Gulf Insider - April 2023

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KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

Publisher & Editor in Chief Nicholas C. Cooksey

Editorial Deepika Rao

Editorial Contributors Vinita V Andrea Stephanie Raj

Sales & Business Development Charlie Cooksey

Layout Designs James Dhanraj

Admin & Finance Nikesh Pola

Photography Angelo Jose A Fadhel Yusuf

Sheikh Hamad bin IsaAl Khalifa, the ruler of Bahrain, with his sons in the 1930s

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At the American University of Bahrain, it is a core part of our mission to provide quality education and prepare our students for an evolving and competitive job market. AUBH students have access to a wide array of opportunities to realize their professional and personal goals, in a student-centric, multicultural, and flexible, American-model co-educational University, on par with the best universities around the world. Beyond academia, they also have access to social, athletic and other extra- curricular activities making AUBH home.

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BRUSHSTROKES, MOVEMENTS, AND AI UNPACKING ART DUBAI 2023

Gulf Insider’s Nicholas Cooksey attends the three-day International Art Fair at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

The 16th edition of Art Dubai, the Middle East’s top art fair and the most ambitious version yet was held in early March. Considered to be the largest ever fair conceived so far, the 2023 edition had over 130 galleries from six continents, including 30 new exhibits displayed for visitors, art enthusiasts, and collectors to explore.

I was invited as part of Gulf Insider to witness the three-day fair and the preview (an exclusive programme for the invited press). The efforts of a global community in bringing ideas, perspectives and dialogue on art to the forefront were palpable from the getgo. Dubai’s post-pandemic boom and recovery from the recession were cited

as reasons for the enormous scale of the art fair this year.

As an international platform, Art Dubai is considered a talent incubator, a launch pad for artists and curators around the world, with a special focus this year on the “Global South”, a collective term for countries in the regions of Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. The fair also increased its number of South Asian galleries and institutions participating this year.

Art Dubai Digital, which was introduced in 2022 showcased the global digital art scene and how artists are using immersive technology. 20 exhibits presented artists from around the world, featuring crypto art, pixel art, interactive installations, abstract

animations, 3D sculptures, and CGI animations among others. With digital technology seeping into every sphere of existence today, this section of the fair explored the extent of each artist’s imagination in blending technology with their work. “Art in Space”, a Dubai-based team presented a programme that showcased a new AI-generated work on each day of the fair, which expressed the heritage of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Bawwaba was another section I explored where Vipash Purichanont, a Bangkok-based art curator put together presentations from 11 artists from Brazil, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Morocco, Nepal, the Philippines, and the UAE. Meaning ‘gateway’ in Arabic,

Bawwaba featured new works of art (created in the past year) that explored concepts like hyperconnectivity, nature, handicrafts, art history, and indigenous communities. Bawwaba had also commissioned a performance by UAE-based artist, Moza Almatrooshi who introduced flavours of the Global South by working with food and Arabian polytheistic practices.

The contemporary section of the art fair had 14 first-time exhibitors out of a total of 76. The galleries ranged from emerging art scenes to established centres. They presented a mix of solo or group shows. I was quite taken with some of the participants I interacted with at this section of the fair. Maruani Mercier showcased 11 artists including 68-year-old American artist, Phillip Taaffe, who imbibes motifs from around the world in his art – Northwest Coast, Indian masks, Islamic ornamentation, and the Japanese perforated screens.

Mercier’s corner at the fair also included a giltwood mirror carved and pierced with grapevine shoots leaves branches, called Pierced Flowers, created by Italian artist Maurizio

Milan-based Plan X Gallery on the other hand focuses on contemporary art and supports artists around the world. The conventional pieces on display conveyed provocative messages on themes such as social media influence, consumerism, and inner conflicts between what we show to the world and what we really feel.

The solo booth of Taymour Grahne featured a six-part work of art by New York-based artist, Asif Hoque. Red Curls, is inspired by the landscape of UAE, where the artist presents a yearning to explore a land yet to be visited.

Dubai’s Tashkeel Art Residency Programme featured the work of Chilean-born, New York-based artist, Alonsa Guevara. She explores the concept of womanhood, identity, belonging, and the connection between humans and nature (which seems to have weakened over time). She described her work as a depiction of feminine energy, fertility, and the cycles of life through flora, and fauna.

Art Dubai Digital, which was introduced in 2022 showcased the global digital art scene and how artists are using immersive technology.

Cattelan and photographer Pierpaolo Ferrari, founders of the biannual magazine, Toiletpaper.

I would like to recall an interesting encounter with Darvish Fakhr. The Iranian-American artist was perhaps the only ‘movement artist’ at the Fair. His visiting card was a $100 motion picture bill with a doodle over the picture of Benjamin Franklin. Darvish’s work, I learned, plays with beauty and destruction. He creates a classic painting which he later desecrates (by his own alter ego, the Urban Sufi) using movements and assuming impossible positions, with statements pointed at political, spiritual, or environmental issues.

Art Dubai Modern, the fourth section at the art fair presented 10 artists who were at the height of their artistic careers in the 20th century, a time of social, political and environmental developments. Curators Mouna Mekouar and Lorenzo Giusti aimed to resurrect the perspectives of these historical artists and their representation of global issues and concerns, many of which resurface in the present day.

On the sidelines of the international Fair in Dubai, I was also given a tour of the Sharjah Biennial 15, an ongoing art

fair that presents the works of over 150 artists and collectives. 19 venues across Sharjah, heritage landmarks and art spaces showcase over 300 works of art under the theme “Thinking Historically in the Present.” Sharjah, while a completely different cultural landscape from Dubai, has its own thriving art scene. Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi took over the curation of the Sharjah Biennial from the late Okwui Enwezor this year.

Back to Art Dubai: Apart from

the well-curated booths, artist representations from countries we seldom see, and a wide variety of displays, the fair also hosted conferences such as the Global Art Forum, The Collector Talks, and the Art Business Conference. I was taken aback to find a BMW bonnet transformed into an abstract artwork as part of the brand’s collaboration with artists. The fair’s other partners like Julius Baer, ARM Holding, Boghossian, Guerlain, and Maison Ruinart had presentations and art commissions at the fair as well.

Visiting Art Dubai was an experience in understanding how the world is perceived and communicated with by members of the artistic community. While most of the art was thoughtprovoking or vibrant, some occasionally made me wonder about the definition of ‘art’. Nevertheless, it was an impressively organised event, with people from all over the world pouring in to find the piece they resonated most with or even make a purchase.

Visiting Art Dubai was an experience in understanding how the world is perceived and communicated with by members of the artistic community.

BRIDGING THE SKILL GAP: THE PROFESSIONAL LEGAL PRACTICE CERTIFICATE AT THE JUDICIAL AND LEGAL STUDIES INSTITUTE (JLSI)

Asking the right questions, negotiating, and effectively resolving disputes are just a few of the many takeaways the graduating class of the Professional Legal Practice Certificate (PLPC) Course have had over the last six months. For the twenty-three law graduates, the training program has bridged the gap between their university courses and the real-life applications of legal skills.

The Judicial & Legal Studies Institute (JLSI) was established in 2005 to provide specialised training for practising legal professionals in Bahrain. “Since 2019, the institute has been addressing the lack of employability skills among fresh University graduates through the PLPC program. The programme was conceived to empower law graduates

into the industry on a solid footing, particularly in the areas of corporate, commercial, and financial law,” said Dr. Khaled Serry Seyam, Chairman, JLSI.

“The PLPC is considered one of the leading legal training programs provided by JLSI in the Kingdom. It covers various modern legal topics and aims to qualify fresh graduates to enter the market, bearing in mind that the legal market has become very competitive and requires a high level of knowledge about the contemporary challenges in law such as technology, AI and blockchain, which were successfully covered in the PLPC,” added Dr. Reyadh Seyadi, Director, JLSI.

With nearly 600 law graduates entering the field every year in the Kingdom, not more than twenty-three find their way into the programme after a rigorous selection process. Over the

course of six months, they develop real-world skills, learn from industry practitioners, and access employment opportunities. The training comprises 15 modules designed and delivered by Bahrain’s top lawyers entirely in English. The modules cover topics such as legal ethics, corporate law, financial law, antimoney laundering, alternative dispute resolution, negotiations skills, and real estate law, among others.

Created by Sulaf Zakharia, Head of Institutional Relations, PLPC is a collaborative model driven by JLSI in partnership with Bahrain-based law firms. The program is supported by Hassan Radhi & Associates, JLSI’s Legal Training Partner for 2022-2023, as well as Al Tamimi & Co., Ali Al Aradi & Associates, Newton Legal Group, Zeenat Al Mansoori & Associates, DLA Piper, MENA Chambers, and independent trainers Dr. Aseel Zimmo, and Ms. Yasmin Sebah.

For the twenty-three law graduates, the training program has bridged the gap between their university courses and the real-life applications of legal skills.

Gulf Insider spoke with these partners to find out more about the program, the field, and their reasons to support the PLPC.

What made you support the PLPC program?

The development of lawyers and the creation of qualified legal cadres with a high degree of professionalism is an essential part of our professional mission in our company to participate in making Bahrain a leader in the field of the legal sector in addition to our sincere belief in the role of community partnership to service this beloved country.

What advice do you have for budding legal professionals wanting to chart a career in this field?

One of the most important advice that we may give to this generation and to our young and promising colleagues in the profession is the ability to adhere to a high level of integrity, independence and high professionalism, be honest and trustworthy, continue learning & training and the constant pursuit of achieving the ultimate goal, which is nothing but justice.

What made you support the PLPC program?

At Al Tamimi & Co, we believe in setting ourselves high professional and ethical standards and acting responsibly in our dealings with our clients, our people, and the wider community, as this makes us a better law firm, a better employer, and a better global citizen. As such, Al Tamimi & Co has been leading the CSR initiatives within Bahrain and the regional market, given our size, presence and practice coverage. This would include supporting the PLPC program to assist in developing the next generation of lawyers.

What went behind creating the modules for the program?

The modules focused on what we believe are the up-to-date developments and needs within the legal and commercial markets using our practical insight into the global and regional markets. The modules have also been an opportunity for us as practitioners to guide the new generation of lawyers on what would be expected from future employers and clients in terms of legal skills or knowledge.

What made you support the PLPC program?

To begin with, introducing Ali Al Aradi Attorneys & Legal Consultants, we are convinced that professionalism, effectiveness, and legal training are the core principles of the fundamental pillars of success. Meanwhile, sharing Legal experience with Junior/Senior associates is a major investment in the legal sector which embraces the exchange of legal skills and practice that enhances the confidentiality of the candidates and prepares them to apply the core skills in their legal career. Therefore, we assure you that the PLPC program stipulates such training skills.

As a lawyer, being accredited before the Court of Cassation and the Constitutional Court of the Kingdom of Bahrain, I believe that I have the responsibility to educate and train junior lawyers to tackle all the challenges during their practical life, and the PLPC aids my accountability towards such a mission.

What differentiates a program like the PLPC from other graduate training programs?

The PLPC course summarizes the academic courses into a practical scheme where it offers candidates the advantage to benefit from the technical and practical comprehensive legal knowledge of different areas of law. Furthermore, one of the goals of the PLPC program is to facilitate the fundamental skills that are required for each individual to be critically successful, and it reinforces the skills that each legal associate shall retain that other courses are not focusing on.

Alsayed Jaffer Mohammed, Partner / CEO, Hassan Radhi & Associates

Noor Al Rayes, Partner, Head of Litigation –Bahrain, Al Tamimi & Company

Ali Al Aradi, Founder & Senior Lawyer, Ali Al Aradi & Associates

What made you support the PLPC program?

Since our inception, Newton Legal has been committed to supporting and training young Bahraini lawyers. We believe that the PLPC program focuses on the practical aspects of the legal profession which is crucial to enable law graduates to thrive in a short period of time. We supported the PLPC program as we believe that the said program would have a positive impact on law graduates’ careers.

What are the key elements of the program that enhance the learning experience of the trainees?

The PLPC program is taught by key law practitioners which provides the trainees with an in-depth practical insight into the topics being taught; resulting in the trainees being better equipped to deliver the required legal services to their clients.

What made you support the PLPC program?

We support programs that are aimed at elevating the level of skills and knowledge of lawyers and young professionals. This program is designed very well and is very comprehensive. We are delighted and honoured to be a part of it and to support the growth and development of lawyers and the overall legal profession.

What are the different opportunities available to graduates of legal studies after going through the training program?

One of the things that the graduates will learn from this program is the available opportunities for lawyers. They will be armed with the knowledge and skills to explore the legal landscape in and outside Bahrain and secure a position that speaks to their skills and talents. It is important for young professionals to be aware of the various potential routes they can take in the legal field. This program will introduce them to the possibilities.

What made you support the PLPC program?

CSR and pro bono initiatives will always be at the heart of what we do at DLA Piper. Our firm is deeply committed to maintaining a leading pro bono practice. We employ a dedicated team of lawyers who are recognized as experts in their fields, and all lawyers at DLA Piper are supported and encouraged to undertake pro bono work. This is evident in our efforts to elevate access to law, whether through our “LAW” initiative to support female lawyers or our “New Perimeter” programme that allows support to law students entering the legal field in underdeveloped countries in an effort to better prepare the lawyers of the future. The PLPC programme reflects all the aims and values that we believe are essential for this. In all instances, we seek to make our work as high-impact and strategic as possible, and our pro bono practice is an integral part of our credentials as a firm.

What is next for the program and how will it continue to stay relevant for the graduates enrolling in it?

The PLPC has the potential to grow and develop into a course that matches the standards of the SQE or NY Bar Exam, particularly if developed into a mandatory professional qualification that is required to enter the legal profession. In light of this, DLA Piper hopes to work alongside the JLSI to help develop the curriculum to achieve this goal. We will continue to lend support to the development of the PLPC program.

Aamal Al Abbasi, Managing Partner, Newton Legal Group

Mohamed Toorani, Partner and Head of Bahrain Office, DLA Piper

Aysha Abdulla Mutaywea, Partner at MENA Chambers Bahrain Law Firm

What made you support the PLPC program?

Zeenat Al Mansoori & Associates is committed to the Bahrain community in which we work and live and principal among our contributions is supporting education and training opportunities for the legal profession. As such, we made an authentic commitment to the Judicial and Legal Studies Institute (JLSI) many years ago, whether it is by our Partners participating in training courses by the JLSI for Bahraini young lawyers or by playing a small supporting role in programs such as the PLPC. The PLPC has

identified the needs of young Bahraini law graduates and trainees working in the legal profession and strategized a solution to help better equip them for the challenges ahead and we are grateful for the opportunity to support them.

How does PLPC equip young graduates with employability skills?

The PLPC is an innovative program in Bahrain as the range of topics it covers focuses on commercial, corporate, finance and alternative dispute resolution areas of practice as well as on the development of soft skills for lawyers, such as legal ethics, legal research, negotiation skills and critical thinking. The topics are delivered by partners in leading law firms and are designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. The fact that the PLPC is delivered in the English language is also critical for strengthening the skills of Bahraini graduates or trainees who studied law primarily in Arabic and supporting them in seeking employment opportunities in full practice firms or international firms or in-house.

knowledge in order to enable them to support their clients effectively and play a role in the development of the legal and judicial system.

In your opinion, what are the most important skills law graduates need to thrive in today’s professional environment?

What made you support the PLPC program?

The PLPC program has been a work in progress for very long. Through my research with the JLSI over the years, it was clear that there was a gap in the market for such a program that contributes to the development of a robust and skilled legal profession in Bahrain. I strongly believe that by supporting the PLPC, individuals and organizations can help to promote the development of the legal profession that is capable of providing quality legal services to all members of society. The course provides practical training in legal practice skills such as drafting legal documents, negotiating, and advocacy. These skills are essential for individuals who want to succeed in the legal profession and can give graduates a competitive advantage when seeking employment.

What is the impact of a program like PLPC on graduates of legal studies?

What made you support the PLPC program?

The PLPC is an important program that develops the legal knowledge and skills that lawyers need in practice. It is an excellent bridge between university and legal practice. As a legal practitioner and educator, I consider it my duty to support young lawyers and help them develop their skills and

Law graduates of the day need to be proficient in English as it is the language of commerce and almost all business transactions are conducted in English. In recognising that Bahrain introduced commercial courts which adjudicate cases in English. They need to be technically competent as all civil and commercial courts are paperless and soon it will be all courts in Bahrain. Lawyers also need to have negotiation skills which assist them when representing their clients as well as agreeing to their fees. I also believe that lawyers need to be lifelong learners as the law is constantly changing with the demands of technology, commerce and society. Of course, they also need to be problem solvers with excellent analytical, drafting and communication skills.

In addition to the practical training in legal practice, the PLPC program supports graduates to become qualified and skilful lawyers in Bahrain. This professional qualification is essential for individuals who want to practice law in Bahrain and opens up career opportunities in the legal profession. The program also provides excellent opportunities to network with other legal professionals in Bahrain and internationally. This can be beneficial for individuals who want to build their professional network.

Overall, I believe the PLPC program can have a significant impact on graduates’ personal development as it challenges individuals to think critically, develop problem-solving skills, and work effectively in teams, which can be beneficial for personal growth and development.

Amel AlAseeri, Partner, Zeenat Al Mansoori & Associates

Ms. Yasmin Sebah, Senior Lecturer in Law (Middlesex University) & Legal Consultant for the MENA Region

Dr. Aseel Zimmo, Advisor to the Minister of Justice

THE FUTURE OF ENGINEERING IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Engineering has always played a significant role in driving technological innovation and advancements in various industries. The knowledge and skills that engineers gain during their studies have enabled them to design, develop, and implement innovative solutions to complex problems. However, in today’s world with the rapid pace of technological development and the increasing complexity of global

challenges, engineering programs should strive to prepare students to be Citizen Engineers. These engineers are not only technically proficient but also conscious of their ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities as engineers.

Engineering education today is expected to place a greater emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches. As new challenges arise, engineers will

Dr. Hasan Kadhem from the College of Engineering at the American University of Bahrain discusses the need for preparing students to tackle upcoming challenges and trends in the field.

Engineering programs will need to keep pace with the current industries and integrate advanced technologies.

need to work collaboratively with other professionals from other fields such as computer science, medicine, and business, to develop comprehensive solutions. For instance, an engineer working on a medical device should collaborate with medical professionals to understand the device’s clinical applications. He should also collaborate with computer scientists to design the device’s software, and business experts to market and sell the product successfully. To meet this demand for interdisciplinary collaboration, engineering programs must adopt a more integrated approach to teaching. They should offer opportunities for students to collaborate across disciplines which will expose them to different perspectives and skill sets.

As engineers take on more responsibility for developing sustainable solutions to address global challenges, such as climate change, and resource depletion, it is crucial that engineering programs provide students with the knowledge and skills to tackle such challenges effectively. Thus, engineering programs will need to integrate sustainability and social responsibility into their curricula, emphasizing the importance of ethical, environmental, and societal impacts of their engineering practice. Students should learn to identify and analyze the social and environmental impacts of their projects. They should also evaluate the ethical implications of their decisions, and understand the broader societal context of their work.

The demand for skilled and versatile engineers continues to grow, thus, engineering programs need to provide students with practical experience and opportunities to work on realworld engineering problems. There is a need to shift away from traditional lecture-based learning toward more interactive and hands-on teaching methods. Incorporating experiential and project-based learning into engineering programs will help graduates apply their theoretical knowledge to solve practical problems, making them more attractive to employers.

In addition, engineering programs will need to keep pace with the

current industries and integrate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality into their curricula. By incorporating digitalization and advanced technologies into engineering education, students will develop skills essential for success in today’s fast-paced and digitally driven world. They will be equipped with the knowledge and expertise required to design and develop cutting-edge solutions to real-world problems, making them valuable assets to their future employers.

Finally, with the rapid pace of technological development, engineers will need to learn how to continually update their skills and knowledge to remain relevant in the job market. Therefore, engineering higher education programs must provide opportunities for lifelong learning and professional development by offering continuing education courses, workshops, and conferences. This will provide graduates with opportunities to learn about the latest developments in their fields. This approach will also allow engineers to keep their knowledge and skills up-todate, tackle new challenges, and take advantage of emerging opportunities. The future of engineering higher education is marked by a greater emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, sustainability, experiential learning, digitalization, and lifelong learning. By embracing these trends, engineering programs can prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the future, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.

As new challenges arise, engineers will need to work collaboratively with other professionals from other fields such as computer science, medicine, and business, to develop comprehensive solutions.

Dr. Hasan Khadem, AUBH Program Lead, College of Engineering and Associate Professor of Computer Science

IMMORTAL HUMANS BY 2030?

Would you like to live forever? Well, some experts say you might. Last week, a former Google engineer said he believes that humans will achieve immortality within the next eight years. Ray Kurzweil – who has an 86 per cent success rate with his predictions –thinks that advances in technology will quickly lead to age-reversing ‘nanobots’. Here is a look at the strangest ways humanity could attain eternal life-

Electronic immortality – While it sounds far-fetched, scientists have been looking for years into ways we can regenerate our cells, or upload our minds to a computer. It uses a chemical solution that can keep the body intact for hundreds or thousands of years as a statue of frozen glass. But the key

to being able to recreate a person’s consciousness involves accessing the organ’s ‘connectome.’ A connectome is the complex web of neural connections in the brain, often referred to as the brain’s wiring system.

Freezing the brain – Some companies offer the opportunity for people to have their brains frozen after they die, in the hope they can be brought back to life in the future. One of these is Russian cryonics firm KrioRus, which currently has 91 human ‘patients’ stored at -320.8°F (-196°C) with the aim of protecting them against deterioration. This is cold enough to stop all cellular function and preserve a body’s state until defrost

Cell rejuvenation – Many scientific breakthroughs have been made with regard to stem cell injections,

which have been found to be able to rejuvenate cells. Stem cells are unique because they can differentiate into different types of cells in the body, such as muscle, bone or nerve cells. When injected into the body, they can integrate with damaged tissues and help to repair and regenerate them.

Reanimating the brain – A technology that was developed to help scientists study brains in three dimensions could also provide the key to eternal life. In 2019, scientists at Yale University restored the circulation and cellular activity in a pig’s brain four hours after its death by pumping it with oxygen-rich artificial blood.

Originally written by Fiona Jackson - Science &Technology Reporter, MailOnline

A former Google engineer believes that advancement in technology would lead to age-reversing nanobots, providing humans with different approaches to attaining immortality.

TRACK ACTION

Gulf Insider at Bahrain Grand Prix 2023

Nearly 100,000 people gathered at Sakhir’s Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) earlier in March to witness the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2023. In its 19-year history, BIC, fondly known as the “Home of Motorsports in the Middle East” broke its own records with a completely sold-out weekend and the highest single-day attendance on race day. An unprecedented turnout of nearly 100,000 spectators bore witness to the high-energy, high-speed racing weekend.

It’s no wonder that the Bahrain Grand Prix is perhaps the biggest event on the Kingdom’s calendar every year. Racing fans from all over the world make their annual trips to the island to witness the opening race of the season, which sets the tone for the year-round racing action. They were the first to witness the new cars, new driver line-ups and the anticipation that the first race of a new season brings.

The atmosphere was festive, with fans getting to see their favourite racing drivers up close, enjoy a huge lineup of roaming live performances, stand

in queues to enter a haunted house, and battle it out in teams with race car simulators.

For VIPs with access to the exclusive Paddock Club, there was a chance to walk up and down the pitlane watching the team engineers and technicians practice their pit stops (an interval during the race to change the car’s tyres). The paddock was electric with the who’s-who of Bahrain making their appearance at team garages and wishing their favourite drivers the best for the race.

HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa was seen in his element, driving his buggy around the paddock and engaging with team principals before the race started.

The 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix gave the Red Bull Racing team a reason to celebrate as Max Verstappen, the reigning two-time world champion grabbed his first victory in Bahrain after starting from the pole position. His teammate, Sergio Perez came second giving the team a much-needed boost after their double early retirements in the 2022 season opener here.

Last year’s Bahrain winner, Charles Leclerc on the other hand was left without any points at the end of the race as engine issues forced him back to the Ferrari garage mid-race. His teammate, Carlos Sainz, who took second place in 2022, managed to finish the race with points but missed out on a chance at the podium.

However, the unlikely star of the

Racing fans from all over the world make their annual trips to the island to witness the opening race of the season

weekend was Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, driving his first race with the team this year. In his 22nd year as a Formula One driver, the two-time world champion was on everyone’s radar after taking the lead in the practice sessions and finally fixing his spot on the podium with a third-place finish.

It was in 2004 that the circuit witnessed its first-ever Formula One race where Ferrari emerged as the winner and Michael Schumacher took the victory stand. Since then, not only has the sport evolved to accommodate regulations, faster cars, and intense racing action, but its carnival-like atmosphere has also become a hallmark of the sport itself.

The popularity of Formula One across the world has been growing in recent

years, especially with a new generation of fans emerging in the Middle East. With four races on this year’s calendar (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar), F1 is attracting a heavy footfall of tourists and motorsport fans to the region.

Anticipation for the 2024 Formula One Grand Prix in Bahrain has already skyrocketed. Bahrain International Circuit will also be celebrating its 20th anniversary coinciding with the race. With tickets selling out completely this year, it is an exciting time for the island to see what the 2024 season brings with it.

The popularity of Formula One across the world has been growing in recent years, especially with a new generation of fans emerging in the Middle East.

RACING, CAMARADERIE, AND BEYOND

Exclusive Interview with Mark Webber

As the Formula One pre-season testing got underway before the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend, we visited the Porsche Center to meet legendary Australian racing driver, Mark Webber. The nine-time Formula One Grand Prix winner, FIA World Endurance Champion, television personality, and Porsche ambassador reflected on his illustrious career, his passion for Porsche cars, and his take on the 2023 Formula One season while in conversation with Gulf Insider.

How do you like being back in Bahrain and how are you spending your time here?

Good memories here in Bahrain. I’ve been coming here for nearly 20 years, first as part of Formula One and then again with the World Endurance

Championship. I’m very lucky to receive a car from Porsche here - the Panera GTS is awesome to drive around from the hotel to the track and do a little sightseeing in Bahrain.

You’ve been in the game for a long time before you retired in 2017. What’s the one thing you miss and one thing you don’t miss about racing?

I miss the camaraderie that comes with working with a big team. It’s always good fun to work towards big goals and trying to achieve success together. I don’t miss the diet and the huge amount of travel. I’m still travelling a lot now, but not as much as I probably did when I was racing. It allows me to balance between family and professional life a little more, which is something I’m certainly enjoying.

What do you remember about your race

during the first Bahrain Grand Prix in 2004 and your last one here in 2013?

In 2004, I was driving the Jaguar and I think we had pretty high degradation during the race. We did finish the race, however. My last one here with Red Bull was in 2013 and it was a challenging result for me. Unfortunately, I never made it to the podium here in Bahrain - one of the only tracks where I didn’t finish in the top three. Perhaps, in another lifetime, I finally get there. Nevertheless, I always enjoyed coming here, even though the results weren’t overly strong for me at this venue.

Your first World Endurance Championship (WEC) title was set here back in 2015 while driving the Porsche 919. Is there anything you remember about that particular race?

Absolutely, I won’t forget that race.

It was a very challenging one. We had some issues that we needed to manage with the car. Timo and Brendan, my two teammates and I had to work pretty hard to get that victory. The mechanics did an amazing job during the six-hour race. We kept ourselves in the fight and finished the race to get the world championship on our terms. It was a hard race and it ended in a nice celebration that night.

What led you to become a driver manager and a TV personality since your retirement?

Landing into TV was funny because I never thought I would when I stopped racing. When I made a small appearance on TV, I quite enjoyed it. Obviously, I work with really good people, so it’s fun. I’ve got other partners in Formula One that I work with on TV as well, so it works out pretty well that I get to do a

little bit of media, go to some races, and stay involved in the business.

The management side of things worked out with Oscar (Piastri) rising through the junior categories. He has had tremendous success in the last three or four years and we have been supporting him through his junior career. The support continues as he makes his Formula One season debut this year with McLaren.

What do you think are the challenges to drivers graduating from junior racing categories to F1 today? How was it when you were making your way into F1?

Formula One is always the biggest step. Of course, the travel is a lot more intense. The media, marketing, and commercial side of the sport is very different from the junior categories. Someone moving from there to Formula One has got to get used to a lot while

Good memories here in Bahrain. I’ve been coming here for nearly 20 years, first as part of Formula One and then again with the World Endurance Championship.

managing their performance. The team size drastically increases from junior categories where you have a team of probably 15-20 people. In Formula One, you have 80 or 90 people traveling with you. The expectation and just how you operate as a professional is very different.

It was similar in our day as well. The biggest difference is that some of the cars back then were probably more advanced. The competition gap was bigger. Now, they’ve levelled the field with regulations and manage the cars more in terms of the software and the strategies employed by the teams. The first year of any Formula One driver is perhaps the most important and special - one that every new driver looks forward to.

Which teams do you see rising to the top ranks this Formula One season? And who would be a driver to watch (apart from Oscar, of course)?

Red Bull still is the clear favorite. The team is looking very strong. Ferrari also looks pretty handy. It is going to be interesting to see the upper

midfield (third and fourth positions) with Mercedes, Aston Martin, and Alpine getting into a good battle. With young talents coming in this year, of course everyone has their eyes on Oscar (McLaren), but Max (Red Bull) is still someone that we all look at in awe. He’s on top of his driving game and there aren’t many chinks in his armor. He has some phenomenal strengths.

Have you noticed any changes to the audience of Formula One as a sport since the Netflix series began airing?

The way that the sport is positioned out there today has changed massively.

There’s no question that a new generation of young viewers are being attracted to the sport. However, never before have we had more females watch the sport, which is a big trend. The digital component with online streaming of the shows and the races has allowed everyone the opportunity to watch and gravitate to some of the racing heroes, no matter who they are. We should be very proud of how a sport can be pushed to different audiences and create an awareness about it. Some of it is a little bit cringeworthy, but it’s an easy way to consume content.

What is your favorite Porsche model and your favorite place to drive it in and why?

I love the GT3 RS four-liter 997. It’s a beautiful car, probably my favorite 911 of all time. I enjoyed driving it in the Alps in France. It’s always nice to have a mixture of motorway and nice open country roads where you’ve got some good elevation changes and a great view.

We should be very proud of how a sport can be pushed to different audiences and create an awareness about it.

BOLD DESIGN MEETS LUXURY AND COMFORT IN THE NEW HONGQI HS5

It was time to celebrate the new year with a new car on the road as we got to test drive one that’s got a lot of heads turning – the HONGQI HS5. The luxury SUV is the product of a rich automotive history dating back to the 1950s. HONGQI was in fact the first independently manufactured vehicle in China.

Gulf Insider got to take the HS5 out for a spin, picking it up from Zayani Motors and making our way to the lush surroundings of Al Bander Resort in Sitra. What we loved about the SUV most was how light it was to drive. It absorbs bumps pretty well – thanks to good suspension while giving you the on-road power that you need.

Gulf Insider Test Drives the HONGQI HS5 4WD Deluxe Edition.

Five driving modes for different terrains and a host of driver assistance features are only some of the benefits that come with an HS5. The fourcylinder engine allows you to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/hr in less than 9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 210 km/hr while experiencing a robust 223 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque. The model comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a mileage of 13 km/ litre.

HONGQI has made some great strides in the automotive market outside of China. Recently they made a bold move by hiring one of Rolls Royce’s lead designers to join their brand. This was evident in what caught our eye first – the aesthetic DNA of the Rolls Royce in HONGQI’s front grille that depicts a waterfall. The HONGQI emblem, a bold streak of chrome, runs along the bonnet and the middle of the grille.

The lighting design on the outside looks stunning and illuminates like an eagle hitting the sky. The LED lights or the “Wings of Hongqi” brighten up as you walk closer to the car. The sharp and stylish-looking electric exterior mirrors complete the ensemble of the HS5.

No stone is left unturned when it comes to comfort; the interiors of HONGQI HS5 prove that. The 12-way

adjustable driver’s seat comes with an aviation-grade side foldable headrest which can be adjusted in four different ways, providing extra grip and comfort while driving the HS5. The well-heated and ventilated seats are diamondstitched and rendered very comfortable with Nappa and Alcantara suede leather finishes. The multi-function steering wheel brings great convenience to the driving experience.

The door panel boasts a premium look, which is available on the 4WD deluxe edition of the HS5, which we got to test drive (thanks to Zayani Motors). A beautiful quilted pattern runs along the door panel with carbon touches and chrome features. The interior of the HS5 comes with 253-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof that adds a touch of elegance to the driving experience.

The HONGQI HS5 is an impressive driver’s car and truly reflects the brand’s continuous evolution in the area of automotive excellence.

Book your test drive of the HONGI HS5: contact Zayani Motors on 1770 3703.

Five driving modes for different terrains and a host of driver assistance features are only some of the benefits that come with an HS5.