 10 per cent if there were only two mobile operators. Furthermore, BRG’s analysis indicates that if there was only one mobile operator and no regulation, then there would be a loss of about ½ to 2/3rds of consumer surplus, which means that consumers would be significantly worse off.

TRA’s General Director Mohammed Bubashait said “We are continuing to implement regulatory measures that promote effective competition in the telecommunications sector and we will endeavor to achieve TRA’s vision of creating a communications environment that enriches the social and commercial fabric of the kingdom, and transform Bahrain into a hub for local and foreign investment.” (source credit- Trade Arabia)

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Gulf Insider November 2016

Conveniently Conveniently located located within within two two minutes’ minutes’ walking walking distance distance from from Bahrain’s Bahrain’s City City Center Center Mall.

Mall.

Live Live the the best best Lebanese Lebanese experience experience brought brought to to you you directly directly by by the the award award winning winning Reem Reem Al Al Bawadi Bawadi restaurant. restaurant.

The right choice for families and The right choice for families and business business travelers. travelers.

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by Bukhowa Bukhowa Investments Investments Holding Holding Co Co S.P.C S.P.C and and operated operated under under a a management management agreement agreement by

by Wyndham Wyndham Hotel Hotel Group Group (UK) (UK) Limited Limited or or one one of of its its Affiliates.

Affiliates.

Telecoms

Galaxy S8

The handset that could save Samsung Galaxy S8 set to have an ‘UltraHD’ edge to edge display.

S

amsung’s next-generation Galaxy handset will feature a radical 5.5inch ultra HD display - but no home button, the latest rumours have claimed.

The eagerly anticipated gadget will, the firm hopes, be able to repair some of the damage to the firm’s brand caused by the Galaxy Note 7.

The latest rumours, according to Android Police, point to a 4K display which will make the handset perfect for VR applications.

Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S8 at Mobile World Congress 2017 in February next year.

It could also have a revolutionary processor on board, after it was revealed the firm’s system chips

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Not only could this device be Samsung’s first bezel-less phone, but it would also be the first to have reardual cameras. business has started mass production of semiconductors using 10 a revolutionary nanometre technology to cram more components on a chip.

The chips are expected to be far

more powerful and energy efficient that current designs, and Samsung is the first company in the industry to mass produce them.

The new chips allows ‘up to 30-percent increase in area efficiency with 27-percent higher performance or 40-percent lower power consumption,’ Samsung said in a press release.

The death of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 has put huge pressure on the firm for a new flagship device.

And it’s rumored that what could be called the Galaxy S8 will incorporate a dual-lens camera design and remove the home button for an edge-to-edge screen.

It’s also believed that the handset will have sleek, curved side-edges that could extend from the top to the bottom.

As many hope the Galaxy S8 will put the Apple’s 10 year anniversary smartphone to shame, many rumors suggest that the Korean firm will actually follow its lead.

With the removal of the iconic home button, Samsung will have no choice but to design a fingerprint-sensing display or place the feature behind the tempered glass – two strategies Apple has been parading around for quite some time.

Not only could this device be Samsung’s first bezel-less phone, but it would also be the first to have rear-dual cameras. Rumors suggest that pixels of the dual-cameras will support 16 megapixels and 8 megapixels And because levels of concentration will be increased with a ‘full screen’, pictures and videos should be much clearer and even go so far as to produce a 3D effect.

Advertorial

Telecoms

VIVA Bahrain

launches new auto-payment system Viva’s new payment system enables customers to automate their payment process and register all their postpaid lines. It is flexible, fast, and convenient.

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IVA Bahrain announced the launch of its latest innovative service – VIVA Auto-pay – which allows Postpaid customers to automate their monthly bill payment and enjoy peace of mind.

Auto Pay gives customers easy access to manage monthly bill payments automatically through their registered credit card. Customers benefit from automatic payments and no more queues!

They can register for free on VIVA’s Mobile App or Self Care Portal on www. viva.com.bh to settle their bill using their credit card and select to enrol in VIVA Auto-pay during the payment process. The customer’s bill will then be automatically settled on the 3rd of every month. Additionally, VIVA Autopay allows customers to schedule auto payment for all their Postpaid lines registered under the same CPR thus offering more flexibility and payment

convenience. Once set up, customers will never have to worry about missing a bill payment. In case they do make a manual payment through any other channel (full/partial payment), the bill amount will be adjusted accordingly.

VIVA Auto-pay is only one of many secure and convenient payment channels providing a total of 700 points of payment across the Kingdom. VIVA’s App and Self-Care portal allow customers to settle all their bills in one go, while

Once set up, customers will never have to worry about missing a bill payment. keeping track of their bills, activities and benefits. “Quick Pay” is one of the easiest payment options, which involves a single online transaction with no need to register or log in, available on VIVA’s website and Self Service machines in VIVA’s retail shops. Additionally, customers can make payments on SADAD machines located at major malls and stores around Bahrain.

For more information on VIVA’s many payment options, please visit w w w. v i va . c o m . b h / p e r s o n a l / h e l p support/payment-methods.

Gulf Insider November 2016

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Hotel Review

The Domain’s Le Sauvage Out to impress, The Domain’s beautiful Le Sauvage restaurant is given a refreshing makeover with cuttingedge presentation and a revamp of the classic menu.

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e set out on the Chef’s table with great expectations.

Usually, a chef’s table is a place where you meet with the person who prepared the food, so there’s an elevated experience; you get to know about the ingredients as well as the preparation and what new things they have done to create the dish.

We entered Le Sauvage and were warmly greeted by the receptionist and the sommelier who led us to the cigar chairs. I asked why they’re called cigar chairs and he said “They’re called cigar chairs because you can lounge in these 32

Gulf Insider November 2016

chairs. We want to keep our customers here for hours on end”. And true enough, that’s what they did to us.

Chad, our sommelier, explained that what we will do is an experience. We will share a signature set menu by the very dapper and hotshot chef Rukmal who will lead us to an unparalleled dining experience. There are two distinct characters to the menu. One was the Meat + fire, which Le Sauvage, being a steakhouse is known for. The other is fresh from the Mediterranean and Gulf Sea seafood, which added a piquant touch to our palates.

Hotel Review

The evening started with focaccia and pesto, a rustic touch which we loved.

Traditionally, bread is an antipasto, or appetizer, a course before the main course; but we were a little surprised to know that we even had pre-appetizers.

These were freshly shucked oysters and summer truffle; as well as beef prosciutto aged in house and marinated melon skewers. The oysters tasted inky

offset the aged quality of the prosciutto and nicely balanced the other appetizers like the Pan Seared foie gras with confit of duck pastille, the Oakwood Smoked Norwegian Farmed Salmon, and the Seared Diver Scallop with Summer truffles. We then progressed to what we call “sunshine in a bottle”, a nice light and dry Prosseco wine.

In between these culinary treasures,

do it better justice on the following day.

But of course there’s always room for dessert and the patisserie prepared a banana flambe with dark rum, star anise, and cinnamon right in front of us.

The best part is when the bananas are flamed of course! It was a wonderful evening with wonderful friends. And the best part is this set menu would only cost you BD25, great value for money.

we were mesmerized by Chad’s tales of traveling the world for rare wine, scintillating dinner conversation, and Shareef (Gulf Insider photographer) photographing everything in sight. We were already full by this time, and wonder of wonders, the main meal is yet to come.

We both had a bite of our Stockyard 150 days Wagyu Beef, “Catherine de Medici”, and Mixed Seafood Papillote before we asked our host to wrap it up so we can

Add the wine pairings and you’re set for an evening of elegance and old world hospitality and it will only set you back BD50.

“They’re called cigar chairs because you can lounge in these chairs. We want to keep our customers here for hours on end”. and fresh, the truffle oil in syringes was a nice, modern touch. The prosciutto had an aged flavor that worked well with the fresh melons.

While we were entranced by the food, Chad, waltzed in and told us about the wine pairings that we would have for the night. The first was a red wine that may be interesting to people since most dinners start with a white then a red wine. However, the red wine perfectly

Highly recommended!

To book your reservation The Domain Hotel and Spa Tel: +973 1600 0000

Gulf Insider November 2016

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Hotel Review

Wyndham Green Day Celebrations

at the Ramada Manama City Centre Ramada Manama City Centre is not just a polished hotel with a seaside view, it is also a hotel that takes part in sustainability efforts for the environment.

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amada Manama City Centre is the newest addition to the Ramada hotels in Bahrain.

This modern hotel has 140 rooms and suites to offer, with spectacular sea views. Ideally located in the Al Seef district, the hotel is merely a few minutes’ walk away from Bahrain City Centre Mall. It also has the renowned Middle Eastern themed Reem Al Bawadi Restaurant with an exclusive shisha terrace for a day out with friends and family. For a relaxing and revitalizing day, the Hotel opens the doors of Taqah spa, with brilliant professionals to cater to the needs of their valuable guests.

Taking part in Sustainability Since the inception of the Wyndham Green Sustainability program, Wyndham Worldwide has been committed to doing its part to support the Earth and provide resources for generations to come. Last year, Wyndham Worldwide reduced its global carbon footprint by 21% and water usage by 18%. Whilst these savings are significant, the benefits of sustainability go beyond aiding the environment. Keeping this in mind and following the success of the global Earth 34

Gulf Insider November 2016

Day celebrations held earlier this year, Wyndham marked Thursday 6 October, 2016 as GREEN DAY. Ramada Manama City Centre hotel guests and associates took part in various events with a “Green Day” theme beginning with a yoga class from 7:30 am. The associates dressed in green and the chefs put together a number of exclusive ‘green’ food for the team to improve their healthy food options.

At 3:30 pm, the team was well equipped with boots, shovels and other tools, digging into the ground filled with good soil and planted seeds of basil leaves, rosemary, banana leaves, tomato plants, olives, figs, aloe vera and a few

colorful flowers.

In the near future, the hotel is planning to develop an herb garden and also conduct many more green activities to further enhance this sustainable development initiative.

For reservations: Ramada Manama City Centre Tel: +973 1710 4000 www.ramadamanama-citycentre.com Ongoing promotion: Book directly with Ramada Manama City Centre and get 50% discount vouchers to Wahooo! waterpark.

Hotel Review

Cutting Edge

Brunch Experience Treat your tastebuds to a one of a kind brunch experience at CUT by Wolfgang Puck.

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he critically acclaimed CUT by Wolfgang Puck in Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, widely recognized as one of the top steak restaurants in the world, impresses on every level. As guests enter from the dramatic spiral staircase from the lounge and bar below, this sleek modern American steakhouse delivers innovation at every level through its unique, culinary, service and design innovation combination.

Spend the perfect Friday afternoon in the heart of Manama around a long table filled with delicious homemade comfort food prepared by Executive Chef Ben Small, who started his culinary journey under the supervision of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck and has crossed seas to share the fine taste of the Michelin-star chef’s favorite dishes at CUT. Start your marathon brunch with freshly baked goodies such as French toast prepared to perfection with the contrast of a crunchy outside and fluffy inside along with CUT’s famous homemade salted pretzel bread and

many more baked starters to choose from. But be careful: these starters will tease your taste buds for more.

As a next course, you will be served with family-style starters to share such as the creamy burrata bruschetta, steak

skewers with a kick of chimichurri sauce, and individually plated homemade fresh pasta (the chef’s special of the week).

Get ready for an enticing array of main courses such as the tender USDA Prime filet mignon with a drizzle of black peppercorn and mustard sauce or the pan-seared black bass freshly bought from the local market served with special vegetable sides for the whole table to share.

There is no better way to end this generous meal than with Wolfgang Puck’s mouth-watering soft banana cream pie or his creamy chocolate brownie topped with homemade ice cream prepared in the pastry kitchen.

Don’t miss Wolfgang Puck’s cutting edge a la carte brunch every Friday from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm, priced at BHD29++ (including soft beverages), with a live music band playing live in the background.

For table reservations CUT by Wolfgang Puck Tel: +973 1711 5044.

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Business

10 Years of Passion Invita is a brand that has grown from a division of BBK to a leading service provider that has created jobs for thousands of people. As they celebrate their 10th year anniversary, we sat down with Rahul Bhalla, Chief Executive of Invita to take a look back at how they have started and what they still hope to achieve.

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ow has Invita started and what are its initial product offerings?

Invita was initially a division within BBK. The management decided to turn the cost center into a profit center and hived off their call center division into a company called Invita. From the start, we always looked at the best ways of delivering service to our customers. Our tagline “In Touch, With Intelligence” has been the pillar of our delivery. In 2007, we were already a multimedia contact center using not just voice but chat and video to be in

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touch with customers. We were the first to use GPRS video calling with a leading telecom services provider and Chat service for a leading Islamic bank in Bahrain. As the world moves towards increased dependence on Social media, our Social Media Command Center helps customers listen in to what people have to say about their products and services on social media which is increasingly influencing consumer choices. We have grown from being just a Contact Center, to an IT services Company and a Training Center.

As a global service consultancy, what are the specific products that you currently offer to help develop companies’ competitive growth?

With increasing pressure on bottom lines, corporates look not just at cost reduction but also how to get the best out of their work force. The two areas that companies look at therefore are where to outsource to and where to get personnel trained – two areas of focus that Invita has put a lot of effort into developing as centers of excellence.

Contrary to popular belief that companies only outsource non-essential functions,

Business

BPO, we were the first to launch 3G video support, Chat and more recently the Social Media Command Center.

Why is Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) becoming a need at these times?

BPO has been a need for decades, not just now. In these times, when the global economy is in the throes of recession and cost containment is the buzz word, the importance of BPOs is being highlighted. BPOs do things better not just cheaper. So more and more CXOs are looking at their operation to see where a process within their business could be outsourced at a lower cost. Areas like contact centers, payroll, claims processing and in the case of

Over the past decade, Invita has developed protocols and processes that set them apart from others and this has resulted in happy and loyal customers – our first customer is still our customer even after 10 years. companies outsource important functions within their portfolio because there are third party companies that have the expertise to deliver the same service in a better fashion simply because they have made it their business to be the best at what they do. Over the past decade, Invita has developed protocols and processes that set them apart from others and this has resulted in happy and loyal customers – our first customer is still our customer even after 10 years.

We continuously observe the global trends and align our services to create the best products for our clients. As a

smaller businesses HR, accounts and others are areas where outsourcing can bring process efficiency and cost control.

BPOs also help the economy by creating jobs which we have done brilliantly over the last years. We have supported, trained, and recruited over 3000+ youth in Bahrain and with the support of Tamkeen and the Ministry of Labor we hope to achieve 5000+ by 2020. We are very proud to say that we are a company that is 90+% Bahrainized.

You are opening up a training center as part of your 10th year anniversary.

Please share with us some details about this center.

As we have explained earlier, employee motivation and training are important in this day and age to bring the best out of the employee – increase their productivity. Our training center will focus on developing employee soft skills and leadership qualities. We deliver training in English and Arabic, and have tailor made course material in Arabic – this is very important specially when it comes to communication to prevent literal translations that can often change the meaning of what is being said. We do things intelligently and differently.

Our expertise comes from working with various industries over the last decade.

We have hired people who were fresh graduates but have graduated to become managers in their own companies. A lot of banks have hired our people, so we thought why not just train people from these banks and get into another line of business. This is the start of our training center.

Your website revealed that there are exciting plans to expand operations throughout the GCC region. Can you give us more details on what these are?

Our brand name is derived from two words Invigorate and Vitalit and this reflects in our brand name and the youthful colors of the logo. Through our 400+ employees we deliver with passion, spirit and intelligence and our new services that will be launched over the next year or so will also have a ‘fresh’ feel to them. We rely heavily on technology to bring about a new customer experience. We currently run a BPO in Kuwait operating in the same space as in Bahrain and in Dubai through an associate company to service our Bahraini clients’. We are close to a tie up in KSA. We will expand into other areas in order to diversify our income stream and look at long term contracts. A key focus is in Process outsourcing in the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services and Insurance) industry. We will disclose details when we are closer to our launch date which will be within the next 6 months.

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Business

From the World to Bahrain AtBahrain is a new startup focused on bringing more travelers to Bahrain. Gulf Insider sat down with Board Member, Nouf Al Sowaidi to discuss Atbahrain’s role in the tourism industry.

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tbahrain is a company focused on developing, managing, and marketing Bahrain as a travel and tourism destination. What are the activities that you have engaged in, in order to bring about this goal?

Atbahrain distinguishes itself from other travel entities in the Kingdom by being solely focused on increasing inbound tourism to Bahrain. Currently Atbahrain is identifying opportunities that will bring more visitors to the country. As part of Atbahrain’s efforts to identify and attract major events and bring more people to Bahrain, we offered our services to Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical giant, and provided them with a full-fledged conference and events

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service for their Annual ME & West Asia Senior Management conference which was successfully held at the Four Seasons hotel last February. We were also the official travel partner for large events in Bahrain, including the Shop Bahrain Festival, IRONMAN 70.3 Middle East Championship.

Tell us about the tourism packages you have developed and how this serves the tourists and the country?

The packages we have created provide a real Bahraini experience, whether it is a five day ultimate adrenalin trip to ‘the home of motorsports in the Middle East’, a watersports extravaganza visit, or a culinary adventure where travelers learn authentic Bahraini cooking by

world class chefs. Visitors looking for a more cultural experience can sign up for our four to seven day cultural packages where they can immerse themselves in the heart of the Gulf and discover the rich history of Bahrain: ride camels, bargain with traders in traditional souqs, explore historical forts, heritage sights and attractions, including the Tree of Life, the first oil well in the gulf, the Bahrain International F1 circuit and much more.

We also have education travel packages with courses delivered by the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance.

What key players have you partnered with in order to strengthen Bahrain’s tourism position?

Our close association with the Bahrain

Business

Bahrain on a budget can also be an exciting, fulfilling, comfortable and enriching experience!

Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA), has given us ample tools to capitalize on events in order to collectively make Bahrain attractive to inbound travelers.

We are also very fortunate to be wholly owned by Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (“Mumtalakat”) which enables us to create synergies with other subsidiaries such as Gulf Air, Bahrain International Circuit and Bahrain Airport Company not to mention our ability to capitalize on Mumtalakat’s network to facilitate the process from a procedural standpoint.

How can Atbahrain support economic growth?

By increasing inbound tourism, Atbahrain facilitates the economic progress of the Kingdom by generating more jobs for Bahrainis, and by being a catalyst for real growth and development

in the Kingdom’s tourism industry.

Hopefully Atbahrain customers who book packages with Atbahrain will share their positive experiences online and by word of mouth to become powerful promoters of the destination.

One of the things that tourists think about when visiting Bahrain is (a) there are no beaches; and (b) due to the 100% tax increase in drinks sales introduced in May, it has now become very expensive to enjoy Bahrain’s hospitality and nightlife. Does this not make your job a lot more difficult to encourage international tourists to visit the kingdom?

Al Dar Island, Jarada Island and Hawar Island offer quick island hopping experiences within the archipelago and have beautiful beaches and facilities for beach holiday travelers.

Atbahrain is concerned with bringing visitors to Bahrain - and facilitating uniquely Bahrain experiences while they are here. There are a lot of tourists who are not interested in alcohol-and therefore a price increase would not affect their holiday.

For a comprehensive list of things to do in Bahrain AtbahrainDMC www.at-bahrain.com

AtbahrainDMC

Gulf Insider November 2016

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Volvo S90 Gulf Insider went to Oman to test drive this hot new car.

I

t was a great idea to do a test drive in Oman, which has great roads and beautiful scenery and I was looking forward to driving the new S90.

A luxury, mid-size sedan, the inside is attractive with a clean and uncluttered layout. If it looks like wood, it is wood; if it looks like leather, it is leather. The driving position in the S90 is excellent with an adjustable steering column. It has a very Swedish interior, very light, with what I’d like to call functional luxury. The car comes in three trim levels: Momentum, Inscription, and Excellence. This sedan looks expensive but with no trace of flamboyance.

The BMW 5 Series, the Audi A6, the Mercedes E-class are all in the same luxury sedan segment and it is these that the Volvo seeks to go up against.

By comparison, the Volvo happens to be longer, wider, and lower than these rivals. Built on a new platform, with new engines under the hood, you get comfortable, padded seats, and excellent

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headroom and legroom (and plenty of space in the rear), as well as plentiful trunk space. There’s also a power sunroof, LED taillights and headlights, and fully adjustable power seats.

I found the Volvo to be an enjoyable drive with plenty of power as well as a very simple to use entertainment

system. The engine offers an impressive 350hp and Volvo will be bringing out a 407hp twin engine model soon, that is it will have a petrol and an electric engine under the hood. You use the electric when you want to drive around town; and the petrol one when on the highways.

Motors

Starting Price: BD21,800

Volvo has always been a favorite of people who look for quality and safety in a car. Safety is and has always been a priority for the brand and Volvo has announced a very bold goal, which they call Vision 2020. Vision 2020’s mission is to have no deaths or serious injuries in a Volvo car by the year 2020. To insure this, they have a built-in active safety overview which can detect large moving objects. This is a segment-leading active safety override that is very forward thinking on Volvo’s part and proves the company is a leader in such technology.

To book your test drive: Motorcity Bahrain Tel. +973 1773 6222

I found the Volvo to be an enjoyable drive with plenty of power as well as a very simple to use entertainment system.

Price Comparison BMW 5 Series (available BMW520i) starts from BD19,000 Audi A6 starts from BD16,000

Mercedes Benz E-class starts from BD18,660

The author of this article, Nick Cooksey, in addition to being publisher of Arabian Magazines and Gulf Insider Media, is a jury panel member of the Middle East Car of the Year (MECOTY).

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Infiniti Q30 Gulf Insider went to the Lebanon for the launch of the all new Infiniti Q30.

By Nick Cooksey

I

t is often said that Infiniti was set up to become the Japanese answer to BMW, and with each new model this company introduces to the market, it becomes more of a threat to the luxury German brands.

Infiniti say their brand new Q30 is a new type of premium vehicle for a new type of consumer. This compact hatchback, which happens to be built in England. It looks a bit like an SUV due to its high ground clearance. It’s hard to believe it sits on only 18” wheels. It has ample power for what it is and is great for both city driving as well as the open road. We took the car for a long drive up all sorts of hills and down valleys.

It carried three adults with ease and it was an enjoyable drive… particularly as

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The Infiniti Q30 is a completely new direction for the Infiniti brand and we are confident that this vehicle will continue to deliver Infiniti’s premium experience to a new segment of customer.

we stopped at various interesting and delightful restaurants in the mountains.

Adding to this, the weather was perfect.

Anyway, back to the car! Though it’s a compact car, it has got plenty of room for a family of four, and there’s reasonable space in the boot for luggage. Its interior is functional and of the overall quality you would expect in any luxury car – in fact it’s very similar to the interior you will find in a new Mercedes (more on this in a moment). A few specifications; the Q30 is equipped with Intelligent Parking Assist. Using 12 sensors in the front and rear, the system automatically steers the vehicle into place with the additional help or audio and visual warnings whilst the driver controls the brake and accelerator.

Juergen Schmitz, Managing Director

Motors

Infiniti Middle East says, “The Infiniti Q30 is a completely new direction for the Infiniti brand and we are confident that this vehicle will continue to deliver Infiniti’s premium experience to a new segment of customer.”

The Q30 will remind many people of the Mercedes A Class, both inside and out. Even the electronic car key resembles that of the Mercedes A Class. This is perhaps not surprising as Infiniti has an alliance with Mercedes to manufacture the Infiniti Q30.

Infiniti is obviously so confident of this

Infiniti is obviously so confident of this car’s abilities that we were taken to a race circuit so as to be able to put the car through its paces.

car’s abilities that we were taken to a race circuit so as to be able to put the car through its paces. Twenty minutes or so of hard accelerating, hard braking, hairpin turns and more, and once again the car didn’t disappoint. Okay, it’s not a Porsche 911, but it was great fun to drive and can do everything and more that any typical buyer will expect from it - The 2.0L Turbo engine of the car I was driving delivers 208hp and 350Nm torque.

The Infiniti Q30 has just arrived in Bahrain and is available with 1.6L or 2.0L Turbo variants in a 2WD configuration.

If you’re looking for a small family hatchback I strongly recommend you arrange a test drive for this car and test its strengths for yourself.

To arrange your own test drive call Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons Tel +973 17 732 732 / 17 211 111

Price Comparison

Starting Price: BD 10,500

NB: While in Beirut we stayed at an unusual boutique hotel; The Smallville, named after the town where the fictional character Superman was born. The whole theme was around Superman. The staff wore Superman T-shirts. It was established by a lady who wanted to bring back childhood memories. The lift had plasma screens playing cartoons. If you want to try somewhere a bit different I suggest you give the place a try when you’re next in Beirut.

Mercedes Benz A-Class 2016 BD 13,700 BMW 1-Series 2016 BD 12,500

Lexus CT 2016 BD 13,800

The author of this article, Nick Cooksey, in addition to being publisher of Arabian Magazines and Gulf Insider Media, is a jury panel member of the Middle East Car of the Year (MECOTY).

Gulf Insider November 2016

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Euro Motors

Jaguar Land Rover Introduces New After Sales Program High end luxury automotive brands like Jaguar and Land Rover deserve high end luxury service, which is at the helm of the new Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover Program.

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uro Motors will be holding a two month-long Aftersales Service Clinic during November and December 2016 as an initiative to reward customers for choosing the Jaguar Land Rover way.

The Aftersales Clinic will see customers being entitled to free test drives on the Jaguar and Land Rover vehicle of their choosing with a free valuation should the customer desire it.

Furthermore, the prestigious dealership will also present all Jaguar and Land Rover customers with free Land Rover Experience tickets on the day to give them an unprecedented taste of the maximum capabilities of the Land Rover genre. Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover will also be offering 6th and 7th year extended warranties as an option for customers as well as warranty reinstatements.

The campaign runs from the 13th of November to the 13th of December, 44

Gulf Insider November 2016

With such prestigious and distinguished brands as Jaguar and Land Rover, there are no fixed standards and the bar just keeps rising higher.

2016, during which all those Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles older than 3 years from their date of registration will be able to avail of a free service package.

Continually striving to attain the highest After Sales service, the center includes Mobile Diagnostic Computer Systems and the very latest in computer-based service diagnosis. These systems enable

on-the-spot identification of problem areas while providing specific service guidelines. “There is a certain quality of service provided that is expected from every dealership and Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover has perfectly lived up to its billing. But with such prestigious and distinguished brands as Jaguar and Land Rover, there are no fixed standards and the bar just keeps rising higher and our innovation and creativity in satisfying a Jaguar or Land Rover owner is what has come to be envisioned of us. With this progressive and unique idea, coupled with its exceptional sales record, Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover continues to impress. Initiatives like these will serve to further strengthen bonds with our customers whilst promoting the class that corresponds with the purchase of a Jaguar or Land Rover, thereby appealing to potential customers as well,� Mr. Paul Yates, the General Manager of Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover said.

For more information: Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover Showroom Tel: +973 1746 0460 Euro Motors- Jaguar Bahrain/ Euro Motors- Land Rover Bahrain @emjaguarbahrain/ @emlandroverbahrain emjaguarBahrain/ emlandroverbh

Motors

2017 Porsche Panamera Looking better than ever (while performing better as well!), the new generation of the Porsche Panamera might just be your next supercar.

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he Porsche Panamera has been completely redeveloped to include 3 brand new engines and transmission. It is 6mm wider while the roof is 20mm lower (over the rear passengers). The LED strip lights make it look amazing at night, while the taillights resemble those of the 911, stretching all the way to the rear—very stunning and ultramodern. It’s more aerodynamic yet offers increased luggage space (50 litres volume), and there’s a new 8 speed PDK transmission exclusive to Porsche.

This is a brand new car down to its smallest detail with a new platform, new engines, and a way better body. According to Porsche, the new Panamera shares only three things with the previous generation: the Panamera name, the Porsche crest on the hood, and the goal of being the fastest luxury sedan in the world. It was tested on the Nubergring in Germany and achieved a record lap time of just 7 minutes and 38 seconds (on standard road tyres), making it the fastest luxury saloon on earth. That’s two seconds faster than the

Porsche 911 GT3 tested in 2009 and four seconds faster than a Porsche Cayman GT4 which was just tested last year.

This second generation Panamera is lighter (by 70kg) and more rigid because of its aluminum body. Bigger and more powerful, and fitted with a cutting edge man-machine interface.

The PDCC or Porsche Dynamic Chassis control system also gets an overhaul.

This lighter and stronger body can react faster and more precisely to changes in the road surface.

Augmented with rear-axle steering, it allows for a tighter turning radius and a more responsive handling at low speeds; at highway speeds, it allows for more stable direction changes, like when switching lanes or passing. This sort of performance warrants the claim of it being a supercar while shaving off fuel consumption by 10 percent, a winner in our book!

We look forward to doing our own test drive of the Porsche Panamera here in Bahrain.

Spoiler Alert!

Watch out for the Eco-mode that reduces rear-end lift when driving under normal conditions and a Performance mode that increases the angle of attack to actively provide downforce during performance driving.

Gulf Insider November 2016

45

Property

Dubai Tower Dubai starts building $1billion ‘world’s tallest’ skyscraper.

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ubai has started construction of a skyscraper that will reach even greater heights than the Burj Khalifa, which is currently the world’s tallest building.

The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour will cost around $1billion to build and will offer 360 degree views of the city.

A statement issued at the groundbreaking ceremony said the structure ‘will be the world’s tallest tower when completed in 2020’.

Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, marked the groundbreaking as construction workers laid foundations for the skyscraper at a vast patch of sand last month.

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Gulf Insider November 2016

Property

The model of The Tower is seen during the press conference of Emaar Properties in Dubai on 11th April, when the project was originally unveiled.

AFP Mohammad Alabbar (right), chairman of Emaar Properties speaks to the press during a groundbreaking ceremony of The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour on 10th October.

Dubai’s property developer giant, Emaar Properties, announced plans to build the viewing tower in April, saying it will be ‘a notch’ higher than Burj Khalifa, which stands 828m (2,700ft) high.

However, the company has not revealed the exact final height of the tower.

The tower will have observation decks providing 360-degree views of the coastal city and is located near Ras Al Khor National Wildlife Sanctuary according to Emirates 247.

It will be slender, evoking the image of a minaret, and will be anchored to the ground with sturdy cables The designs have been envisioned

by Spanish-Swiss architect Santiago Calatrava Valls.

Valencia-born Calatrava is known for his futuristic designs - in particular, the city of arts and sciences in his home city.

Emaar’s Chairman Mohamed Alabbar said the tower will be completed before the Expo 2020 trade fair, which Dubai is preparing to host.

Dubai has established a reputation for building dozens of futuristic skyscrapers, which have transformed its skyline.

However, Dubai is not the only ones planning to top the world record for high rises.

Saudi Arabia’s Kingdom Holding is building a tower in Jeddah that plans to surpass the Burj Khalifa, more than a kilometre above ground.

Gulf Insider November 2016

47

Style

Alpha Atelier: Experience the epitome of luxury Alpha Atelier is all set to dress the elite of Bahrain.

With brands ranging from Brioni, Loro Piana, Borelli, Fratelli Rosetti, and other top designers for the dapper gentleman; Alpha Atelier is the luxury shopping haven for men who value quality, craftsmanship, and fashion at its finest.

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he first of its kind, premium multi-brand store at Moda Mall, Alpha Atelier houses menswear and specializes in bespoke suits of brands like Brioni, Loro Piana, Luigi Borelli, and Fratelli Rosetti.

The faรงade of the Atelier has black marble borders with gold lettering. Step into the door and you are immediately surrounded by pristine walls showcasing elegant clothes. The staff make sure to provide exceptional service and make customers feel at home.

The pieces in the Atelier (a French word meaning studio or workshop), are distinct. The customer certainly has a lot of options to choose from as these brands are not available elsewhere in Bahrain. Every piece is made with the best materials, is exclusive, and displays an attention to fine details. You can feel the heritage of each brand when you touch the fabrics which are wrinkle-free.

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Gulf Insider November 2016

A Sartorial Adventure

Style

First Rate Materials

With Brioni, you get a sartorial ethos and the romantic sense of the sublime.

Brendan Mullane, head designer, brings the Brioni man on a voyage. Up in the mountains, escaping in a forest as a storm advances. The environmental revelation opens the door to the alter ego: a dreamer. As the collection unfolds, the sharp dresser and his adventurous counterpart morph one into the other, revealing new nuances to the distinctive Brioni language. Exact lines and faultless cuts bring the eye over the surfaces: intricate 3D textures that are the result of multiple processes of dyeing, weaving, printing, brushing, sandblasting. Textiles describe geometric and tactile narratives that need to be discovered up close.

The silhouette is straight and slim. The waist is marked high and the buttoning raises, enhancing the sense of assertive verticality. The tailored suits and precise coats worn with felt hats gradually leave way to other worlds: an artist’s smock in double-face cashmere; a hood with straps worn over formal attire.

An idea of sheltering and protection slides through in the oversized parkas and coats. Patterned formal fabrics used throughout define the sense of this morphing personality: even the oversized rucksack is made in bonded, felted cashmere and suede. A doublebreasted mink coat swarms in subtle herringbone intarsia. Bound seams on outerwear hint at inside constructions brought out. Finally, as the voyage brings the man back to the starting point, yet with a new consciousness, tailoring gains adventurous details, like the sturdy patch pockets landing on an otherwise immaculate blazer.

Functionality, warmth and lightness are fundamental elements of Loro Piana menswear. The fabrics are created using innovative techniques, giving birth to the most unique garments and accessories.

With this brand you can expect superlative quality and exclusive materials. Garments and accessories are crafted from feather-light fabrics, butter soft leathers, refined shearling and precious furs for unique comfort and wearability. Crafted in warm neutrals and vibrant brights, the pieces in the winter collection combine exceptional quality with artisanal attention to detail.

The Perfect Shirt Luigi Borrelli is a high quality shirt maker in Naples, Italy. Borrelli shirts are hand stiched and amongst the finest in the world, some lines being majorly handstitched. Borrelli ties, including sevenfold (more exactly, double fourfold or lined sixfold) ties, also exhibit the highest quality with elegant colors and classical designs.

These shirts represent the moment when the human hand replaces the machines, and allow a shirt to take a very special fit, in all its parts: The armholes, the collar, the shoulder, the mouche, the embroidery at the sleeve vent, the button hole, the button with the old hen’s foot, the box pleat.

Luxury is in the details Craftsmanship, exclusivity, and an attention to detail are the hallmarks of Alpha Atelier. Customers come here to buy products that are one of a kind, and to avail of old-fashioned service and courtesy that never goes out of style.

For more information: Alpha Atelier, Moda Mall Tel: +973 17522842

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Style

BD99

What’s Trending Alpha Atelier Introducing the latest collection by the leaders in high-end elegant menswear.

Pure Silk

BD159

Finest Egyptian Cotton

BD599

Handmade Gun Metal

BD199

Cashmere

to d and unique Newly arrive Alpha Atelier

BD499

Titanium

BD139 (75ml)

BD299

Calf Leather

BD1799 Cashmere

For more information: Alpha Atelier, Moda Mall Tel: +973 17522842

BD379 BD199 50

Gulf Insider November 2016

Calf Leather

Style

Sustainable Luxury Caroline Scheufele, Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director along with Livia Firth, Founder and Creative Director of Eco Age present exclusive Green Carpet High Jewellery pieces at the flagship boutique in The Dubai Mall.

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aunched in 2013 in partnership with Eco-Age, The Journey to Sustainable Luxury is Chopard’s commitment to sourcing responsibly and helping the real people in its supply chain who are all too often overlooked. An exciting and ambitious multi-year programme, it has now delivered global market leadership and differentiation from competitors.

This year at the Cannes Film Festival Chopard announced its next significant stage in the journey with a partnership with Gemfields. By partnering with Gemfields, Chopard can set an example of best practice in the mining of coloured gemstones, demonstrate leadership in the forging of industry alliances and continue to support local communities in the most remote regions where these extremely rare raw materials are mined.

To celebrate the beginning of this new phase of the journey, Chopard unveiled a capsule collection of Green Carpet

High Jewellery within its Red Carpet Collection. The unveiling took place at the Cannes Film Festival in May and included responsibly sourced emeralds in Chopard’s Green Carpet Collection for the very first time.

These beautiful Green Carpet creations were debuted on the famous red carpet

by Julianne Moore. Julianne, who has walked the Green Carpet Challenge before, wore the incredible statement earrings along with a ring, both crafted in Fairmined certified gold and featuring the validated emeralds from Gemfields and diamonds sourced from the IGC group, which is certified by the RJC Code of Practices.

Chopad continues to strengthen this relationship as it launches new Green Carpet creations of High Jewellery at the Venice Film Festival 2016. The incredible new pieces feature responsibly sourced emeralds, showcasing the marriage of ethics and aesthetics.

The Journey to Sustainable Luxury The Journey began when Chopard forged a philanthropic relationship with the influential South American mining NGO, the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM). Chopard became the world’s first watch and luxury jewellery company to support and enable gold mining communities to reach Fairmined certification and provide training, social welfare and environmental support.

To date, two mines in Latin America (in Colombia and Bolivia) have now achieved Fairmined certification through Chopard’s direct support.

Over the last three years, Chopard has continued to build on its promise, achieving a number of landmark steps including: creating the incredible Green Carpet Collection of High Jewellery using only sustainably sourced and traceable precious materials; the Palme Verte Collection, the first diffusion line in Fairmined gold; the world’s first watches in Fairmined gold in the L.U.C Collection; not forgetting the mythical Palme d’Or which has been crafted from Fairmined gold since 2014.

For more information Tel : +973 1752 0052

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Travel

Advertorial

The Only Cabin Room in the Sky Etihad Airways makes a commitment to provide the world’s most luxurious living space in the air, available only on the airline’s A380 aircraft. Where else can you get complete discretion and limitless hospitality?

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tihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, continues to enchant the world with the product and service offerings on its Airbus A380 including The Residence by Etihad™, the world’s most luxurious living space in the air, available only on the airline’s A380 aircraft. With the launch of these new fleets, the Abu Dhabi-based airline has also redefined and renamed its cabin classes.

The Residence is a breath-taking and completely new forward upper-deck cabin on the A380. Accommodating single or double occupancy, it features a living room, separate double bedroom and ensuite shower room, it is the only three room suite in an airline, designed for two people travelling together. It is the world’s first truly private room in the air with a full-sized double bed.

Each Etihad Airways A380 will offer a boutique version of The Residence with 52

Gulf Insider November 2016

different color palettes, table marquetry and custom carpets.

Step into a world of luxury Etihad Airways offers a different level of experience even before stepping on board your flight with their first class lounge and spa. They also have a dedicated VIP Travel Concierge team who will ensure every detail of your travel experience, including ground transport, cuisine, and amenities, are tailored to your requirements.

The Six Senses Spa offers a range of complimentary treatments, including massage and facials, for first class and Residence guests. You can also enjoy a 15-minute complimentary treatment at the Style and Shave bar. There are also dining options available, a gym where you can fit in some exercise while you are waiting for your flight, a relaxation area, and a playroom for kids.

VIP Amenities The Residence, which is certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for single or double occupancy, offers levels of luxury and total privacy normally found only on private jets.

Guests in The Residence will have the services of a personal Butler throughout their flight. These fully trained service professionals have received specialist training at the Savoy Butler Academy in London.

This is the one place where you can enjoy breakfast in bed among the clouds with your Inflight Chef who will prepare a personalized dining experience for you.

You can also ask the Lifestyle Concierge team to make plans for your arrival, such as booking your favorite restaurant or arranging tickets for a special event.

Etihad has already thought of everything The airlines has created a seamless and intuitive travel experience tailormade to each customer. Customers even get their own luxury chauffer. This is the most exclusive and luxurious flight you will ever have.

The A380 has direct flights from Abu Dhabi to London, New York, Mumbai and Sydney. Fares from Bahrain to London with “The Residence’ starts as low as BHD 9,000* for one guest or BHD 11,000* for 2 guests.

*Fares are subject to change.

For more information, visit the website at www.etihad.com

Al Jabal Consultancy Attorneys and Legal Consultants

Saleh Al Nashabh

Mansoor Nadhar Lawyer

Mohamed Ismael Lawyer

Khadija A. Al Hussain Partner

Lawyer

Mohamed Al Wasti

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

Partner

Mr Ali Al Jabal

Areas of Specialisation: Banking & Finance

Project Finance

Bankruptcy & Corporate Restructuring

Property & Real Estate

Corporate & Commercial Litigation

Oil & gas

Dispute Resolution

Maritime

Intellectual Property Rights

Aviation

Insurance

Debt collection

Mergers & Acquisitions

Legal drafting & Contract Reviewing

Private Equity

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

Life

The Rich Kids of Dubai

flaunt their wealth on Instagram

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he Rich Kids of Dubai have shared plenty of snaps of their enviable lifestyles on their namesake Instagram account which has amassed more than 70,000 followers.

The blurb of the social media account suggests from the offset that these are no ordinary teenagers.

It reads: ‘We feature Dubai’s most fabulous people!

Dubai Cars, Dubai Fashion, Dubai Property THE DUBAI DREAM’.

While most teenagers reserve their Instagram for the odd casual selfie, the photos featured on the account see the wealthy subjects enjoying extraordinary lives.

Social media is often awash with photos of people’s pets, however the animals on the account are a little more exotic than your average dog or cat.

In one remarkable photo rapper Tinie Tempah, who was enjoying a break in Dubai, can be seen taking a pet for a walk - with the pet just happening to be a fully grown tiger.

In a similar snap a cheetah can be seen going for a ride with its owners perching on the seat of a Maserati with a red leather interior.

Wardrobe shots are popular on the account, showing off an incredible displays of pricey designer clothes, jewelry, and handbags. One snap showcases a woman’s 54

Gulf Insider November 2016

Life

awesome collection of hundreds of high heeled shoes in her closet There is no shortage of flash cars on the popular Instagram account with plenty willing to show off their flashy vehicles.

While cars may be the typical excuse for bragging rights, other members of the account opted for even more ostentatious modes of transport.

Serbian television personality Jelena Karleuša touches down in the holiday resort in style in her private helicopter with the Jumeirah hotel and palm trees filling the background of the photo.

The phrase ‘money is no object’ could not be more prevalent among the wealthy residents of Dubai with one snap seeing a group of women standing on a pile of money.

In another photo, brand rep Alii Muhammed is pictured studying a map, surrounded by Louis Vuitton luggage as well as his own personal entourage of body guards.

Most of those featured on the site appear to agree that they are living the high life with hashtags including #richkids #thegoodlife #thefablife #thedream and #luxury.

Gulf Insider November 2016

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Opinion

Ask Each month we will be putting a legal problem to consultant Ali Al Jabal to answer. questioning and obliging the partners, managers and board members to pay any debt that falls on the disposal of the company in the face of others in exclusive cases. Whereby, the Bahraini legislature has set out a limited number of exclusive breaches in order to establish a claim: 1. The company’s partner, board member or company director provided confidential information or incorrect data relating to the company’s capital.

2. The company’s partner, board member or company director used the company for illegal or fraudulent purposes.

3. If the partner, board member or company director used the company’s finances for his or her own personal use.

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

This month - Partner’s Liability Problem: In the event a financial debt occurred on my behalf due to a company’s undertaking. Could I claim the debt in question by only bringing an action against the company, or could I legally make a claim for the debt against the partners, company director or members of the board in order to ensure that they are personally obliged to compensate this debt out of their own money.

AJ Answer: It was customarily held in Bahrain, that a company enjoyed financial autonomy for its owners or managers and that the debt owed to them would be in isolation from the private partner’s financial disclosure. This was stipulated by the Bahraini Companies Act, whereby you could only make a limited claim by reference to the company’s capital 56

Gulf Insider November 2016

This was stipulated by the Bahraini Companies Act, whereby you could only make a limited claim. and assets without being able to bring an action to the rest of the partners, members of the board of directors and managers.

However, amendments were made to the Companies Act by the Bahraini legislators, thus opening the door to

4. If a partner, board member or company director does not separate between personal interest, gain and the interests of the company and if the partner, board member or company director accumulates a financial debt on the company that they are aware that the company will not be able to pay back.

5. If the proxy fails or neglects to pay the governmental taxes owed to the state and finally in the event of breach of the Companies Act or the Memorandum of Association and its internal regulations.

Therefore, in the event any of the foregoing criteria are satisfied and any other limitations are imposed by the Legislator, you are legally entitled to make a claim for your debt and hold the director, partner or a member of the board of directors liable and oblige them to pay from their personal funds if they satisfy the exclusive situations in the above-mentioned.

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

Last Word

Burj Khalifa landlord Indian businessman owns 22 apartments in Dubai’s tallest tower Burj Khalifa!

Now, six years on with 22 of the 900 apartments at perhaps the Gulf’s poshest address under his belt, he said five are rented, and as for the rest, he’s “waiting for the right tenant”, the report quoted him as saying.

In an incredible sounding rags-toriches story, Nereaparambil realised there was huge scope for an air conditioning business in the hot climate of the desert after he first touched down in Sharjah back in 1976.

George V Neryamparampil, (Photo by Juidin Bernarrd)

The Kerala-born is believed to be one of the largest private owners within the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest structure.

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n Indian mechanic-turnedbusinessman owns an incredible 22 apartments in the popular Burj Khalifa.

George V Nereaparambil says he is not stopping at 22 and will continue to buy more if he gets a “good deal”.

“If I get a good deal, I’ll buy more. I am a dreamer and I never stop dreaming,” he told Khaleej Times.

The Kerala-born businessman is believed to be one of the largest private 58

Gulf Insider November 2016

owners within the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest structure.

His stake in the property came about when a relative teased him about the 828-metre building. “A relative of mine jokingly told me: See this Burj Khalifa, you cannot enter it,” he said.

After seeing an advertisement in a newspaper about an apartment for rent in the building in 2010, Nereaparambil rented the apartment the same day and started living in it from the next day.

George V Nereaparambil says he is not stopping at 22 and will continue to buy more if he gets a ‘good deal’.

Nereaparambil, who helped his father trade cash crops and made money from waste at the age of 11, then went about setting up the beginnings of his now mini empire, GEO Group of Companies.

“People in my hometown used to trade cotton, but they’d throw away the cotton seeds. Not many people knew at that time that you could make gum from those seeds,” he said.

Sifting through the dirt and sand to gather up the disregarded seeds, he said he would often make a “90 per cent profit selling them on”.

“I’d do the same with tamarind seeds too. I’d sell the empty shells as cattle feed,” he added.

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