Gulf Insider January 2015

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ARE YOU A NATURAL FIT? Our people are at the heart of a noble enterprise.

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GULF INSIDER EXCLUSIVE Interview with HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa

WORK Business

IS BAHRAIN SET FOR A TOURIST BOOM? Business

CHALLENGE BAHRAIN

Property

UAE REAL ESTATE REVIEW

Property

INTERNATIONAL BUYERS CONNED IN UAE Affairs

UK ROYAL NAVY IN BAHRAIN

Affairs

GCC PROPERTY AND OIL PRICES

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CONTENTS

January 2015

16 38 18 42

Travel

20 46

Life

24 51

Style

28 54

Motors

30 56

Motors

“REINVENTING” ETIHAD AIRWAYS Life

PROFILE: ALI ABBAS ABUSAEYA

BAHRAIN NOOR EL AIN FESTIVAL

54

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COMMENT...

Publisher & Editor in Chief - Nicholas Cooksey Editorial - Agnieszka Piechoska

Saudi Doesn’t Fear Low Oil Prices, but Russia Does Saudi Oil Minister Ali Naimi says he doesn’t care how low oil prices goes; “Whether it goes down to $20, $40, $50, $60 is irrelevant.” But Russia needs oil at $105 a barrel and cannot reduce how much it pumps (which could raise prices) as its technology is old. Current low prices are decimating Russia’s economy, driving down the ruble and making it impossible for the country to pay its debts. Last month Saudi Arabia publically blamed Russia for its own predicament. Saudi Arabia isn’t collapsing like Russia because the Saudis have, over years, built huge capital reserves and invested in technology for efficient production. Russia has not. It will likely be a difficult 2015 for Russia.

Only a small number of expats in the GCC work directly in the oil industry, but all depend on the region’s vast petroleum wealth. Middle East Economic Digest predicts that if oil averages $65 in 2015 – it’s currently below $60 – GDP across the GCC will shrink 13 per cent and the region will post its first current account deficit in two decades, which will hit spending hard. The IMF warns Gulf states to cut state-funded jobs. Dubai’s financial market crashed seven per cent last month. Although it recovered, experts warn the decade-long boom expats have enjoyed in the region could soon be over unless oil prices rebound to levels above $80.

Wealth generated from high oil revenues has helped underwrite a decade-long splurge on real estate and infrastructure across the GCC. Purchasing Manager Indices for Saudi Arabia and UAE - the region’s two largest economies - have shown a breakdown in confidence. Dubai’s property market recorded its first drop in four years last quarter. It is clear that the downturn in oil prices will likely hit expats living in the region.

RUSTING CLASSICS DISCOVERED

UAE Property Market Affairs

Oil Prices - Domino Effect Entrepreneurship Awards

The Swimming Challenge

Fine Dining - Ruka Hotel Review - Alila Jabal Akhdar 5th Bahrain Bike Week

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HISTORY IN THE MAKING Your cover story, featuring Princess Ameerah, highlights some truly exciting (to me, at least) developments currently taking place in Saudi Arabia. The Gulf state has been in unflattering spotlight for as long as I remember due to its controversial laws regulating women’s social status. But, no matter how many international human rights groups criticised Saudi authorities for their outdated policies or how much negative press would it generate around the globe – nothing seemed to make any noticeable difference. However, now that the Saudi women themselves have been taking a stand against gender disparity, it is purely a matter of time before the real changes begin. I call these events exciting, because – although it might seem insignificant at first – we are witnessing the beginning of a huge gender equality movement that has finally found its way to a place where it was needed the most. The only way to make a change is from within, and Saudi women are finally ready to fight for what is the birthright of every adult – a freedom to take full charge of your own life. - Ruqayya

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I’ve recently moved to Bahrain from Seoul.

I was pleasantly surprised to see my native country included in your special feature, which marked Bahrain’s National Day. I had no idea Bahrainis would be interested in our culture and even enrol for Korean language classes! Thank you, Bahrain, for being such a great host to so many nations!

Geonwoo

NATURE AT ITS BEST I’m in awe of Andrew Weaver’s stunning pictures. These images perfectly capture the dramatic look of Bahraini skies during sunset – one of the rare manifestations of nature’s beauty in this skyscraper-filled desert land.

A CHALLENGE FOR BAHRAIN Bahrain BD2

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VIP TRAVEL DILEMMAS The airlines in the Gulf continue to outdo each other in new ways to cater to their VIPs mid-air, with Etihad’s butler service being one of the latest “innovations”. I just have to ask, who comes up with this stuff? “We should never say the word ‘no’ – there is always something you can do, even at 40,000 feet,” says one of Etihad’s freshly trained butlers. Really? How about, pull yourself together and accept the fact that you ARE 40,000 feet above the ground, and your “special requests” CAN wait a couple more hours? Otherwise, perhaps all that travelling is just not for you. Perhaps you‘d rather skip the flight altogether and check in to your local hotel with plenty of butlers to make you feel at home. - David

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News

GULF ROUNDUP NEWS AROUND THE GCC AND BEYOND

BUSINESS & AFFAIRS TRA Bahrain: Report on Strategic Market Review The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) had been undertaking a comprehensive strategic market review (SMR) of the telecommunications sector in Bahrain throughout the second half of 2014, which confirms that significant competition has developed in Bahrain in the last years, notably for broadband and mobile services. This has led to substantial price reductions and new service innovations for consumers and businesses in Bahrain.

CRS on Bahrain’s New Real Estate Laws Unkar Chanian and Reem Al Mahroos from the Bahrain office of Charles Russell Speechlys delivered a presentation on the new Lease and Development Laws in Bahrain, at the annual international conference “Together Towards Tomorrow” organised by the Bahrain Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (BCICAI).

The audience of over 300 participants at the Radisson Diplomat Hotel in Manama was taken through the main provisions of the new regulations, which are due to be implemented in February 2015.

CRS also held a seminar in the run up to the 21st World Islamic Banking Conference to discuss “How Bahrain can maintain its standing as the world’s leading Islamic Finance centre.” Ashley Freeman, Head of Islamic Finance at Charles Russell Speechlys said: “The challenge is to put in place a strategic plan that will further our leadership of the Islamic finance industry. This plan should focus on niche activities like Shari’ah-compliant private banking, which will be the growth markets of the future.”

Bahrain: Tamkeen Discusses 2015 Operational Plan Tamkeen concluded a series of consultation sessions, conducted with ten segments of the private sector, around its proposed 2015 operational plan. The consultations were held in the form of focus groups in order to get deeper insights into the needs of each individual sector and adapt Tamkeen’s existing and proposed support programmes accordingly.

Also presented to the sectors was the new customer segmentation, in which Tamkeen divided enterprises and individuals into six distinct segments depending on the growth phase of their business or career respectively. Each of these segments will have a set of customised packages which address their specific growth needs.

10

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News

Survey: UAE Least Corrupt in ME The UAE has been named the least corrupt country in the Middle East, according to Transparency International’s 2014 Corruption Perceptions Index.

The UAE was ranked 25th globally out of 175 countries covered, just ahead of Qatar (26th). Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were ranked joint 55th, while Oman was ranked 64th, and Kuwait 67th.

The report said several countries in the Middle East have made “positive steps toward reform”. Earlier this year, Oman’s 20 high-ranking government officials and private executives went on trial on charges of offering or accepting bribes in exchange for large infrastructure contracts. The report said this is one important example of a government arming its anti-corruption bodies to deal with bribery adequately. But, it added: “Still, in most Arab countries loopholes, lax regulations, and disparate laws benefit those allied with a certain regime.”

More than two thirds of the 175 countries in the 2014 index scored below 50, on a scale from 0 (perceived to be highly corrupt) to 100 (perceived to be very clean).

Denmark came out on top in 2014 with a score of 92 while North Korea and Somalia share last place, scoring just eight. – ARABIAN BUSINESS

17 Million Jobs Needed by 2020 in the Arab World The Arab world needs 17 million new job opportunities by 2020 to prevent unemployment from sliding to deeper levels per capita, the Arab Knowledge Report found.

Unemployment in the Arab World, especially among the youth, is one of the most pressing issues preventing the region’s knowledge economy from flourishing, said Dr Gaith Fariz, Director and Coordinator of the Arab Knowledge Report, which was launched during the second day of the Knowledge conference.

Fariz said more than half of the population in the Arab region fall under the age of 25 and by 2015 the percentage of youth below the age of 15 will be 33 per cent.

He said it is estimated in the Arab world that less than 45 per cent of the population is employed. For the percentage to reach 64 per cent, 80 million jobs must be created by 2020.

Another critical area of development is the lack of focus on scientific research in the Arab world.

Fariz said the Arab world spends the least worldwide on scientific research (0.07 per cent of its GDP).

Statistics shared at the conference found that there are 51.8 million illiterate people in the Arab world, 66 per cent of whom are females. There are also 6.9 million illiterate youth aged 15 to 24 and females account for 64 per cent, while 4.5 million children are not attending schools and 57.8 per cent are female. – GULF NEWS

Gulf Lays Plans for Local Currency Bond Markets In a region dominated by bank loans and international bonds, Gulf Arab countries are laying plans to develop local currency bond markets through reforms that will give new opportunities to their financial firms.

In the past, local bond markets were largely considered unnecessary in the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Banks were able to channel abundant oil money into loans, rapid economic growth let companies fund their expansion through retained earnings, and big state-owned firms had easy access to international capital markets.

After the global financial crisis, the policy makers want to reduce risks for their banking sectors, which means limiting banks’ exposure to individual firms and encouraging those firms to raise some of their funds via bonds instead.

Governments are also scrambling to diversify their economies beyond oil and create a private sector job, which means helping smaller companies – some of which have been shunned by banks in the past – to raise money.

The result is a drive to develop primary markets for corporate conventional bonds and sukuk, while ensuring investor demand for bonds in the secondary markets is strong enough to absorb additional supply. In Saudi Arabia, for example, the central bank has been pressing banks this year to limit their exposure to single clients to no more than 25 per cent of the bank’s reserves and paid-up or invested capital. – ARABIAN BUSINESS

Gulf Insider January 2015

11

Gulf Insider Exclusive

KHALID BIN HAMAD

SWIMMING CHALLENGE In an exclusive interview, HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa speaks with Gulf Insider about the importance of sports, and what success means to him.

20 hours

Swimming 42 km from Saudi Arabia to Bahrain 12

Gulf Insider January 2015

Y

our Highness, when did you first realise that sport was your passion?

I’ve been fond of sports ever since I remember, starting from childhood. Throughout my school years, I would always be the first in line to participate in all the sporting events.

The Khalid Bin Hamad Swimming Challenge is a great way to promote sports participation in Bahrain and had a noble cause, too – to generate funds towards cancer patients’ care.

What made you decide to put this event together, and what message did you intend to relay through this initiative?

It is crucial to preserve close cooperation and communication within all segments of society, with a special focus on those that need support.

We are all part of one community, one social fabric, and we need to ensure we are strong together and individually.

The proceeds from such events can be

utilised to achieve this goal. We all know the seriousness of cancer disease and how much support the cancer patients require – be it financial or moral support – to help them overcome the illness.

How was the idea of Swimming Challenge born?

I’ve been pondering the idea of organising a long-distance swimming challenge for a long time, and eventually, the idea had turned into a vision, then to reality. I wanted to show the world that the people of Bahrain could compete on the international level, and that our youth had an outstanding potential.

Was the Swimming Challenge exclusively for Bahraini athletes?

We always involve citizens and facilitate opportunities for them to gain experience, which in turn will promote Bahrain on the global arena.

Also, foreign athletes from seven different countries participated in the Challenge, including Australia, UAE,

Gulf Insider Exclusive

exercise programme was not limited to swimming, but also incorporated strength training.

Would the Swimming Challenge be postponed if the weather fluctuations in Bahrain were stronger?

The open-water competition comes with a set of requirements, including certain weather conditions. The decision to postpone the swimming is usually left

The open-water swimming performance involves many potential challenges. When you swim in the open sea, you do not know the extent of the risk that you may encounter.

Slovenia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and USA. You surprised us by participating in the Challenge and swimming 42 kilometres from Saudi Arabia to Bahrain in 20 hours. What were the key elements of your training in preparation for the event?

My routine included prolonged highintensity swimming pool sessions in order to develop strength and endurance.

Practicing for such competition requires patience and a very high fitness level.

Moreover, the support from my brother, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, was very important to me.

What part of the competition did you find most difficult?

The open-water swimming

performance involves many potential challenges. When you swim in the open sea, you do not know the extent of the risk that you may encounter. The first challenge was to complete the full distance between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain; in addition to that, I’d faced strong waves, cold temperatures, low visibility in the evening, unpredictable currents, wind, and unexpected distance increment from initial 31.5 kilometres to 42 kilometres – as a result of bad weather. But, by the grace of God and with determination and patience, I overcome these obstacles and achieved my goal.

What techniques did you implement to cope with excessive fatigue and produce a high-quality performance?

Praise be to God! All it took was determination and hard training prior to the event, which enabled me to build up the required stamina. My

to the professionals and referees who have full knowledge about this issue.

At one point, my brother, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, advised me to reschedule the swimming, but I insisted to continue.

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa joined you in the first kilometre of the Challenge and before the finish. What does it mean to you?

Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa is my brother, my supporter, and my mentor.

I have learned a lot from him. He always encourages me in all tournaments, competitions, and challenges; he even joined me during training ahead of the event. He shares his advice with me, which is of great value to me, and I extend my sincere appreciation to His Highness for standing by my side.

Gulf Insider January 2015

13

Gulf Insider Exclusive

the largest award of its kind in terms of value and categories. In this year’s edition, you were among 25 winners selected out of 262 nominees. Can you tell us what it means to you to be named the “best athlete who achieved tremendous success” for organising the Challenge?

First of all, I’d like to express my deepest appreciation to His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for his efforts to honour the athletes and promote sports not only in the region, but also on a global scale. This award gives me motivation to continue to do my best in the coming years.

My future challenges will be to eliminate difficulties faced by the young people, and to create cultural, sporting, and educational programmes What about the reception from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa upon your completion of the Challenge?

I consider this reception as a great source of pride, as this was the highest recognition of the efforts I had made for the Kingdom, under the prosperous era of His Majesty. I extend my deepest appreciation to His Majesty for the parental support and following in-detail throughout the competition.

This reception will always be one of my most cherished moments. It was such an honour; it uplifted my spirit, reinforced my determination, and made 14

Gulf Insider January 2015

me forget all the hardship and fatigue I was experiencing. This success was only possible because of the endless and direct support from His Majesty.

How did it feel to celebrate this triumph at the Pride of the Nation event?

I felt proud, because this was a joint success of all young Bahraini people, as I am one of them. I extend my sincere gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, may God protect him, for this national honour.

The “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Award” is

You play decision-making roles at many leading sports organisations in the Kingdom. Shall we expect more sporting initiatives in 2015?

My future challenges will be to eliminate difficulties faced by the young people, and to create cultural, sporting, and educational programmes designed to improve the competence level in various critical fields in Bahrain.

The next Khalid Bin Hamad Swim Challenge is scheduled for April 2015, and the proceeds will be donated to Bahrain Cancer Society. For more information or to register online, visit www.khalidbinhamadchallenge.bh, email: info@khalidbinhamadchallenge.bh.

Business

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Director of Sales and Marketing Soufiane El Allam tells Gulf Insider about the future of tourism in Bahrain.

IS BAHRAIN SET FOR A

TOURIST BOOM?

T

he Current State

The tourism sector in the Kingdom has largely recovered and shown signs of surging growth, Mr Allam tells us. According to him, the many initiatives by the Culture Ministry and the Tourism Ministry have played a great part in promoting the destination.

These strategic decisions, he says, coupled with the collaboration of key stakeholders – including hotels, airlines, and key destination management

16

Gulf Insider January 2015

companies – have proven successful.

We ask about Bahrain as a tourist attraction, and Mr Allam begins to recite the long list of things that make Bahrain an authentic destination in the Middle East: the ease of flight connections in the region, the infrastructure, the culture, the heritage, the arts... Bahrain is at the centre of all things, he says.

We have witnessed increasing number of tourists from around the globe who enjoy meeting with the friendly locals.

The sense of warm welcome, together

with the fact that many attractions are manned by natives, provide a sense of authentic hospitality, which cannot be found anywhere else in the region.

Choosing the Right Direction The Meeting, Incentive, Conference, and Exhibition (MICE) business is the most beneficial to Bahrain, because this type of events often attract decision makers and government leaders, and involve signing new agreements, Mr Allam tells us, adding: It is also an opportunity for high profile visitors, delegates, and media to discover the beauty and the resources of our island.

As a luxury destination, we often see corporate guests return to Bahrain for their family or leisure holiday, after they had been here for business.

Bahrain is already a destination with international reach due to some of the

Business

sports, conference, and cultural events.

The same efforts need to continue in order to gain resounding reputation throughout the year.

The Emerging Trends Today is the digital and all-online era, Mr Allam points out. The habits of hotel guests have changed and travellers need to be able to reserve, check-in, and check-out at ease and independently.

For example, a meeting planner should be able to easily request extra chairs for his meeting via his tablet or notebook, without having to leave the meeting room of a hotel. This reality prompts Ritz-Carlton invest, as a business, in the digital world so as to adapt to our guests’ devices and tools. In fact, we are one of the first hospitality companies to launch a personalised guest service mobile app, and we continue to develop the application’s features.

Making the Most of the Market We learn that in the last year, Mr Allam has put all his efforts into repositioning The Ritz-Carlton as a luxury family resort, both in the region and internationally.

This strategy, as he tells us, has been in line with the tourism authorities’ recent vision for Bahrain. In general, he continues, our collaboration with local

As a luxury destination, we often see corporate guests return to Bahrain for their family or leisure holiday, after they had been here for business.

industry stakeholders and international corporations – such as participation in Gulf Air’s first flight to Moscow – gives us the feeling that we are steering in the right direction, and that we may expect even more in 2015.

Asked about the upcoming 20th anniversary of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Mr Allam promises many surprises for their loyal guests – to recognise the very strong emotional bound between the guests and the hotel, as he puts it. Some of our Sports Club Members, he continues, have repeatedly renewed their memberships for the past twenty years – their children are now grown-ups; some of our hotel guests got married in our Ballroom; some of our dining guests have proposed to their future wives here...

So, what programmes and activities can we expect? I can’t reveal much more, Mr Allam says, but I invite everyone to visit us in 2015 – it won’t be disappointing.

For more information, call 1758 0000 or visit http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/ Properties/Bahrain.

Gulf Insider January 2015

17

Business

CHALLENGE BAHRAIN

CATCHING THE WORLD’S ATTENTION

S

Dr Saqer Al Khalifa, Challenge Bahrain’s General Manager, explains what it means for the Kingdom to host an international sporting event.

18

Gulf Insider January 2015

porting events such as Challenge Bahrain are likely to bring in high number of tourists. In your view, can Challenge contribute to boosting tourism sector in the Kingdom in the long run?

Yes, definitely. Just in the first year itself, over 800 participants arrived from outside, and each had a friend or a family member accompanying them. The number seems low when comparing with other events, but – as triathlon is generally more expensive than other disciplines, the tourists associated with it do tend to spend more than average visitors. We were successful in catching the world’s attention through this popular competition and are confident that year on year this event will contribute to a steady increase in sport tourism in Bahrain.

Photography: Harold Tejada

20 million

Around 20 million people accessed the live broadcast Will this event have any impact on the infrastructure projects across the island, such as transportation system or other facilities that can benefit the citizens long term?

One thing we noticed in Bahrain during the build up to this event and during the event itself was the poor level of infrastructure, facilities, and the almost defunct transportation system.

Under the guidance of HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, we had many

Business Challenge Bahrain Winners

RESULTS

CHALLENGE IN NUMBERS  The

world’s richest half-iron distance with total prize purse of USD 500,000.



First place prize of USD 100,000.

 Participation

athletes.

of

1,000

Men

Women

03:36:04 1. Michael Raelert (DEU)

03:55:50 1. Helle Frederiksen (DEN)

03:38:23 2. Andreas Dreitz (DEU)

03:58:15 2. Rachel Joyce (GBR)

03:39:26 3. Tim Reed (AUS)

03:58:39 3. Jodie Swallow (GBR)

03:41:06 4. Tim Don (GBR)

04:00:17 4. Annabel Luxford (AUS)

03:42:04 5. Eneko Llanos (ESP)

04:00:48 5. Angela Naeth (CAN)

“It was a relief to cross the line! I couldn’t have dreamed of a better way to finish my 2014 season; it’s crazy.”

- Helle Frederiksen

plus

official entities involved, but we also needed to contract private companies, and bear the cost, to fill the gaps in the transportation system. The demand to have better services is growing, and the pressure on decision makers will keep on rising, so we believe that eventually this will make way for a better future for citizens in the long term.

In your opinion, what will be the economic benefits for Bahrain from hosting Challenge Bahrain? Who will gain from it the most?

Long before we decided to organise an international sporting event in Bahrain, we had carefully studied its possible economic impact. Seeing all the results, it makes us proud to state that the Bahraini citizen will be the one who will benefit the most from Challenge Bahrain. It would take a while to list all

the advantages, but to name just a few – sustaining jobs and creating new ones, as well as increasing incomes are the basic and most immediate effects. We have already witnessed the increase of sales in various sports stores around the Kingdom, and at least three bicycle stores have opened in the Bahrain International Circuit area. We have also obtained the approval for hosting an annual sports exhibition – similar to the well-established jewellery expo – which will attract foreign companies. This year only, we’ve established cooperation with three companies from abroad (France, UK, and Dubai) to distribute their products with a number of retailers in the Kingdom. Again, the outlook is very positive, and we will continue to move along this route.

Are there any downsides to hosting Challenge Bahrain?

Once we establish proper cooperation between the general public and traffic department so as to ensure a good

traffic control plan for the event, we will not have any downside whatsoever. We trust that this is possible, although in the end, we believe that the economic, health, and social benefits for Bahrain far outweigh the traffic delays during the weekend. Finally, it is extremely important for car drivers to understand that bicyclists need ample space for their safety, and we hope that one day cars and cyclists can safely share the road with each other.

What was the overall reception of the event?

The Challenge was live streamed, and the statistics were simply amazing.

Around 20 million people accessed the live broadcast, and at one point, the number of viewers reached 900,000.

This is far beyond any event organised in Bahrain with the same amount of investment. If you analyse the ratio of investment per views, this would be the best event that has ever taken place in the Kingdom.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Property

UAE REAL ESTATE REVIEW

LOOKING TO BUY IN DUBAI?

Maybe now could be the right time due to the first declines in real estate price growth rates for 4 years as reported in Cluttons new market report on Dubai’s off-plan sales market.

D

espite the stagnation in capital value growth and the fall in the overall level of transactions being recorded in Dubai, the off plan sales market has for the most part retained its momentum, with investors taking a longer term view of the market, according to latest research released by international real estate consultancy Cluttons.

Cluttons Dubai Winter 2014 Residential Market Outlook report, highlights that with freehold transactions falling by almost one third in total during Q3 2014, Dubai’s off-plan residential sales market is still buoyant and continues to attract regional and international investors.

According to Steve Morgan, Chief Executive of Cluttons, Middle East: “Many households that are determined to purchase, now view off-plan properties, as good value. For instance, at Villa Lantana, just off the Umm Suqeim Road, there has been a high level of appetite from Emirati (43%) and Indian (24%) investors in particular, with the former group primarily comprised of buy-to-let investors.”

The report also highlights, that investment appetite continues to remain strong, with investors keen to free up capital to move on to their next purchase.

Cluttons’ international research and business development manager, Faisal Durrani commented: “Positively, we are seeing nearly four out of every five transactions being refinanced once 20

Gulf Insider January 2015

buyers have met developer restrictions, if any, on the transfer of title deeds.

While the market continues to adjust to the changes in the financing landscape, we expect the gradual softening in values to persist over the next three to six months while the market adjusts to the evolving conditions.”

“Emaar for example, has reportedly restricted re-sales until handover of its first tower at Dubai Creek Harbour, which is expected to come to market in 2018. Units sold for between AED 1,400 psf and AED 1,850 psf, with 30% down payments and Emaar has reported 100% sales. Certainly, Emaar’s positive reputation has aided the rapid sales, but the sell-out scheme also highlights the maturing attitude of investors who are taking a long term investment perspective,” Durrani continued.

Improvements Significant improvements to Dubai’s infrastructure are also set to bolster long term capital value growth across the city. In Dubai Marina, for instance, investors are already actively seeking to acquire properties in close proximity to the Marina’s Metro stations, The Beach, and Jumeirah Beach Residence and it is expected that the Dubai Tram stations dotted around the Marina will similarly drive demand up in their immediate vicinity as the importance of being close to a public transport node grows.

Property

Cluttons latest research also shows that, one year after the introduction of the Federal Mortgage Cap, the market is now showing signs of succumbing to deposit requirements imposed on buyers, and is entering an anticipated period of more measured and sustainable expansion.

During the third quarter of 2014, the rate of house price growth slipped by -0.3%, marking the first decline since Q1 2011.

Average values are still however 10% up on Q3 2013 and currently stand at AED 1,493 psf. Apartments gained a 0.4% rise in average prices, while villa values decreased by -1.2% during Q3.

Morgan continued: “The government’s introduction of the Federal Mortgage Cap and increase in property registration fees, has reined in the extraordinary growth seen in the market over the past 24 months, and has been exceptionally effective, culminating in the IMF recently backing down from concerns about the market overheating.”

According to the report, the rental market has also come full circle as it enters the final phase of the current property cycle, with average rents across Dubai’s freehold areas dropping by -0.4% during Q3. Average rental values however remain nearly 5% up on Q3 2013.

Significant improvements to Dubai’s infrastructure are also set to bolster long term capital value growth across the city.

Strong Demand Despite the cooling of rents, tenant demand remains exceptionally strong, underpinned by the rapid economic expansion and the subsequent rise in the level of jobs being created across the city.

“In particular, the leisure, hospitality, aviation, finance, banking and real estate sectors have seen rapid expansion, as evidenced by the level of housing requirements from these sectors. In the short to medium term, we do not anticipate a slowdown in the rate of job creation, which suggests that the current period of rental stagnation is likely to be short lived. Furthermore, supply is projected to fall well short of demand in the villa segment of the market in the medium to long term.”

Durrani concluded.

Gulf Insider January 2015

21

Property

DUBAI’S NEW TRAMS ADD VALUE TO PROPERTY

W

ith the opening of the first phase of the Dubai Tram network last November, the emirate’s first truly community focussed infrastructure project is set to add permanent long term value to residential values in Dubai Marina, while setting a benchmark for other parts of the city, according to leading international real estate consultants, Cluttons.

The 10.6km route is expected to go a long way in alleviating the chronic traffic issues Dubai Marina and the Jumeirah Beach Residence area have become synonymous with. Crucially, Cluttons believes that through such localised infrastructure investments, the government is adding long term infrastructure premiums to residential values.

Cluttons’ international research

and business development manager, Faisal Durrani commented, “The Dubai Tram marks another milestone in the evolution of Dubai’s infrastructure. Five years on from when the first Dubai Metro trains took to the tracks, residents are now going to get their first taste of community transport infrastructure. Like elsewhere in the city, residential values in Dubai Marina have been pegged back by government regulation at a local and federal level, yet we still recorded a 4% rise on average between January and August, against 7% for Dubai as a whole. We must however take a longer term view as the Dubai tram is exactly the sort of infrastructure that the Dubai Marina area is likely to benefit from, and over time, this will start to significantly bolster house prices.

“Tenants and buyers are already actively seeking to be in close proximity

The Dubai Tram marks another milestone in the evolution of Dubai’s infrastructure. Five years on from when the first Dubai Metro trains took to the tracks. to the Marina’s Metro stations, The Beach, and Jumeirah Beach Residence.

We expect that the Dubai Tram stations dotted around the Marina will similarly drive demand up in their immediate vicinity.”

Elsewhere in the city, the Dubai Trolley in Downtown Dubai is expected to commence operations in the first week of December and Cluttons expects this to transform connectivity in Downtown Dubai.

Durrani continued: “Unlike the vast established public transportation networks of larger cities like London for instance, Dubai still has a long way

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Gulf Insider January 2015

Property

MIDDLE EAST’S

RAILWAY BOOM to go. During the summer, UK building society Nationwide revealed that being located within 250m of a Tube Station in Greater London could add as much as 10.5% to the value of your property, which equates to about AED 250,000 (US$70,000). While we are not looking at uplifts as significant as that just yet, there is a rapidly growing appreciation in Dubai of the benefits of being close to a public transportation node.”

The differentiating factor for the emirate is the fact that infrastructure has always played catch up to the explosive urban growth and as a result Dubai is in the unique position of having multiple business districts, stretching from Deira to Sheikh Zayed Road and from Downtown Dubai and the DIFC to Jumeirah Lake Towers.

Durrani concluded: “The key now to unlocking the true potential of public transport is to stitch together all of Dubai’s communities in a cohesive and sustainable way, which makes getting around easy. There are the obvious challenges of putting infrastructure into established parts of the city, but for somewhere like Downtown Dubai where values have risen by 5% to AED 1940 psf (US$ 530 psf) this year, excluding the Burj Khalifa, we can easily see transport linked premiums rising exponentially, once all our communities start being linked together.

By Connie Crawford

T

he Mena region is experiencing an unprecedented spate of rail investment. From Africa’s first high-speed rail network in Morocco to Oman’s first ever rail scheme, billions of dollars are being invested in rail and metro projects for the first time. Today every country has announced rail or metro plans and in total there are more than $200bn worth of rail and metro projects either planned or under way in the Middle East. This translates to more than 33,700km of mainline routes and 3,000km of new metro lines.

The award of major metro and rail contracts in the Middle East has made the region among the most important sources of new work for all those designing, building, supplying and operating railways.

“The Middle East is perhaps the fastest growing market for rail and transit in the world,” says Cosema Crawford, senior vice president and rail and transit global practice leader at Louis Berger. “Cities are growing and mobility is increasing, driving the need for robust public transportation networks.”

The GCC’s first high-speed railway

is the 450km Haramain High Speed Rail project that links Jeddah with Rabigh, Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. It is scheduled to open in 2015 and will break the mould for the Middle East. Also due to open the same year is the Morocco’s TGV network from Tangiers to Casablanca, which will be the first high-speed rail technology to be employed on the African continent.

“As traffic congestion continues to grow, public transportation networks become essential, including intercity travel on high-speed rail,” says Crawford about the need for new transport solutions in the region.

“High-speed rail is ultimately an instrument for development, and the costs for implementation should be considered and financed in that light. High-speed rail systems are dependent on good local public transportation networks to take riders to their final destinations.”

“Most importantly, there needs to be a cultural shift to accept public transportation systems, Crawford says. “Seasonal high temperatures and lack of pedestrian infrastructure need to be addressed in the design of the stations.”

Gulf Insider January 2015

23

Property

INTERNATIONAL BUYERS

CONNED IN UAE

Among the investers was Briton Geoff Land, who lost $150,000.

Mr Land planned on moving to the idyllic La Hoya Bay Residences apartment on the man-made island of Al Marjan on the northern cost of UAE with his wife, Alika, and children.

However after paying, it became clear that the properties were not being built.

They fought for their money to be returned after Khoie was jailed, but they are still waiting to be compensated by the developer - who was released from prison after just a year.

Mr Land, an IT consultant, was forced

‘Shyster developer’ Frank Khoie

B

uyers have been conned out of millions after handing over cash for luxury seaview apartments in UAE to a ‘shyster developer’.

Many handed over up to $150,000 each to Iranian developer Frank Khoie, whose company was supposed to oversee the building of the properties.

Khoie, who defaulted on the UAE deal despite more than 700 international buyers paying deposits worth $80million, was jailed in 2009 after a $15million cheque to purchase land for the La Hoya development bounced.

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Gulf Insider January 2015

We have spent a lot of money trying to get this whole process sorted out... We went to Saudi Arabia for four years, and had to re-save money.

to start working in Saudi Arabia for four years because of the failed property deal, flying in from UAE on Mondays and only seeing his family at weekends.

He said: ‘We have spent a lot of money trying to get this whole process sorted out. We realised it was not going to happen and we had to change track.

We went to Saudi Arabia for four years, and had to re-save money.

‘The flat has never been built. We were planning to stay there as a family.

The development was supposed to be built on Al Marjan, a man-made island on the northern cost of UAE ‘It would have been a dream place in many ways… it was on the coast with mountains behind it. It is a great place to bring up kids right by the beach. Home to work would have been a short walk across the Plaza. It was a dream which was shattered.

The La Hoya Bay property promised a swimming pool, a beach, restaurants, shopping outlets and a safe environment for Mr. Land’s family, but alarm bells started ringing when despite making two substantial payments building work did not begin.

After four years of legal battles and commuting to and from Saudi Arabia, the Lands moved back to the UK in 2012.

At least 24 other British investors

Property

were left out of pocket, but they are finally set to be compensated over the next few months.

‘I met Khoie several times. He was very gracious in the way he spoke to you, never aggressive. But the guy is just a shyster,’ he claimed.

A landmark legal victory by international legal services company Judicare Group cancelled sales agreements and ordered that deposits were repaid, but Mr Land, 55, says he still faces a wait for his money.

He said: ‘He has taken a lot of money from a lot of people, and he is still trying to do what he can to frustrate the legal system by stringing things out as long as he can.

‘We have not got anything out of this yet, nothing is guaranteed. There is a mortgage on the land and it is protected until it is paid off. We are trying to unpick the legal process to get it sold off at auction.

‘We do not know what the outcome is going to be, we hope that it turns out to be positive.’

‘The UAE legal system is expensive, arduous, slow and unresponsive and makes it so difficult for international investors.

‘Looking back, Frank Khoie was selling a pyramid scheme. He has tainted the whole idyllic dream we once had of living in the UAE and we’ve had to completely change our life plans.

‘The UAE legal system is expensive, arduous, slow and unresponsive and makes it so difficult for international investors.

‘I would advise any property investor to steer clear of the country.’

The La Hoya development (artist's impression pictured) that was never built

Neil Heaney, chief executive of Judicare, said: ‘Clearly the ruling is good news for our clients and is a warning to developers in the UAE who attempt to frustrate purchasers seeking reimbursement of invested monies for non-delivery of property, especially if they rely on an inaccurate Force Majeure argument.’

Frank Khoie could not be traced for comment.

Gulf Insider January 2015

25

Property

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY INVESTORS LOOK TO NEW MARKETS

returned for Europe as the tentative improvements in economic fortunes there have fed into a belief that prices for property have hit a low point. Knight Frank anticipates seeing a greater focus on opportunities in markets like Paris and Rome, which thus far have been largely overlooked by investors, nervous of political uncertainty, but which are increasingly offering good value when compared to neighbouring alternatives.

The report also flags India is also a notable example of increased business confidence, which will fuel the residential market in conjunction with government policies to improve residential market affordability.

Knight Frank’s 2015 Prime Residential Price Growth Forecast

Residential property investors are to look further afield in the world’s markets to seek strong returns in the next five years, according to Knight Frank.

A

mixture of alternative global locations such as Bangkok, Dublin and Nairobi and new locations in established cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Shanghai will offer the best returns according to Knight Frank’s Global Cities report.

“As prices have risen in some target markets, the opportunity for developers to attract buyers to alternative markets within the same cities, or even alternative city markets is a trend we expect to see expand in 2015,” explained Khawar Khan, Research Manager at Knight Frank Dubai.

“While the ever popular global hubs are set to take the lion’s share of this investment, we also think 2015 will see a growing appetite for alternative markets and more speculative plays from investors. ‘Safe-haven’ investors who might previously have only considered established market neighbourhoods 26

Gulf Insider January 2015

Investor appetite has returned for Europe as the tentative improvements in economic fortunes there have fed into a belief that prices for property have hit a low point. are now looking for new market opportunities in places like London, Sydney, New York, Miami and Vancouver.”

According to Knight Frank’s Global Cities report, investor appetite has

The Global Cities report predicts Cape Town will be a market to watch in 2015.

The weaker Rand is attracting buyers from Europe and elsewhere in Africa, including wealthy Nigerians. Activity is strong on the Atlantic Seaboard and limited stock below ZAR 5m is expected to lead to stronger price growth.

Economic growth will drive some markets - by international standards, Dubai’s prime residential property market is relatively inexpensive. This, combined with the fact that the UAE economy and employment continues to grow strongly, suggests that the prime residential market in the emirate is likely to see ongoing expansion despite new market controls.

Khawar Khan explained: “Investors and developers will have to accept that recent returns have been supercharged by government market support, and features like cheap finance, delivered through ultra-low interest rates, and the ability of quantitative easing to hold down the rate of alternative investment returns, will begin to be removed from 2015.

“While the removal of stimulus will take away a key support platform from global residential markets, our view is that in most centres the return of sustainable economic growth, especially in Europe, means the outlook for the key world centres for 2015 and beyond remains positive.”

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Affairs

HERE TO STAY

UK ROYAL NAVY IN BAHRAIN A British military base will be established in Bahrain marking Britain’s clear commitment to a ‘sustained presence east of Suez’.

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Gulf Insider January 2015

B

ritain’s foreign secretary, Philip Hammond, was at last month’s Manama Dialogue security summit where he announced that bolstering the British Royal Navy presence in the Gulf would allow the UK and its allies in the region to ‘tackle the threats we face together’.

Britain already has four minehunters permanently based at the Mina Salman Port, but the plans will allow for an increase in the number and size of warships sent to the area.

Under the deal – described by Britain’s Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nicholas Houghton as ‘symbolic and strategically important’ – the port will be expanded and a forward operating base established, with Bahrain paying most of the costs.

“We have of course had a naval presence in Bahrain for most of the

last 80 years, since the establishment of HMS Juffair in 1935,” said British Ambassador Ian Lindsay during his annual speech to the Bahrain Britain Business Forum, last month. “This followed a few centuries of patrolling the Gulf. But, since we moved back into the naval base, which we vacated in 1971, on Bahrain’s independence, our presence has been operational rather than strategic.

“Bahrain is now the busiest Royal Navy port outside UK waters with the only Royal Navy operational headquarters outside the UK. Several hundred service personnel are in Bahrain at any given time,” he added.

Although military chiefs are understood to have been working towards the move for around two years, the threat from Islamic State has heightened the focus on Britain’s presence in the region.

Affairs

‘And those threats have taken on a new and insidious form: in Benghazi and in Mosul, in Yemen and in Northern Nigeria, we face a common but shadowy enemy: extremists who seek to hijack Islam to impose their own perverted agenda by fear and by the sword; who reject all norms of civilised behaviour; who challenge all structures of established order.’

The move was described as ‘symbolic’ by the UK’s Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nicholas Houghton and reverses a 1960s’ decision to withdraw

‘To our partners in the Gulf my message is this: Your security concerns are our security concerns,’ Mr Hammond said in a speech in Manama, Bahrain.

‘So our strategic priority for the Gulf and for the wider region is to build partnerships. Partnerships for security; partnerships for prosperity; partnerships for stability.’

He added: ‘The expansion of our footprint that this arrangement will now allow means we will have the capability to send more and bigger ships, and to sustain them and their crews in permanent facilities.

‘A clear statement of our commitment to our sustained presence east of Suez.

‘A reminder of our historic and close relationship with Bahrain and one example of our growing partnership with Gulf allies to tackle the threats we face together.

This new base is a permanent expansion of the Royal Navy’s footprint and will enable Britain to send more and larger ships to reinforce stability.

British forces stationed ‘east of Suez’.

British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: ‘This new base is a permanent

expansion of the Royal Navy’s footprint.

We will now be based again in the Gulf for the long term.’

Mr Hammond signed the deal with Bahrain’s foreign minister Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa.

Sheikh Khalid said: ‘It reaffirms our joint determination to maintain regional security and stability in the face of challenging circumstances, and gives further strength to our multifaceted partnership.

‘Bahrain looks forward to the early implementation of today’s arrangement

and to continuing to work with the UK and other partners to address threats to regional security.’

General Houghton told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: ‘It’s the strategic importance of this. Rather than just being seen as a temporary deployment to an area for a specific operational purpose, this is more symbolic of the fact that Britain does enjoy interests in the stability of this region.

‘And the fact that the Bahraini authorities and government agreed to fund infrastructure within the country to base our maritime capability forward, both is a recognition from their perspective of the quality of the relationship with the United Kingdom, but also of our interest over time in maintaining the stability of this very important area.’

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Affairs

GCC PROPERTY AND OIL PRICES

THE DOMINO EFFECT? What are the likely implications of lower oil prices for real estate in the GCC?

L

ower oil prices are leading many in the GCC to wonder about the possible implications for real estate. In the near-term, weaker sentiment and its impact on the residential property sector is the principal downside risk. Commercial property, however, should be able to shrug off such concerns as the region’s mediumto long-term prospects remain strong.

After hitting nearly USD 108 per barrel in June, the average Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries’ (OPEC) reference price fell to just under USD 76 per barrel in November. Despite the sharp fall though, OPEC decided to leave its output ceiling at 30 million barrels per day at the meeting in Vienna – a notable departure from its traditional stance of cutting production in order to prevent prices from sliding further. Notably, Saudi Arabia has vast foreign currency reserves to fall back on.

The Wealth Effect The IMF recently predicted that a 30

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Gulf Insider January 2015

per cent fall in oil prices will provide an additional 0.8 per cent boost for most advanced economies (who are typically net importers of oil). This in turn should have a positive wealth effect, with some resultant capital flows likely to benefit those real estate markets already popular with foreigners; an obvious example in the GCC is Dubai, where in H1 2014, around three-quarters of real estate investors were non-nationals.

Oil and Real Estate Correlation But, that does not mean to say that there aren’t any downside risks. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Oman’s bourses have all recently suffered losses on the back of falling oil prices. The softening in investor sentiment however isn’t likely to be reflected in just equity prices.

Historically, there has been a reasonably strong correlation between the Dubai Financial Market General Index (DFMGI) and residential property prices; if this relationship holds, home prices in the emirate should continue

to trend down in Q4 2014. Commercial property, though, should be relatively resilient, given that firms tend to take a medium- to long-term view – which continues to look positive for the GCC – when launching expansion plans.

30%

30 per cent fall in oil prices will provide an additional 0.8 per cent boost for most advanced economies

Affairs

OPEC decided to leave its output ceiling at 30 million barrels per day at the meeting in Vienna – a notable departure from its traditional stance of cutting production in order to prevent prices from sliding further.

How Oil Prices Work Legendary billionaire US investor Howard Marks has candidly shared his views on the recent substantial fall of oil prices. Marks referred to the error of forecasts which usually stick too close to the current status of things, and the failure of most investors to really consider things that seem unlikely (“tail events”). Marks’ observed that a decline in the price of oil: Encourages people to drive more, increasing the demand for oil.  Negatively affects the economics of drilling, reducing additions to supply.  Causes producers to cut production and leave oil in the ground to be sold later at higher prices. 

In other words, lower oil prices — in and of themselves — eventually make for higher oil prices. Marks also talks about the error of forecasting, which he says sticks too close to consensus.

Recent research from various financial organizations repeatedly states that we are in a “new era” of oil prices and that the days of $100 oil are over, with prices likely to stabilize between $70 or $80 a barrel for the foreseeable future. For Marks, such general

Oil Prices

consensus means such a forecast is almost certainly wrong.

Last August, Marks noted that investing legend Byron Wien met with “prominent investors” who all agreed that increasing emerging market demand would send Brent crude prices from then-current levels of about $110 a barrel to $120 over the next five years.

A lack of demand has been blamed, in part, on the current decline. But more than just this “reasonable” bullish forecast for oil, Marks says that with Brent prices at $110, bulls most likely saw oil going to $120, while bears saw oil falling to $100. And given the recent move in oil prices, this is a stunning lack of imagination.

Marks highlights a classic quote from economist Rudiger Dornbusch: “In economics things take longer to happen than you think they will, and then happen faster than you thought they could.”

Investors who said Brent crude would go to $120 will likely be right.

But if they are right, which Marks’ feedback loop suggests they will be, it will almost certainly be for the wrong reasons.

UAE and Saudi Arabia Purchasing Manager Indices (PMI)

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Affairs

SPORTS INDUSTRY GROWING FASTER THAN GDP

Global sports industry to grow from $80 billion in 2014, to $91 billion by 2017 with an average annual growth rate of 5 per cent.

A

ccording to a new study by A.T. Kearney, a global management consulting firm, the sports industry has been expanding globally seven per cent per year between 2009 and 2013, and the sports market has grown faster than GDP in most countries in the world, especially in major markets. Revenues for yearly events are growing steadily, from $58 billion in 2009 to $75 billion 2013 and $80 billion in 2014. When you add in sporting goods, apparel, equipment, and health and fitness spending, the sports industry generates as much as $700 billion yearly, or one per cent of global GDP. Growth occurred across all types of 32

Gulf Insider January 2015

sport, with European football (soccer) remaining the clear leader. Overall, the list of the top seven sports remains unchanged: football, NFL, baseball, Formula 1, NBA, NHL and tennis. Media rights and sponsorships are among the main drivers for revenues. Sponsorships and media rights each accounted for 35 per cent of sports event revenues in 2013, and ticketing accounted for 27 per cent of revenues.

In the Middle East, there is significant appetite for hosting international sports events and securing media rights and sponsorships. Nicolas Sultan, Principal at A.T. Kearney Middle East, based in Doha commented: “The sports sector

has witnessed substantial growth in the region, and is progressively becoming a major driver for economic development and investment in infrastructure in the GCC, as well as being leveraged for branding of nations along with the global events hosted here. In terms of sport revenues, the Middle East is experiencing the fastest growth, with revenues projected to grow at ten per cent per year over the next three years.

A.T. Kearney presented the paper and its findings at the Doha GOALS Forum, held in Doha, Qatar. The forum is a key platform in the Middle East for world leaders to create initiatives for global progress through sport, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Mubarak Al Thani, Executive Director of Doha

Global sports industry to grow from $80 billion in 2014, to $91 billion by 2017 with an average annual growth rate of 5 per cent.

GOALS, commented: “Job creation and economic opportunity are two of the foundations of Doha GOALS. More than just stadium and facilities construction, sport presents huge potential for nations to generate earning power for themselves and their citizens, from the growth of sectors such as construction and financing through to tourism and hospitality.”

The A.T. Kearney study concludes that winning in the sports business demands innovation and excellence – much as it does in the sports field. In the sports ecosystem, nations, events, leagues, clubs and media are angling to reap the most value from the increasingly attractive and growing sports industry.

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GULF ROUNDUP NEWS AROUND THE GCC AND BEYOND

LIFE IN THE GULF Kuwait Curbs Driving Licence for Expats A decision by Kuwait’s interior minister Sheikh Mohammed Al Khaled, published in Kuwait’s press, raised the minimum salary needed by expatriates to obtain a driving licence from KD 400 (BD 515) to KD 600 (BD 772) and stipulated applicants must have stayed in Kuwait for at least two years. The decision also stipulated any expatriate seeking to obtain a driving licence must be holder of a university degree.

Under the decision, which exempted journalists and other professions from such terms, expatriates working in certain fields could lose their driving licence if they change their jobs or cancel their visa and leave Kuwait. – EMIRATES 24|7

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Gulf Insider January 2015

Saudis ‘Waste’ Eight Hours a Day on Internet Saudis are “wasting” eight hours a day on the Internet, a local expert said recently. Rashad Faqiha, a human development expert, said that 7.6 million Saudi users have accounts on Facebook, more than 4.8 million use Twitter, and more than one million are on LinkedIn. Moreover, Saudis view YouTube videos 290 million times a day.

Facebook is the leading social networking site frequented by Saudi users, according to a study carried out by The Online Project, an Internet public relations and social network brand management company in the Middle East.

According to the report, the ages of users in the Kingdom range between 24 and 35, with over 7.6 million Facebook users. Of them, 74 per cent are male and 26 per cent female. ARAB NEWS

UAE: Top Google Searches of 2014 Dubai-based classified ads website Dubizzle was the most searched local brand via Google during 2014, new research has revealed.

The report offered a unique perspective on the year’s major events and hottest trends based on searches conducted in the UAE. This year’s trending searches showed growing interest in people, movies, games, sports and events. Also listed in the UAE Most Searched Local Brands were Souq, Flydubai, Emirates NBD, Etihad, Sharaf DG and UAE University.

The UAE’s Top Trending Queries for 2014 were World Cup 2014, iPhone 6 and Malaysian Airlines, followed by Ramadan and Robin Williams, and the UAE’s Trending People were Robin Williams, Sunanda Pushkar, Narendra Modi, Joan Rivers and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

The UAE’s Trending Events included World Cup 2014, Malaysian Airlines crash, Ramadan 2014, Diwali and Gitex while the UAE’s Trending Movies were Frozen, Interstellar, Maleficent, Godzilla and Edge of Tomorrow. – ARABIAN BUSINESS

News

Saudi Niqab Issue Snowballs into Major Controversy The storm was stirred by religious scholar Ahmad Al Gamdi, a former head of the Makkah branch of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice – the religious police – who said that women did not have to wear the niqab, an inevitable feature of Saudi society.

His edict set off a tsunami of criticism that accused him of undermining social values and inciting Saudi women to debauchery.

The situation was compounded after the scholar appeared on a television programme on a pan-Arab channel sitting alongside his wife who was not wearing the niqab.

The appearance was seen as a challenge, and the firestorm this time engulfed the scholar and his wife as the online debate over the issue intensified.

However, some voices of moderation called for reining in partisan fanaticism and adopting rational attitudes.

In remarks published by local daily Al Watan Eisa Al Gaith, a member of the Shura Council, said, “Women should not be condemned for not wearing one [veil] since they adhere to a school of thought that does not make it compulsory. Religious scholars and thinkers should rise above the comments made on social networks by common people who do not possess enough knowledge about religion.” – GULF NEWS

Iran Censors ‘Offensive’ Instagram Pictures Iran has started censoring images posted on photo sharing app Instagram, removing content deemed “offensive” as part of a government project to screen social networking accounts, local media reported.

The Shargh newspaper, citing the official Fars news agency, said that access to other posts was still possible.

“With the successful filtering of offensive content on social networks, it is no longer necessary to completely block them and users can access the site properly,” it added.

According to Fars, telecommunications minister Mahmoud Vaezi said the first phase of a government plan to filter content had been “successful on the network that was under the most pressure”, referring to Instagram.

He added that between five and ten per cent of content would be affected by the measures.

In October, an Instagram account called Rich Kids of Tehran was temporarily blocked after several pictures showed drink-fuelled parties and girls in Western dress, despite the ban on alcohol in Iran, where women are obliged to wear headscarves.

Authorities frequently block access to social media, including Twitter and Facebook, which are often used by government critics and opposition groups. – GULF NEWS

Omani Officials Push to Ban Alcohol Conservative Omani officials have proposed a ban on alcohol in the sultanate citing its severe health and social impact on the community as the main concern.

Around 84 per cent of the Shura Council’s members voted in favour of the amendments in Article 228 of the penal law to ban the trade and consumption of alcohol, according to Gulf News.

It has led to an intense social media discussion between nationals and residents in support of and against the recommendations of the council.

Some argue that the proposal might reduce fatal road accidents in the country while others consider it will severely hit the tourism industry in the country.

Zayed Al Rashdi, a member of the Shura Council, told to local media in Dubai that they received thousands of appeals from citizens to free the country from alcohol and that the government spent millions of riyals every year to treat alcoholics nationwide. The representatives of the Ministry of Tourism declined to comment on the proposal.

Since the Shura Council is a legislative and monitoring body within the sultanate’s legal system, the recommendation for the amendment will be forwarded to the Council of Ministers or cabinet, for review, before being passed on to Sultan Qaboos Bin Saeed for the final decision. – ARABIAN BUSINESS

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Travel

Hotel Review

ALILA JABAL AKHDAR Gulf Insider last month visited one of Oman’s most spectacular regions, the Al Hajar Mountains, to take a pause from the crowds and commotions of everyday life.

M

ajestic and almost intimidating – with their raw, immense appearance – Oman’s mountains do not get enough recognition. They’re hard to forget, especially if the rocky, rugged scenery is part and parcel of your perfect holiday experience. We sure were excited to leave Bahrain for a few days in December and retire to the seclusion of the Al Hajar mountain range.

It took a rather rough drive up the hill – which included a checkpoint where the authorities would verify if our car

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Gulf Insider January 2015

View from our private terrace

was suitable for the mountain road (only four-wheel drive vehicles are allowed) – but, at the end, there it was: floating at 2,000 metres above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar hotel.

The resort’s 78 suites and villas are scattered around the cliff top, and each room has its own balcony or a terrace so you can sit back and take in the most of the Mother Nature’s spectacle. The décor is dominated by a rustic style, with earthy tones of wood and local stone accents. What’s more important, though – and I cannot emphasise this enough

– the retreat is literally surrounded by the usual (read: breath-taking) mountain views.

The air really is different up here, and noticeably cooler. Anyone visiting in winter should bring warm clothing, particularly for the nights. Walking back to our chalet after dinner at the hotel’s restaurant we felt the coldest we had in a long time – despite wearing fleeces.

The name “Jabal Akhdar”, which is Arabic for “Green Mountain”, might be a bit puzzling, as the greenery was scarce, if not extinct. Not that I’m

Travel

Each building has four chalets with private terrace or balcony.

Our chalet

complaining. It was indeed an amazing setting to see first thing in the morning.

Better yet, at sunrise (around 6 am).

For that, we decided to make use of one of the observation decks set up in the vicinity of the hotel. We picked up a couple of coffees from the restaurant and sat back to watch a daily ritual of nature, unchanged in millions of years, commence; the warm sun first touching the peaks before gradually and steadily moving down to the lower parts of each mountain. Within thirty minutes the entire mountain range was bathed in warm sunlight and the temperature had improved remarkably.

The untouched beauty of nature, solitude, and tranquil silence were just what we needed. As we sat on our private balcony that offered dramatic views down into the gorge, we realised this was the first time in months we had left the busy (and noisy!) modern life

As we sat on our private balcony that offered dramatic views down into the gorge, we realised this was the first time in months we had left the busy (and noisy!) modern life behind. behind. It was just us and our thoughts.

We even started to hope for some deep self-realisation-like experience, but, alas,

to no avail. Perhaps it takes more than a few days to completely redirect your focus from all the hustle and bustle that comes with an active lifestyle.

Nevertheless, we had a wonderful and relaxing stay, with a tiny exception of a brief disturbance that woke us up in the middle of a windy night; it later turned out that the culprit was an outdoor lantern swinging in the air and relentlessly banging against the wall.

Once that was fixed, the ambience went back to its regular serene state.

The hotel facilities include a restaurant, which served fantastic food, heated swimming pool, basic gym, and a spa.

The place has been clearly designed to inspire, and the time literally slows down here – which is great at first, but for most people such tranquillity will eventually become a bit boring. We stayed two nights which was just perfect. If you’re planning a longer stay, you might want to try some trekking or other activities… and take a good book. On the whole, it’s an ideal getaway for anyone who just for a few days wants to escape the modern world – without forgoing its comforts.

We give it thumbs up!

The bad news is, according to the hotel’s website, you can expect to pay (for two people) up to BD 1,000 per night.

The good news is you can reduce this to around BD 190 per couple (including breakfast) by choosing a tad less lavish suite, instead of a villa.

Hotel pickup service is available. For more information, visit www.alilahotels. com/jabalakhdar, email jabalakhdar@ alilahotels.com, or call +968 2534 4200.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Travel

OUT WITH THE OLD…

“REINVENTING” ETIHAD AIRWAYS The Gulf airline has barely completed its eleventh year of operations, but they seem to be up for some major reinventing, both in terms of fleet capacity and the brand itself.

N

ew Aircraft

Last month Etihad Airways invited Gulf Insider, along with other regional and international media, to join them for a spectacular launching ceremony marking the latest additions to the airline’s evergrowing fleet: brand new Airbus 380, the first of a fleet of ten on order, and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, as part of order for more than 100 Boeing wide-body aircraft.

Designed to create a new level of luxury, both aircrafts combine advanced aeronautic engineering with enhanced on-board experience.

The Dreamliner is fitted with roomier seats, larger electronically dimmable windows, and full spectrum LED lighting. Its lower cabin pressure and improved air humidity level aim to help with some of the most dreaded aspects of air travel, such as decent-related ear pain or dehydration.

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Gulf Insider January 2015

New Livery As the carrier’s first A380 rolled-out of the paint hangar at the Airbus facility in Hamburg, Germany, the brand’s revamped livery was unveiled. Named ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi,’ the new design combines traditional Emirati patterns,

Both aircrafts combine advanced aeronautic engineering with enhanced on-board experience.

the landscapes of the desert, and the geometric shapes found in the modern architecture of Abu Dhabi, together with colour palette that reflects the sandy hues of the UAE landscape.

New Concept Equipped with the state-of-the-art cabins, the A380 comes with a unique service concept, The Residence by Etihad, which aims to give passengers maximum privacy with a touch of mid-air luxury.

Those willing to pay USD 20,000 – which covers two-passenger fare for a one way trip from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow – will be able to enjoy their flight seated in a private suite that consists of a sitting room (quite sizeable, especially when compared to the average space one would usually get on a plane), a separate bedroom, and a bathroom fitted with shower and all necessary amenities.

Travel

Image from the photo-shoot by Norman Jean Roy, taken at Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert and Qasr al Sarab desert resort.

As part of The Residence package, you will have your assigned London-trained butler to be at your beck and call (read more about it in our previous month’s edition); an inflight chef; and a VIP Travel Concierge Service to ensure every part of your journey is as smooth as a five figure ticket holder deserves.

The carrier is also working to improve the quality of travel experience in all the cabins, be it first, business, or economy class.

New Inflight Couture One of the most visible and recognisable branding emblems of the commercial airline is their frontrow workforce – the cabin crews and ground teams strutting around in their impeccable uniforms. With that in mind, Etihad had hired the Italian haute couturier Ettore Bilotta to help them take a bold step towards the new age of inflight glamour, and, as a result of this collaboration, the reinvented uniforms were unveiled during a full-blown catwalk show coinciding with the launch of the two new aircrafts.

The outfits were crafted in Italy, Shanghai, Tunis, and Bucharest, with approximately 30 per cent of the production being handmade or handstitched. Merging the 1960s haute couture from Paris and Rome with the contemporary fashions from the runways of London, New York, Milan,

and Tokyo, the designs combine almost all the colours of the brand’s palette: warm chocolate brown as base with accents of deep purple or burnt orange.

Even the bold fiery make-up and lipstick tones – up to now, a signature look for a flight attendant – have been replaced with de rigueur calmer shades. As Peter Baumgartner, Chief Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, said, this refreshing makeover “marks Etihad’s arrival as a leader of sophisticated flying.”

New Logo A brand makeover wouldn’t be complete without adding a few tweaks to the company’s logo. Etihad Airways took a subtle approach to the task by incorporating a deep-purple background to the original golden letters and – what’s worth a mention – including “Abu Dhabi” as part of the design, which indicates a new direction in promoting the Gulf city to world’s travellers.

QATAR AIRWAYS

RECEIVE FIRST A350

E

uropean-based Airbus’s new long-range, twin-engine airliner can carry up to 350 passengers and is direct competition to Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner.

Airbus delivered the first A350 jetliner to Qatar Airways last month, with a total of 80 A350s - each costing USD 3.5 billion - on order. This includes 43 A350-900 and 37 of the larger A350-1000s.

Airbus expects to build three A350s per month by year-end, up from two a month currently. By the end of 2015 the company plans to be building five a month, and ten a month in 2018.

Photo by Airbus (master films) Gulf Insider January 2015

39

Travel

Although seeped in history, Moscow is the epitome of a modern city – an effortless meld of historic and contemporary sights and attractions.

DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

MOSCOW

O

ne of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world, the Russian capital offers an inquisitive traveller much to see and do. It’s a treasure trove of cultural artifacts, eclectic cuisine, and architectural masterpieces.

What to See The city’s iconic Red Square holds a number of unique historic attractions: St. Basil’s Cathedral – An elaborately domed structure that rises from the cobblestones and is undeniably one of the most spectacular sights in the world.

The Kremlin – A fortified complex 40

Gulf Insider January 2015

dating back to the 12th century; the seat of Russian power today and the Soviet leaders in the past. The Kremlin holds museums, ancient churches, palaces, and government buildings, including The Armory, which is home to a collection of Tsarist artifacts, jewelry, and armor.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – Where an eternal flame burns for the more than 20 million Soviets who died in World War II. Lenin’s Tomb – A mausoleum holding the mummified body of Vladimir Lenin, who founded the Soviet state following the revolution and whose embalmed body has been on view since 1924.

What to Eat Moscow has a host of world-class restaurants that offer their distinctive and unique cuisine. When in town, make sure to try some of the Russian signature dishes: Borscht – A hearty winter soup cooked with beetroot and tomato.

Blini – Russian pancakes served with sour cream, jam, honey, caviar, or smoked salmon.

Piroghi – A variety of savory and sweet pies usually filled with fish, cheese, jam, cabbage, mushrooms, chopped hard-cooked eggs, or meat. The possibilities are unlimited.

Travel

What to Do In addition to its “classic” sites, there’s another Moscow: flashy, luxurious, and fascinating – a must-see for all visitors.

Get a feel of what modern Russia is all about: GUM and TSUM – The largest, most over-the-top shopping malls in Moscow. Even if you’re not particularly in the mood to spend a fortune, you should at least stop by to stroll through the vast, spectacular hallways.

35 MM – Moscow’s most storied cinemas. Although there’s no surround sound or stadium seating here, but there is history – the place has been frequented by Soviet and Russian film enthusiasts for decades.

Gorky Park – A perfect location to have a picnic, go for a casual walk along the Moscow River, and watch the locals interact.

Get Around Originally built as bomb shelters, the city’s elaborate but easy-to-use metro system is a masterpiece of Soviet art that is often referred to as the world’s finest, with each station along the much lauded ‘circle line’ featuring ceiling mosaics, bronze plaques, and more – showcased in an elaborate architecture and design.

Gulf Air operates four weekly flights between Bahrain and Moscow’s Domodedovo International Airport.

For more information, visit www.gulfair.com.

Gulf Insider January 2015

41

Life

17

o.

N e l i f o r P Insider

ALI ABBAS ABUSAEYA Gulf Insider met with Alpha Atelier Partner and Operations Manager, and the “number one guy” for made-to-measure high-end suits in the Gulf, as he was preparing to travel to Milan.

Y

ou have partnered with Corneliani, an Italian high-end label that has recently opened an exclusive boutique in Bahrain. What’s unique about this brand for the Kingdom?

These days most of the Italian luxury fashion brands manufacture their garments outside Italy, but Corneliani suits are still all 100 per cent Italianmade. That’s a major advantage in terms of the product quality. The Bahrain boutique also employs Corneliani’s very latest design concept – one of only three in the world, the other two being in Milan and Tokyo.

What are you planning next?

Corneliani’s master tailor will arrive to Bahrain on January 10 to spend two days servicing our VIP clients. I really look forward to it!

How did your career start?

I began my career in 1982 with my first shop in Adliya. I was the first to bring many top luxury brands to the Kingdom.

Has the industry changed in Bahrain over the years?

Ever since the shopping malls have been introduced on the island around the year 2000 the market has really opened up to the luxury brands.

Who are your clients?

I mostly cater to VVIP customers, as well as government ministers, bankers, and senior businessmen.

Can you tell us about the madeto-measure service you offer?

Many people in Bahrain are still not familiar with the idea. I personally

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Gulf Insider January 2015

take measurements for my customers in Bahrain, and the suits are custommade in Italy. The full process takes three weeks.

What’s the most suits you sold in a single day?

Just before the Andrea Bocelli concert, which took place in Bahrain around three years ago, I received 25 visits from excited opera fans each wanting a new suit. They obviously felt that such a special event required the finest tuxedo.

What’s the secret to your success?

I take great pride in customer service, including aftersales. I believe in building trust with my customers; Bahrain is very small, and many of my regulars become my friends.

What’s your next step?

In the coming two years I plan to introduce two new stores in Bahrain, bringing two new luxury brands – the names of which I won’t mention as yet.

If you were to switch professions, what would it be?

Honestly, I cannot begin to imagine doing anything else.

What do you do to relax?

I watch TV, especially football (my favourite teams are Barcelona and Milan). I also enjoy walking.

What’s your favourite food, and restaurant?

I love Lebanese cuisine and my favourite restaurant is Zahla in the Gulf Hotel What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

It was from my father, who would often tell me to always move forward and never look back.

Do you have a favourite quote or piece of wisdom?

There is no elevator in life; you have to take stairs. Hard work is the key to achieve your goal.

Life

REVISITED:

RUKA

Gulf Insider comes back to Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa to try Ruka’s yet-to-be-revealed new menu.

T

hings have been happening for Ruka since our last visit a few months back. Less than a year in operations and they have earned quite tangible recognition among the foodie circles. This includes being

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Gulf Insider January 2015

voted as “Favourite Japanese Restaurant in Bahrain” at Citibank Fact Awards 2014, and named “highly recommended” by 2014 Time Out Bahrain Restaurant Awards in both “Best Japanese” and “Best Business Lunch” categories.

The Ambience So, here we are again, watching the ground getting further and further away, as we stand in a direct speed-lift that takes us all the way up to Ramee Grand’s exclusive 24th floor.

We love so many things about Ruka’s setting: the outdoor terrace, partially shielded and air-conditioned, where you can enjoy your meal while gazing down at the panoramic bird’s-eye view of the island; the posh design paired with impeccable lighting, making a striking statement in overall décor; or the bar fitted with an ice-carving station, replaced daily with a different in-house made ice sculpture… The general atmosphere is inviting, inspiring, and memorable.

The Food Ruka’s menu features modern Japanese fusion cuisine, offering such classics as sushi, robata dishes,

Life

Prices: Business lunch: BD 12 net Two-course express lunch: BD 8 net

Plus, we just have to mention the flawless service. The waiting staff have mastered the art of anticipating customers’ needs to the point where we were almost sure they sort of read our minds; we barely needed to vocalise our requests.

Ruka is not just a restaurant, but also a cosy lounge and a bar. It’s perfect for a business lunch or a vibrant evening that can start off as a light and unique dinner, and finish as a fun night out featuring a stunning view of a sunset over the horizon.

Chef Raman

teppanyaki, or ramen. This time, however, we have a chance to try a very special Tasting Menu, prepared by the very creative Chef Raman. It will soon replace the restaurant’s current carte du jour, as part of their “always trying new things” concept.

At first glance, the set of choices makes us worry it might be a tad beyond our eating capacity, but as the evening continues, we manage to actually taste each and every item. Among them are such delicacies as refreshing sashimi with seasonal vegetables and light wafu; the reinvented version of maki – a daikon wrap with asparagus, almonds, takuwan, and cucumber; mouth-watering grilled Hokkaido scallops with yuzu kosho vinaigrette; or braised beef cheek with Korean chili paste, which literally melts in your mouth. And, of course, Ruka’s dessert platter that includes fruits, yoghurt, and ice-cream in various flavours.

The Verdict Toward the end, we reach a mutual consensus among the four of us: the food was interesting, yet familiar enough to enjoy even for those not entirely at ease with Japanese cuisine. To be specific, Ruka takes more of a Japaneseinspired (rather than authentic Japanese) approach to what they serve. As a result, they cater to a wide array of palates; whether you’re looking for traditional flavours or just want to try something new for a change, you’re in the right place.

“Although we do have Japanese classics on the menu, we never tried to say we were a traditional Japanese outlet,” Executive Chef Jason Lynn tells us, as we finish our mint-flavoured icecream. “We use Japanese cuisine as a ‘base’, but we don’t stop there. As the world is getting smaller, we take our inspiration from East Asia, India, or France, mix it together and come up with something new,” he adds.

“I treat all my creations as signature dishes, as they’re all equally special. Cooking is more like an art form, where you get to be creative, both with the recipes and the presentation. That’s what I love the most about being a chef.”

Ruka is located at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, Seef District, and is open for lunch from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM, and dinner from 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM. For more information call +973 17 111971, email ruka@rameegrandbahrain.com, or visit www.rameegrandbahrain.com.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Life

NOOR EL AIN FESTIVAL CELEBRATING BAHRAIN’S SPIRIT

IN RETROSPECT Street Bazaar Where: Market 338 in Adliya (Capital Governorate) When: December 15-20

The Kingdom welcomes the first large-scale shopping festival.

T

he celebration of all things Bahraini continues to unfold with the event that has been designed to bring real economic benefit and to showcase the very best of what Bahrain has to offer.

Bahrain Noor El Ain (BNEA) incorporates three main elements: the localised themed bazaars set in each governorate, the shopping festival, and a major entrepreneurship award ceremony.

exchange, meeting local chefs, and family fun activities throughout the day.

Entertainment Bazaar Where: Al Basta Market at BIC (Southern Governorate) When: December 19 to February 16, every weekend from 4 pm to 10 pm

Garden Bazaar

The market features a custom-built Entertainment Village, where visitors will find an impressive line-up of local bands, musicians, and artists throughout the duration of the two-month festival, in addition to businesses, farmers, and private sector institutions showcasing their goods.

Where: Farmer’s Market in Budaiya (Northern Governorate) When: January 17 and 24, 8 am to 5 pm

Muharraq Bazaar

THE LOCALISED BAZAARS

An outdoor market set in the beautiful botanical gardens of Bahrain will see the freshest display of food and local produce, cooking demonstrations at an al fresco kitchen, dish sampling, recipe 46

Gulf Insider January 2015

Where: Amwaj Islands (Muharraq Governorate) When: January 29 to 31, Thursday - 6 pm till midnight, Friday and Saturday - all day event

The Street Bazaar had set off the festival in the lively Adliya, where local vendors offered their products, and various activities took place, including design and craft workshops, fire shows, and a global collection of live performances.

Among the headliners for each day were Daniel Cochran, DJ Daffy, and Khalid Fouad.

Plus, Bahrain’s first ever “Taste Tours” activity offered food lovers interactive kart tours, for a small fee of BD 3 to 5 that allowed them to try sample plates from the participating eateries.

Muharraq Bazaar will offer a Thursday Night Market, health and wellness activities, vendor stalls, workshops, and an eclectic mix of entertainment and musicians throughout the weekend.

The treasures of the Muharraq Souk will also be opened up to visitors via tourist shuttle services from points across Bahrain.

Also, due to popular demand, the Adliya Taste Tour will now visit Amwaj as the Amwaj Taste Tour.

Life

SHOPPING FESTIVAL The BNEA shopping festival will promote Bahrain’s malls, retailers, and outlets, offering discounts and special offers for the duration of the festival.

The Outlets The festival involves more than 22 major shopping destinations, which means over 1,500 retailers have registered.

The participating malls include Seef Mall, City Centre, Moda Mall, Al A’ali Shopping Complex, Saar Mall, Riyadat Mall, Yateem Centre, Bahrain Mall, Ramli Mall, Lulu hypermarket (Hidd, Riffa, Sanabis), The Centre, Jawad Dome, Najibi Center, Sultan Mall, Reef Mall, Marina Mall, Enma Mall, Souq Bab al Bahrain Mall and Oasis Center.

In addition, a number of retail outlets have come on board, such as the Beit Al Tijjar lobby in Sanabis, designated kiosks at the Northern and Muharraq Municipalities, at the Southern Governorate, and the BCCI building in Manama.

The Raffle With every BD 10 spent at any appointed BNEA raffle kiosk within participating malls, shoppers can participate in the weekly mega raffle for a chance to win such prizes as cars, jet skis, iPads, iPhones, Samsung phones, televisions, F1 tickets, Gulf Air tickets, and Go Pro cameras, in addition to vouchers and a grand prize to be revealed on February 20.

Going Online The interactive shopping festival will also feature a digital element, which involves social media participation with online users sharing their shopping wish list using a hashtag #BahrainPrizes.

Participants are also encouraged to keep an eye on the official BNEA website, social media channels, and smart phone app for updates, promotions, sales, and special deals.

BAHRAIN AWARDS FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP Who Can Apply Bahrain-based companies, with the majority of Bahraini shareholders can apply in one of five categories: Micro-Enterprise of the Year (microenterprises and productive families), Startup of the Year (companies established for less than 36 months), Entrepreneur of the Year (SMEs), Entrepreneur of the Year (Large Companies), Sustainable Business Award, There will also be a Lifetime Achievement Award and the People’s Choice Award, which will open for public votes in February 2015.

Evaluation A

panel of judges, comprising of high-profile Bahrainis and some of the region’s well-known entrepreneurs and business figures, will evaluate applicants based on their entrepreneurial spirit, enterprise growth, economic impact, optimisation of talent and diversity, leadership and innovation, and business responsibility.

How to Apply Applications must be submitted before noon on January 25, however applicants are encouraged to apply

early. Nominations can be made on behalf of a third-party, or through selfnominations, provided the eligibility criteria are met.

For the Winners Winners will receive trophies and prizes ranging from advisory, training, incubation, and seed-funding, which will be provided by Entrepreneurship Award partners and Knowledge Advisors. Winners will also be given the opportunity to meet and learn from some of the region’s most successful entrepreneurs and experts.

The Partners and Knowledge Advisors The Award Partners are Tamkeen, the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), the Bahrain Development Bank; and Knowledge Advisors are BCCI, Ernst & Young, and the Arab International Center for Entrepreneurship and Investment Training – United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) Investment & Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain.

The eligibility criteria, evaluation criteria, and application forms are available on www.BahrainAE.com

Bahrain Noor El Ain set off on December 15, 2014 and will continue until February 16, 2015. For more information, visit www.bahrainnoorelain.com, follow the Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube accounts at @Bahnoorelain, or call the hotline on 17000710, between 7:30 am and 11 pm.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Life

2014 ABU DHABI

GRAND PRIX Post-event assessment reveals biggest crowd to date, highest ever guest satisfaction scores, and high social media engagement.

Y

as Marina Circuit last month announced that the 2014 FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX was the most successful to date, drawing the largest ever capacity crowd of 60,000 people – an increase of 5,000 tickets over 2013. This included the highest number of overseas visitors; 46 per cent of race goers came from outside the UAE. According to Yas Marina Circuit’s inhouse customer satisfaction survey, which is based on 1,200 10-minute, face-to-face interviews, 88% said Abu Dhabi was the best Grand Prix weekend they had attended, and 98 per cent of respondents said they would recommend attending to others.

The sporting narrative of Hamilton vs. Rosberg’s ‘Duel in the Desert’ and the double points on offer drew global media interest, and saw the highest ever number of media personnel in attendance. The Media Centre hosted 440 journalists from all over the world –

the biggest media presence at the circuit in the event’s six-year history – resulting in 8,306 articles in print and online worldwide.

The hashtag ‘#AbuDhabiGP’ trended number one worldwide on Twitter on Race Day, while recording 302,805 Twitter mentions and 1,808,000,000 Twitter impressions over the Formula 1 weekend (from 21st Nov – 23rd November).

The YasHUB F1 experience app that allowed race goers to tailor their weekend – from ticketing, to the latest F1 news to entertainment options, was downloaded 40,734 times and ranked as the number one downloaded sports app in the UAE’s Apple and Google Android stores. The app recorded 175,000 useage sessions across the weekend.

88%

said Abu Dhabi was the best Grand Prix weekend they had attended

Photo: Public Domain 48

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Style

5 OF THE MOST EXPENSIVE

WATCHES IN THE WORLD - PART 2 Following from last November’s Gulf Insider, here is five more of the world’s most expensive watches.

1

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Grand Complication

Based off the iconic Royal Oak timepiece, the Grande Complication has a 44mm titanium case: perpetual calendar, minute repeater, and split-seconds chronograph. AP has been making such complications continuously since 1882 and this is the watchmaker’s first “sport” Grand Comp. In total, 648 unique parts — including a ceramic bezel, crown and pushers and 52 jewels — are combined to form this openworked masterpiece (or roughly 860 man hours), of which only three were made

4

Hublot MP-05 LaFerrari

Where to begin? From the horizontally-aligned tourbillon at the base to the winding drill (yes, drill) that enables the wearer to wind the watch and set the time, this feat of engineering, of which 50 were produced, parallels the technological splendor of the flagship supercar for which it was named. This LaFerrari boasts a 50-day power reserve — a world record for a hand-wound tourbillon wristwatch — achieved through 11 barrels, of which two alone are used to indicate the hour and minutes. In total, this timepiece houses 637 pieces — the most components ever mastered by Hublot engineers.

Price: $345,000

Price: $742,900

2

Richard Mille RM 031 High Performance

Pushed to the extreme, each of the ten timepieces produced bears certification that ensures 61-days of non-stop testing. While this level of precision and detail housed in the massive 50mm platinum dial isn’t discernable to the naked eye, the two decade-old company is now recognized for its groundbreaking achievements in watchmaking. The round shape, a deviation from the classic tonneau, houses a direct-impulse escapement developed by Audemars Piguet, basically guaranteeing perfect performance. It also promises a chronometric variation of just zero to 30 seconds a month (translation: high performance over 30 days, not just 24 hours).

Price: $1.05 million

5

Harry Winston Histoire de Tourbillon 5

The 48mm Quatuor from Roger Dubuis represents the highest level of innovation. A feat of design that truly boggles the mind — the watch takes some 2,400 hours to build — the movement incorporates four sprung balances, not tourbillons, which continuously account for the effects of gravity and thereby increases the precision of the movement. Housed inside the silicon case, chosen for its low weight and incomparable hardness, are four escapements, beautifully displayed at diagonal angles in an Excalibur case, from which sound is emitted in unison.

One of the world’s most exotic timepieces — and likely the last in the series given the brand’s acquisition by The Swatch Group — the Histoire de Tourbillon lineup, started in 2009, was simply a division that knew no creative bounds. Its bulbous design (21.7mm) coupled with rose gold 47mm case makes it a significant piece and a true showman’s watch. Inside the HW4303 movement, 381 parts equate to a 50-hour power reserve while functionally, the hour and minutes are imaginatively noted on separate discs.

Price: $1.1 million

Price: $655,200

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Roger Dubuis Excalibur Quatuor Silicon

Gulf Insider January 2015

Style

HAUTE JOAILLERIE COLLECTION

By Chopard

MUST HAVES

SPARKLY ESSENTIALS For Your Jewellery Box HAPPY DIAMONDS COLLECTION

By Chopard

18 carat rose gold pendant set with pear-shaped cabochon amethysts (16 carats) and diamonds (1 carat)

18 carat white gold ring set with diamonds (1 carat) and three floating diamonds

18 carat rose gold earrings set with pear-shaped cabochon amethysts (14 carat) and diamonds (1 carat)

18 carat white gold pendant set with diamonds (1 carat) and three floating diamonds

18 carat white gold earrings set with diamonds (1 carat) and two floating diamonds

Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre. For more information, call +973 1752 0053.

Gulf Insider January 2015

51

Motors

CAR NEWS COVERING THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE REGION AND BEYOND

MOTORCITY REVEALS THE ALL-NEW 2015 SUBARU LEGACY Motorcity revealed the all-new 2015 Subaru Legacy Sedan in an exclusive media preview on December 22, 2014, at Subaru Showroom in Sitra. The new Legacy now features the largest interior passenger volume in the midsize sedan segment. “The Subaru Legacy has been completely re-designed for 2015 to deliver a more compelling blend of standout design, interior refinement, and safety features,” said Dr Bijan Majidi, Motorcity General Manager. The model is available at the special launch rate of BD 7,995, available during the launch period.

US ARMY TO SELL 4,000 SURPLUS MILITARY-SPEC HUMVEES TO PUBLIC For the very first time, due to a change of policy, US Department of Defense has put the ex-military Humvee vehicles for auction last month, for a bargain price starting from USD 10,000. Those interested to buy must first inform the US Government about their specific reasons for the purchase.

NISSAN RELEASES THE LIMITED-EDITION “45TH ANNIVERSARY” GT-R Nissan Motor announced that the Limited-Edition “45th Anniversary” Nissan GT-R will go on sale in early February, in conjunction with the release of the GT-R 2015 model. While its world-class high performance embodies the “R” in its name (Racing technology), its “multi performance” character allows the driver to enjoy the full depths of the GT-R’s capabilities. The “45th Anniversary” will come with a special paint colour, “Silica Brass” – the same trademark colour as the Skyline GT-R M-Spec (R34 Type), and will be available only in the Premium Edition trim level.

Nissan will be accepting orders from the region for the model on a first-come, first-serve basis, starting early this month.

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Gulf Insider January 2015

McLaren Sport Series The latest spy shot of the McLaren Sport Series.

Image gives the clearest view of the car to date, but still with some key areas deliberately obscured or not featured.

Motors

NOT WHAT

THEY SEEM…

Range Rover? Nope, it’s a ‘Land Wind’!

Y

ou would be forgiven for thinking the car below is a British made Range Rover Evoque. But look closer and instead of the words ‘Range Rover’ on the front it says ‘Land Wind’.

This car - the Land Wind X7, was on show for all the world to see at China’s recent Guangzhou motor show.

Made in China, the Land Wind X7 is, which seems to be a direct copy of the Range Rover Evoque, costs just $20,000 – which is less than half the price of a real Range Rover Evoque.

The chief executive officer of Jaguar Land Rover is reportedly livid that the Evoque has so blatantly been rippedoff; ‘The fact that this kind of copying is ongoing in China is very disappointing,’ said a furious Dr Ralf Speth to Autocar magazine. ‘The simple principle is that it is not something that should happen — the Intellectual Property is owned by Jaguar Land Rover.’

The Range Rover is not the only luxury to be copied by the Chinese — their motor manufacturers have been producing many clones of international luxury cars — from Rolls-Royce to Mini Cooper. And it’s not just cars but all sorts

But in China the notion of intellectual property is still new. ‘This is a massive, deeply ingrained problem,’ said Chris Neumeyer, managing partner of Taiwanbased firm Asia Law speaking recently to the Daily Mail. His firm assists companies with intellectual property issues in the Far East. ‘For example, When I first came to Taiwan, 15 years ago, university professors would simply sell to students photocopies they’d made of Western textbooks.’

Mr Neumeyer says that one of the problems is that Chinese patents are so easy to obtain. ‘When you register a design patent in, say, the U.S. or the UK, you have to show that your design is novel,’ he says. ‘The patent examiner then gives your application a thorough examination. But in China, they don’t do that. All they do is to check that you’ve filled in the forms correctly.’

So, Chinese motor manufacturers can register the designs in China of Western cars as if they were their own. And, to make matters worse the Chinese firms are then able to sue Western

The Chinese motor manufacturers produce these clones openly and within Chinese law. of other luxury brands.

The reason why they are making clones is easy to explain. These cars are certainly imitations, but importantly they are not being passed off as being genuine - and they’re only on sale in China.

The Chinese motor manufacturers produce these clones openly and within Chinese law. The problem lies with international patent protection.

In Western countries, for example, innovators and creators are protected by copyrights and patents and have been for hundreds of years. People understand they cannot just copy a product and sell it.

Rolls Royce? Wrong again, it’s a Geely!

manufacturers when their original cars appear on the market in China.

So if registering patents in China is so easy, why then don’t foreign manufacturers do so? This is where things get bizarre. Manufacturers such as Jaguar Land Rover do register their designs with the Chinese patent office, but it makes little difference. Under Chinese law, it is almost impossible for a Western firm to prove to a Chinese court a Chinese manufacturer has infringed a patent.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Motors

2015 PORSCHE CAYENNE

By Nick Cooksey

Starting Price: BD 30,000

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Gulf Insider January 2015

Motors

Cayenne has slightly sharper handling.

The Cayenne was a controversial development for Porsche when launched a little over a decade ago. Many Porsche ‘purists’ could not understand nor accept the company producing an SUV. They mockingly compared the idea of Porsche making an SUV with the idea of Land Rover making a two seat Super Car to

The earlier V8 engine has now been replaced with an impressive and cutting edge 3.6 liter V6 that manages to deliver more power.

T

he new 2015 Cayenne is a subtle reworking on the previous model. Look at its front and rear end and you should notice they are slightly different. The front looks wider and has sexy looking bladed air intakes. New headlamps and taillights look like they have been taken from Porsche’s latest car model, the Macan.

The new Cayenne offers more equipment as standard. There’s a tire pressure monitor and for cars with air suspension, a button drops the vehicle 2 inches when the back is open. Another new option is soft closing doors.

On the S model, which I drove, the earlier V8 engine has now been replaced with an impressive and cutting edge 3.6 liter V6 that manages to deliver more power. The new V6 knocks out 420 horse power which is 20 horse power greater than the previous model. There’s 550 Nm of Torque. The Cayenne gets to100 kph in just 5.1 seconds which is just under half a second faster than before. The Turbo

gets to 100 in an incredible 4.4 seconds!

Inside I noticed that the new Cayenne has adopted the 3 spoke 918 Spyderderived steering wheel. There are loads of buttons, even overhead. Is this a car or a plane? The purpose of some of the buttons is neither obvious nor intuitive.

But what certainly is intuitive are the grab handles firmly positioned in the obvious places that any nervous passengers will want to reach out for when the car is being driven hard.

Escaping Bahrain’s traffic on I stretch of empty highway, I put my foot down hard and enjoyed the feeling of speed and power. This is a Porsche! I feel myself thrown firmly back into my seat as the horizon races towards me. The eight-speed Tiptronic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly. I actually enjoyed driving in Comfort over Sport mode as the changes were smoother, which could have been due to its having adapted to a previous driver with a different driving style to my own. I noticed the new

rival a 911. Time has proven the Porsche strategy to be correct. Manufacturing an SUV has been a shrewd move. Cayenne sales now make up half of all Porsche sales and outselling every other Porsche model combined.

For a test drive in Bahrain contact Porsche Centre Bahrain on +973 17 459 911

Price Comparison BMW X5 From BHD28,000

Range Rover Sport From BD45,000

Mercedes-Benz ML 400 From BD29,300

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 Motor Awards.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Motors

INFINITI QX80 Nick Cooksey takes Infiniti’s big new SUV for a long spin in Oman.

I

nfiniti must be doing something right because over the past few years they have been enjoying great success around the world, and particularly in the Middle East. Infiniti are today the fastest growing premium car company in the region. Globally, they hope to increase unit sales from 200,000 to 500,000 by 2020, and they assure me that this isn’t just a hope and wishful thinking, but that they have a very well thought out plan to implement and achieve this highly ambitious goal. Part of their plan includes increasing the size of their model range so as to find new niche markets and appeal to more tastes.

The big new opulent QX80 is an important part of Infiniti’s growth plan and has been described by the company as its ‘flagship’. This SUV is really a posh version of its sister, the Nissan Patrol, which historically has proven itself as

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Gulf Insider January 2015

one of Arabia’s favorite and most loved SUVs. The QX80 has also been described by some, due to its big size and luxury, as ‘Infiniti’s Cadillac Escalade’.

Ok, first let’s talk about its power; The QX80 has a big 5.6 liter 400

Infiniti are today the fastest growing premium car company in the region. horsepower V8 engine. A seven speed auto transmission. Zero to 100 kph can be achieved in 7 seconds, which for its size and weight is pretty good.

Its exterior appearance has been made to look far more aggressive and macho than the previous model. In terms of quiet and comfort, it scores high and certainly matches any of its competitors. I drove it for many hours over a couple of days on highways, steep hills – including driving 2,000 meters high up into Oman’s Al Hajar mountain range on an unusually steep gradient – and then driving back down again using its gears as brakes. I further drove the QX80 along rocky wadis and across desert – I got to know it well, and I liked it. Ride quality is excellent, though if I had one complaint it would be that the big front seats did not seem to fully hold me in place and I found myself readjusting my position from time to time.

Handling seems fine. When offroading, despite its size and weight it cut across waste land without a care in the world. Full-time four-wheel drive can be employed with a real low drive ratio.

Torque is biased to the rear, but can be split 50:50 between the front and rear axles when wheels start slipping. Both on and off road, the QX80 has powerful braking capability.

Inside there’s lots of leather, lots of wood, and even some metallic trim.

There’s also lots of space inside. This SUV can easily carry five adults in comfort, or even more children! Seating is high up enabling you to look down on the other traffic below you. The front

Motors

wheels, moon-roof, power tailgate, and Bluetooth.

Overall this is an excellent vehicle.

Anyone looking to invest in a big luxury SUV should certainly consider taking a QX80 for a test drive before making their purchase decision.

To arrange a test drive in Bahrain contact YK Almoayyed on +973 1773 2732 Starting Price for BD 27,900

seats are AC ventilated (optional) which was great and kept me nice and cool over my two days of driving.

New features for this 2015 model include adaptive headlights that automatically dip the high beams if another vehicle is approaching, collision warning system, brake assist, backup collision warning system, and adaptive cruise control, blind spot and lane departure warning systems.

Standard features include navigation with hard drive for maps and music, DVD audio and satellite radio, 20-inch

Exterior appearance has been made to look far more aggressive and macho than the previous model.

Price Comparison Nissan Patrol From BHD15,995

Cadillac Escalade From BD30,200

Mercedes GL 500 From BD38,800 Lexus Landcruiser From BD34,000

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 Motor Awards.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Motors

THE UNWRITTEN

RULES OF THE ROAD How bikers communicate without uttering a word.

H

undreds of powerful engines roar in unison, and a caravan of motorcycles proceeds onto the highway – for the riders to share the open road and the open minds. That’s what a group ride is all about: sharing the thrill of experience with the like-minded people.

But, as you feel the special connection with your biker buddies, you soon realise that it is close to impossible to verbally communicate when riding a motorcycle. For a group riding especially, the ability to exchange information is crucial. Luckily, the riders have come up with the universal hand signals to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Photography: Bench Medina

Start Engines

Left Turn

Right Turn

Hazard Left

Hazard Right

Speed Up

Move index finger in a circular motion.

Raise left arm horizontally.

Bend left arm 90 degrees vertically.

Point with left hand.

Point with right foot.

Arm extended straight out, palm facing up.

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Gulf Insider January 2015

Motors

THE BIKERS ARE BACK IN TOWN 5th Bahrain Bike Week 2015

More than 500 bikers of various nationalities, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Bahrain took part in the 5th Bahrain Bike Week 2015, which was held last month at the Al Bander Hotel & Resort.

The three-day annual event has really grown in popularity over the years, and this year’s edition saw hundreds of motorbike fans and families pour in to enjoy the many activities, which also coincided with Bahrain’s National Day celebrations.

“Before we even began to send out the registration forms, we received a lot of entries from people in different GCC countries,” the organisers, Star Events Management, told us. “That’s why we set up registration booths around GCC. “We would like to thank everyone for being part of the Bike Week – especially our sponsors for their support,” they added.

Slow Down

Stop

Single File

Double File

Fuel

Pull Off

Arm extended straight out, palm facing down.

Arm extended straight down, palm facing back.

Arm and index finger extended straight up.

Arm with index and middle finger extended straight up.

Arm out to side pointing to tank with finger extended.

Arm positioned as for right turn, forearm swung towards shoulder.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Motors

RUSTING CLASSICS DISCOVERED ON FARM AFTER 50 YEARS

6

0 rusting classic cars left on a French farm for 50 years will be auctioned next month. Among the vehicles up for sale are a rare Ferrari and a Talbot-Lago previously owned by Egyptian King Farouk.

Ferrari 250 GT California SWB and Maserati A6G 200 Berlinetta Grand Sport Frua - one of only three in the world.

The cars were collected from the 1950s to the 1970s by entrepreneur Roger Baillon, who dreamt of restoring them and displaying them in a museum. However, his plans were dashed as his business struggled.

Since then his collection has sat dormant in makeshift corrugated iron shelters and outbuildings on the farm.

Mr Baillon died 10 years ago and his son, Jacques, who inherited the collection, died last year. Mr Baillon’s grandchildren had no idea of the extent of the collection, calling in car specialists Matthieu Lamoure and Pierre Novikoff of auctioneers Artcurial Motorcars to estimate its value.

They found a 1956 Maserati A6G Gran Sports with coachwork by prominent designer Frua, one of just three in the world, which is estimated to sell for just under $1.6 million.

But the auctioneers’ greatest discovery was that of a 1961 Ferrari 250GT 60

Gulf Insider January 2015

Motors

Hispano Suiza H6B Cabriolet Millio

A Talbot-Lago T26 Cabriolet owned by Egyptian King Farouk

Ferrari 250 GT California SWB SWB California Spider with covered headlights, which was hidden beneath piles of newspapers.

The car was previously owned by French actors Gerard Blain and Alain Delon and is expected to attract attention from Ferrari collectors with an estimate of $16 million.

Only 36 of the particular model of Ferrari were ever made.

While some of the cars are in a rusty and decrepit state, others have been wellpreserved.

The collection will be sold by Artcurial Motorcars in Paris on 6th February.

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Art

IMAGES OF BAHRAIN BY HUSSAIN ASHKAMANI

Local photographer Hussain Ashkamani started photography seriously in 2010 and says that he aims to make his photography honest and intimate, and that his primary focus now is to capture the beauty and raw emotion found in each moment.

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Art

Gulf Insider January 2015

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Off Topic

QE2 ROTS IN DUBAI

S

he was once the world’s most famous and glamorous liner, and when she was finally retired after 40 years of criss-crossing the Atlantic and left British waters for the last time in 2008 for Dubai there was a grand farewell including impressive firework displays.

The plan was that she would become a 900 room luxury hotel. But the once great Queen Elizabeth II luxury liner now lies rotting in a Dubai dockyard and her promised makeover is now over a year overdue.

She arrived in Dubai amid much celebrations and it was announced that she was going to be turned into a luxury hotel, permanently docked at the Palm Jumeirah.

Those plans were cancelled when the financial crisis struck Dubai in 2009. There are photos that have been taken over the last few years. In one photograph, workmen are seen barbecuing a pig on a makeshift spit on one of the liner’s decks. In another, sun loungers have been left in disused swimming pools.

One photograph that was posted on a Facebook group called ‘QE2 The Legend - the greatest ship ever’ shows one of the decks rusting in the Dubai dock.

In 2013 ownership of the liner was transferred to a new Dubai company called QE2 Shipping. A consortium was then set up to oversee the ship’s ‘management and operation’ as a five-star hotel. It was then announced that the ship would be converted at a Chinese shipyard into a luxury 400-suite floating hotel at a cost of US$90 million. She was due to leave Dubai last year but hasn’t. It is unknown why the QE2 has yet to leave Dubai.

The image sparked a flurry of responses when it was posted. Anthony Marshall wrote: ‘She needs to be put out of her misery. Just look at her! She is in such as state its heartbreaking.’

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Gulf Insider January 2015

Image: Associated Newspaper/REX

The QE2 arrives in New York after her maiden voyage.

Princess Diana with children on the QE2 after a refit in 1987.

Dr. Lucy Liu

Qualified practitioner in traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture offers relief from chronic pain Medical Treatment and Acupuncture

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• If you have high blood sugar or diabetes...

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Chiropractic & Medical Massage

If you suffer from stiffness in your back, neck, or with any of your joints/ muscles, James and Annie from our medical and chiropractic massage team will be pleased to help you.

Please call the Clinic on

+973 1766 4088

to book an appointment

Dr Lucy Liu on +973 3777 8922

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Last Word

8 EASY WAYS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

Here are eight of our favourite ideas for how you can make every day a little bit simpler: 1. Just say no - While it might not be

easy, saying no to anything that adds clutter to your life leaves room for what’s most important to you and your priorities will become clearer.

2. Travel – consider moving to another country for a couple of years. The transition will force you to let go of big complications, both work and personal, as well as force you to pare down your belongings. Once you come back, you’ll have much less baggage (in every sense) and be able to start fresh in many aspects.

3. Don’t hold off making tough decisions - Accept (embrace even)

the immediate pain, usually from others expecting you conform to their expectations which aren’t always in your own best interest. Recognise the toughest decisions usually turn out to be our best decisions.

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Gulf Insider January 2015

4. Clean home - Clear out your house once a year and get rid of half your stuff. You’d be surprised how little you need. And when buying new stuff, focus on buying only the highest quality essentials.

5. Decide what you truly need The more stuff we own/pursue/desire, the less our lives become our own.

People end up being ‘owned’ by all their acquisitions.” Don’t let possessions get in the way of more meaningful things, like finding your purpose and developing deeper relationships.

6. Take a break from your phone

- Between checking email, answering texts, and beating the next level of Candy Crush, our phones eat up hours of valuable time and can cause unnecessary stress. It might not be feasible to ditch your phone for good, but leaving it behind during times when you know you won’t

need it can add cherished moments of simplicity to your life.

7. Get organised - Keeping your

workspace clear of clutter will help you keep your mind clear as well. You’ll make finding a book, paper, or folder much easier, and this will save time. No matter how cliche this may sound, keeping a neat workspace will also remove the clutter that exists in your own mind, and make it easier to focus.

8. Enjoy the little things - Take

time to appreciate the little moments in life rather than hurrying from one activity to the next. Watch a sunset, listen to children laugh, smile at people, turn the music up, listen more, call your mom and tell her you love her, drink more water, really enjoy things, and leave everything better than you find it.”

Anything we forgot?

For design requirements

Call 1700 4575