The multi-award winning Arabian magazine
Arabia’s intelligent magazine
Bahrain BD2
KSA SR20
Kuwait KD1.75
Oman RO2
Qatar QR20
UAE DHS20
Issue 134
www.Gulf-Insider.com
Gulf Financial Insider
18
It’s more than Just Golf
12
Contents
March 2016 27
56
10 12
Out & About:
16
Business
18
Life
22
Affairs
24
Property
Vie Lifestyle Lab Business
Thinking about Investing in Bahrain?
Escape to Seclusion and Luxury
It’s more than Just Golf
Alcohol & Tobacco Consumers Hit by New Tariffs Bahrain’s Expat Face New Dilemma
estimated readers
60,000 +
27 35
Motors
Infiniti… and Formula One Telecom
A Word with the ‘Coding Geek’.
42
Life
44
Style
46
News Roundup
54
Places you won’t Believe are in the Middle East
4 Great Watches
news around the GCC and beyond Society
Business Events
Simply unparalleled online presence that connects region’s most inspired communities.
Arabia’s intelligent magazine
Publisher & Editor in Chief - Nicholas C. Cooksey
Comment...
Editorial - Abeer Saeed Parkar Regular Contributors - Hugh Haskell-Thomas - Nicholas Cortes - Bill Daly
Small changes, big impact We’ve evolved. Being on the hunt for new ideas led us to making a few changes to our editorial style. Another great idea was to write a business report on Red Tape and it’s Financial Implications. We obviously didn’t think it through – after chasing multiple sources and repeated (unanswered) phone calls, we decided to give the subject a rest. So depending on how much red tape a news report on red tape takes, we’ll deliver something about it in a month or two. Have you ever been caught up with prolonged paperwork and running around? Please drop us a line. We’d like to hear your story, plus we promise to get back in touch right away.
Guest Contributors - Tariq A. Al Maeena - Rich Hutchinson - Loe Babauta Layout Designs - Dhanraj S Admin & Finance - Nikesh Pola Photography - Shareef Panhatt Distribution Executives - Mohammed Yousif - Muhammed Shareef - Rafnaj K P
For Advertising Opportunities Call
Yulia Trubnikova
M. +973 3678 8748 Published by:
Media
P.O. Box 26810, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 1700 4575 Fax: +973 1772 1722
Printed at Awal Press, Kingdom of Bahrain. Distribution Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation, Tel. +973 1748 0800 UAE: Jashanmals, Tel. +971 4341 9757
Arabia’s Intelligent Magazine Established since 2004, Gulf Insider is the multi award winning Arabian business and current affairs magazine that also covers property and expat news, interviews, car reviews, travel features, even a bit of art and fashion.
The multi-award winning Arabian magazine
ArAbiA’s intelligent mAgAzine
Issue 134
page12
Bahrain BD2
KSA SR20
Kuwait KD1.75
Oman RO2
Qatar QR20
UAE DHS20
www.Gulf-Insider.com
Cover Image: Art at the Harbour by Wedad Albakr
www.Gulf-Insider.com
The monthly print edition of Gulf Insider is distributed to Bahrain’s highest spending consumers and decision makers. There’s also limited distribution in other GCC states via airline lounges, duty free, ARAMCO in the KSA, and other strategic locations.
Registered with Ministry of Information approval no. TFI-431©. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. *Articles by these correspondents are the copyright of Telegraph Media Group, 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0DT, England.
loyalty comes with a warm aftertaste earn delightful treats with VIVA Rewards
Pay with VIVA Rewards Points and enjoy the great menu at Starbucks. You can also use your points at other popular outlets including Al Forno, Pizza Express, P.F. Chang’s, IHOP, Asha’s and many others. SMS Rewards to 98833 for free. Visit viva.com.bh and discover more amazing brands.
Inbox
Send your views to info@Gulf-Insider.com The multi-award winning Arabian magazine
WORK for PLAY see page 31
Business with style
Issue 133
Warning Complimentary Copy
Life’s about to get more expensive for expats
Bahrain BD2
KSA SR20
Kuwait KD1.75
Oman RO2
Qatar QR20
UAE DHS20
www.Gulf-Insider.com
Will Expats Pay the Price? I don’t think it’s likely Bahrain’s government will create a disparity between its people (residents and nationals). Of all the Gulf countries, Bahrain has stood out for its tolerance and hospitality. Driving expats away will only result in grief. My main concern is whether there is any grace period or monetary relief provided to a low income expat who can’t afford to pay the bills starting March? Will EWA disconnect their service for water and electricity? - Amal
New Visa Procedures
The multi-award winning Arabian magazine
WORK for PLAY see page 35
Business with style
Issue 132
GCC Lowers Roaming Rates
ADNAN MAGBOUL
One Brilliant Design Concept: BLACK PEARLS The Interior Architect talks about Modernizing Tradition Bahrain BD2
KSA SR20
Kuwait KD1.75
Oman RO2
Qatar QR20
UAE DHS20
www.Gulf-Insider.com
The multi-award winning Arabian magazine
WORK for PLAY see page 37
Business with style
Issue 131
With all the taxes and madness over life becoming expensive in the region, reading about cheaper roaming rates brought about a sigh of relief. But then it hit me, people have reduced their lavish spending - who’s going to travel as much as they used to before? Authorities should lower rates for services that are more important.
Outright discrimination, isn’t it enough that Commonwealth passport holders receive visas on arrival when they land in the GCC as visitors, excluding Saudi of course. The new UAE visa rule should apply to ANY resident living in the GCC – it shouldn’t matter if you’re an Indian or British. I can understand why it’s necessary to tighten regulations due to rising terrorism and security concerns. But then are the immigration authorities implying that terrorists only come from non-commonwealth nations? Are they not taking into account the hundreds of Muslim teenagers with “Western” passports who were brainwashed online and lured to join ISIS? - Justina
Declining Gold Prices Glad to know shopping for Valentine’s Day will be easier this year! - Fuaad
- Hamad
A look at the bilateral relationships between Bahrain and some of its major trading partners.
Bahrain BD2
6
KSA SR20
Kuwait KD1.75
Oman RO2
Qatar QR20
UAE DHS20
Complimentary Copy
Friends oF Bahrain www.Gulf-Insider.com
Gulf Insider March 2016
Follow us on www.facebook.com/GulfInsider
www.youtube.com/GulfInsider
@GulfInsider
@GulfInsider
REVEL IN REFINEMENT. REVEL IN THE MOMENT.
You’ve worked hard for long enough. It’s time for you to indulge more in life. Do more of what you like to do. Subaru vehicles are designed to be the bond that holds everything together so you can spend more time connecting to what matters most in life, and the Legacy is no different.
FREE
INSURANCE & REGISTRATION
60,000 KM SERVICE
150,000 KM WARRANTY
motorcity.com.bh
From
BD 8,300
SUBARU PREMIER CLUB MEMBERSHIP CARD
MotorcityBahrain
BD 101 MONTHLY
MotorcityBh
Sitra
17 736 222
Art
Saudi Arabia By French photographer Eric Lafforgue (Part 1 – of 2)
The mosque of Omar Ibn al-Khattab (pictured) is located in the town of Dawmat al-Jandal.
8
Gulf Insider March 2016
Art
Madain Saleh [pictured] features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC. With 111 monumental tombs, 94 of which are decorated, and water wells, the site is an outstanding example of the Nabataeans’ culture that you can visit without any tourists.
Al-Hijr (Madain Salih), formerly known as Hegra, is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra.
Gulf Insider March 2016
9
Out & About
I sneaked off work early for a 5pm appointment at VIE LIFESTYLE LAB, the spa on the 15th floor of The Domain Hotel & Spa in Manama.
VIE LIFESTYLE LAB
T
here are many who believe that parking at this 5 Star hotel in Manama’s diplomatic area is a problem. It isn’t. Yes, in the mornings there’s little chance of finding a parking space outside, but the hotel has an efficient valet service to overcome this, and in the afternoon virtually all the parking spaces that are full in the mornings are empty. Now I’ve got that off my chest, on to my spa experience. After being welcomed into the peaceful atmosphere of this modern spa, I was given a form to fill listing personal details including any past medical procedures and the choice of procedures available, along with a glass of ‘detoxicating’ water. Then I was led to the changing rooms to prepare for my spa experience. VIE claim to specialize in personalized massage therapies from different parts of the world., designed to soothe aches and pains, reduce muscle tension and stress, using ‘potent natural oils’. They also specialize in personal consultations, rejuvenation therapies, colonic hydrotherapy, detoxification diets, exercise, herbal/mud/seaweed wraps and reflexology. I opted for a one hour deep tissue massage. The masseuse used deep,
10
Gulf Insider March 2016
firm, deliberate strokes on my back and relieved some tightness that I had previously felt. I requested that she focus on my back, neck and shoulders. The masseuse didn’t disappoint and she was both highly experienced and able to give me the strong massage I asked for. My one hour session was a delight and I felt great afterwards. This was followed by 20 minutes in the hydrotherapy tub where I was submerged and experienced over two hundred powerful water jets massage
my whole body. VIE claims it promotes a state of deep relaxation. It does. I left the spa feeling happy and relaxed, and promising myself that I will make time to make these sort of events a regular habit in my life.
29 sage BD s a m e u eep tiss 1 hour d for 90 minutes) 9 9 (or BD 3 b BD 1 erapy tu h t o r d y th Multi je ervice f 10% s levy o e iv s clu nt Prices in 5% governme d n a e g char
Business
Faisal Faqeeh
thinking about
Investing in Bahrain?
Gulf Insider spoke to Faisal Faqeeh, Chairman Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company about investment opportunities in Bahrain, upcoming projects and the current market. A Great Market Bahrain’s ideal location, small market size and political stability is boosting confidence amongst property investors according to Faisal Faqeeh, Chairman Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company. “A lot of Saudis, Qataris and Kuwaitis consider and want to make Bahrain their second home,” he says, “It’s easier to predict the market here compared to Saudi Arabia where the market is huge and Dubai, where the market is overly populated.” 12
Gulf Insider March 2016
“Where investors like to be safer by being followers, we lead and do what nobody else has tried.”
The company currently holds a substantial share of the Bahrain market at USD 500mn with more than 2000 residential and commercial units, and these figures are forecasted to increase. Both regional and Bahraini investors are on the rise, Faisal claims the number of Bahraini buyers has doubled over the last five years from 30% to 60%. “You can easily expect a 10% return on investment,” he explains that investors, after some initial wariness, feel positive seeing successful project deliveries and construction activity. Return on
Business
investments are running high according to him and it’s currently smarter to buy property than to rent. “People who invested in Reef Island in 2012 for example are claiming profit margins of 300%,” he shares, “Bahrain’s market has been stable since 2012; it’s likely to freeze for a quarter but there’s still movement.” He points out that this trend continues despite the political crisis in Syria and Yemen, tensions with Iran and the ongoing plummet of oil prices. “The oil crisis is not an economic issue, it’s political,” Faisal says.
How to do Business “People need to look into Bahrain’s market, it’s healthy and growing - the opportunity is there. They need to learn how to do business in a professional way and know what they’re selling,” Faisal continues. He explains that Bahrain’s market is small and controllable, and since there are limited developers involved, it’s easy to become familiar with. Bin Faqeeh takes it as a challenge to set a benchmark by being creative
and delivering unique projects in good locations. “We’re not interested in competition and following other developers. We are a unique company that simply dares to go first and do things differently. We thoroughly study our own market needs and fabricate our designs and projects based on that.” He shares examples of how his company was the first to build residential properties in grand developments Diyar Al Muharraq, Bahrain Bay and Dilmunia, while other investors were not. “On their respective launch days, we sold 70% units in Bahrain Bay and 80% in Dilmunia,” Faisal claims, “Where investors like to be safer by being followers, we lead and do what nobody else has tried.” “You need to direct your investors and convince them into buying versus renting and most importantly, provide everything in-house.” Faisal explains how Business Bay, launched in 2013, was made to include attractive facilities under one roof such as a commercial center, coffee
Gulf Insider March 2016
13
Business
shops, gym, hair salons, a mosque and two extra floors of parking. The next most important step is to deliver projects ahead or on time. “Technology is an open sky and it helps speed up construction. Where a set of workers take six hours to plaster a room, a plastering gun takes five to 10 minutes.”
Layan Bin Faqeeh’s next feat will be Layan, a luxurious mixed use project in Durrat Marina with a private water park and other exciting features. An exclusive group of VIP guests are being invited to the unique project launch towards March-end to enjoy “Dining in the Sky” where they’ll be taken 50 meters in the air to enjoy a delightful meal with striking views of both Bahrain and recently announced projects. Faisal enthusiastically shares Layan’s first-of-its-kind features – a 500m water park and swimming pool with 14
Gulf Insider March 2016
“Bahrain’s market has been stable since 2012; it’s likely to freeze for a quarter but there’s still movement.” fun activities, simulators, underwater cinema and special waterslides that connect exclusive apartment balconies to the pool below. Layan will be a mere four stories tall with 228 apartments, prices starting at BD 55,000, and over 30 retail shops. It will be a multipurpose property that addresses all the convenience and entertainment needs of its clients in-house.
“Our promise to deliver innovative investment opportunities means we face the challenge to provide a newer idea with every completed project. When we launched Waterbay last year, we gave investors a unique project in terms of location, design and facility. People thought we can’t go further than that, but then we came up with Layan.” With eight projects delivered and more in the pipeline, Faisal claims Bahrain’s real estate market is very stable compared to the GCC wherein investors are able to sell, saying the facts speak for themselves. “Companies are booked for the next six months, all the contractors are busy, and orders for ready mix compressors have gone up 20%. Trading and buying of land is not active, but construction is.”
To learn more about “Dining in the Sky” and upcoming projects visit www.binfaqeeh.com or socialmedia@binfaqeeh_co
Life
Escape to Seclusion and Luxury
Pierre Vasseur
Gulf Insider speaks to Pierre Vasseur, General Manager at Al Areen Palace & Spa about recent developments and offers at the resort, and Bahrain’s tourism industry. 16
Gulf Insider March 2016
D
riving into the resort, you’re welcomed by the beautiful sound of birds, soft relaxing music and the iconic fragrance of lemongrass. The Arabesque interiors accentuate the majestic ambience. “Al Areen offers 100% leisure and privacy,” Pierre shares, “All the 78 villas have a private plunge pool, Jacuzzi and we’ve also introduced a personal butler service for our guests and their family.” Explaining that coming to Al Areen is alike to staying in a private hotel within a hotel. The resort is home to the largest spa in Bahrain; 50% of visitors come down to Al Areen exclusively for various
spa therapies, also available through memberships. “It’s a top location for weddings and team building events too. A typical group would attend conferences or meetings during the day, followed by relaxation at the spa and then dinner at one of the restaurants,” Pierre says. It’s affiliation with Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LOPD) is also an incentive for many customers. Villas at the resort are currently being upgraded, while two exclusive suites are being built atop a tower with individual elevator facilities. They’ll be opening an authentic Indian cuisine restaurant called Roti Boti in May. Meanwhile Saffron offers Khaleeji cuisine and Keizo,
Life
a lagoon styled restaurant offers Far Eastern flavours, wherein guests can also choose to dine privately on one of the three small islands in the lake. Al Areen also has a nursery which allows chefs to grow their own foods locally. Pierre takes pride in Al Areen’s commitment to tailor-made services for its guests and saying yes to any request. He illustrated his statement by telling us about a guest who recently requested for his 42 falcons, worth BHD 1 million,
says Pierre, “Supply is outstripping demand which forces hotels to be innovative.” He believes Al Areen Palace & Spa can promote itself as a unique brand being the only luxury resort invilla styled hotel that provides seclusion, high-end service and the opportunity to experience a real retreat away from city life. Growing up in French Polynesia, he says he’s been involved in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years. He’s
revenues by 50% with strong yielding strategies and improved guest and staff satisfaction. “Every day is different and I meet different people. But it’s also a tough and time consuming job I’m attending to sometimes six to seven days a week.”
Al Areen Spa The 10,000 m² of spa facilities include a vitality pool, an ice igloo and a foot spa. Guests can enjoy the two tennis courts and the squash court, while children have fun at the kid’s club. You can also sign up for Pre-paid Spa Membership and save up to 40% on treatments.
Top Pick Rituals of Romance (120-minute session for couples) - Escape the limits of time and share the experience with a friend or a loved one. Refresh and re-energize your mind and soul with:
to be kept in the villa he was staying at. Pierre obliged. According to Pierre, Bahrain’s tourism industry needs further promotion to become a hub of leisure and entertainment; “Bahrain’s hospitality industry suffers from a lack of MICE -meetings, incentives, conferencing and exhibitions,” shares Pierre. He explains that Bahrain is surrounded by sea, and besides 2 or 3 hotels with private beach, there are no public beaches and promenades with restaurant and cafes for the residents and tourists to enjoy during the weekends. “Bahrain also faces the challenge of an overcrowded market for luxury hotels,”
Rainmist
Rose Exfoliating Salt Scrub
Rain shower
Body Ritual Massage
Nourishing Milk Bath
Relaxation and Refreshment
“Supply is outstripping demand which forces hotels to be innovative.” previously worked in Paris, Tahiti, Egypt and Qatar, and believes he has a proactive management style. Since joining the Al Alreen fraternity last year, Pierre has successfully increased total
Gulf Insider March 2016
17
Life
It’s more than Just Golf Gulf Insider catches up with Stephen Havrilla, General Manager at the Royal Golf Club, who shares his thoughts on promoting Bahr ain’s tourism infrastructure and bringing international golf events to the kingdom.
S
tephen Havrilla loves Bahrain’s laidback lifestyle and the fact that the locals and expats mingle with one another so more so than what he’s seen in other GCC countries, but feels the tourist industry here suffers due to lack of infrastructure. “I believe that Bahrain needs to start developing a broader tourism base and infrastructure to attract the foreign visitors if they want to
drive tourism. We need to have a European Tour or Asian Tour Event stop to attract more golfers into the country, similar to what we had in 2011 with the Volvo Championship. Ideally we can host this event for a minimum of five years around the desert swing events in Abu Dhabi and Dubai,” he suggests. Stephen explains that the club is the only green grass championship course in the Kingdom, but to drive
Stephen Havrilla
18
Gulf Insider March 2016
Life
golf tourism into Bahrain, golfers look for multiple courses to play as well as outside attractions. They work closely with the Bahrain Golf Association and GOYS for the development of the juniors and national team members, including the BGA when hosting the King Hamad Trophy, GCC Golf Championship and the Junior Open Event. “The Royal Golf Club also runs several golfer development programs through our Academy, which include our Future Champions program, our 6 week junior development program, Beginner programs such as learn golf in one day and also kids play free program. Our golf Academy development programs are learning and skills base and once the student has developed the basics we introduce them to actual playing conditions on the Wee Monty course and then onto the Future Champions course.” He jokes Junior Golf provides the club with future members and champions, and it also brings parents into the game. Still on the theme of expanding visitors to the club he says with a smile; “You know, you don’t have to play golf or be a member to come here – there are great outlets and we are open to the public.” With membership, clients have unlimited access to all the club
facilities available at the club including the championship golf course, wee Monty course, fitness center, swimming pool, sports field and our F&B outlets. They can also play in several member only golf events and attend member social events through the year. “As a member you also have access to the Troon Golf network of golf courses and loyalty programs which offer discounts and free playing voucher at our network of 250 golf courses worldwide. You have special offers and discounts available to you in the F&B outlets as well as the retail shop,” he mentions.
“You don’t have to play golf, to come here – it’s open to the public.” The various golf courses, academy for learners, fitness classes and wide range of dining options offers visitors a list of fun activities to get involved in. The venue is a great option for weddings, barbeques, corporate events and other social gatherings. Stephen shares that one third of the club members are locals who permanently live in Bahrain while the rest are expats, a clientele that is constantly changing. He’s honest and says Golf is a difficult
game, but with the right instruction and development program, it can be a game that is both enjoyable and challenging and can be enjoyed by all ages. “Our Golfer development programs range in cost based on the type of program selected, but you can get involved for as little as BHD 29. We have several packages including individual and group lessons, lesson series packages, group clinics, demonstration days, and playing lessons.” An engineer by profession, Stephen left a well-paid job to pursue a career in club management and a passion for golfing which began when he was 10-years-old. Golf was his escape and he’s glad to share this sport with guests who come down to the club – open to junior players, families and corporate teams whether they play or not, the premises accommodates and invites everyone. “I plan on staying in Bahrain longer for the club and maintaining consistency in its management,” he says. Even though he needs to be on the job six or seven days a week, he tells us he loves his job at the golf club. “I enjoy meeting new people and this job allows me to interact with customers from all around the globe. But best of all,” says Stephen pointing towards the golf course, “You couldn’t ask for a better office.”
For more information about activities at the Royal Golf Club call + 973 17 750777 or visit www.theroyalgolfclub.com Gulf Insider March 2016
19
Property
Is now a good time to invest in
Dubai real estate?
T
he real estate market in Dubai is likely to trend upwards this year and enter the recovery phase of its third cycle, thanks to the government’s expansive fiscal policy, said a report. As oil prices and equity markets continue to fall further, the consensus on the current situation of being a redux of 2008 becomes stronger. However, a closer examination of the 2016 budget reveals a mismatch, according to Unitas Consultancy, a Dubai based real estate consulting firm. In response to the oil price crash over the last 18 months, the majority of GCC members have slashed their 2016 budget spend by more than seven per cent. Interestingly, Dubai has increased its budget by 12 per cent year over year, said the Dubai consulting firm in the report released by Reidin, a leading real estate information company focusing on emerging markets. This highlights the government’s role in expanding the money supply in order to encourage economic growth, stated the report. It is this response by the government that is providing the fillip in the form of sustained fiscal stimulus in the face of global economic headwinds, and as economic history suggests, sustain and mitigate the impact of any downturn, it added.
20
Gulf Insider March 2016
Property
According to experts, the relationship between the budget spend and real estate prices is intertwined, where the former is a leading indicator of the latter. For example this relationship is witnessed in Dubai and Qatar over the last 6-8 years, where an increase is budget spending has coincided with an increase in real-estate asset prices with a lag, they pointed out. As oil continues to float near the $30 range, concerns abound that the contractionary effect will lead to a reduction in economic activity, they added. According to them, Dubai is the only exception within the GCC states that has a low dependency on oil (six per cent in 2016), as the emirate has diversified into other sectors such as tourism, retail, and logistics. It is this diversification of revenues that has allowed the city to adopt an expansionary fiscal policy, they added. “If both the government and private sector spending continues to increase Dubai will cope with the falling oil prices,
supplementing the loss of jobs from the oil and gas sector with other booming industries such as tourism, construction, and healthcare,” the experts stated. Last year Dubai experienced a 5.1 per cent increase in population coupled with 3.4 per cent in GDP growth, said the
Dubai is the only exception within the GCC states that has a low dependency on oil (six per cent in 2016), as the emirate has diversified into other sectors such as tourism, retail, and logistics.
Unitas report. “The expansive fiscal policy adopted by the government is in line with the current infrastructure boom that is underway. If the momentum continues, Dubai real estate prices will begin to trend upwards, entering the recovery phase of its third cycle,” it stated. According to the report, even though foreign money flows will likely be impacted in the face of declining oil prices, the stimulus adopted by the government will cushion any deleterious impact. This fiscal stance is expected to be sustained during the run up to the World Expo 2020, said the report. Although it is likely that foreign inflows will subside in response to falling oil prices, the impact will likely be moderated as the city moves to recalibrate the housing market towards a more affordable option, it added.
(Source - TradeArabia News Service)
Dubai: All the Returns We Cannot See
R
eturns from a real estate investment are derived from two basic components (i) capital appreciation and (ii) rental returns. Over the last two real estate cycles, investors have focused on the out-sized returns generated from capital appreciation compared to rental yields. However, the latter can account for 40% of the total returns in the longrun, making it an essential component of the return matrix. During up cycles, capital appreciation always accounts for the bulk of the total returns; it is in periods of downturn that rental returns dominate, and in this cycle, dominates throughout the entire cycle to date. On a city wide basis, capital appreciation since 2009 has been a mere 16%, whereas the total returns including rent during the same period have been close to 70%. Conventional market wisdom for the investor psyche is that low-end properties are a yield
product, whereas premium assets are a longer-term capital appreciation play. Typically services fees is 15% of the rental value across Dubai, however this amount gravitates higher or lower depending on the segment of the market. In the affordable segment, the service fees can account for as low as 12% of rents, whereas in the high-end
areas it can be as high as 17%. An investor should be aware of the fact that the difference between the gross and net yield in a property investment can vary by 25%. This difference is attributed to the various costs included with the rental, service charge and purchase components of the investment. (source – Reidin)
Gulf Insider March 2016
21
Affairs
Alcohol and Tobacco
Consumers Hit by New Tariffs Bahrain has doubled import duties on tobacco products to 200% and alcohol products from 125% to 225%, a move that’s resulted in F&B businesses restructuring their ledgers and emptied cigarette shelves at retail shops.
F
or many days after Bahrain announced the doubling of duties on alcohol and tobacco, cigarettes were hard to buy in many shops. There were a few shops selling less popular brands of cigarettes, while some bigger retail stores reported they had been out of stock for more than a week and with no idea when wholesalers would be delivering the next batch. The Bahrain News Agency subsequently released a statement clarifying the new tobacco tariffs. According to the new rules, import duty levied on tobacco have increased from 100% to 200% under a recent decision to readjust taxes on special commodities. The move is part of initiatives to develop state revenues and revitalize the financial standing amid budget deficit resulting from plummeting oil prices in international markets. However, the price of a single packet of cigarette would go up by 200 fils only. For instance, a packet of cigarettes
22
Gulf Insider March 2016
According to the new rules, import duty levied on tobacco have increased from 100% to 200% under a recent decision to readjust taxes on special commodities.
would remain unchanged after the import duty exemption took effect in January, 2016, under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) binding the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States of America. Some of the hoteliers that Gulf Insider spoke to report that the hike in alcohol prices means wholesalers are likely to sell products at a 44% higher price than before. However, retailers will try to absorb a many, but not all, of these costs into their own expenses. They also fear the development of an alcohol black market. Overall, the hotel and restaurant industry will be taking a hit and the increased prices are inevitably going to affect the end consumers’ spending patterns.
usually priced at BD1 would be up by a maximum of 200 fils, to be sold from now on at retail outlets at BD1.200. Meanwhile, the prices of US tobacco
Citizens and residents are required to report any shopping outlets which are tampering with the prices of tobacco to the Consumer Protection Directorate by calling the Consumer Protection Centre on Tel: 1700 7003.
Paradise, just a few hours away...
Dutch Bay Resorts, Sri Lanka
Set within an oasis of mangrove forests, and water reservoirs you will find Dutch Bay Resorts, a tranquil sanctuary of 16 Signature Hideaway Mangrove Chalets of 5 star boutique standards. Come escape from the world and pamper yourself with ageless Holistic Spa Treatments. Rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit by selecting from a variety of spa packages and treatments to help restore your natural balance. Dutch Bay Resorts Exclusive VIP Club - Designed for high net worth individuals who care for nature, we provide specifically designed facilities to allow our members to enrich their lifestyle and well-being.
Property
Bahrain’s ExpatS face new dilemma
A representative from Bahrain Real Estate Association explains the Lease Law introduced last year provides guidelines on capped rents, but is not clear on utility billing which is subject to increase this month.
“T
he rent for tenants living in unfurnished homes typically excludes the water and electricity bill, which they pay themselves. But a fully furnished home is issued one standard bill that includes utilities,” says Mr. Saleh Faqihi, the association’s Secretary to Board of Directors. Even the municipality fees are calculated differently for furnished
24
Gulf Insider March 2016
and unfurnished homes, the cost is 10% of the monthly rent for unfurnished properties and 70% for fully furnished. The cost of water and electricity for expatriates and large businesses is expected to increase starting this month, however, there’s no clarification on how residential utilities are structured in the Lease Law introduced last year, and this can be a dilemma for fully-furnished property owners.
Property
Introduced in February 2015, the law requires landlords to wait two years from the lease commencement date or the last rent increase date before increasing the rent. The maximum increase is set at 5% for residential properties and 7% for commercial and other properties, unless otherwise stated. A landlord must inform the tenant of their intention to increase the rent at least three months before the end of the second year. There is a possibility that landlords of fully-furnished properties will hike their rent fee in light of increased water and electricity costs since these amenities are calculated in the total rent. How much and how often the rent increases depends entirely on the mutual agreement signed by both
tenants responsible for utility bills based on their respective consumption and leaves the homeowner’s current revenue unaffected. But since the property is no longer furnished, tenants will end up paying more than they previously were. Ideally, it’ll be simpler if landlords hand over the utility bill to the tenants and leave it at that. Mr. Unkar Chanian, Senior Associate at Charles Russell Speechlys, agrees that making tenants liable for water and electricity is the easiest way to deal with the looming issue. In case of disagreement, concerned parties should take their lease complaints to the Rent Disputes Committee (RDC), a fast track court that was established subsequent to the introduction of the Lease Law last
“People need to be aware that the court will not recognize complaints if a tenancy contract is not registered with the concerned authorities.” parties, Mr. Faqihi explains, stressing the importance of making sure property leases are officially registered with the government. But legally, homeowners can’t increase a tenant’s rent unless the lease is being renewed or two years have passed. At the same time, one can’t cross the 5% cap. Someone has to pay the price, therefore, the utility hike leaves homeowners of fully furnished homes in a rut. “One homeowner I spoke to was concerned about dealing with the new utility charges. He can’t increase rent, so he decided that he’ll simply cancel furniture and register his tenants to pay for water, electricity and municipality on their own,” he shares. This solution holds
year. “People need to be aware that the court will not recognize complaints if a tenancy contract is not registered with the respective authorities,” he continues. Mr. Faqihi expressed concern over the increased cost of living in Bahrain and says landlords might begin losing tenants as they look for cheaper accommodation or leave the country all together. He believes the lack of clarity regarding utilities could create rifts between homeowners and tenants, and hopes a clear cut explanation is provided soon.
Note: Real estate and property consultants approached by Gulf Insider were unavailable for comments.
Gulf Insider March 2016
25
Motors
CAR insider New Suzuki Vitara is launched
Prius – Toyota’s Global Hybrid Icon
The new 2016 CMC Z7
26
Gulf Insider March 2016
New car launces in Bahrain First Year Anniversary celebration of the Land Rover Experience at Bahrain International Circuit
Motors
Infiniti…
and Formula One Last November, Gulf Insider visited the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix. We were going to publish a great article on the Infiniti Red Bull racing team, but just days after our visit it was announced that this racing alliance had been terminated (nothing to do with us btw). Now the big news is that Infiniti has partnered with the new Renault Sport Formula One team for the 2016 season. Here’s what we know about it so far…
S
tarting with the new 2016 season, Infiniti will be a technical partner of the new Renault Sport Formula One team. Leveraging its expertise in performance hybrids, Infiniti will contribute engineering resources to the Renault Energy F1 Power Unit’s Energy Recovery System (ERS), which incorporates two motor generator units, the MGU-H and MGU-K, and a battery. This new and enhanced involvement strengthens the Renault Nissan Alliance and at the same time leverages the opportunities the Alliance provides by creating powerful industrial synergies for its members. Infiniti’s reputation for performance hybrid vehicles is built on the widely-
acclaimed 3.5-litre hybrid engine. The Q70 sedan, equipped with this engine, has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the fastest accelerating full-hybrid car. The same hybrid system is also offered on the Q50 sports sedan. Infiniti’s strong expertise will be used by the Renault Sport Formula One team in Viry-Châtillon as a team of Infiniti hybrid specialists move from Infiniti’s technical center in Atsugi, Japan, to France to support development of the Renault Energy power unit. At the same time, Infiniti will use the experience from the F1 ERS system to further enhance its hybrid powertrains for road cars. Infiniti began its Formula One involvement in 2011 as partner of the Red
Bull Racing team and evolved into the title sponsor of the team as of the 2013 season. Building upon this experience, Infiniti now takes the logical next step forming a technical cooperation with the Renault Sports Formula One team based on a five-year plan. “At Infiniti, motorsport is an important part of our business strategy,” said Roland Krueger, President Infiniti Motor Company. “Forming a technical collaboration and enabling technology transfer road-to-track and track-to-road is the logical next step. The establishment of the Renault Sport Formula One Team by our Alliance partner Renault provides us with an ideal opportunity to enter this next phase of our long-term motorsport strategy.”
About Infiniti: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd. is headquartered in Hong Kong with sales operations in over 50 countries. The Infiniti brand was launched in 1989. Its range of premium automobiles is currently built in manufacturing facilities in Japan, the United States, United Kingdom and China. Infiniti plans to also expand manufacturing into Mexico by 2017. Infiniti design studios are located in Atsugi-Shi, near Yokohama, London, San Diego and Beijing. Infiniti is in the middle of a major product offensive. The brand has been widely acclaimed for its iconic design and innovative driverassistance technologies.
*Next issue, Gulf Insider will be test driving the new Infiniti Q50 Hybrid.
Gulf Insider March 2016
27
Motors
The Best Cars in Bahrain
Watch the following mini car reviews on YouTube
All reviews filmed in Bahrain. New reviews added each month
Jaguar XF S
2016 Jaguar XF S The Best Cars in Bahrain
Infiniti Q50
Infiniti Q50 - Car Insider Review
Porsche 911 Carrera S
2016 Porsche 911 Carrera S The Best Cars in Bahrain
Porsche Cayenne
Porsche Cayenne Platinum Review
Porsche Macan
Car Insider Porsche Macan Turbo
Infiniti QX60
Taking The Infiniti QX60 For A Spin
Subaru Range 2016
Special Offer
T
he Subaru Legacy is now available for only BD 8,300 with a low monthly installment of BD 101, Subaru Forester is offered at BD 8,600 and BD 105 per month, the Subaru XV BD 8,000 with a monthly installment of BD 98. Special offer on all Subaru models includes one year insurance and registration, 5 year/ 150,000 kilometers warranty, 5 year roadside assistance, free rust proofing, a 3 year / 60,000 kilometers service package and a complimentary Subaru Premiere Club membership.
For more information on Subaru and these available offers, please contact the Subaru showroom in Sitra on17736222 or visit www.motorcity.com.bh 28
Gulf Insider March 2016
Life
28
o. N e l i f o r P Insider
Dr. Akbar Jaffari Chief Executive JAFCON for Productivity Development, Economist and Author.
T
ell us about your journey into productivity management and economics; what inspired you? I started with an education in Electrical Engineering wherein I had Economics as an elective subject. That’s when I realized my inclination towards the field and pursued a specialization in Industrial Engineering, Master’s in Management and PhD in Economic Management Productivity. After working with Alba for about two decades, I established JAFCON in 1990. With a clear vision in mind, we became the first Arab firm specialized in productivity consultancy within Bahrain and the region.
40% of the US, this is a low rank. The GCC is an affluent society overall, we are used to having without trying and this makes us complacent. We need to better utilize resources and dormant assets, and raise awareness about the unjustified, luxurious style of living. The rest of the GCC should also learn from Dubai and create initiatives that are not targeted at eating away from oil revenues.
What do you consider your most prized achievement? I was one of 17 international inductees to receive a Fellowship at the World Academy of Productivity Science during the World Productivity Congress held in Canada last year. I’m the first Arab to receive such an honour, which was also mentioned in various academic journals. I believe JAFCON has created a core of young and ambitious Bahraini expert consultants in Productivity Improvement. We have provided consultancy and training to many major companies and ministries across the region catering to sectors in finance, banking, government and service organizations; that is 737 companies or projects completed.
What do you like most about your job? What do you find most difficult? It’s gratifying to see companies turn around with increased p r o d u c t i v i t y, and as a result improve people’s income and standard of living. However, thick walls of bureaucracy hinder us from streamlining productivity.
How do Arab nations rank in work productivity compared to others? What are your thoughts regarding the region’s over-dependence on oil revenues? Bahrain is one of the region’s leading countries in productivity, but there’s still lots of room to improve – We are at 56% of Singapore’s productivity rate and at 30
Gulf Insider March 2016
HOBBIES & INTERESTS: Sport activities and reading – philosophy, history and arts.
Bahrain
Telecom insider TRA Announces SIM-card Regulation
A
new regulation issued by Telecommunication Regulation Authority aims to safeguard consumers from fraud and identity theft related crimes. The regulation has also introduced a ceiling for the number of pre-paid SIM cards consumers may acquire, which has been set at 10 pre-paid SIM-cards as a maximum from each licensed mobile operators (Batelco, Zain, Viva); as such a total of 30 pre-paid SIMcards per person can be obtained. TRA will also prevent the sale of SIMcards in shops as the regulation only permits selling SIM-cards through the operators’ outlets and their resellers who obtain a formal approval from TRA to conduct the registration and verification processes on behalf of the mobile operators. Simultaneously, TRA is preparing an awareness campaign for consumers, which will convey a number of informative messages. The focus will be mainly on educating consumers not to obtain SIM-Cards on behalf of
others and refrain from leaving SIMcards registered in their names at the disposal of others. Misuse of SIMcards registered in the name of the consumers may make them subject to legal accountability. The consumers will be made aware to ensure that
SIM-cards, without their knowledge, are not registered in their name with the licensed mobile operators. The campaign will also encourage residents and visitors to cancel any SIM-cards registered in their names in case they leave the country permanently.
Zain and neXgen to form ‘smart city’ business unit
Z
ain Group has announced a strategic investment in neXgen Group, a smart city advisory and consulting services provider based in the UAE. The investment will lead to the establishment of a specialized business unit delivering smart city services to governments and mega real estate developers facilitating the deployment of smart city solutions and managed services across Zain’s regional footprint. The newly established business unit will focus on delivering smart city solutions and managed services and will include design and integration for applications
including smart living in city districts, smart safety and security, smart education and health, and smart metering for the utility sector among others. The concept of smart cities relates to the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to enhance performance and well-being, to reduce costs and resource consumption, and to engage more effectively and actively with citizens. A smart city should be able to respond faster to city and global challenges than one with a simple transactional relationship with its citizens.
Gulf Insider March 2016
31
in si de r Te le co m
Advertorial
Value Added Benefits Instant Payments on the Go
V
IVA Bahrain and BENEFIT, the National ATM and Point of Sale switch, the Bahrain Cheque Truncation and Electronic Fund Transfer processor of Bahrain, have signed an Electronic Funds Transfer System (EFTS) “Fawateer” agreement to facilitate online payment services
for VIVA customers with all retail banks connected with BENEFIT. As the first telecom operator to sign an EFTS agreement with BENEFIT, VIVA will offer customers convenience and security of viewing bills online and making instant payments on-the-go. The agreement with BENEFIT will
Introducing VIVA Rewards
James Kennedy, AlShaya Group - Country Manager & Andrew Hanna, VIVA Bahrain – CCO
V
IVA Bahrain is now offering greater flexibility and increased benefits to its customers with an opportunity to redeem their earned points in VIVA Rewards in exchange for products and services from a wide range of outlets. The announcement was made
with VIVA unveiling its exclusive tie-up with Alshaya Group offering customers the exciting opportunity to use their earned points at more than 30 of the world’s most recognized retail brands offered by the international franchise group in Bahrain.
VIVA CEO Ulaiyan Al Wetaid with BENEFIT CEO Abdulwahed Al Janahi
allow customers to inquire about and pay their VIVA postpaid bills as well as top-up VIVA Prepaid accounts directly through BENEFIT’s EFTS service connected to various channels of retail banks in Bahrain such as branches, Internet banking and Mobile banking.
Moreover, VIVA Rewards which is a free loyalty programme that assigns prepaid and postpaid customers points for using their mobile or data services, also offers redemption of telecom benefits including free VIVA to VIVA calls, SMS, international minutes, as well as additional data. With retail choices ranging from health & beauty brands such as MAC, Bath & Body Works, The Body Shop; to fashion and footwear featuring Debenhams, River Island, H&M, Oasis, Footlocker, Payless, Mothercare; from home furnishings and lifestyle offerings like Pottery Barn, Teavana, to culinary services including Starbucks, IHOP, PF Chang’s, Pinkberry etc, VIVA customers will now be able to redeem points for their diverse lifestyle and shopping ne§eds.
Customers can access additional information on VIVA Rewards or sign in by visiting viva.com.bh/personal/ rewards 32
Gulf Insider March 2016
Telecoms
WhatsApp How to read WhatsApp messages WITHOUT your friends knowing.
Five Whatsapp tricks that can make life easier 1. See when your messages are read: Go to a chat, tap and hold on any of the messages you’ve sent, followed by the info option.
Simple trick uses Airplane Mode to stop ‘blue ticks’ appearing Whether you’re trying to play it cool with someone, or putting off responding to a friend’s latest crisis, WhatApp’s blue ticks can be unhelpful. The popular messaging app shows a double blue tick once a recipient has read a message, which can make for some awkward scenarios. But there is a simple process to avoid any possible humiliation and drama by using a trick that stops the blue ticks appearing. When users receive a notification of a WhatsApp message, perhaps from someone they are trying to avoid, they should not open the app to read it. Instead, they should turn on ‘Airplane Mode,’ which disables access to Wi-Fi and mobile signals. Also known as Flight Mode, this option is accessible in the Settings menu, by swiping up from the bottom of the screen on iOS or from the top of the screen on Android.
HOW TO AVOID THE BLUE TICKS 1. When you receive notification of a new WhatsApp message don’t open the app.
2. Go to Settings and enable Airplane Mode, or Flight Mode. 3. Once enabled, open WhatsApp and read the message. 4. Double click the home button and close the app while still in Airplane Mode. 5. Turn Airplane Mode off. The ticks will remain grey until the app is opened and synced online again. Once this mode has been enabled, the user can then open the app and read the message without alerting the sender’s attention to their action by triggering the blue ticks. To keep it a secret, users then need to close the app while still in Airplane Mode. This can be done by double tapping the iPhone’s home button and swiping upwards on the WhatsApp app, or by tapping the multitask button and closing the app on Android handsets. The sender of the message will remain unaware it has been read so long as the sneaky reader doesn’t open the chain of messages while online.
Source: Stuff
2. Mute group chats: Tap on the group chat and the name to bring up ‘Group Info’, where you will find the option to ‘Mute’ the chat for eight hours to one week or even a year. 3. Shortcuts to conversations: Tap and hold on the chat and a tab will pop up. Select the ‘Add Conversation Shortcut’ option and the chat in question will appear as the person’s profile photo on your mobile desk top – can only be used by Android users. 4. Send public messages privately: On the top-left hand corner just below the search bar, you’ll notice a ‘Broadcast Lists’. Tap on it for the option to create a new list of contacts you want your message to go out to, and message away like you would normally. 5. Make calls: Make sure you’re using the latest version of WhatsApp. You should see a new ‘Calls’ tab alongside the usual ‘Chats’ and ‘Contacts’.Just send a voice call invite to another WhatsApp user and you’ll be chatting away in no time.
Gulf Insider March 2016
33
in si de r Te le co m
iPhone 7 What to expect from the coming iPhone 7.
iPhone 7 concept
A
pple’s iPhone 7 is set to banish the camera ‘bump’ - and could even use a new dual lens camera, it’s claimed. It is believed the larger of the expected two models will use a radical dual lens camera. According to a source who has provided reliable information in the past, the iPhone 7 body will appear very similar to the design used for the iPhone 6 and 6s, with two significant exceptions. ‘The first involves the rear camera, which protrudes slightly on the iPhone 6 and 6s. On the iPhone 7, the camera is said to sit flush with the rear casing, enabled by a thinner camera module. The other significant change with the body of the iPhone 7 is the removal of antenna bands across the rear, allowing for a cleaner all-metal look on the back. Antenna bands at the sides and around the top and bottom edges are said to remain, however. Apple is also developing a radical wireless charging system for the iPhone, it has been claimed. The system would not require users to place the handset on a ‘mat’, but instead would be able to work over longer distances. 34
Gulf Insider March 2016
Apple is exploring cutting-edge technologies that would allow iPhones and iPads to be powered from further away than the charging mats used with current smartphones. According to Bloomberg, the system could be implemented in 2017. ‘Apple is exploring cutting-edge technologies that would allow iPhones and iPads to be powered from further away than the charging mats used with current smartphones, the people said, asking not to be identified as the details are private,’ it claims. ‘The iPhone maker is
looking to overcome technical barriers including loss of power over distance with a decision on implementing the technology still being assessed, they said.’ Apple has previously made a patent application for a system to use an iMac personal computer as a hub for wirelessly recharging at a distance of about 1 meter using a technique called near-field magnetic resonance. Apple currently uses a similar technique, called induction, to charge its Watch. Apple is also believed to be developing a more expensive pair of noise-canceling, Lightning-connected, earphones or headphones, possibly under its Beats brand, the site claims. Apple is expected to include an adapter with the handset to use older regular 3.5mm headphones. In order to shrink the thickness of a future handset, Apple is rumoured to be looking at ways to get rid of the standard 3.5mm headphone port. Now, more reports suggest the yet-to-beannounced iPhone 7 will feature a single, multipurpose lightning port that will double up as a headphone port as well as charger.
Opinion
Ali Mohsen
Hamad Fouad
A Word with the
‘Coding Geek’ When asked to create the next Instagram – Hamad Fouad built Yuppi, a unique photo and video sharing app that’s gained popularity with 10,000+ users in Bahrain and across the world.
A
s a strategic move to brand his coding talent online, Hamad began designing templates and apps two years ago which he showcased on Instagram and sure enough, some months later a tech savvy Bahraini entrepreneur, Ali Mohsen, wanted to meet him. “Ali liked my work and told me about his idea to create a collaborative photo and video sharing app. Unlike Instagram where users can individually post pics and video, or Snapchat a quirky app where videos and images self-destruct after 10 seconds of viewing, Yuppi allows users to make what we call ‘Moments’,” says Hamad. Users upload photos and videos to Moments; shared with pre-set groups such as friends, family or team, members can add their own content from the same event/experience. In this way, everyone in the group is collectively a part of the ‘moment’. After two tireless months of development, Yuppi was launched in September last year and is gaining popularity as the new, fun app for social
“Being a Coding geek is great if you love it and balance your mind well. media users in Bahrain and beyond, with at least 10,000 people creating and sharing moments so far. Hamad confirms Yuppi is being used in 150 countries worldwide, without disclosing the quantity of users. He’s a shareholder at Yuppi (previously called PaperV) and is working with Ali to have their app picked up by investors in Silicon Valley. “Most companies are paying millions to streamline social media apps and Yuppi potentially features the simplest way to collaborate content between users,” Hamad says with confidence. “I’m working on newer features that we’ll introduce soon.” He explains that for any social network application to survive in the online arena
it needs to be continuously developed and modified. Hamad, a second year Computer Science student at the University of Bahrain, had his first application - a Twitter clone, rejected nine times when he submitted it to the Apple team for review. He learned coding on his own accord by studying from various tutorials online, saying that academic assignments were not challenging him enough in terms of enhancing skills. “Instructors don’t motivate you to do greater stuff, they only want you to focus on the course outline and complete assignments,” Hamad mentions. In the aim to balance personal initiatives and his academic GPA, he follows a strict schedule to work on app feature development outside class time. The 18-year-old also conducts a free course on Udemy, an online learning platform where he teaches and shares with students and developers what he learned during his own quest for knowledge. “I went through many tutorials and feel I should give back by helping other developers.” Hamad’s ‘Built Great IOS Apps (Swift)’ course is currently catering to 7000 students worldwide, with 4 out of 5 stars and has also been on Udemy’s Top 3 Courses list. “Students have commented they feel engaged with my tutorials and find my techniques different and more straightforward than others,” he says. Nevertheless, he claims the dark side to a life of coding is that your friends and family will miss you. Working on apps means Hamad stays alone most of the time between university lectures and at home. “Being a Coding geek is great if you love it and balance your mind well. I faced a lot of issues when people questioned me on what I’m doing with my life, wasting it away on my computer. Nobody supported me and asked why they haven’t seen any apps online yet,” he shares, “I hit a few blocks when I started to doubt myself and my abilities, wondering if I’m headed towards failure. But now, after Yuppi’s success, these same people say I’ve got the talent to go far.” Ultimately, Hamad says he loves what he does and can’t imagine doing anything else – “Coding is my life.” Gulf Insider March 2016
35
in si de r Te le co m
Samsung
unveils the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge When it comes to the camera, Samsung claims both the S7 and S7 Edge smartphones are the first in the world to feature dual pixel sensors.
36
Gulf Insider March 2016
S
amsung have officially launched their new Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge phone. They have 14cm screens and feature ‘always-on’ display so users can see basic phone info without having to wake it up and use up battery life. This permanent display works by only showing the pixels that are needed to display a particular notification at the top of the screen. Notifications appear in black and white on a small portion on the screen. These new phones have metal bodies and are waterproof to a depth of 1.5 metres for up to half an hour. Inside they have more improved central and graphics processors that Samsung claim are the most powerful processors in an ‘S range’ ever. As for storage, Samsung has extended its SIM tray to include an SD card slot to be used for expandable memory up to 200GB, meaning users can store hundreds or even thousands more photos, videos or music locally on the handset. When it comes to the camera, Samsung claims both the S7 and S7 Edge smartphones are the first in the world to feature dual pixel sensors. The addition of an extra sensor means the phone’s camera can focus in on an object much quicker. There’s also a brighter lens and bigger
pixels in the S7 and S7 Edge’s camera so that they let in 56% more light to improve aperture and can work better in low light conditions. The camera in the Galaxy S6 had a slightly protracted lens that stuck out of the back, but it is less noticeable in the new handset. Samsung said it has shrunk this a little in the S7 and S7 Edge, making it more in line with the shell of the device. Both of the new handsets have larger batteries than their predecessors. The S7 now features a 3,000mAh and the S7 Edge a 3600mAh battery, which promises longer battery life. Samsung said the S7 Edge will be able to perform for 13 hours while playing non-stop video content. As part of the smartphone announcement, Samsung also unveiled the Galaxy 360, a camera that is capable of recording 360 degree films. In what Samsung is hoping will ‘change how you create memories’, the 360 cam can be controlled by a user’s phone and works by recording two 180 degree movies from each of two fish eye cameras, and stitching these together to create a 360 film. Viva, Batelco, and Zain are yet to announce Bahrain release dates and pricing details for the upcoming handsets.
Property
coming soon...
GCC’s Awesome property projects Dubai seahorses These ultra-luxurious underwater homes are being built in Dubai.
I
n the clear-blue waters off the coast of Dubai lies a chain of islands known as “The Heart of Europe.” It’s a manmade reconstruction of actual European nations, just on a smaller scale — part of a larger archipelago known as “The World.” Billionaire Sir Richard Branson, fittingly, owns the island representing Great Britain. In the coming weeks, The Heart of Europe will get its first floating home, the aptly named “Floating Seahorse.” It’ll be the first of many in a giant fleet. The first models went on sale last
38
Gulf Insider March 2016
year, before any Seahorses were even completed. Kleindienst says it sold approximately 60 Seahorses in 2015. More are still for sale. The underwater portion, composed of a master bedroom and bathroom, will make up approximately 270 square feet on the interior. Just outside the walls is a 500-square-foot coral garden. Since the structures are located about two and a half miles from Dubai’s shores,
inhabitants can reach their Seahorse via boat or seaplane — not exactly the most accessible way to get to and from home. Once they’re out there, they can cross between the islands via floating jetties. The firm anticipates completing its first phase of rollouts by October of 2016. Follow-up phases, including islands outside just The Heart of Europe, will take place in 2017 and 2018.
Property
Jeddah Tower Saudi Arabia’s 3,000ft skyscraper will have the world’s highest observation deck.
R
ising to a staggering 3,281 feet tall, Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Tower could one day set a world record as the tallest skyscraper on Earth. It will also have the world’s tallest observation deck. It’s slated for completion sometime in 2019. Jeddah Tower will feature an extensive network of restaurants, hotel rooms, apartments, parks, and a shopping mall. Basically, it’s a city inside a skyscraper. One of the tower’s key features is its observation deck, located on the building’s 157th floor, making it the tallest observation deck in the world. For the last six years, crews have worked to complete the structure’s 65 elevators, 200 hotel rooms, 439 apartments, and 2,205 parking spaces — all scattered among the 169 floors. Once it’s complete, it’ll join the fast-growing ranks of other “supertall” skyscrapers that are over 984 feet high. In the 1960s, there were just two supertall skyscrapers, and by 2010 there were 50. As of late last year, the total had risen to 100.
AMBS Architects
$2.2 Billion
Jeddah Tower will cost the
Jeddah Economic Company and Saudi Arabia’s Alinma Investment — the two groups financing the project .
Image shows rotating tower at different angles
Dubai rotating tower Giant Rotating tower planned for Dubai in time for Expo.
P
lans to resume construction of the rotating ‘Dynamic Tower’ which was abandoned in 2009 due to the financial crisis, have been approved with 2020 as the date for completion, according to Dubai’s WhatsOn magazine. If built, the tower will be the world’s first skyscraper consisting of separate rotating floors that are attached to a central column, housing residential units. Proposed in 2008 by architect David Fisher, the tower is planned to be 420m tall, which will make it the second tallest building in Dubai, in addition to being the second tallest residential building in the world. The rotation of the structure will be controlled by the residents, who are able to adjust the rotating speed and direction of the apartment through voice activation. It will also generate its own energy through 79 wind turbines that are placed between each floor, as well as solar panelling that will cover the roof of the building as well as the roof on each level of the tower. The cost still remains at Dh 1.2 billion with plans for the tower to be completed by Expo 2020.
(source DesignMENA)
Gulf Insider March 2016
39
Life
The tragedy of Indian business tycoon
Ranjan Das
R
anjan Das was the CEO of SAP, climbing the corporate ladder quickly to be considered one of the best young businesses tycoons in India. But he recently died aged just 42, despite the fact that he cared for his body and was a regular visitor to the gym, had a personal trainer, and was a marathon runner. He competed in the Chennai marathon every year. On 21st October Devali went to the gym as usual. On returning home, he shouted in pain while holding his chest, then fell down and died. People questioned how could such a sports loving young man like Ranjan Das suddenly die. Was it his marathon running that caused his death? People came up with many theories and assumptions. It was evident that he absorbed a great of stress at work. But stress is common for all of us. A cardiologist in India who investigated his cause of death determined that it was simply due
40
Gulf Insider March 2016
to his lack of sleep. Importantly, doctors found that Ranjan Das only slept 4 – 5 hours a day.
helping cancer cells to grow.
Some Key points about sleep according to experts
Sleeping less than 5 -6 hours can cause irregular blood pressure, and those aged between 25-49 may face severe high blood pressure if they sleep less than 7 hours Risk of heart attack can be 3 times higher for those who sleep less than 5 hours, while sleeping less than 6 hours can increase the risk of heart attacks by 18%, causing high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hscRP) levels to increase (hs-cRP is a pre indicative tool of a heart attack). Lack of sleep can imbalance our bodily chemicals such as tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-alpha) and C-reactive protein (cRP). These can work as toxins within our body
Sleep is categorized in to two types, REM (Rapid Eye Movement ) & nonREM. REM helps the brain and mind while non-REM repairs the body. You experience the both when you have a good night’s sleep. Those involved in intensive physical exercise (such a marathon runners) require more sleep for the physical recovery process.
Here’s what experts claim happened to Ranjan Das. He was very careful about his food. Exercising was a regular part of life. His body was in great shape. BUT, he forgot one very critical thing. By only sleeping 4-5 hours each day he increased the risk of a heart attack. What happened to Ranjan Das could happen to any of us. If we are to be fully responsible for our business and for our family, we must first live a healthy life.
Life
Places You Won’t Believe Are in the Middle East
Acacus Mountains, Libya
W
hile a globe-trotting adventure may not exactly be in your near future, you don’t need to look further than our backyard to escape the trappings of this modern life, if even for a short while. Take a look at some spectacular, out-ofthis-world landscapes from around the region.
Satellite image of southern Qatar coast
Faqra, Lebanon
White Desert, Egypt
42
Gulf Insider March 2016
Life
Colored Canyon, Egypt
Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
Musandam Peninsula, Oman
Jeita Grotto, Lebanon
White sand dunes, Socotra Island, Yemen
Socotra Island, Yemen
Mashanig Towers, Socotra Island, Yemen
Dead Sea, Jordan Gulf Insider March 2016
43
Style WATCH insider
Hublot 2016 “More horology, more expertise, more innovation, more fusion.” This is what drives the Hublot Manufacture. Discover highlights of the new collections, launched during Hublot’s Geneva Days. “LaFerrari” Sapphire Complementing its exceptional design, the MP-05 “LaFerrari” Sapphire is teamed with a transparent silicon strap, with a clasp which also features components carved from sapphire. In keeping with the ultra-futuristic look of this timepiece, the watch is wound by a mechanism using a miniature power drill, modelled on the tyre-changing tool used in Formula 1®. A rare timepiece limited to 20 pieces, the MP-05 “LaFerrari” Sapphire is already a collector’s item. Approximate price US$ 300,000
Big Bang Broderie As an inexhaustible source of inspiration, the embroidery of Saint-Gall is transposed into the art of fusion to reveal all of its modernity and creative potential for the second consecutive year with Big Bang for two new limited series: the Big Bang Broderie Sugar Skull 41MM and the Big Bang Broderie 41MM, each of which comes in three runs of 200 pieces.
BIG BANG UNICO RETROGRADE CHRONOGRAPH As Official Timekeeper for the EURO, the World Cup, the Champions League and the Europa League, Hublot stands on the touchline of the most prestigious competitions and championships. This was all the Swiss watchmaker needed to design a watch dedicated to the most popular sport in the world - two limited editions celebrating UEFA EURO 2016TM & UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUETM. Approximate price US$ 26,200 in Black Ceramic in 18k Gold US$ 42,200
CLASSIC FUSION “RACING GREY” Following on from its Spring/ Summer 2015 blue collection, the Classic Fusion quintet now boasts a total “Racing Grey” look. With its beauty enhanced by the “metallic” flecks of the titanium or the vibrant bronze of King Gold, the “Racing Grey” is undoubtedly a piece with timeless elegance. Easy to wear, it suits any style and is as masculine as it is feminine. Approximate price US$ 25,000 in 18k Gold
Approximate price US$ 31,000
44
Gulf Insider March 2016
Find your style at Bahrain Jewellery Centre.
Style
4 great watches Amazing new men’s watches from Switzerland
T
wice a year the world’s media and buyers arrive in Switzerland to discover the latest models of luxury watches from the best watch brands in the world. Brands show off their most innovative mechanics, magnificent craftsmanship, and the various precious materials used for their beautiful new creations. Last month we had the Geneva-based Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie, or SIHH. This exclusive by-invitation only event is undertaken by International luxury group Richemont. Created to showcase their own in-house brands such as Cartier, Vacheron Constantin, and Audemars Piguet, this season a number of smaller independent watchmakers were invited to also attend. Of course by far the biggest event for watches is Baselworld, which takes place later this month. For now we have selected 4 very special timepieces from 4 of the worlds very finest watch brands that were revealed for the first time last month at SIHH. Enjoy…
Panerai Our most pricey choice by far, the “Lo Scienziato” Luminor 1950 Tourbillon GMT is a limited edition open movement technical marvel. A tribute to Galileo, it has a 47mm case and is made from titanium, making it light to wear despite its size. Approximate price $143,000
Audemars Piguet
Cartier
IWC
This classic luxury sports watch gold watch comes in a new version, the Royal Oak Selfwinding. 18 carat yellow gold with a contrasting silver dial. The 37mm case is slightly smaller than usual and is perhaps a sign that the fashion for big watch faces is coming to an end.
The Drive de Cartier comes from the brands iconic collection of men’s timepieces. It has a striking rounded-off square case with automobile-inspired details. The steel version manages to look modern while keeping a vintage appeal. Cartier keeps its familiar Roman numerals and white dial. It has an inhouse 1904-PS MC movement, a date window, and a small seconds dial. It will be available within a couple of months.
IWC’s new Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Chronograph has a great function. By turning the bezel to the correct city, the watch automatically and ingeniously changes to the new date and time. There’s a chronograph movement, 24hour display, and it has a 68-hour power reserve.
Approximate price $44,000
Approximate price $12,000
Approximate price $6,250
For further information contact Asia Jewelers in Bahrain on +973 1753 4444 Gulf Insider March 2016
45
News
News ROUNDUP news around the GCC and beyond
Kuwait to deport 1,170 expats The expatriates were detained in a massive crackdown in the Khaytan area carried by several security agencies that dealt with 3,548 people, the interior ministry said. Kuwait has been following a strict policy of deporting foreigners who broke the country’s rules or put people’s lives at risk. Two thirds of the total population of 3.3 million people in Kuwait are foreigners, mainly unskilled workers and helpers from Asian countries. – Gulf News
Expat workers in Bahrain’s public sector may be sacked The discussion on a proposal, which suggests to sack 50 per cent of non-Bahrainis working in the public sector after the expiry of their work permits has been postponed. MP Jalal Kadhem and four other MPs placed the proposal on the council’s agenda to not renew work contracts of 50pc of expats working in government entities, in order to “give unemployed Bahrainis a chance.” “There are around 2,500 expats working in all fields of the government sector. They had been employed during the past three years. The government should consider employing national candidates, who are qualified in the same fields that expats are occupying in the public sector,” Kadhem said. The MP also stressed that this would serve the State’s rationalization of expenditures schemes, as he claimed that “the cost of hiring an expat is four doubles of hiring a citizen, in regards to several services such as education, health, housing, airplane tickets and more.” “A simple equation is that each expat would bring their families. Let’s say each has two kids. This means 10,000 non-Bahrainis benefiting from the mentioned services, forming a huge burden on the State budget,” Kadhem explained during the session.
Postpone mid-week public holidays to weekends A Bahrain lawmaker has called for attaching public holidays to weekends, in case they fall in the middle of a working week, in a bid to enhance productivity. The MP Adel Al Assoomy submitted a proposal to the Council of Representatives, claiming that this would enhance public institutions’ productivity, adding that “a high absence rate of 40 to 50 per cent was recorded among government employees and students on the working days that fall between public holidays and weekends.” 46
Gulf Insider March 2016
www.bahrain101.com QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be
News
Trans-Gulf railway 2018 opening date no longer realistic says UAE minister A 2018 target to open a transnational rail network in the Arabian peninsula is unrealistic and the six Gulf countries will meet in Riyadh this month to discuss a more plausible launch date, the UAE’s infrastructure minister has said. The 2,100 kilometre passenger and cargo railway would run from Kuwait down the Gulf coast and through the United Arab Emirates to Oman, with lines connecting to Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia’s interior and Red Sea coast. The project, costed at $30 billion in a 2011 report by consultants Frost and Sullivan, has suffered from technical and bureaucratic delays since its announcement last decade, with the completion date already shifted to 2018 from a year earlier, regional media reported in 2013. Now even that later date appears unachievable. – Al Arabiya
EDB CEO highlights Kingdom’s Strategic Outlook The Kingdom of Bahrain offers the region’s lowest operating costs for the financial sector, the Chief Executive of the Economic Development Board (EDB), Mr Khalid Al Rumaihi said during the monthly ‘@ the majlis’ event held at the Capital Club. The networking event, attended by Club Members, focused on the EDB’s strategic aim to attract regional and international investments to the Kingdom. He also said that Bahrain’s non-oil sector grew in 2015 further cementing its resilience in spite of the challenges faced last year, with a series of economic reforms and infrastructure projects worth more than $32billion announced to increase investment and maintain growth in the Kingdom. “This has helped to reassure investors and the business community that Bahrain’s economy is steady. This is largely due to the diversification strategy which was rolled out recently,” he added. “We are now focusing on four pillars of growth; Tourism, ICT, Entrepreneurship and Logistics. We strongly believe that the four sectors will be able to drive Bahrain’s diversification strategy and further develop the economy.
Experts discuss way forward at agriculture forum in Abu Dhabi The challenge the agriculture sector is facing globally is feeding nine billion people by 2050. This means, according to United Nations estimates, an increase in food production by 70 per cent in the next 40 years. In the face of climate change that trigger flooding, temperature changes and water scarcity, all crucial to agriculture, food production is actually dropping at the moment, rather than increasing. Experts from all corners of the world gathered at the twoday Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture, in Abu Dhabi last month and they agreed that the way forward is green, “smart”, innovative farming. Due to its lack of arable land, the UAE and the Middle East in general, remain the world’s largest food importer. Appropriate crop identification for cultivation, water budgeting, rainwater harvesting, recycling sewage water, solar powered desalination plants and new agricultural technologies such as hydroponics are some of the initiatives Abu Dhabi is working 48
Gulf Insider March 2016
on to improve water scarcity and farming. According to Abu Dhabi Farmers Services Centre (ADFSC), there are 24,000 farms in the emirate, which consume, along with the forestry and park sectors 72 percent of the water resources. – Khaleej Times
News
Final tests for Riyadh Metro, Jeddah fast train Final tests are taking place for the $22.5 billion Riyadh Metro now that the first phase has been completed, according to local media. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s planned Haramain High Speed Train, which is currently undergoing test runs between Madinah and Rabigh, is expected to begin its trial run from the main station in Jeddah by mid-2016. According to Arab News, the High Commission for the Development of Riyadh said that the metro is undergoing final tests to check its resilience to Riyadh’s climate, and will be transported to the kingdom in the coming months. – Arabian Business
VAT needed to fund government services, IMF chief says Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, said that GCC governments are limited in how they can raise revenues to support government services, making the implementation of a value-added tax necessary. The IMF official said indirect taxation in the form of VAT in low single digits is the most viable option for GCC states in the first stage of taxation as implementation of direct taxes requires a fairly well developed institutional framework. “Even with a low tax rate of 5%, with the introduction of VAT, it will not be difficult for GCC states to generate tax revenues up to 2% to gross domestic product,” said Lagarde. Compared to VAT, corporate income tax (CIT) is more likely to act as a disincentive to businesses considering investment in the region and more negatively impact GDP growth. A personal income tax presents an obvious challenge to the tax-free branding that has served the region so well in the past. - Gulf News
50
Gulf Insider March 2016
Saudi Arabian builders delay salary payments Some Saudi Arabian construction companies are struggling to pay their staff on time in a sign of growing pressure on the economy from low oil prices, which are causing the government to slow spending on building projects. In an unusual move, the Ministry of Labour issued a public statement saying workers at a “major institution” had complained they had not been paid for months. It said it had established the complaints were true and taken remedial action. The ministry did not name the institution or give details of its action; it did not respond to telephone calls seeking comment. But senior industry sources told Reuters that the firm was in the construction sector and that at least several other sizeable companies in the industry faced the same problem. – Reuters
You may have great managers and great leaders BUT do they think like entrepreneurs – real business people? Managers spend their budget, but would that decision be different if it was their own money? Thought provoking isn’t it?
The programme takes 2 weeks. Week one starts in the UK and week two extends into Dubai. Delegates learn about key business options from sector experts and they will also attend a networking event at the British Embassy in Dubai. After the programme has concluded, each delegate will shortly thereafter present a report to their management board in the presence of the programme director plus each delegate will receive ongoing one-to-one coaching for set periods for a further 3 months.
For e-brochure visit www. westendtraining.co.uk/pdf/e-Broucher.pdf
News
Dubai airport’s new terminal now open Dubai International, the world’s number one hub for international passenger traffic, increased its capacity from 75 million to 90 million with the opening of Concourse D last month, the result of a $1.2 billion investment to enhance service and boost capacity for the more than 70 international airlines that will now call it home. The concourse is linked to the newly renovated Terminal 1 by a dedicated airport train that can transport 300 passengers per trip. Designed around a central atrium, Concourse D offers short walks to open gates, which will allow travellers to board directly from the waiting area, giving them more freedom and time to enjoy the full array of exciting food and beverage outlets. The new concourse will offer plenty of comfortable seating spaces and wellbeing concepts such as Be Relax and the ‘SnoozeCubes’ which provide a convenient way to rest between flights. It will also feature a total of nine lounges spread over 6,926m2, including five airline lounges, a new Al Majlis lounge, two Dubai International Hotel lounges and a Marhaba VIP lounge. – Emirates 24/7
Qatar’s MOI issues warning after women’s phones hacked Dozens of women in Qatar have reportedly had their mobile phones and social media accounts hacked, and their private photographs posted widely online. The hacking spate has prompted the Ministry of Interior (MOI) to issue advice to residents on how to improve the security of their accounts and prevent theft, particularly of photos from phones. In the past week, more than 33 women reported their phones had been hacked into, and photographs put up on public Instagram and other social media accounts, Arabic newspaper Al Watan said. Some of the victims were reportedly then blackmailed by the unnamed hacker. Victims discussing their attacks on WhatsApp and through social media this week soon realized that they were part of a wider campaign, and reported the security breaches to the MOI’s Cybercrime Combating Center (CCCC), which has been investigating. – Doha News
Thousands in Oman to get their work benefits cut Thousands of expat and Omani employees working at state-owned institutions, run with 50 per cent government funding or more, are to have a number of benefits slashed, according to a decision from the Ministry of Finance. Privileges such as health insurance for employees and family, life insurance allowance, car insurance allowance for staff and family members, loans, bonuses, incentives during Ramadan or Eid and increments not related to employee’s Key Performance Indicators (KPI) will be stopped. Additionally, allowances for school fees, mobile phones and bills, annual medical checkup for employee and family, provision of private car to senior managers, annual leave tickets, housemaid allowances, house rents, furniture allowances, credit cards for CEOs, hospitalization fee and other allowances will also be stopped temporarily. Official statistics show that Oman has lost $14 billion worth of revenues in 2015 compared to a year earlier due to low oil prices. Oman had a fiscal deficit of 15 per cent last year and in 2016 the deficit is expected to be 17 per cent as the low oil price eats into export earnings and blows a hole in the country’s budget. – Times of Oman 52
Gulf Insider March 2016
Out & About
Restaurant Review
Bahrain will spend $2.5 billion+ on projects in next 10 years
The Meat Co
F
B
ahrain and Saudi Arabia are both taking steps to improve land transport capabilities. One development which involves both of these countries is the building of a new bridge connecting northern Bahrain with eastern Saudi Arabia. (There is already an existing link – the King Fahd Causeway.) The King Hamad Causeway – connecting northern Bahrain with eastern Saudi Arabia will be completed by 2018. The Shaikh Jaber Al Ahmed Al Sabah Highway at Alba and Nuwaidrat intersections will also be upgraded with the construction of two multi-level interchanges, by the same time. A new phase of the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman Highway was recently inaugurated,, linking the King Fahad Causeway to the new port and industrial area at Hidd. Similarly, Durrat Al Bahrain, the country’s greatest tourism landmark is a cluster of islands designed as a sustainable community, including residential, commercial and leisure developments, for 60,000 people, a golf course and a marina, and required 13 bridges to link the islands. Both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in their road infrastructure to improve transport links for residential and trading purposes. Bahrain Vision 2030 is driving infrastructure development with the aim to ensure that the country has world class trade and road links. Saudi Arabia has a National Transportation Strategy that also focuses, in part, on improving road links to facilitate international trade. The road infrastructure and transportation sectors in Saudi Arabia have been allocated $16.8 billion (SR63 billion) in 2015. An estimated $8.9 billion (SR33.5 billion) will be spent to fund nearly 2,000 kilometers of new roads, expansions, railways and infrastructure projects. Bahrain will spend more than $2.5 billion on infrastructure projects including major road networks and construction in the next 10 years.
or a mid-week fancy dinner for two in Adliya we opted to pay a visit to Meat Co. This upmarket steakhouse concept from South Africa is set over 2 floors plus a roof top terrace area. The place has a trendy high class atmosphere and low warm lighting gives a feeling of intimacy. We chose to forego starters and go straight for a main course. After several minutes deliberating I decided to order the marinated lamb on the skewer, and my dining partner went for chicken. The waiter, overhearing us, explained that only three items on their extensive menu were unavailable that night, and the marinated lamb I had chosen was one of them. Never mind, I instead ordered the fillet skewer (at twice the price). To go with the meal we opted for a bottle of the Shiraz house wine, which at BD 34 before taxes was not cheap. How much this will cost after the just announced 100% rise in liquor duty I hate to think. Everything we ordered was cooked to perfection, and the service was excellent. There’s an attention to detail in everything they do here, and it was appreciated. To finish we ordered “The Choco Experience” for 2 people. It was indeed 0 an experience BD 7. 70 00 5 with our t . s 2 a BD 2 n Bre e k ic h C 0 w a i t e r ewer BD 3. 60 creating an Fillet Sk Asparagus 0 0 5 . 7 er BD ice cream and Side ord Experience 0 0 co BD 3. 7 chocolate work The Cho ht (pint) 0 0 BD 2.8 Lig of art in front of Amstel r e t our eyes. It was BD 34 Voss wa az Bosche an entertaining ir h BD 2 S Bottle ffee way to end a o c n a ic Amer 800 perfect evening. BD 83.
Building 190 Road 3805 Gudaibiya Tel: 17 742 080
al Sub Tot vice charge er + 10% S t. levy ov + 10% G COST TOTAL
0 BD8. 40 8 BD9. 21
400 BD 101.
Gulf Insider March 2016
53
Events
Hublot Geneva Days 2016 novelties exclusive preview with Hublot Middle East Director-Press Conference
business Events Strategic Performance Management by Stepping Stone Global
First Year Anniversary celebration of the Landrover Expereince in Bahrain International Circuit 54
Gulf Insider March 2016
Events
Media Briefing-Viva Honourship Roayalty Programme in partner ship with Alshaya Group Bahrain Bay Business Forum
The Longines Store Opening by Rivoli Group Opening of Asdal gulf Inn Hotel
Gulf Insider March 2016
55
Art
Art at the Harbour
W
Wedad Albakr
edad Albakr is a firm believer in that art brings people together. She believes that without culture, there is no society, and without art, there is no culture. Her all-time favourite subjects are whirling dervishes, Arab traditions, and the feminine identity. A woman with Bedouin roots, Wedad takes pride in her heritage and religion, yet respects and appreciates diversity. She believes that art can encapsulate human suffering, a theme strongly portrayed in some of her works. Wedad works with different mediums including pastel, charcoal, acrylic and gold leaves. Her paintings have been exhibited in Athens and at the Palace of United Nations in Geneva. Some of her works are housed in private collections in Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, London, Washington, New York, Athens and Istanbul. In 2013, she founded her own studio “Artwed Atelier”, where she teaches and practices art.
Follow Wedad at Artwed Artwed
Caramel “Tunnock’s Caramel Wafers have been a favourite of mine since childhood. In this collection, my goal was to transform these chocolate bars from mere delicious calories to a symbol of identity, heritage and history.” 56
Gulf Insider March 2016
Wedad Albakr is a well-established Saudi Arabian artist who held exhibitions at the Buzaboon House in Muharraq and Florence Bienalle last year. Her work’s currently displayed at the Bahrain Financial Harbour.
Art
No Dialogue “Men and women… they all seem as if they have adjusted their pose, either with a dash of dissemblance and uneasiness or with tolerance and indifference, perhaps shyness, worry, fear, or even boredom.”
Gulf Insider March 2016
57
Last Word
Procrastination Steve Jobs was one of the greatest procrastinators ever — here’s how that helped him become so successful.
I
t’s fair to say most of us think of procrastination as a barrier to success. But as Adam Grant, a professor of management at Wharton and author of the new book, “Originals,” says, procrastination is actually a powerful tool used by some of the most innovative thinkers. Grant explains that historically, there were actually two ways people talked about procrastination. There was how most people think of procrastination today, where it’s tied to laziness and apathy. But in Ancient Egypt, people also defined procrastination as, “Waiting for the right time.” This is an idea that great thinkers and creators like Steve Jobs embraced. According to Grant, research suggests that procrastination is a vice when it comes to productivity, but it’s actually a virtue for creativity.
58
Gulf Insider March 2016
“Waiting for the right time.” This is an idea that great thinkers and creators like Steve Jobs embraced. “The time Steve Jobs was putting things off and noodling on possibilities was time well spent in letting more divergent ideas come to the table, as opposed to diving right in with the most conventional, the most obvious, the most familiar”. “I think the idea of delaying is something we all need to be comfortable
with, because you can’t rush creativity,” Grant says. There are ways we can all strategically procrastinate. According to research by Russian psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik, once we finish a task, we stop thinking about it — but when it’s interrupted and left undone, it stays active in our minds. Procrastinating strategically means stopping whatever creative tasks we’re working on before they’re complete to allow more creative ideas to bubble up, “making gradual progress by testing and refining different possibilities,” as Grant writes in his book. “I’m not saying you should just put things off forever, because then nothing ever gets done,” he says. “But there are lots of ways that pausing in the middle of a project can encourage people to take a step back and reevaluate, ‘Is there another direction that might work for this?’”
THINK DIFFERENT...
A perfect BLEND of
CREATIONS For design requirements
Call 1700 4575