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Contents
December 2016
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GCC Review
First Qatar to Bahrain ferry service to launch next year
22 Property
Trends in the Bahrain Property Market
22
32 Telecoms
Galaxy S8, the handset that could save Samsung
34 Motors
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FIA WEC BAPCO Six Hours in Bahrain
40
Opinion
44
Out & About
34
Ask AJ: The Withholding of an Employee’s Passport
Rediscover Holiday Joy
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Luxury Trends - Chopard and Vacheron
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Publisher & Editor in Chief - Nicholas C. Cooksey
Dear Reader,
Editorial - Ainne Frances dela Cruz
Greetings and a warm welcome to our latest issue of Gulf Insider! This month we explore trends in the Bahrain Property Market as well as the challenges that Islamic financial institutes have to face. We also covered the FIA WEC Bapco Six Hours in Bahrain and had ourselves a good time. In addition, we give you our carefully curated list of Festive Offerings this season. Inside these pages, you will find other articles written by real people—most of whom are in Bahrain. Please also visit us online on our website and our thriving Facebook page where you will find other features and useful information not covered in these pages. We are happy to have you as a reader of Gulf Insider! Wishing all of you a great month ahead.
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SAUDI JOYRIDERS
Hassan Salman’s Jarada Fish Venture Infiniti Q50 S
Britain to open new naval base in Bahrain ViVa Bahrain launches new auto-payment system The rich kids of Dubai
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Established since 2004, Gulf Insider is the multi award winning Arabian business and current affairs magazine that also covers property and expat news, interviews, car reviews, travel features, even a bit of art and fashion. 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.
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1. The 30th anniversary of the opening of King Fahad causeway 2. Bahrain’s King Hamad with Dubai’s ruler Shaikh Mohammed 3. Prince Charles arrives in Bahrain 4. An aerial spectacle: Red Arrows in Bahrain 5. Winter comes to Bahrain 6. Manama at 12:40 pm
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GCC Review
Dubai - The Times They are a Changing Over the last four years there has been a paradigm shift in the structure of transaction activity in the Dubai real estate market. Historically the majority of transactions would be on a cash basis, with mortgages accounting for only 25% of overall sales. However, in recent years this relationship has inverted, where now mortgage transactions account for the bulk of the activity. This shift can be attributed towards an increase in homeownership, existing owners extracting liquidity, and investors optimizing on capital structures. The increase in homeownership in certain communities can be witnessed through the buying patterns. Typically home-owners tend to buy larger size units compared to studios and one bedrooms. An analysis of transactional activity by unit size in Greens and Downtown reveals that in the last 6 years, the former has experienced an increase in larger size units compared to the latter. Whilst there are multiple motives for refinancing, the overall hypothesis of the housing market moving towards a mortgage paradigm is very much in line with international developed markets.
Bahrain’s flexible work permits break new ground Bahrain is a popular destination for foreign workers notwithstanding its small size. Latest statistics by LMRA suggest that foreign workers make up a majority of the workforce in Bahrain. In an innovative move, Bahraini authorities plan to introduce what is being termed as flexible working permits of two years for qualified foreign workers. In effect, the plan would grant expatriates the opportunity to be associated with more than a single employer at a time, by assuming part-time jobs. This is a novelty not just within the Gulf but the broader region. The scheme is meant to make expatriates their own bosses, as officials like to put it, though at a price. Holders of flexible working permits should pay the associated costs with working in Bahrain. The fees are $529 and $380 for work issuance and health care fees, respectively, for two years. Additionally, there is a $79 monthly social insurance fee. Also, a deposit is required to cover the cost of airfare to the worker’s homeland. Not surprisingly, the business community has not reacted with anger to the new design. Business owners need only to pay wages of holders of flexible working permits in return for rendered services. (source credit- Gulf News)
Business owners need only to pay wages of holders of flexible working permits in return for rendered services.
MPs DEMAND EXPATS BE SACKED Bahrain MPs have again demanded that half of all expats employed by the government be sacked and that all remittances sent home by expats be taxed. The vote was taken during a fiery Parliamentary debate in which MPs accused expats of draining money from the national economy and stealing jobs from Bahrainis. MP Shaikh Majid Al Majid argued that expats were enjoying a taxfree lifestyle while Bahrainis are suffering economically due to the price slump. “The formula of pleasing expatriates on the shoulders of Bahrainis has to be stopped,” he said. “Instead of just taking low transfer fees on remittances, charges or taxes have to be levied because Bahrain needs ever fil”. However, Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain defended the foreign workforce and argued expats employed by the government could not be easily replaced with Bahrainis. “We, (the government) employ Bahrainis as a priority, but there are urgent posts that need to be filled and we don’t have suitable Bahrainis for them,” he said. (source credit - Gulf Daily News)
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Gulf Insider December 2016
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GCC Review
First Qatar to Bahrain ferry service to launch next year In an effort to woo more tourists, a local company plans to launch the first passenger and vehicle ferry between Qatar and Bahrain by the middle of next year. The new service will include two return trips a day from Al Ruwais port in northern Qatar to Khalifa bin Salman port in Bahrain and will take commercial as well as personal vehicles. It will be operated by the Qatari firm Gulf Ferry, with input from Dohabased Sora Marine Services. The launch of the ferry will be welcome news to truck drivers. It will also offer another route for tourists who want to explore the Gulf in their own vehicles. The trip is estimated to take some 1.5 to 2.5 hours, compared to the 4.5 hour journey time by land from Qatar to Bahrain. Driving there also currently involves crossing through Saudi Arabia. Each vessel will have a capacity of around 50 vehicles and can hold approximately 100 passengers at a time. The “ro-pax” ferries allow vehicles to be driven straight onto and off of a dedicated deck. There will also be separate passenger facilities for inbound tourists.
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GCC Review
Khalaf Al Habtoor says Dubai’s new Canal is greater than the Pyramids
Saudi Prince who declared Trump a disgrace quickly backtracks Prince Alwaleed bin Talal lashed out at The Donald following controversial remarks made on his campaign trail threatening to ban all Muslims from entering America until the threat of terrorism was more under control. Following Trump’s remarks last December, the prince said on Twitter: ‘.@realDonaldTrump You are a disgrace not only to the GOP but to all America. Withdraw from the U.S presidential race as you will never win.’ Trump responded saying: Dopey Prince @Alwaleed_Talal wants to control our US politicians with daddy’s money. Can’t do it when I get elected #Trump 2016.’ However, within hours of Trump defeating Hillary Clinton in Wednesday’s historic night of voting, the ‘Arabian Warren Buffet’ had to swiftly retreat. He tweeted: ‘.@realDonaldTrump President elect whatever the past differences, America has spoken, congratulations & best wishes for your presidency.’ Alwaleed has drawn comparisons with American magnate Buffet for the similarities in their business acumen and entrepreneurial prowess. He owns 95 per cent of the Kingdom Holding Company, which owns a number of smaller businesses, and was earlier this year named as the 41st richest man in the world. (source credit- Mail Online)
Unruly Passenger escorted away by airline crew A plane passenger shouting that his fellow travelers would die if they did not fear God had to be escorted off a Gulf Air plane in Muscat, Oman. Airline crew intervened to control the passenger, who became unruly after flight GF562 from Bahrain landed in Muscat on Tuesday. The airline said the passenger caused a disturbance after the plane touched down at Muscat International Airport. Video circulating online shows the passenger, wearing traditional Arab dress, delivering his warning to fellow passengers in English before being escorted away by crew. (source credit- Gulf Daily News) 16
Gulf Insider December 2016
The Dubai Water Canal had a spectacular opening which included laser shows, water acrobatics, and fireworks. But one thing that particularly stood out is what Khalaf Al Habtoor, Chairman of the Al Habtoor group said that the Dubai Canal Project is greater than the Pyramids. This is why: the project will feature hotels, floating restaurants, luxury houses, private marinas, and even parks. The canal is 3.2km long; it costs AED 3.7 billion; and 3,700 workers took two years to build it. Khalaf said “The #DubaiWaterCanal#UAE we do not have the word ‘impossible’ in our dictionary. We work and strive for the best, and we always reach the top. God bless the UAE, its #leaders#people.”
The canal is 3.2km long; it costs AED 3.7 billion; and 3,700 workers took two years to build it. But, he isn’t the only one who is happy with the way this project has shaped up. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Makoum said: “I am very happy with this project. In the past the Creek used to reach the area where Burj Khalifa currently is, and then used to flow towards the sea in the north. So all that we have done is restore Dubai Creek to what it used to be prior to changes caused by the winds and the sands.” (source credit- Lovin Dubai)
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GCC Review
Saudi Arabia to clear delayed payments by end of the year Saudi Arabia will settle all delayed payments to private businesses by the end of the year as it concludes a review of government projects that has saved tens of billions of riyals. The Council of Economic and Development Affairs authorized payments to begin immediately, the news service said, without giving further details on the size of the arrears. The world’s biggest oil exporter halted payments to contractors last year as it sought to rein in a budget deficit that reached about 15 per cent of gross domestic product. Authorities have also rolled out a package of austerity measures, including cuts to public sector wages and energy subsidies. Economic growth is expected to slow to 1.3 per cent this year, according to a Bloomberg survey of economists, the lowest level since the 2009 global recession. Thousands of low-paid foreign labourers employed by construction companies like Saudi Oger and the Saudi BinLadin Group were left stranded in labour camps after the government stopped project payments. Nearly 16,000 from India and Pakistan were abandoned, their governments said in August. The commitment to settle arrears is “important,” said Mohammed Al Suwayed, the Riyadh-based head of capital and money markets at Adeem Capital. “Now that it’s official, of course it’s going to put the markets to ease, and going to increase trading hopefully.” The benchmark Tadawul All Share Index was up 2 per cent at 11:47 a.m. in Riyadh, trimming this year’s loss to 8.7 per cent.
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Gulf Insider December 2016
BIN FAQEEH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT CO. LAUNCHES ALSIDRA LUXURY VILLAS AT DIYAR AL MUHARRAQ Alsidra is an impressive luxury villa community with an astonishing 465 villas of varying designs and capacities. It provides 2 to 5 bedroom villas that draw the perfect home for families of all sizes. Bin Faqeeh continues to enthrall with its harmonious balance of regional-meets-modernistic design themes. The villas are either modern or a modern version of traditional designs. Alsidra presents a unique concept of blending regional Bahraini, Moroccan, Modern (two types) and Contemporary designs that offer a plethora of choice to interested buyers to opt for a villa design closer to their vision of their dream home. Each villa comes equipped with a garage that has the space for two vehicles, living quarters for house help and a laundry room. Certain signature
We are focusing all our efforts in developing state-of- the-art housing projects that supersedes the current offering in today’s real estate sector. villas are fitted with a personal swimming pool. The common facilities include exciting fountain concepts and a flamingo park adorned with majestic flamingo statues at the ponds, which is complimented with several unique themes for the seating areas. The property was officially launched at Bahrain’s leading property show, BIPEX 2016 where Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment was the Prime Sponsor. As Bahrain’s leading property show, BIPEX holds a significant spot in the kingdom’s real estate industry calendar of events. “We are focusing all our efforts in developing state-of- the-art housing projects that supersedes the current offering in today’s real estate sector. Gratitude towards our clients’ support and their trust in us will always be a driving force for us to keep innovating and turn their realty expectations into reality,” said Faisal Faqeeh, Chairman, Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Corporation.
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Finance
Islamic Banking
Opportunities, and Challenges The World Islamic Banking Conference will be held in Bahrain this month to tackle pressing issues on Islamic finance. Gulf Insider takes a look at the opportunities and challenges of this niche sector.
I
slamic banking is banking activity that is consistent with the principles of shariah (Islamic) law, and its practical application. Shariah laws prohibit the acceptance of specific interests or fees for loans of money (riba), whether the interest is fixed or floating. Islamic law deems this unfair because the borrower has to work harder to return not just the principal loan, but also the interest or mark-up levied on the amount. Investment in goods or services that are considered contrary to Islamic principles such as pork and alcohol is also haraam (sinful and prohibited). Financial transactions in Islamic banks must be supported by underlying “halal� transactions. The first modern commercial Islamic bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, was established in 1979. After that, there
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Gulf Insider December 2016
has been considerable growth in the Islamic finance industry. Now existing in more than 50 countries, it is estimated to be worth around $1 trillion and has the potential to eventually be worth $5 trillion in the next three years, according to international credit ratings agency, Moody’s.
A Difference in Approach Financial justice is the main principle of the Islamic model. Islamic banking creates a balance for the net profit or loss between the lender and the beneficiary rather than throw it all on the entrepreneur. If a project is financed by the Islamic bank, the output of the project will be equally distributed amongst both parties. If the financier is expecting to receive profits for a certain project, he should also agree to carry a share of the loss.
Islamic finance has other important advantages over conventional financial products. Its prohibition of interest and its approach to profit- and loss-sharing, add stability to the financial sector. This way of doing business can enhance financial inclusion, as it incorporates people who, for cultural or religious reasons, are excluded from the traditional financial system (weforum.org). Another noticeably different approach that Islamic banking takes is its cautious approach to investments. Companies who appear risky are usually kept away from financial institutes. The Academy for Modern Institute Studies (AIMS) believes this is the reason why during the global 2008 financial crisis, the Islamic financial institutes remained untouched. Because of careful auditing and analysis, Islamic financial institutes lessen the occurrence of risk and enhances financial stability.
Finance
Financial Service In the Vatican newspaper Observattore Romano, an article appeared that extolled the virtues of Islamic finance. “The ethical principles on which Islamic finance is based may bring banks closer to their clients and to the true spirit which should mark every financial service”, Observattore Romano said. This is in light of the fact that the Catholic Church forbids usury but began to relax its ban on all interest in the 16th century thus allowing modern banks to charge for interest. Another article published by the World Economic Forum claims that if Islamic finance is used to its full potential, it could play an important role in helping OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) countries meet their development goals. Taking note of the demand, a number of western countries have recently started allowing Islamic banks to operate in their respective jurisdictions. The UK became the first leading western country to issue a government Sukuk (Islamic bond.) The first full-fledged Islamic bank in Germany was launched earlier this year; while Japanese regulators are considering issuing regulations that will allow Japanese banks to provide Islamic finance products in Japan. In addition, the People’s Republic of China has recently declared its interest to join the industry as a bid to strengthen its ties with Muslim countries (Ernst and Young).
Huge Potential meets Huge Challenges Abdulaziz Al Sowailim, Chairman and CEO of Ernst and Young (EY), MENA Region said “In the GCC, falling oil prices, jobs-for-nationals and the economic diversification drive is set to transform the role of financial institutions in the region”. Robert Aboud, Financial Services Advisory Leader for EY MENA adds “Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain are seeing Islamic banks capturing market share by outgrowing their traditional peers”. However, despite substantial growth in recent years, Islamic banking is facing challenges when it comes to deeper global market penetration. Despite the
increased interest, Islamic banking penetration in non-Muslim countries has been slow as Islamic banks find it difficult to expand into different jurisdictions and face regulatory and Shari’a complications in terms of approvals. Islamic banks are essentially governed by their Sharia boards, the religious scholars that deem a product Sharia compliant. But the challenge is that there is no central authority promulgating Sharia law, and the understanding of what is permissible and what is not varies among Islamic scholars and jurisdictions according to Bavin Shah (Forensic Director) and Saad Qureshi (Forensic Manager), authors of “The Challenges facing Islamic Banking”.
Islamic finance has other important advantages over conventional financial products. Its prohibition of interest and its approach to profitand loss-sharing, add stability to the financial sector. Finally, there is also the challenge of industry infrastructure, talent development, advocacy, applied research, regulations, capital markets, product design, accounting and rating amongst others. Al Sowailim says “The present infrastructure is not fit to support the exciting journey ahead. This requires immediate attention, funding and political will to make it happen”.
Sustaining Growth in the Industry Emir Hidayat believes that in order
to sustain the significant growth of the Islamic finance industry, the development of human capital is key (Islamic Finance News). In addition, business and market innovation can be a key differentiator to capture new business opportunities and sustain growth in this industry (Deloitte). In an article for Global Finance, Stubing (2016) said that shariahcompliant financial institutions have fully recognized the critical importance of service enhancements and technological advances. Innovation, whether in products or processes, is a crucial differentiator in a market in which Islamic institutions compete with conventional banks as well as each other. The increasing use of mobile banking and apps, for instance is helping Islamic institutions widen their reach to markets and customers that were previously unbanked or underserviced. In some countries this is helping to diversify and boost opportunities and wealth creation. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, for example, has developed a digital studio in collaboration with IBM. The studio aims to support the digital innovation projects across the bank, including mobilebanking iOS apps that allow for a more dynamic customer experience.
Technology that Delights EY, in their World Islamic Banking Competitiveness Report 2016 claims that “the future of retail banking in the GCC is a smartphone that delights”. However, they also cautioned that not every technology will be right for the GCC, and urged banks to “place your bets wisely”. This “digital shift” in banking is also a “cultural shift” according to EY. If Islamic banks are to win over the market, they have to collaborate. EY’s note to banks “Challenge yourself to co-create digital solutions”. *The World Islamic Banking Conference 2016, which will be held at Art Rotana Amwaj Bahrain from December 5-7, will address issues in Islamic Banking. This year’s conference theme “Economic Uncertainties: Vigilance and Growth” reflects the fact that global economy finds itself at an important inflection point.
Gulf Insider December 2016
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Property
Trends in the
Bahrain Property Market The Bahrain property market is a strategic real-estate market in the GCC. How is it holding up in light of present economic difficulties?
I
nternational real-estate consultancy Cluttons, in their Winter 2016 Bahrain Property Outlook report says that the Bahrain real estate market showed resilience to end 2016 with continued stability. We sat down with Harry Goodson-Wickes, head of Cluttons
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Gulf Insider December 2016
in Bahrain and Faisal Durrani, head of Research in Cluttons to explore this trend. Goodson-Wickes, says that “economic fragility and the ongoing impact of the low oil price environment have curtailed job creation levels and dampened overall
sentiment and this will continue to hamper the Kingdom’s property market during the fourth quarter, continuing into H1 2017�. Households in Bahrain have been faced with some very challenging headwinds over the past 1218 months with subsidy removals and
Property
job security fears driving down budgets. Not surprisingly, demand for luxury property is down. Q3 marked the sixth consecutive quarter of sluggishness for retail rents. With the exception of Amwaj Islands, where there was a marginal BD 50 per month rise in rents for fourbedroom villas, no other submarket in the Kingdom registered any change in rents during Q3. However, this is still better than expected given the present economic crisis. Durrani said that the GCC support fund, which was used to drive growth in the non-oil sector, was used the way it was intended to—and it has kept residential property stable. The GCC support fund is an aid package set up by the Gulf Cooperation Council for Bahrain. The job-generating measure will give $10 billion to the country to upgrade housing and infrastructure over a 10-year period.
Short term blips can be overlooked This will explain why there is a continued boom in infrastructure projects despite the flatness of the market. The Director and Chief Executive of Bahrain Bay Development, Gagan Suri said that “Large real estate master developments are being planned with long-term durations and longer investment horizons”. He adds “the size of such mega projects is a part of Bahrain’s resilience, despite global volatility.” How is the construction sector coping with the fiscal crisis? Bahrain Bay Development, a master developer, says that it can overlook short-term blips in the market, including fluctuating oil prices
The Bahrain government is heavily invested in rebranding Bahrain to drive tourist numbers up. A number of tourism infrastructures are being built such as 5 star hotels, and others are being developed and rebranded. because master planned developments are unlike consumer goods that are quick to get absorbed. Diyar Al Muharraq, the $2.5bn waterfront city development at Bahrain Bay comprising seven islands, reflects sustained investor appetite for the property sector in the region, says its Chief Executive, Maher Al Shaer. Currently the construction sector reflects positive momentum, he adds. This is not only a matter of “Build it and they will come” mentality. Though Bahrain is slower compared to Dubai in terms of growth, it has a target which is the Vision 2030. The Vision 2030 states among other things that “The country will have outstanding road, sea, and air connections to global markets. It will accelerate private sector
involvement in the provision of public infrastructure services”. It is rumored that the Hyperloop is on its way to Bahrain soon. For those who don’t know, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Hyperloop is a new way to move people and things at airline speeds for the price of a bus ticket. It’s on-demand, energy-efficient, and safe. You can say it’s a broadband for transportation.
Tourism to spur growth in Real Estate The Bahrain government is trying to rebrand the country to drive tourist numbers up. A number of tourism infrastructures such as new five star hotels are being built, and others are being developed and rebranded like Al Jazeera Beach, Hawar Islands, and Marassi beach. These destinations will cater to mid-market families as beach-type hotels. The vision for Bahrain tourism is to create memorable destinations suitable for the whole family who will stay far longer than the weekender. This particularly applies to Saudi tourists who are being targeted in this inbound tourism drive. Reidin (an online information product tracking service for real estate deals and transactions) reports that the tourism sector in Bahrain is likely to expand generating $1bn in revenue by 2020. This trend, together with government’ decision to permit foreigners to acquire 100 percent ownership of businesses in Bahrain will further spur growth in the real estate sector, it said.
Gulf Insider December 2016
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Property
Is it still safe to invest in Bahrain? With the present market conditions, is Bahrain still a good place to invest in? Durrani and Goodsone-Wickes think so. Though there is caution in investing in Bahrain at the moment, there’s a cost advantage as compared to Dubai, which is becoming more expensive. A fourbedroom villa in Bahrain is comparable in price to a two-bedroom flat in Dubai. There is also an estimated 8% tax free return on investment. In addition, Bahrain offers a lifestyle that is cosmopolitan, safe, and relaxed. The new real-estate developments that are coming up mean that investors have a wide array of realestate to choice from. Goodson-Wickes, explains, “Our experience shows that quality and perceived value for money continue to drive interest in newly launched schemes, suggesting that tenants are very much in the driving seat and can cherry pick from a range of options on the market. The country’s appeal has also been boosted by being voted as the fourth best country for expats to live worldwide, and the top destination among Gulf Countries by HSBC bank, stated Cluttons in its 2015/16 Property Outlook report. 24
Gulf Insider December 2016
Tenants are seeking “centrally located, affordable housing”, and this trend is likely to persist. Investment Options
According to Al Shaer “The GCC holds a prime place as an attractive investment haven, particularly for international investors. There is a fast growing population with high spending power and the quality of life also remains very appealing for foreigners seeking good employment opportunities”. We asked Durrani and GoodsoneWickes where they would invest in giving the current market trends. Bahrain and Dubai was on the top of their list. Downtown Dubai is a good investment with an established location in a safe market (albeit with a lower yield). In terms of infrastructure investment, there were three options. The first is key worker accommodation in the
UAE. When five-star hotels are being built for example, the managers would need to find accommodation for all their key workers. With the recent drive for infrastructure development in the UAE, quality accommodation for key workers is needed on a large scale. Cluttons believes this would drive foreign direct investment into the UAE. Affordable student accommodation in the UAE is another real-estate investment that is not properly harnessed. Khaleej Times said “Purpose-built student accommodation is a relatively new concept here (in the UAE), and the demand for student accommodation in the past has been low; but according to a recent “GCC Education Industry Report” by Alpen Capital earlier this year, student numbers in schools and universities is projected to grow by 4.1% annually, by 2020”. The estimated yield of investment for student housing is 20% according to Cluttons. In Bahrain, infrastructure development could take the form of affordable housing. With 40,000 families and 15,000 rentals, the demand is definitely there. The Cluttons report said that tenants are seeking “centrally located, affordable housing”, and this trend is likely to persist.
Kingdom of B ahrain’s National Day
All the management and staff of C.G. Arabia WLL, the holding company of Arabian Magazines, takes this opportunity to congratulate His Majesty the King Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa His Highness the Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa His Highness the Crown Prince Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the people of Bahrain. We pledge our continuing support to the King, his Government and people, and look forward to our contributing to the prosperity of the nation both now and in years ahead.
P O Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel. +973 1782 2388 Fax. +973 1772 1722 e-mail: info@ArabianMagazines.com www.ArabianMagazines.com
Opinion
Success Stories British Council
Since 1948, the British Council has helped countless Bahraini residents and nationals study in the UK and improve their skills. Wafa and Agrima share their own experience.
The British Council The British Council kick started the success stories campaign in order to spotlight some of the people who have truly benefited and succeeded from the programs, exams and resources available. The organization strives to provide plenty of opportunity to Bahrainis and residents to aid them in achieving academic, professional and personal success.
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Agrima Jaiswal - It all started with IELTS
WAFA ALOBAIDAT - British Council helped me succeed in business
Agrima Jaiswal had her eyes on the prize when she sat for her IELTS exam several years ago. With the British Council’s preparation courses serving as a source of comfort, she took the exam that served as her metaphorical ticket to pursuing education abroad. Fortunately, Jaiswal passed with flying colors and shortly thereafter, enrolled at Queen Mary University of London and pursued her bachelor’s degree in economics and statistics. Still brimming with dedication and a desire to succeed, she went on to attend the University of Exeter where she obtained her master’s degree in financial mathematics. Upon completing her education, Agrima used her knowledge and expertise to land a job in commodity exchange in Bombay, India. After a year and a half, she missed home and decided to move back, eventually securing a job with the UK-based interdealer broker, ICAP. She currently works in operations, specializing in standing data management, support, board management, continuations and much more. Although her success story is still being written, her first step towards success was at Bahrain’s British Council.
Wafa Alobaidat is a young, successful entrepreneur with numerous business ventures under her belt. Her business journey officially started when she registered for a preparation course to take her IELTS at the British Council. Soon after, she was admitted to the Chelsea College of Art and Design where she began to build the foundation for Obai & Hill, a PR and Design agency. After moving back to Bahrain and taking her business venture with her, she became known as one of the most successful businesswomen in the GCC. Years later, she was invited by the British Council to attend the Dubai-London Enterprise week, an initiative to benefit and develop young entrepreneurs through a series of intercultural networking, workshops and opportunities to connect with other great business minds. “From the IELTS prep courses to their events and workshops, I believe it is essential for everyone to take advantage of the British Council programs if they are serious about getting ahead,” says Wafa. “People have lost business deals due to their inability to communicate their ideas in English. With the presence of the British Council in Bahrain, there really is no excuse for that.”
For more information about the specific classes and for registration information, call +973 17266166 or click through to the website: www.britishcouncil.bh
New Years Eve 2017
at the Grand Wadi Tent! - 8pm onwards
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Dance Floor Gala Dinner Buffet
(including unlimited service of soft beverages, tea & coffee) Early Bird Offer - BD 25++ (Book before 15th December) Special Group Booking Rate (Min 5 person) - BD 25++
Villa Stay & Party Package Royal Villa
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for 2 adults & 2 children Stay | Breakfast Gala Dinner Buffet
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Finance
Advertorial
Hassan salman’s jarada fish venture
Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) celebrates the success of Bahraini entrepreneurs who brought their ideas to life.
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he idea of this unique project was born in 2003, following a long search for a solution to the marine plankton menace that fishermen faced. The most difficult type of plankton was the “jellyfish”, as it can cause serious skin burns once it touches the fishermen’s skin. The jellyfish would also create obstacles for water desalination and electricity projects. Concerned authorities did their best to get rid of a large number of jellyfish but the problem still persisted. Mr. Hassan Salman was able – due to his long marine experience – to find a very smart solution that would turn these huge quantities of jellyfish into a profitable project.
From Problem to Solution
Hassan Salman 28
Gulf Insider December 2016
He presented his idea, of a jellyfish exporting company, to the Bahrain Development Bank and the project concept received a warm welcome and
was financed and supported by the company. Today Jarada Fish exports jellyfish to Japan, Korea and China. Jellyfish is considered a popular dish in Japan and it is also used to produce chemical fertilizers, medicines and cosmetics. A vertically integrated harvester, processor and marketer of seafood from BAHRAIN, the Arab Gulf Sea and around the world, Jarada Fish is proudly Bahraini owned. At the moment, it is the largest catcher and processor of salted jellyfish and blue swimming crab offering seafood products “from the source to the plate”.
I believe that each project, no matter how small, requires serious work and continuous pursuit of development and improvement.
Inspiration “My advice to every entrepreneur before they start out on any project is to study the feasibility of his idea and to be directly involved in the business. I believe that each project, no matter how small, requires serious work and continuous pursuit of development and improvement. After that, success and profits are the blessings of God,” said Mr. Salman. The stories of people like Hassan serve as a motivation to institutions that serve to broaden the entrepreneurial base, expand national human resources and provide further employment opportunities with a view of diversifying the economic base of the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Al Jabal Consultancy Attorneys and Legal Consultants A full service law firm for Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman, founded in 1995 by
Mr Ali Al Jabal
Mohamed Al Wasti
Khadija A. Al Hussain
Partner
Partner
Saleh Al Nashabh Lawyer
Mansoor Nadhar Lawyer
Areas of Specialisation: Mohamed Ismael Lawyer
Banking & Finance Bankruptcy & Corporate Restructuring Corporate & Commercial Litigation Dispute Resolution Intellectual Property Rights Insurance Mergers & Acquisitions Private Equity
Project Finance Property & Real Estate Oil & gas Maritime Aviation Debt collection Legal drafting & Contract Reviewing Telecommunication Law
Office No. 703, 7th Floor, Diplomat Tower, Diplomatic Area, PO Box 11455, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 17 530 400 E-mail: info@aljaballaw.com Website: www.aljaballaw.com
Bahrain
Telecom insider Apple offers cure for iPhone 6 Plus ‘touch disease’
Drones to catch litterbugs in Dubai desert camps Dubai Municipality’s Waste Management Department has started using an unmanned aircraft fitted with a camera to check if campers in Dubai deserts are leaving rubbish behind. If there is waste littered around someone’s camp, fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh5,000 will be imposed on the campers. If the campers cannot be caught redhanded, the fines will be tagged on their car number plates, said Abdul Majeed Abdul Aziz Al Saifaie (left), director of the department. Using drones to catch litterbugs is one of the new initiatives of the department that aims to make Dubai a city with the most advanced waste management system in the world. (source credit- Gulf News)
Why adding more product features is a strategic mistake Executives are falling into strategy traps that include “loving your product too much” according to Marcus Alexander, Adjunct Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at London Business School. This statement was made in the wake of Samsung’s fire-catching Galaxy Note 7s. The cutting-edge technology company is the latest to add “more bells and whistles”, such as an iris scanner, to an existing product. Should Samsung have focused on safely meeting consumer demand for smaller, longer lasting devices rather than adding extra features? Alexander said: “Although the incremental consumer benefits were reasonable, they did not justify taking such a risk on the technology. When people fall in love with their products, they can become overly focused on relatively minor improvements versus relatively significant risks.” Top of any smartphone feature list for would-be customers is a battery that does not catch fire. Samsung has said the recall could cost it upwards of US$5 billion (£4.12 billion). The company’s market value fell US$17 billion (£13.9 billion) in October 2016. (source credit-London Business School)
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Apple has acknowledged a recurring defect in its two-year-old iPhone 6 Plus, offering customers a cut-price touchscreen repair after months of mounting complaints. “There’s no way to tell exactly how many phones are afflicted with what we’re calling ‘touch disease’,” iFixit wrote in a blog post, “but every [repair technician] we spoke to told us that the problem is incredibly common.” iFixit, which regularly takes apart devices to evaluate their components and ease of repair, has seen the problem on iPhones that have “never been dropped”, suggesting that the underlying problem is a “structural design flaw”. Apple addressed this issue by offering a $150 repair for any iPhone 6 Plus up to five years after it was purchased and refunding the difference to those who had previously paid $329 to fix the flaw. (source credit- Financial Times)
Advertorial
Telecoms
Viva introduces a new smartphone insurance plan
V
IVA has introduced the ultimate accessory for your smartphone: VIVA Protect. The service is a yearly insurance plan for smartphones and devices that covers everything from accidental damages to hardware breakage and robbery while also offering repairs or complete replacements. VIVA Protect is offered as a
complimentary service for three months to all VIVA customers who have acquired the iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, Samsung S7, Samsung S7 edge and Samsung Gear VR with VIVA Unlimited Smart Plans or VIVA device add-ons. VIVA customers can then extend the service to 12 months with attractive low monthly installments for only BD 2.5 per month. Offering real value and flexibility, VIVA
customers that have subscribed to VIVA Protect and seek a replacement of their insured device can simply pay a deductible of BD 15 if claimed within the first three months or BD 30 if claimed within 4 to 12 months.
For more details, please visit www.viva.com.bh/viva-protect
broken screen? we’ll replace it! VIVA Protect insures your device for only BD 2.5/month
Gulf Insider December 2016
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Telecoms
Galaxy S8
The handset that could save Samsung Galaxy S8 set to have an ‘UltraHD’ edge to edge display.
S
amsung’s next-generation Galaxy handset will feature a radical 5.5inch ultra HD display - but no home button, the latest rumours have claimed. The eagerly anticipated gadget will, the firm hopes, be able to repair some of the damage to the firm’s brand caused by the Galaxy Note 7. The latest rumours, according to Android Police, point to a 4K display which will make the handset perfect for VR applications. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S8 at Mobile World Congress 2017 in February next year. It could also have a revolutionary processor on board, after it was revealed the firm’s system chips
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Not only could this device be Samsung’s first bezel-less phone, but it would also be the first to have reardual cameras. business has started mass production of semiconductors using 10 a revolutionary nanometre technology to cram more components on a chip. The chips are expected to be far
more powerful and energy efficient that current designs, and Samsung is the first company in the industry to mass produce them. The new chips allows ‘up to 30-percent increase in area efficiency with 27-percent higher performance or 40-percent lower power consumption,’ Samsung said in a press release. The death of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 has put huge pressure on the firm for a new flagship device. And it’s rumored that what could be called the Galaxy S8 will incorporate a dual-lens camera design and remove the home button for an edge-to-edge screen. It’s also believed that the handset will have sleek, curved side-edges that could extend from the top to the bottom. As many hope the Galaxy S8 will put the Apple’s 10 year anniversary smartphone to shame, many rumors suggest that the Korean firm will actually follow its lead. With the removal of the iconic home button, Samsung will have no choice but to design a fingerprint-sensing display or place the feature behind the tempered glass – two strategies Apple has been parading around for quite some time. Not only could this device be Samsung’s first bezel-less phone, but it would also be the first to have rear-dual cameras. Rumors suggest that pixels of the dual-cameras will support 16 megapixels and 8 megapixels And because levels of concentration will be increased with a ‘full screen’, pictures and videos should be much clearer and even go so far as to produce a 3D effect.
in si der CA R
FIA WEC Bapco
Six Hours in Bahrain Gulf Insider attended the FIA WEC Rally and it was phenomenal!
T
he WEC or World Endurance Championship is an auto-racing series co-organized by the Federation Internationale de L’ Automobile (FIA) and Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO). This rallytype competition is open to Le Mans Prototypes and Grand Tourer style cars meeting four ACO categories. These cars are some of the most technologically advanced in the world including Hybrids and GT’s and most of the drivers in the WEC have also raced in Formula One, the top tier of car racing. Since 2012, Bahrain has been part of the FIA calendar and has been making
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waves in the endurance racing circuit because of its award winning track. This is the 5th time that the WEC was held in Bahrain and being the last race of the season, it is one of the most awaited. The race started on Saturday, November 19th, and went on into the night in the Bahrain International Circuit, lit by 5,000 floodlights. 32 cars went into this action packed grid with high hopes. This race had several highlights. Audi won 1st and 2nd place in a “dream exit” that happened a month after they announced their withdrawal from endurance racing. Audi #8 with Lucas Di Grassi, Loic Duval, and Oliver Jarvis won
Motors
first place; with their teammates in Audi #7 (Marcel Fassler, Andre Lotterer, and Benoit Treluyer) only 16 seconds behind. Audi signed off in a blaze of glory after 18 successful years. Porsche also had another memorable win securing pole position with a third place triumph, 1 minute and 17 seconds behind the winning car. The team composed of Mark Webber, Timo Bernhard, and Brendon Hartley were understandably emotional as this is Mark Webber’s final race, and he ended it on a high note. Not their only victory, Porsche’s #2 team (consisting of Neil Jani, Romain Dumas, and Marc Lieb) also secured the FIA World Endurance Driver’s Championship despite finishing sixth. Porsche also won this title last year. Neil Jani who has won in Le Mans this year said that this win is simply amazing! We watched the action with the Porsche team and it was very impressive and fast-paced with a lot of thrilling chases. As Neel Jani puts it “The atmosphere in Bahrain is not like Le Mans or Nurbugring but it may come”.
Gulf Insider December 2016
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in si de r CA R
Infiniti Q50S Gulf Insider was invited to the Abu Dhabi Yas Marina Circuit to try out the new
Infiniti Q50S. We liked the power and feel of this car.
T
he Yas Marina Formula One test circuit is a perfect place to test drive a new car. We put the Infiniti Q50S through its paces, and we were impressed. As a performance car, it definitely asserts its credibility. Building on the previous Q50, the Q50S is a four door luxury sports sedan. It has new interior and exterior design features
with a 3.0 liter V6 twin turbo engine which delivers up to 400 horsepower and a fantastic performance. It’s more agile than other Infiniti’s. Relentless and even a bit ferocious, it pumps out 350 pound feet of torque. A 300 horsepower version is also available with a 295 pound feet of torque. Gently curving lines and premium materials are used throughout. Nicely
detailed interiors give way to a roomy trunk at the back. There’s new colors to choose from as well as customization options for both its interior and exterior; while retaining the same narrow headlights, long hood, and mesh pattern grille. Multimedia systems are also updated, and drivers can spend many a happy hour cocooned in the seat while listening to their favorite tracks.
The Q50s comes with five different drive modes: snow, eco, standard, sport, and Sport Plus. It’s the most amped-up Infiniti ever. This car is full of technology, the Q50 has always been a techie car, and now there’s just even more technology built 36
Gulf Insider December 2016
Motors
in. They call this system, empowering technology and they’ve built in a level of drive mode customization that is unparalleled in the market. The Q50s comes with five different drive modes: snow, eco, standard, sport, and Sport Plus. It’s the most amped-up Infiniti ever. Q50S’s second generation Direct Adaptive Steering system transmits steering inputs directly to the wheels without a mechanical connection, so you steer quicker and smoother than you ever imagined. This and other high tech innovations makes anyone look like a great driver, it does so much for you; think forward emergency braking and pedestrian detection among the host of other features. As if that wasn’t enough, further updates include a revised Digital Dynamic Suspension (DDS) system. It is electronically adjustable, but it also self-adjusts while on the move to compensate for variable body pitch, roll, and bounce rate. The steering and suspension changes altered the way the car moves and feels.
Building on the previous Q50, the Q50S is a four door luxury sports sedan. It has new interior and exterior design features with a 3.0 liter V6 twin turbo engine With the new 400 hp turbo engine, it can go from 0 to 400 km/hr in 5.1 seconds. This convincing powertrain offering gives you a very smooth response on the open road as well as great power delivery under firm acceleration. It comes in both rear and all-wheel drive forms. The enhancements come at a time of significant momentum for the Q50. The sales of Infiniti are growing and Bahrain has the highest market share
in the world, with a new showroom opening soon. Infiniti is also opening up a boutique showroom in Qatar This is one of the most interesting cars that Infiniti has made. Extra power and improved steering aside, this is an impressive car and fun to drive.
To book your test drive: Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons Nissan Tel: +973 17 732 732
Price Comparison BMW 3 Series (available BMW 318) starts from BD14,500 Lexus IS starts from BD17,000
Mercedes Benz C-class starts from BD15,800
The author of this article, Nick Cooksey, in addition to being publisher of Arabian Magazines and Gulf Insider Media, is a jury panel member of the Middle East Car of the Year (MECOTY). Gulf Insider December 2016
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Creative . Technical . Agile . Diligent
Opinion
Ask
This month -
Each month we will be putting a legal problem to consultant Ali Al Jabal to answer.
A full service law firm for Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman, founded in 1995 by Mr Ali Al Jabal
the withHolding of an employee’s passport
Problem: Is it legally permissible for an employer to keep a foreign worker’s passport for the duration of the employment contract and to refrain from returning the passport to the worker until the end of the contract? In the event the employer refuses to return the passport, what are the legal actions or procedures that can be taken by the worker to recover his passport? AJ Answer: In the event that the employee requests that his employer keeps his passport for safety reasons and to avoid loss, the employee has the right to demand a receipt, or any
other paper signed by the employer, as proof that his employer has received his passport. In this context, it is clearly stated in the Bahrain Labor Law of the Private Sector that the employer must give the worker a receipt or paper signed by the employer proving that he has received personal documents relating to the worker. However, this is not implemented in practice, therefore, if no evidence was provided by the employer, the employee may provide other means of evidence as stated under the Bahraini law. Furthermore, if the employer refrains from returning the passport as a way of
TV or Camera? Last November 14, 2016, a video made by a Saudi guest in The Domain Hotel, which was spread through social media; caused an uproar as it claimed that there are hidden cameras in The Domain.
T
he Domain Hotel is one of the more upscale boutique hotels in Bahrain with a very chic and trendy interior, restaurants, and lounges. It was a surprise to the hotel when they suddenly found themselves infamous on social media—for allegedly putting cameras in their hotel bathrooms. The Domain responded in a very classy way, by creating an innovative video that showed people what their rooms look like, what the TV’s in those rooms look like, and emphatically showed that what the man claimed to be a camera was in fact a TV in the hotel bathroom.
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In addition, they also contacted The Ministry of Interior who conducted a thorough check of the hotel. The Ministry has already given them clearance with regards to this issue.
punishing the worker or for any other reason, the worker can directly resort to the Court of Urgent Matters and serve the evidence, illustrating the existence of the passport in the possession of the employer and the court will issue an urgent ruling compelling the employer to return the passport. This undertaking would further constitute a criminal act under the Bahrain Penal Code, falling under the offence of Breach of Trust, thus enabling the employee to file a criminal complaint at the police station.
To contact Ali Al Jabal at Al Jabal Consultancy Attorneys and Legal Consultants Tel: +973 17 530 400 E-mail: info@aljaballaw.com www.aljaballaw.com
The culprit, who not only damaged the hotel’s reputation, but also found it amusing to steal the bathroom TV is now facing criminal charges and is not allowed to leave Saudi until this issue is settled. People from all over Bahrain rallied behind The Domain and many of their friends and supporters kept up a vigilant social media campaign until the issue was resolved. Which just goes to show that you can’t put a good hotel down.
Affairs GLOBAL SHAPERS COMMUNITY MANAMA
for the prevention and management of diabetes and its related issues. Our new Diabetes.bh project aims to create a fully immersive Virtual Reality (VR) Education experience to help educate students, patients and parents on the prevention and management of diabetes. The ability to truly experience something as if it was real makes VR an unparalleled resource for education, particularly on issues of health where it is often difficult to engage the general public, and young people in particular
Manama Shapers Interview with Tariq Al Olaimy, Co Founder of 3BL Associates.
W
hat does your role as a sustainable development leader entail? I am a co-founder of 3BL Associates, which is a people + planet strategy consultancy and Think-doTank that was established to reimagine a more sustainable and regenerative Middle East. We recognize that in a world of complexity, crosscutting issues like peace, health and climate change cannot be solved in silo. We work at the intersection of issues through a systems thinking, values based approach. As a hybrid social enterprise, we have two arms; Our consultancy is marketdriving through providing social impact and sustainability consultancy services to companies, government, and civil society; Our think-do-tank is marketcreating through incubating and spinning off our own socially entrepreneurial ventures and innovations that address sustainable development issues, as well as contributing thought leadership.
We recognize that in a world of complexity, crosscutting issues like peace, health and climate change cannot be solved in silo. You have won awards for your work in Diabetes.bh, can you tell us more about this project? www.Diabetes.bh is the first online education platform for diabetes in Bahrain. The platform serves to assist towards Education in the prevention and management of diabetes and its related issues, to provide a support network to the diabetes community of Bahrain, and create a freely accessible online platform to support national and local initiatives
You’ve conducted workshops and trainings around the world as an educator, what is the one thing you always teach? The one thing that I always teach is that Nature is the ultimate classroom, teacher, lesson and book. I am among the first 100 people to achieve a specialization in a science called Biomimicry, and I’ve given workshops on this topic in 6 different continents. Biomimicry is the conscious emulation of life’s genius. It is a practice that studies nature’s best ideas, models, systems and processes, and then emulates them in order to solve some of the greatest human challenges. Why did you join the global shapers community? Professor Klaus Schawb, founder of the World Economic Forum and the Global Shapers Community, says that leadership comes down to four factors: Brains, Soul, Heart and Good Nerves – but that it is also rare for a leader to be able to practice these qualities throughout a lifetime. I felt that the Global Shapers Community was an ideal platform to practice and embody deeper these qualities; from the brains that are needed to contribute to the fourth industrial revolution; to the soul that needs to be a compass that navigates you through these changing times for the world; to the heart that enables you to have the empathy for the local and global communities you are connected to, and the passion to help improve them. Gulf Insider December 2016
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Hotel Review
Festive Offerings Tis the season for festivities, and what better way to celebrate than with the whole family? Check out our top picks for this holiday season.
priced at BD39.50 net. It’s approximately 5 kg. and includes bread stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, gravy and free pumpkin cake. Delivery is free of charge within Amwaj and BD8 outside. They require a minimum of 24hours for turkey orders.
Ramada HOTEL & SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDs
Festive Treats We always remember the holidays because we get together with our friends and share the joys of life. This is often accompanied with a lot of hustle and bustle in the kitchen. This season Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands
takes care of all the preparations so you can party to your heart’s content. Turkey to Go This year the chefs at Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands have prepared magnificent turkey and succulent roast feasts with all the trimmings to takeaway for either Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations so that you can relax and enjoy the time with your friends and family. Turkey with all the trimmings is
After Office Christmas Party at the Rooftop Terrace From November 27 till December 31, 2016 you can invite your colleagues for a Christmas Party at the Rooftop Terrace which offers breathtaking views of the island. Priced at BD12.5 net, it includes all you can eat barbecue and soft drinks. If you come with a party of 10, you will only pay for 9 people. Advance booking required. Tailormade Banquet Options Indulge in a sumptuous buffet and soft drinks amidst Christmas decorations in Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands for only BD13 net. Come with a party of 10, and just pay for nine. Every Sunday, price goes down to BD11.5 net with a lucky draw. Advance booking required.
For enquiries and reservations, please call +973 1600 0099 or email: dining@ ramada-manama-amwaj.com
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Hotel Review
Ramada Manama City Centre Spa Promotions The Domain Bahrain Hotel and Spa Room Packages If you haven’t planned on going out of the country for the holidays, may we suggest a staycation? Take a look at these deluxe room packages at The Domain Bahrain Hotel and Spa that are great value for your money. Lift Your Spirits Package The Domain Bahrain Hotel and Spa bids us to salute to the weekend. An overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, with Friday brunch and a complimentary welcome shot in Txoko (on a Friday evening) is only BD69 for a single room and BD99 for a double room. There is complimentary breakfast in Le Sauvage and you can check out as late as 4pm the following day. Lift Your Spirits Package is available all Fridays of December.
Tensions are high during holidays, but it doesn’t have to be. Relax and unwind with these soothing spa treatments at the Ramada Manama City Centre. Ramada Manama City Centre’s rooftop Taqah Spa offers a complete menu of massages, skin treatments, and healthy therapies. From hydrating facials and body wraps to a romantic couples massage, the professional staff will help you rejuvenate as you enjoy a wonderful ocean view. On Christmas Day (December 25, 2016) Taqah will offer a 25% discount on all treatments. On New Year’s Day (January 1, 2016), Taqah will give a 10% discount on their Calming Body Scrub with De Stress, including free use of sauna/ steam rooms.
For all spa inquires call +97317104028 or email: spa@ramadamanama-citycentre.com
December to Remember Package For couples, best friends, or mothers and daughters; an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room (double) will be upgraded to a premiere room. Then you will be treated to a 60-minute couples aromatherapy massage, and 30 minutes light therapy in Relaxation Pods where you can relax and sip herbal tea. Finally, you will sample the romantic Set Menu dinner at Le Sauvage. You can sleep in comfort, get breakfast for two and check out as late as 4pm the next day. BD90 net per couple. December to Remember Package is available the entire month. Captivating Christmas From the 19th to 25th of December an overnight stay in an Executive Room will come with treats like a fruit basket and petit fours, a Christmas Set Menu dinner, and a complimentary glass of bubbly (in Le Sauvage). Start your day with a good breakfast in Le Sauvage. Check out as late as 4pm. BD70 single occupancy/ BD95 double occupancy. Take the Elevator Home This New Year’s Eve (December 31, 2016) The Domain is inviting you for an Overnight Stay in the Executive Room with a fruit basket and petit fours. There’s a NYE Set Menu dinner in Le Sauvage with selected alcoholic beverages plus countdown bubbly (by the glass). On New Year’s Day 2017, have a lazy breakfast in your room and check out as late as 4pm. BD70 single occupancy/ BD95 double occupancy.
For reservations, call +973 1600 0000 or email: reservations@thedomainhotels.com
Gulf Insider December 2016
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Out & About
REDISCOVER HOLIDAY JOY Nespresso’s evocative new blends ask us to take a step back and get into the spirit of the holidays.
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s the year-end celebrations approach, Nespresso is inviting coffee aficionados to embrace past childhood memories and rediscover the holiday joy this festive season. Inspired by the rich coffee house traditions and elegance of Vienna, Nespresso is launching three Limited Edition Variations coffees, each with a comforting and indulgent aroma sure to delight the coffee lover in your life. In addition, the Les Collections range of stylish accessories, including Limited Edition Festive editions, also make ideal gifts with their unique designs to create the most memorable coffee moment.
Festive Variations Over the centuries Vienna has established a coffee house tradition like no other city in the world. Its grand marble tables, iconic Thonet chairs and tradition of serving coffee on an elegant silver platter alongside a glass of water, have all served as inspiration for the Nespresso Variations this festive season. The Nespresso coffee experts have combined the splendour of Vienna with the taste of some of its most famous pastries to create three delicious flavoured Espressos: 44
Gulf Insider December 2016
PURE Espresso Cups, Lungo Cups (Limited Edition) The stylish PURE collection has been given a Limited Edition Festive makeover by illustrator Lorenzo Petrantoni who has added a distinctive black and gold design to the base of the Lungo cups. The PURE collection is made with the finest porcelain and has been skilfully designed so that the varying sized cups have a different thickness and a convex base to ensure optimum temperature and crema preservation.
Variations Sachertorte The Sachertorte is a popular Austria glazed chocolate cake with a thin layer of sweet apricot jam. Best enjoyed as an Espresso, Variations Sachertorte combines the balance and roundness of the Livanto Grand Cru with soft chocolate and apricot notes. Variations Apfelstrudel Variations Apfelstrudel is inspired by the classic layered puff pastry dessert which contains a sweet apple filling delicately spiced with cinnamon. In this tempting Espresso, Livanto’s balance and roundness is complemented with the rich aromas of pastry, baked apples and a hint of cinnamon. Variations Linzer Torte Nespresso pays homage to the popular Austrian Linzer Torte: a tasty red fruit tart topped with a recognisable lattice design. This Espresso is a delightful marriage of Livanto’s balance and roundness with the taste of red fruits and spiced dough notes. All three Variations coffees have an intensity level of 6 (on a scale of 12). Available for a limited period during the festive season, the Variations are also available in special gift packs to indulge the senses. These tempting flavours also complement the permanent Variations range which are Vanilio, Ciocattino and Caramelito.
Discover the Festive collection from Nespresso at buynespresso.com/ bh_en or at the Nespresso Boutiques from Level 1, Bahrain City Centre or Nespresso Booth at Gate 5, Seef Mall.
TURKEY TO GO LET US COOK FOR YOU! Take a break from your kitchen this holiday season and order our delicious turkey with trimmings. From November 24 – December 25, 2016 • • • • •
Bread stuffing • Sweet potatoes Cranberry sauce • Gravy Free pumpkin cake Available for delivery or pick-up Deliver free of charge within Amwaj Islands and Outside of Amwaj at BD 8
* Minimum 24 hours required for all orders
ramada-manama-amwaj.com For reservations, call +973 1600 0099 or email at dining@ramada-manama-amwaj.com
YOU DO YOUR THING. LEAVE THE REST TO US.®
RAMADA HOTEL AND SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDS P.O. Box 13220 Building 1741, Road 5715, Block Amwaj 257 Amwaj Islands, Kingdom of Bahrain ©2016 Ramada Worldwide Inc. This property is independently owned by Mannai Holding Co. S.P.C. and operated under a management agreement by Wyndham Hotel Group (UK) Limited or one of its Affiliates.
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Out & About
George Clooney
puts himself on the line for coffee The Hollywood A-lister partners with Nespresso in an ad that shows just how far he will go for the perfect cup of coffee.
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t has been over ten years since George Clooney first partnered with Nespresso, and now we see the release of their latest collaboration, Change Nothing. The light-hearted campaign sees George embark on a rough night as he looks to protect his precious coffee. Starting in the stylish Nespresso boutique on London’s Regent Street, George’s adventure begins as he strikes up a conversation with an attractive female over a cup of Nespresso coffee. Sadly for him, she is the wife of the “boss”. What follows is an eventful evening, courtesy of the “boss”, played by ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and ‘Deadwood’ star, Ian McShane, which sees Clooney being captured by two
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The lighthearted campaign sees George embark on a rough night as he looks to protect his precious coffee.
thugs and taking a trip through the backstreets of London. The following morning we see a dishevelled George in his home savoring his Nespresso coffee, as he lets the audience know that he “wouldn’t change a thing” about his Nespresso experience. The fully integrated campaign, created with McCann Worldgroup, kicked off with a teaser phase early in September where consumers were invited to guess what fate awaited George Clooney.
Global Reach The global activation for this commercial launched on September 29 with TV and online advertising, plus a content-rich landing page including
Out & About
Sustainability and Ethics As Nespresso’s North American brand ambassador, Clooney will share with American consumers Nespresso’s heritage of quality coffee, innovative design, leading sustainability and customer service. Clooney has been a long-term partner with the brand in Europe and other international markets, charming fans and coffee aficionados
behind the scenes footage on the Nespresso website and consumer engagement through interactive image filters and gamification on the brand’s social channels. Clooney’s Nespresso ads poke fun at himself by being turned down by a series of beautiful women who are more interested in the Nespresso coffee machine and its bejewelled single-use pods than him. George says “I’m very comfortable with commercials. I’ve done them most
of my life, but I would find myself at a press conference, or perhaps at a film festival and suddenly there’d be some people challenging me about Nespresso’s sustainability. I thought if I was going to be involved on a long-term basis with this company, and I like them very much, I should find out what they’re doing and what they should and could be held responsible for.” Three years ago Clooney headed out with Nespresso to Costa Rica to see the company’s coffee farmers for himself.
in broadcast and print campaigns since 2006. He also serves as a member of the Nespresso Sustainability Advisory Board, collaborating on ideas and solutions towards improving the lives and futures of coffee farmers. “Nespresso and I have a shared commitment to sustainability, most recently helping to rebuild coffee farms in South Sudan,” he said. “George Clooney has shown great interest in the lives of coffee farmers and the initiatives Nespresso has undertaken to support them in producing high quality sustainable coffee and enhancing their welfare. We are happy to share these values with him and being able to share them with more consumers across the world. He has been involved from the beginning in our efforts to revive high quality coffee production in South Sudan, which has proven very successful with the recent launch of Suluja ti South Sudan, the first ever coffee to be exported from the new country,” said Alfonso Gonzales, Chief Customer Officer for Nespresso.
Visit Nespresso Boutiques, Level 1, Bahrain City Centre or Nespresso Booth at Gate 5, Seef Mall. Gulf Insider December 2016
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Experts Reveal Life Secrets
Part 3
How to Win in Life Every month Gulf Insider publish 4 pages that reveal brilliant secrets for winning in business and life. The techniques are provided by top international experts and we will often summarize an entire book into a single page so you can learn the essence of their wisdom in minutes instead of hours. Take the time to learn what we reveal each month and you will be rewarded a thousand times over!
5 Scientifically Proven Ways To Beat Procrastination called the Zeigarnik effect, which says that unfinished tasks are more likely to get stuck in your memory. (This is also why to-do list items continually pop up in your head until you write them down — a to-do list calms the Zeigarnik effect.)
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ith all this work on this subject, psychologists believe they have found a cure for procrastination. So what have the scientists come up with that business owners can put to use? They offer no shortage of tips.
1. Start easy - Starting is hard, but if you
can get over that hump you’ll not only have some degree of momentum, but your brain is more likely to pester you to keep working on the task. Why? It’s down to a psychological phenomenon
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Gulf Insider December 2016
2. Break it down - Big tasks can be terrifying, so we put them off. By taking that huge job and breaking it down into its first few concrete tasks, you can reduce your fear and help yourself get started. So instead of thinking, I have to finish giant Project X, think, I have to email so-and-so to see if she can meet to discuss the design parameters next Tuesday. The former is scary. The latter is patently doable.Want a handy trick on how to actually accomplish this in practice? Just pay attention to the verbs you use to describe your tasks. 3. Be nice to yourself - You might assume that in order to beat procrastination you need to be strict with yourself, but that’s not what science says. If you’ve already procrastinated, you’re more likely to get started on time going forward if you show yourself some compassion for your previous slacking rather than beating yourself up about it.
4. Get a good why - No one would
disagree with the common-sense truth that it’s easier to get yourself to do something you value, but rarely do most of us connect that simple truism with our anti-procrastination efforts. If you’re struggling to get something done, why not spend a few minutes thinking a little more deeply about exactly why you want to do it. “You’ve got to dig a little deeper and find some personal meaning in that task,” psychology professor Fuschia Sirois of Bishop’s University in Canada has said of her research on the subject. “That’s what our data is suggesting.”
5. Be mindful - Perfectionism and fear of failure are at the root of some procrastination. To beat this kind, science suggests you start by listening to your inner monologue and flagging any less than productive thinking. When you catch yourself saying things like This will be a catastrophe or I want this to be absolutely perfect!, PsyBlog suggests a deceptively simple-sounding intervention to begin taming your anxiety: “Try doubting your doubts. One easy way to do that is by shaking your head while thinking those negative thoughts. It may sound childish, but according to a study, it can help the chronically uncertain.”
How Your Attitude Affects Your Success People who suffer from lousy attitudes don’t win sometimes. They do, but it’s always with massive hassle and complaint.
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our attitude defines and delimits your level of success. If you have a generally lousy attitude, you’ll never really be successful. If you have a generally upbeat attitude, however, you’ll always achieve at least some level of success.
Experts Reveal Life Secrets
Warren Buffett’s Productivity Technique
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Your attitude determines how you interpret what events mean. Take obstacles, for example. Everyone who pursues any goal will inevitably run into obstacles. Your attitude determines what those obstacles mean and therefore how well you deal with them. If you have a lousy attitude, you’ll see obstacles as threats and annoyances. Even if you overcome them, you’ll find the process frustrating, which will make future obstacles harder to cope with. If you’ve got a positive attitude, you’ll see obstacles as interesting or even fun. Even if you fail to overcome them, you’ll find the process invigorating, which will make future obstacles easier to overcome. I ran into (or, more actually, almost ran into) a perfect example of this the other day. I was trying to find a parking space in a Bahrain’s City Centre shopping mall. Suddenly, another car zipped around a blind corner and we would have crashed if we both hadn’t quickly braked. Same event. My first thought was: “Wow, I’m sure glad that we (meaning me and the other driver) have fast reflexes!” I’m not exactly sure what the other driver thought, but she gave me a furious look. Same event, different attitude. But my next thought was to feel
sorry for her. She was in a small car with four kids and clearly having a horrible day. (I felt sorry for the kids, too.) Clearly still furious, she drove off even faster than she’d been driving before. I, however, slowed down because I took the almost-accident as a warning that I needed to pay more attention to my driving. Same event, different attitude, opposite outcome. The outcome for the other driver was an action that made her drive more dangerously and thus increase the possibility that she’d actually have a collision next time. My outcome was to make me a better driver. Everything in business is exactly like this. Stuff happens. Your attitude determines how you interpret and experience those events, and therefore strategies and tactics you’ll follow in the future. This is not to say that people who suffer from lousy attitudes don’t win sometimes. They do, but it’s always with massive hassle and complaint. When they finally win, they feel exhausted. Similarly, having an upbeat attitude doesn’t bulletproof you against failure, but your attitude makes it easy to learn from your mistakes. And when you do win, you feel exhilarated.
hat’s the secret to multi-billionaire Warren Buffett’s success? If you look at how rigorously empty he keeps his calendar, you get the impression that he’s a master prioritizer — and a revealing true story shows how we might gain that mastery. The story goes like this: One day Buffett went up to his pilot and jokingly said to him that “the fact that you’re still working for me tells me I’m not doing my job - you should be out going after more of your goals and dreams.” Buffett then asked him to list the 25 most important things he wanted to do in his life, after which he asked that he review each goal and choose the five most crucial ones. The pilot thought about it and drew circles around five goals, confirming with Buffett that yes, indeed, they were his highest priorities. And the rest? “What about these other 20 things on your list that you didn’t circle?” Buffett asked. “What is your plan for completing those?” “Well, the top five are my primary focus but the other 20 come in at a close second,” the pilot said. “They are still important so I’ll work on those intermittently as I see fit as I’m getting through my top five. They are not as urgent, but I still plan to give them dedicated effort.” Buffett suddenly turned serious. “You’ve got it wrong” he said. “Everything you didn’t circle just became your ‘avoid at all cost list.’ No matter what, these things get no attention from you until you’ve succeeded with your top five.” Here, Buffett shows that he doesn’t just understand the value of companies, but also the value of time. Similarly, he once urged Bill Gates to keep his schedule as clear as possible, keeping himself free of the crush of requests that come to a person of Gates and Buffett’s stature. “You’ve gotta keep control of your time,” Buffett said, “and you can’t unless you say no. You can’t let people set your agenda in life.” And with figuring out your priorities — and sticking to them — you can set your own agenda.
Gulf Insider December 2016
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Life
One young woman poses on the balcony of her home which showcases any unbelievable view
‘The Rich Kids of Iran’
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crolling through their Instagram account you would be forgiven for believing that the Rich Kids of Tehran are living it up in Beverly Hills. However, the wealthy teens that feature on the Instagram account sprawling by private pools and enjoying boozy parties actually come from Iran. The account has gained worldwide attention by revealing what life is really like for some inside the notoriously strict Islamic Republic of Iran. Pictures show beautiful young women in revealing bikinis smoking shisha pipes in pools, while others wear sweeping ball gowns as they pose in multi-million pound mansions.
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In other photos the youngsters can be seen partying in bikinis and enjoying buckets of champagne - controversial given their country’s strict religious rules. The account was inspired by the hugely popular Rich Kids Of Instagram, which showcases the life enjoyed by extremely wealthy young people, largely from the United States and Europe. Since the 1979 revolution, religious rules have required women to cover their hair and dress modestly while in public and also insist men must dress conservatively. Alcohol is also forbidden. But in the pictures posted online, the glamorous young men and women are seen living the high life, partying in swimming pools as they enjoy foreign
Life
holidays and shopping in luxury stores. Supercars that regularly feature include Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Maseratis, Porsches, Aston Martins, Audis and Mercedes that are worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. The owner of the page, who wished to remain anonymous, said that interests in the country are varied and range from ‘snowboarding, golfing, gym, horse riding to gatherings, luxury cars, fashion,
luxury watches...and more fashion’. They also revealed that ‘the cars all have been imported and there is 40 per cent import tax based on the actual price of the cars valued in Tehran. For example, if a car costs $200,000 you have to pay 40 per cent import tax before importing the car!’. The account owners also regularly dismiss ‘haters’ who they say are just jealous of the lifestyle enjoyed by the
country’s privileged youth. They insist they just want to help share a more positive image of Iran and added: ‘Some Iranians and others do criticise us yes and we always welcome criticism and freedom of speech, but most criticism always come from hidden agendas! ‘However, watch out for the joystealers: gossip, criticism, complaining, faultfinding, and a negative, judgmental attitude.’ In one post, whoever is running the page hit out at a view that ‘many think we ride camels’, adding: ‘We ride German and Italian wheels and we dress Chanel, Gucci, Louboutin and Tom Ford!’ The account caused controversy in October 2014 when it suddenly stopped posting when it went viral, amid rumours that the government had shut them down. That was denied by the owners and when the account reopened, a post stated: ‘We did not have any bad intentions and we are not against anyone. We wanted to show the
‘Some Iranians and others do criticise us yes and we always welcome criticism and freedom of speech. luxurious side of Tehran to the world. Only thing we did was to post some pictures on Instagram. Account owners defended the lavish lives that the young people lead and insisted that their parents are helping the country to develop. They added: ‘What you don’t see or hear is the same parents of the same Rich Kids Of Tehran are helping and providing jobs for the people in Iran, as well as bringing revenue from import and export to the country. They are factory owners and business men who help the country.’
Images: Instagram/RKOT Gulf Insider December 2016
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Society
Men and Women Bespoke in Bahrain This stylish event at Fraser Suites honored the tradition of tailor made suits.
business Events Launch of the Mercedes Benz GLC Coupe
The Mercedes Benz GLC Coupe was launched in a prestigious event at Ritz-Carlton Bahrain.
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Gulf Insider December 2016
Society
The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Customer Appreciation Night
The Ritz Carlton Bahrain hosted a customer appreciation party for its guests and media members.
Launch of Italian Week at Jawad Dome
Jawad Group launched its Italian Week at Jawad Supermarket in Jawad Dome in the presence of Italian ambassador H.E. Domenico Bellato, top management, and guests.
Bin Faqeeh launches new project Al Sidra
Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment SPC launched its new project Al Sidra at BIPEX Bahrain.
Gulf Insider December 2016
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Society
Gala Dinner organized by AMH Golf Tournament
Gulf Insider attended the Gala Dinner organized by AMH Golf Tournament at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.
Jewellery Arabia 2016
Jewellery Arabia 2016 was a star-studded event with dignitaries, media, and various press conferences throughout.
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Society
Launch of Breitling Boutique
Gulf Insider attended the grand opening of the Breitling Boutique at Moda Mall.
Red Arrows Bahrain
Red Arrows wowed the audience (consisting of dignitaries and media) with its aerial acrobatics at the Ritz Carlton Hotel.
Gulf Insider December 2016
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Style
LUXURY TRENDS
VACHERON
CHOPARD Though the Swiss brand is associated slightly more with its jewellery than watches, it’s worth mentioning that LouisUlysse Chopard started as a watchmaker. Blending contemporary elegance with the grandeur of the Roman Empire is Chopard’s luxurious Imperiale collection. Purple, the ultimate imperial colour makes its grand entry on the new Imperiale watch model as well as on the jewellery in this range. The new Happy Dreams collection with its interwoven circles and its round, full curves introduces a new play on light. Inspired by clouds, the dreamy and romantic jewellery has one or three mobile diamonds dancing around a first central circle surrounded by two or three intertwining circles.
Must Haves
Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre in Moda Mall.
Vacheron Constantin is pursuing its dialogue with collectors and passionate devotees of Haute Horlogerie by enriching its Métiers d’Art collection with homage to the Middle East cultural heritage. Showcasing a handcrafted falcon, a proud symbol of the region, this limited edition pays tribute to the glorious heritage of the Gulf area while celebrating its bright future and will be solely available in Vacheron Constantin boutiques in the GCC. Bearing the Hallmark of Geneva, this innovative creation, realised in ten models only, combines the technical excellence of Caliber 2460 G4 with the beauty of artistic crafts.
Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre in Moda Mall.
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Alexander Schmidt Vacheron Brand Director
elite_grande_hotel EliteGrandeHot
EGH.Bahrain
www.elitegrouphotels.com
CALL: 17 565 888
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Last Word
The diet industry is a lie … and we’ve all been sucked into it
By Nick Mitchell Personal trainer, fitness expert and writer
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ou’ve been sold a lie. And the amazing thing about this lie is that pretty much everyone involved in it hasn’t got a clue that they are lying or being lied to. There’s no grand conspiracy here, it’s just the age-old combination of willful ignorance pushed on by the dangerous mix of greed and desperation. That lie is the diet book industry. A quick perusal of the annual non-fiction bestseller lists will show you the preeminent position of “healthy recipe” books and fad diet manuals. They aren’t just big business, they are often the publications that publishers live and die by. Everyone has got in on a piece of the action over the years, from the fad chasing celebrity chefs to TV presenters. My problem is not that diet books and their authors are bad, I really don’t think that and if taken at face value as a means of entertainment and limited education then if you enjoy them please keep on feeding the machine. My problem is that they simply don’t work for purpose - namely to provide the general public with the tools needed to eat for fat loss and optimal health. Here’s a question for you to ask yourself. If these books really worked why do we need so many of them every year, and why does each one have to have a new angle? The answer of course,
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is all about commerce and nothing about helping the readers nail their weight loss problems once and for all. The fat loss equation is very simple – consume fewer calories than you need and you will lose weight. We can, and quite often we should, make it a bit more complicated than that. But try as I might to dress it up I
The fat loss equation is very simple – consume fewer calories than you need and you will lose weight. can’t ever get past anything that works better than “take in fewer calories than you burn, and do the things that make the diet sustainable for your palate and lifestyle”. Don’t buy the BS that you can “eat more and lose weight”, or that there’s a magic set of super foods that will be the
panacea to your diet woes just waiting to be discovered. To understand what the best diet book could be, if such a thing were to exist, is to attempt to understand the psychology of dieting and that’s way beyond the scope of this article. In a nutshell, eating a healthy diet that will help an overweight individual come down to the correct body fat levels is incredibly uncomplicated. But as skyrocketing obesity levels would indicate, it is also too hard a diet for most people to execute. We all instinctively know what constitutes healthy nutrition. The problem that we have is that we are bombarded with a bewildering array of food options. These are the reasons that following a healthy diet in the modern world has become such a major problem. If you really want to master your diet so that over time it becomes second nature, you will benefit from approaching it as if you were learning a martial art and that means setting in patterns and habits, and start eating intelligently without lazy bad habits or food and diet neuroses. None of which is to say that diet books are bad, if you enjoy them and gain nuggets of knowledge then that’s only a positive, but they have proven time and again to not be the fonts of all knowledge.
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