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Revolution for the Precrafted Houses Interview with Mr. Robbie Antonio The Founder and CEO, Revolution Precrafted Follow us on
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Social Media is changing business
Most businesses in Bahrain lack advanced digital and social media marketing skills to expertly manage a successful digital strategy, so missing major opportunities they don’t even realize. The good news is we can inexpensively create an effective digital strategy for your business, and manage it for you, for less than the salary of an employee - freeing you to run your business. We also build beautiful websites - optimized to generate income for businesses, and provide online services including SEO, design, e-commerce, photography and video production.
For a FREE evaluation of your businesses digital marketing needs. call +973 36 188 100
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From Germany to Bahrain. Our experts take the road. Bringing Mercedes-Benz service to you.
From Germany to Bahrain.
Be part of the Regional Service Roadshow and experience the Mercedes-Benz Mobile Service Truck. Visit us during 1st – 6th April 2019 at Seef Mall, Seef & 8th -13th at Amwaj Marina, Muharraq parking Our takefrom the aroad. Bringing Mercedes-Benz service to you.by our Flying Doctor from Germany. area experts and benefit free 10 Point Vehicle Safety Check performed Be part of the Regional Service Roadshow and experience the Mercedes-Benz Mobile Service Truck. The Safety Check includes: Visit10 us Point duringVehicle 1st – 6th April 2019 at Seef Mall, Seef & 8th -13th at Amwaj Marina, Muharraq parking area and benefit from a free 10 Point Vehicle Safety Check performed by our Flying Doctor from Germany. 1. Check engine oil level 2. Check coolant fluidSafety level Check includes: The 10 Point Vehicle 3. Check brake fluid level 4. Check Check windscreen wiper condition 1. engine oil level 5. Check Check battery 2. coolant condition fluid level 6. Check tires condition 3. Check brake fluid level 7. of brake pads 4. Visual Check check windscreen wiper condition 8. Visual check of brake discs 5. Check battery condition 9. of the suspension components 6. Visual Check check tires condition 10. Diagnostic check 7. Visual checkcomputer of brake pads 8. Visual check of brake discs CallVisual 17785454 ext 174/176 /193 to book your appointment today. 9. check of the suspension components 10. Diagnostic computer check Call 17785454 ext 174/176 /193 to book your appointment today.
Al Haddad Motors, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel +973 17785454 (Showroom) , +973 17785999 (Service Center) marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenz.com
Gulf Financial Insider
Contents April 2019 Issue 170
12 48 Facebook Followers
392,612 Simply unparalleled online presence that connects region’s most inspired communities.
Money & Business
12 18 22 26
Revolution Precrafted
Educational Special
30
Bahrain Private Schools Guide
Bahrain 2019 and Beyond Benefitting Innovation Keypoint
People and Culture
34 35 40
Lost Paradise of Dilmun
Car Bahrain
48 52
Porsche Macan
Careem Al Areen
Nissan Altima
‌ and much, much more!
Knowledge is power
Comment...
Publisher & Editor in Chief
- Nicholas C. Cooksey
Editorial Contributors
- Sawsan Abu Omar - Ryan Ernst - Dhanyasree M - Hugh Haskell-Thomas - Nicholas Cortes - Bill Daly
Sales & Business Development
- Charlie Cooksey
- Dhanraj S Layout Designs Admin & Finance
- Nikesh Pola
- Aneesh Mathew Photography
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Distribution Executive
- Mohammed Yousif
Here's last month’s most 'Liked' #BestInBahrain picture posted to our social media. For Advertising Opportunities Call Charlie Cooksey
Dhanyasree M
M. +973 3652 0004
M. +973 3612 8111
charlie@gulf-insider.com
sales1@gulf-insider.com
Published by:
P.O. Box 26810, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 1700 4575 Fax: +973 1772 1722 Printed at Awal Press, Kingdom of Bahrain. 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. The multi-award winning Arabian magazine
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15-18 APRIL 2019 BAHRAIN
BUILDING ONE GLOBAL ECOSYSTEM
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interview with Mr. Robbie antonio the founder and ceo, Revolution Precrafted Follow us on
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Bahrain’s Finest innovation & technology taking on Silicon valley
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Growing up never looked better Audi is progress. The Audi A3.
For further information contact 17459933.
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A destination you deserve alareenpalace.com
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Events
Day & Night Five p.m. at Bab
Day of Photography
Sound of Korea
When: April 11, 2019 Where: Bab Al-Bahrain
When: April 27th
When: April 2nd, 2019 Where: Bahrain National Theatre
The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities is organizing weekly cultural activities at the outdoor market space in the heart of Bab Al-Bahrain. The activities span from music, handicrafts, arts and food, with the festivities spotlighting different realms of heritage each week.
For more information: +973 1729 8777
Gulf Property Show When: 23rd April- 25th April Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre, Bahrain The Gulf Property Show is a dedicated boutique showcase for the real estate and property development sectors. The show will provide the opportunity to promote Bahrain’s property assets as well as regional and international opportunities for investors in commercial and residential real estate.
For more information: +973 1729 9123 10
Gulf Insider April 2019
Where: Bin Matar House Join the annually awaited event just before the summer break. The Day of Photography is intended as a sharing platform for the artistic and photography community in Bahrain. The program will include a panel talk on the hugely popular Bahraini project “Photos A La Chair” and a slidefest with local and regional photographers in collaboration with Dubai-based Gulf Photo Plus.
Registration is on binmatarhouse@gmail.com For more information: +973 1732 2549
“Sound of Korea” is a musical concert by all-female fusion Korean classical music group QUEEN. The group paints a splendid audio-visual feast with its blend of the traditional and contemporary, using Korean traditional instrument to perform classical folk Korean pieces and modern pop covers.
For more information: springofculture.org
Business Society
Tamkeen hosts a press conference for the relaunch of their enterprise support program
Norwegian Cruise Roadshow at the InterContinental Regency Hotel
Gulf Insider April 2019
11
Money & Business
The proptech start-up‘ Revolution Precrafted’ is a company delivering designer and limitededition prefab homes and other structures all over the world. Started in 2015 by Robbie Antonio, the company is one among a growing number of start-ups in the Asia- Pacific, which have raised funding of about US$4.8 billion of the total US$7. 8 billion invested globally from 2013 to June 2017.
Revolution Precrafted, Going Global!
Mr. Robbie Antonio, real estate developer, the Founder and CEO of Revolution Precrafted, details his global expansion plans.
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Gulf Insider April 2019
Money & Business
W
hat are the expansion plans for Revolution Pre-crafted to the MENA region?
Even when we were in the early stages of putting up the company, there was already a conscious goal of going global. In order to achieve growth and sustained demand for our products, we knew that we have to have footprint in all regions of the world and MENA was definitely one of the regions we wanted to have solid business in. Customers from this region are ready to pay for good products, and they know how to appreciate design driven homes and other structures. They have an eye for great design
this to contribute to the velocity of our projects around the world. We intend to be a leading marketplace that connects consumers with the best developers, fabricators, designers, architects and artists around the world.. On top of that, we are also exploring hydroponics, block chain, affordable homes, low to mid rise condos, hotels and offices. What’s integral is our business model of partnering with some of the world’s best architects, designers and artists. In fact, we are now in the process of rolling out our ‘Renegade Concepts’ which further enhances our collaboration with our partner designers and celebrities. We feel that there is
Glass House by Philip Johnson Alan Ritchie Architects
so much untapped potential in our partnerships, so we explored possible franchises and businesses where we can show our combined creativity and excellence. This is a natural progression of our capabilities. We have recently launched our partnership with world boxing icon Manny Pacquiao to come up with a boxing gym franchise. We have also unveiled our partnership with the design duo of supermodel Helena Christensen and Camilla Staerk. We also are also in the final stages of rolling out the salon franchise of fashion model Liliana Nova. We also ventured in biking gym franchise with Troy Montero, an actor in the Philippines. There is so much possibilities in these franchise concepts so we expect them to be a crucial part of our overall business in the years to come.
What are some of the challenges you have come across? As mentioned, we want volumes that allow us to achieve some economies of scale. For this, we need to be present in as many markets and we need multiple projects in each market. We had to educate the markets and dispel some misconceptions about prefab but after the initial questions, we were able to show the advantages and benefits of prefab technology. Now that we have expanded to hybrid and quasi-prefab, we expect more inquiries and more projects. and architecture. ‘We are also looking for exclusive dealers, and partner developers in Bahrain. We believe that we can work together in creating beautiful residential projects in Bahrain.
Detail your present projects. We like residential projects that have great volume. Most of our projects involve hundreds of homes, and we hope that we can bag similar projects in MENA. Alternatively, we also aspire for more spacious homes that boast great design. We are currently in the middle of expansion and diversification. While we have focused on most prefab projects, we are now accepting and pursuing hybrid projects and we expect
We are currently in the middle of expansion and diversification. While we have focused on most prefab projects, we are now accepting and pursuing hybrid projects.
How would you determine your success? Success is when you have surpassed your goals and expectations.
Any unknown facts about your journey so far that you would like to share about readers. It is not unknown, but I attribute our success to a lot of hard work, flexibility and creativity. We met a few obstacles along the way, which is normal for any business, but we were always able to come up with brilliant solutions. That is because our team and our employees are committed to achieving our goals.
Gulf Insider April 2019
13
News Roundup
Saudi: More than 250,000 expats quit jobs in three months As many as 273,860 workers, of whom 96.4% expatriates, have left the labor market in the third quarter of 2018, the Arabic daily Al-Watan reported quoting figures released by the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI). The organization said the total number of workers registered with GOSI during the second quarter of 2018 was 9,093,733. It said 268 Saudi women left the market while 3,488 expatriate women joined the market during the period. GOSI said the number of Saudi workers registered with it as 1,936,000 during the third quarter of 2018, down from 1,946,000 during the second quarter. It said the number of expat workers was 7.157 million in the third quarter, down from 7.421 million in the second quarter. It meant that about 264,000 expatriates have left the job market during the period. GOSI said 8,405 Saudi men and 268 Saudi women quit the labor market during the quarter. It said the number of the expatriate women in the labor market in the third quarter of 2018 was 220,348, up from 216,860 in the second quarter, meaning 3,488 foreign women came to work in the Kingdom newly. According to the organization, there were 7.204 million expatriate men in the labor market during the second quarter of 2018 but their number decreased to 6.936 million in the third quarter. Market sources attributed the drop in the number of expat workforces in the country to an aggressive campaign launched by the Ministry of Labor and Social Development to nationalize jobs in many sectors.
Around 13,500 instagram accounts shut down in Dubai Social media accounts selling counterfeit goods to almost 78 million followers have been shut down by Dubai consumer protection watchdogs. The Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection (CCCP) sector in the Department of Economic Development in Dubai (DED) closed down 13,948 social media accounts in 2018 as part of protecting trademarks and the integrity of e-commerce in line with the strategy to enhance competitiveness and sustainable business growth in Dubai. The accounts were closed after they were found to be selling counterfeit goods. Together, the accounts had 77.9 million followers. An overwhelming majority of the accounts closed down were on Instagram – 13,529 accounts, followed by 419 on Facebook. Round-the-clock surveillance and continued co-operation with trademark owners as well as law firms also helped DED unearth 45 websites that were selling counterfeit goods. 14
Gulf Insider April 2019
UAE cabinet to start issuing long-term residence visas The UAE cabinet has adopted the regulatory framework to start issuing 10-year residence permits to investors, entrepreneurs and innovators. “The UAE’s residency departments will start receiving applications. The UAE has always embraced talent, and it will continue to,” the Dubai Media Office said in a tweet. In November 2018, the UAE issued a decision to adopt a new system of entry visas for investors and professional talents by providing them with long-term visas. The system will grant investors and talents up to 10-year residency visas for specialists in medical, scientific, research and technical fields, as well as for all scientists and innovators, as well as five-year residency visas for students studying in the UAE, and 10-year visas for exceptional students. The cabinet also approved the National Space Strategy 2030. It includes 79 projects in the field of space science and research, manufacturing, assembly and testing, as well as the commercial space services sector.
News Roundup
Saudi Arabia plans visa-free access to tourism sites Saudi Arabia is reportedly planning to offer visa-free access to its tourism sites to visitors from the US, Europe, Japan and China. The plan will be finalized in the coming months and announced by the end of the year, official sources were quoted as saying in a section of the press. Visitors from the United States, Europe, Japan and China will be allowed to visit tourism sites either without the need of a visa or will be issued visas on arrival in the Kingdom, the Wall Street Journal reported. The initiative is seen as an important step toward liberalizing the economy in keeping with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. It is aimed at raising total tourism spending in the Kingdom — by local citizens as well as foreigners — to $46.6 billion by 2020 from $27.9 billion in 2015, sources said. Last year e-visas were issued through Sharek e-visa platform, which allowed international motor racing fans to travel to the Kingdom for the Dec. 15 Formula E race. Travellers who bought a ticket for the race obtained a 14-day visa for SR640, the equivalent of approximately $170. The Kingdom’s entertainment and events calendar is full of activities for which foreign visitors can get e-visas. The Kingdom is also developing a number of tourist attractions, including Amaala, which is set to become a luxury destination on the northwestern coast. A mega-theme park is being developed, known as Qiddiyah, an hour’s drive from Riyadh. It expects to attract 1.5 million visitors each year when the first phase opens in 2022. Last month, Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman launched mega tourism projects in the ancient desert city of Al-Ula. According to the Royal Commission for Al-Ula, the projects are set to rake in a $32 billion increase in the GDP, over two million visitors and 38,000 jobs by 2035.
Travel from Riyadh to Jeddah in less than 50 minutes Virgin Hyperloop One is likely to reveal details of its plan to link Saudi Arabia’s $500-billion futuristic city, Neom, the mega Red Sea tourism project, and Qiddiya giga-projects together at the upcoming The Big 5 Saudi show in Riyadh. The company’s vice president for the Arabian Gulf, Colin Rhys, will speak at the exhibition that is to be held on March 10-13 at Jeddah Center for Forums and Events. Rhys is expected to explain how hyperloop technology can support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program, according to a statement released by the organizers of The Big 5 Saudi. A graphic published alongside details of Rhys’s speech depicts a GCC alignment route, showcasing stops at Neom, the Red Sea Project, Jeddah, Makkah, Riyadh, Kuwait City, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Muscat. Hyperloop technology could cut the time it takes to travel from Riyadh to Jeddah to 46 minutes. Passengers will also be able to use the network to travel in pod-shaped vehicles from Riyadh to the Kingdom’s Neom giga-project in 58 minutes. Ahead of his talk, Rhys said the infrastructure scheme will encourage Saudi’s adoption of emerging technologies. Hyperloop will create a “manufacturing hub” in the Kingdom, allowing the country to import and export goods at rapid speeds, Rhys added. The system is expected to create high-tech jobs for Saudi nationals and provide an uplift in gross domestic product. To ensure young Saudis benefit from Virgin Hyperloop One’s expertise, the company partnered with the Prince Muhammad Bin Salman Foundation (Misk) last year to provide 21 internships at its campus in Los Angeles, US. Three of the Saudi interns now have full-time jobs with Virgin Hyperloop One. Gulf Insider April 2019
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News Roundup
Bahrain: Most cost-effective Gulf country to set up business The cost of setting up a business in Bahrain is up to 35% cheaper compared to the rest of the Gulf region, according to a KPMG report named ‘Cost of doing business in Bahrain – Financial Services’. Bahrain leads on a wide range of metrics in the report, including commercial rents up to four times lower, and staff costs that can be up to 60% below its neighbours. Such figures reinforce Bahrain’s position as the region’s financial centre. The Kingdom was the first country in the GCC to set up a banking system and is now home to over 400 financial institutions, all underpinned by a highly skilled and educated workforce. The benefits of doing business in Bahrain are not just restricted to certain geographical areas or free zones. Instead, the whole country is subject to the same business-friendly rules, allowing companies to set up wherever they wish. Such freedom also goes hand in hand with other key components for operating a successful business. Setting-up a company in Bahrain was also found to be quicker and more costeffective, with the application fees to gain approval as a financial business being lower in Bahrain than in neighbouring countries, while a ‘dealing in investments as principal’ application costs just US$270 in Bahrain, further highlighting the appeal of starting a company in the country. But, cost-effectiveness is far broader than the input costs that a company director will measure daily. The report also found that more holistic, lifestyle focussed determinants, are crucial to the success of any business. Bahrain has long enjoyed a liberal society and a cosmopolitan way of life, including offering a competitive cost of living. In Bahrain, the average cost of living is just US$51,252 a year, below figures seen elsewhere in the region. Moreover, an education in the British and American curriculum is up to 50% less expensive in Bahrain, an attractive option for staff members with children. The report also concluded that Bahrain is not just competitive in traditional financial services like banking, but also is at the forefront of emerging trends such as Islamic Finance and FinTech. Thomson Reuters placed Bahrain as the leader in the GCC and second globally in its Islamic Finance Development Report published in December 2018.
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Gulf Insider April 2019
National Passport and Residence Affairs to use Skiplino application The services at the Muharaq Security Complex by the Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs (NPRA) can be accessed by downloading the Skiplino Application from the app store in Android and IOS devices. The Skiplino app facilitates faster implementation of services and residents will be able to schedule appointments on their convenience. The facility to reschedule and cancel the scheduled appointment is also available to its users. The Muharraq Security complex currently offers services of the passport directorate and visa and residency directorate.
AUB Awarded as the Best Bank in Bahrain Ahli United Bank has been awarded “Best Bank In Bahrain,2019 “ by Global Finance in recognition of the bank’s strong financial performance and tracks record in delivering superior banking services and solutions to customers in Bahrain. This is the 14th consecutive year AUB has won this award from the New York-based finance publication. The Publisher added, to be ranked among the world’s best banks with higher customer expectation seems increasingly difficult with a complex market in financial services intended to provide tailored products delivered in real time with complete security. The Chairman of Ahli United Bank commented, “To be recognized as Bahrain’s top bank for the 14th consecutive year adds distinct honour and accomplishment to our services.”
News Roundup
Flight forced to return as mother forgets baby at airport A Saudia plane returned to the airport after taking off as a passenger on board had forgotten her baby at the airport. Flight SV832, from Jeddah to Kuala Lumpur, turned back after the Saudi mother told cabin crew that she had forgotten her baby in the boarding area at the terminal of the King Abdul Aziz International Airport. A video went viral on social media showing the pilot requesting permission to head back to the airport while talking to ATC operators – who were caught by surprise and were scampering around to figure out the protocol to be observed for such an incident. “May God be with us. Can we come back or what?” the pilot was heard talking to an air traffic controller. The operator, after taking the flight number, is heard asking another colleague about the protocol. “This flight is requesting to come back…a passenger forgot her baby in the waiting area, the poor thing.” The operator then asks the pilot to re-confirm the reason for turning back. The pilot was overhead speaking: “We told you, a passenger left her baby in the terminal and refuses to continue the flight.” “Ok, head back to the gate. This is totally a new one for us!” In the video comments, the pilot was given loads of applause for his “humanity” — on agreeing to return to the airport after takeoff and considering the situation as an “emergency case”.
Bahrain aims to provide commercial 5G services by June Bahrain has announced that preparations for the rollout of 5G networks in the Kingdom are complete and will provide services by June, pending availability of consumer handsets. The Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, anticipates that Bahrain will be one of the first countries globally to provide commercial 5G services to consumers by June 2019, pending availability of consumer handsets. All of the regulatory hurdles to full 5G implementation have been resolved, with the licensing and spectrum allocation set to be finalized by mid-April by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), he said. He added that mobile operators in the kingdom have already begun rolling out the necessary network infrastructure. “Our leadership in 5G reflects Bahrain’s appetite for innovation and sends a signal to the world that we can be a test-bed for some of the most transformative technologies. There were a lot of hurdles along the way – ensuring spectrum availability as soon as possible was a big challenge, but overcoming these obstacles exemplifies the support and cooperation amongst all stakeholders in Bahrain and demonstrates how Bahrain can move quickly, deliver enormous progress against an accelerated timeframe, and be a partner to technology leaders,” said the minister. Successful commercial trials for 5G technology in Bahrain were held in June 2018. One major benefit of 5G technology is enabling a higher volume of data transmission at higher speeds, while potentially supporting interactive technologies like virtual reality and helping enable the growth of improved video streaming and high-end gaming. Gulf Insider April 2019
17
Money & Business
Bahrain 2019 … and beyond
Bahrain’s introduction of VAT this year means the government will profit from virtually every sales transaction on the island, but that’s still not enough to plug a large gap in the kingdom’s finances and wean it off aid from richer neighbors.
S
audi Arabia, along with Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, financially assisted Bahrain last year when a prolonged period of lower oil prices pushed its public debt to nearly 93 percent of annual economic output. Their $10 billion bailout pledge, along with Bahrain’s inclusion in JPMorgan’s emerging market indexes, have transformed its bonds from a bad bet to a boon for investors.
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Gulf Insider April 2019
The price of Bahrain’s 2028 dollar bonds has risen by a third from a record low last June when the country looked in danger of default. But that upward trajectory could go into reverse if Manama does not tackle its spending overruns. With an overall deficit last year equivalent to 11.7 percent of annual economic output, according to an estimate by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Bahrain would need to
introduce a raft of new taxes and spending cuts to eliminate its budget deficit by 2022, a target set as part of its bailout. But the country’s government is seeking to avoid austerity measures where possible, and of taxes, fees and spending cuts dampening growth. Instead, the government has set its sights on trying to grow the local economy to boost revenues and balance the books.
Money & Business
5%
Bahrain introduced a 5 percent value added tax (VAT)
Investments in the fintech sector, a major oil and gas find and the development of Bahrain as a hub for foreign companies wanting to tap into the larger Saudi Arabian market are all initiatives touted by the government as future sources of revenue. But they are not seen as sufficient to close the gap by 2022. The IMF said last month that it expects the economy to grow around 1.8 percent this year, the same pace as last year, and said additional reform efforts were needed. “We still think there will be deficits at the end of the period,” said Trevor
Bahrain’s ministry of finance and national economy said the country’s fiscal program was on track to deliver a balanced budget in 2022. Cullinan, sovereign credit analyst at Standard & Poor’s, which like the other
main rating agencies has a junk rating on Bahrain’s debt. Bahrain’s ministry of finance and national economy said the country’s fiscal program was on track to deliver a balanced budget in 2022. “This is a comprehensive and credible plan which, through a combination of spending reductions and revenue measures, is already delivering significant progress,” the ministry said in a statement A recovering oil price, along with new excise taxes and cuts in subsidies for water and power consumption have helped shrink Bahrain’s deficit from a record 18.4 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2015. As part of the bailout from its Gulf allies, Bahrain agreed to introduce a 5 percent value added tax (VAT), as well as further subsidy cuts and a voluntary retirement plan for state workers. But the government has ruled out taxing income or company profits, partly to continue attracting business to a region where such taxes are nonexistent. The plunge in the oil price has forced all Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, to re-think generous welfare programs and push economic diversification harder. Bahrain, which does not have the vast oil wealth of its neighbors, discovered a large oil and gas field off its west coast last year and is in talks with U.S. oil companies about developing it. The discovery could be an important source of revenue but its benefits are unlikely to materialize soon as converting the estimates to reserves is a costly and lengthy process. “It takes a minimum of four to five years, so if you’re going to get any revenue it’s not going to be immediate, so you still have to face the adjustment to a large fiscal deficit and a large budget deficit,” said Nasser Saidi, a Dubai-based economist. In the meantime, Bahrain has been trying to market itself as a financial technology hub for the Middle East and North Africa. Last year, it inaugurated Bahrain FinTech Bay, a state-backed platform, offering technology companies office space, networking events and a mobile app for collaborations.
Gulf Insider April 2019
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Money & Business
FinTech Bay’s chief executive, Khalid Saad, said the initiative would be a “great contributor” to Bahrain, but said it was too early to quantify that contribution. Saad said the hub had so far attracted 36 firms -- 60 percent of them international -- to work on technologies such as digital currency and blockchainbased payments. S&P has not factored in any contribution from the fintech initiative in its estimates for Bahraini economic growth. “How much more are you going to get from fintech? Are you going to add 1 or 2 percent of GDP? I don’t think so, it’s not a big employment generator,” said Saidi. Amazon Web Services (AWS), the world’s biggest cloud computing provider, is opening a regional data center in Bahrain later this year. The 20
Gulf Insider April 2019
Bahrain has been trying to market itself as a financial technology hub for the Middle East and North Africa. company has declined to say how many people it will employ but Zubin Chagpar, the head of public sector for Amazon Web Services in the Middle East said the government’s willingness to focus on digital transformation was a key factor in Amazon’s decision to locate there. “Bahrain is very particular in saying they want to leverage technology to
redefine our economy,” Chagpar said. Leveraging its proximity to Saudi Arabia has always been part of Bahrain’s economic toolkit. Some 1.1 million people entered Bahrain via the bridge in January, many attracted by the country’s more relaxed rules on drinking and socializing. Some international companies, which want to sell into the Saudi market, also base themselves in Bahrain, where the operating costs are cheaper. U.S. manufacturer Mueller Industries and Mondelez, the world’s No 2 confectioner, have recently expanded their presence in Bahrain. But Bahrain’s prime position as a “stepping stone” to Saudi Arabia could wane given the fast pace of change in the conservative country as it moves to relax social restrictions and build entertainment and tourism industries. It is also developing its own manufacturing sector.
Money & Business
Benefitting Innovation Gulf Insider talks with Nezar Maroof, AGM - Marketing, Innovation & Business Development at Benefit Company, about their recent projects towards the national direction of Bahrain.
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Gulf Insider April 2019
Money & Business
What are the key projects for 2019?
W
hat would you say were your greatest achievement this 2018?
We have achieved so many things in 2018. This was when we started building our new strategy and the focus of it was to align with the national direction Bahrain has. One of the achievements we had this 2018 is expanding our e-wallet features, BenefitPay. It has now become the national eWallet for Bahrainis. BenefitPay has over 1000 merchants included in its services already. Payment isn’t the only service it offers, it can also fund transfer from different accounts, supply invoices, and, something that will come soon, the ability to fund transfer overseas for friendly remittance sending. Another achievement is the establishment of our technical lab. We have BenefitLab where we are doing a lot of proof of concept or PoC. This is where we test trending and new ideas that come from the market. One idea we are trying right now is the use of chatbots in social media to be included in the services provided by financial institutions. The 3rd achievement is the signing agreement to share credit information with Saudi Credit Bureau (Simah). It is the first cross-border exchange of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region. It also seeks to strengthen the supervisory roles entrusted to government regulating bodies and other related parties to protect the financial sector from the risks of improper financing practices, and to provide an efficient and reliable information infrastructure.
A major one is the eKYC implementation, it is a nation-wide project and, hopefully, we start to assimilate it into financial institutions this 2019. The project is by EDB and IGA and we have been appointed as the gateway between the financial sector and the data hosted by government custody. We have also been appointed by the central bank to implement eCheque. This is one of the directions we are getting with the CBB and EDB, part of the national strategy is to minimize cash utilization in our society. It is reducing physical transactions financially. eCheque enables the user to have a cheque electronically, reducing the need for paper cheques or banks issuing
One of the achievements we had this 2018 is the enabling and implementation of our e-wallet, BenefitPay. cheque books. eCheque is more secure than physical ones, we can check the history and the source of an eCheque a lot easier. Transactions will also be more transparent. Another project that is important to us is the WPS or Wages Protection System. This is another direction that the government has, to create a comprehensive ecosystem that protect the wages of expats working in Bahrain. Hopefully this year, all employers in Bahrain will not pay in cash anymore. It will always have to be through a bank, this gives more visibility and transparency in following the contract wages an employee signed.
What are the current innovations and Fintech direction? We are in close partnership with Bahrain Fintech Bay, which is where our new lab is. We have sort of developed an alliance program where we work with the academe here in Bahrain. We signed a memorandum of understanding or MOU with the University of Bahrain and the British University of Bahrain. The point of having this MOU’s is to support the RnD or research and development coming from these universities. We encourage new ideas and innovations, especially those that assist the Fintech sector. Another project we are innovating in the Fintech lab is making the University of Bahrain bookstore seamless and interaction-free. It will become a stafffree store where a student can go in, pick a book, leave the bookstore and it will already be paid for and deducted from his bank account. This company was established to support the financial sector, regulator government and help society accomplish its direction and strategies. Most of the projects we have are aimed to be able to be assimilated and benefited by the people. We would already benefit greatly from the improvement of our society and in fulfilling the direction the national strategy has. We are also focused in spreading our ideas and products to the general public. We have a very comprehensive awareness plan this year that aims to further the use of our services and along with it the implementation of the national direction it carries. We want to make what we are doing as part of the people.
How are you supporting the National Direction? We hold the financial technology that’s being implemented, this enables us to be a big part of the progress that is currently going on in Bahrain. We also closely work with a lot of institutions like EDB, CBB, and IGA that also support the national direction as the national financial strategy and roadmap are already sat by them.
Gulf Insider April 2019
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News Roundup
Saudi: 38% of bankruptcy cases were filed by expats
Kuwait: No more residence visa stickers on expats’ passports An amendment has been made by the Kuwaiti authorities to the Foreigners Residence Law according to which no residence visa stickers will be placed on the passports of expatriates, reports AlAnba daily quoting Egyptian consulate in Kuwait. The Consulate told the Egyptians in Kuwait that they will now be able to exit Kuwait using their civil IDs since March 10, provided they hold a valid passport and civil ID since all residency data is recorded in the civil IDs. Earlier, the Arab Times quoting the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt Gen Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah had said the Interior Ministry had issued a decision to cancel the residence permit stickers on the passports calling it part of an ongoing process to upgrade services in various government departments. For his part Assistant Undersecretary for Residence Affairs MajorGeneral Talal Marafie had said the data included in the residence stickers will be mentioned in the civil IDs.
General and executive courts in the Kingdom received as many as 1,100 requests for bankruptcy in the last four years, according to sources in the Ministry of Justice. The sources said this year alone 17 entities filed for bankruptcy and the cases were now under the consideration of the courts. They said 68% of people who filed for bankruptcy were Saudi men and women while the rest of the requests were from citizens of 10 other countries — Yemen, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, India, Egypt, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sudan, Syria and Lebanon. The sources said the courts issued liquidation orders in a number of cases mainly related to the real estate sector. One such order was for the confiscation of a piece of land with an area of 4,500 square meters in south Jeddah in favour of one of two brothers. According to the sources, the bankruptcy requests were filed in a number of cities and towns including Riyadh, Makkah, Jeddah, Madinah, Dammam, Jazan, Najran, Taif, Yanbu, Buraidah and others.
12kg of gold found abandoned in toilet on Abu Dhabi flight More than 100 gold bars weighing 12kg were found stashed in the toilet of a plane that took off from Abu Dhabi. Bangladeshi intelligence and customs officials made the discovery after the plane landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. The Biman flight BG 128 landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka from Abu Dhabi. It had a brief stopover at Chittagong, Bangladesh, before reaching its final destination. “Members of the intelligence agency seized 106 pieces of gold bars weighing around 12 kilograms, from a toilet of Biman Bangladesh Airlines (BG-128) in an abandoned condition on Monday morning,” Othelo Chowdhury, deputy commissioner of Dhaka Customs House, told a local news agency. “The gold bars were wrapped up with tape on the back of a mirror in the plane’s toilet,” he said. He also said no-one had been arrested but an investigation had been launched in an attempt to find the smugglers. 24
Gulf Insider April 2019
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Money & Business
Gearing up
for the First VAT Return in the Kingdom Mubeen Khadir, Head of Tax, Keypoint Group details on what else should be done as Bahrain’s largest companies gear up for their first VAT return.
W
ith Bahrain’s largest companies – and businesses that have registered voluntarily – gearing up for their first VAT return at the end of this month, key decision makers across the finance, accounting and IT functions know that the changes that have been made to their systems, technology and people are about to be tested for real. Apart from simply setting up enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to record VAT amounts and to record the VAT treatment of transactions, what
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Gulf Insider April 2019
An important part of any VAT implementation is the mapping of all of a business’ transactions – both sales and purchases.
else should have been done? VAT genuinely is – in that overused phrase – a paradigm shift for Bahraini businesses. However, it should not hinder business as usual – particularly if you have automated (as far as practical) the process. What does that mean for day-to-day operations? Opening additional accounting general ledgers to capture payable and receivable VAT is critical. One question is we have been asked is “How far do we need to go with this process?”. At a minimum – and this has been backed up not just by our experience of over
Money & Business
300 implementations across the GCC but also a wide range of surveys and articles – we suggest general ledgers that record output VAT, input VAT, blocked VAT expenses and VAT clearing accounts. In addition – and according to particular circumstances - other accounts include VAT on reverse charge, deferred import VAT and VAT suspense accounts. There are, of course, many other options – but remember that increasing options can complicate automation and lengthen the time needed to be ready. Businesses should also keep in mind the VAT
Return Further tax codes will need to be created once all six GCC countries implement VAT as businesses will need to deal with complex intra-GCC supply rules for goods and services.
return reporting requirements when considering which VAT accounts to create. A second area where careful planning can make a significant difference is with tax codes (or VAT treatments). An important part of any VAT implementation is the mapping of all of a business’ transactions – both sales and purchases. Once transactions have been mapped, VAT treatments can be assigned to each type of transaction. Our recommendation is to automate VAT treatments or tax codes, either at an item (inventory) level, a vendor (or customer) level, or a general ledger level. If we could take a step back, it may be useful to consider the number – and type – of tax codes a business needs. Businesses should all be aware of the fact that while most goods and services are standard-rated (VAT charged at five percent), there are certain supplies that are zero-rated (VAT charged at zero percent), certain supplies that are exempt from VAT and others that are out of scope. Having just three tax codes is a certain recipe for disaster – notwithstanding its deceptive simplicity. Even a very small business that only just meets the voluntary registration threshold (BD18,750 of taxable supplies annually) is likely to find that it needs more tax codes than that. For supplies, the most popular tax code is likely to be the one used to record the sale of standard-rated goods and services to VAT-registered customers in Bahrain. A second code – somewhat more esoteric but still useful – can record sales of standard-rated goods or services to VAT-registered customers who have approval to account for VAT using the reverse charge. With zero-rated supplies, at least two codes are generally needed: one for zero-rated domestic sales and one for exports (zero-rated) to customers outside the GCC as these need to be reported separately. Consider at least two codes for exempt supplies – one for the supply of services to customers outside Bahrain and one for the local supply of services which are exempt from VAT (such as leases of residential property or certain marginbased financial services). Simpler Gulf Insider April 2019
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Money & Business
businesses – such as, for example, local law firms with only local customers – may, on the other hand, only need one tax code for supplies! Further tax codes will need to be created once all six GCC countries implement VAT as businesses will need to deal with complex intra-GCC supply rules for goods and services. Purchases and expenses are even more complicated – we have seen businesses with well over 20 different tax codes. Businesses need to differentiate between recoverable, partially recoverable and irrecoverable VAT, as well as using tax codes as a mechanism to monitor input tax claim process. To minimise the impact of VAT on cash flows, businesses may well want to recover incurred VAT – but they aren’t breaking the law if they don’t do so. Not paying the VAT that is due to the government on supplies is – or can be – viewed as tax evasion. This all may look like overkill. But with the severity of the penalties that Bahrain has introduced for administrative oversights as well as tax evasion, it is probably worth getting this right now – it is much more complicated to have to reverse-engineer a general ledger in retrospect if you find your system is not fit for purpose.
5%
Any foreign company that makes taxable supplies in Bahrain - and where no one else in Bahrain is liable to account for the VAT – must register with the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR).
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Gulf Insider April 2019
Do GCC companies that have registered for VAT in their own country have to register for VAT in Bahrain? Until all the GCC countries implement VAT, GCC and non-GCC companies are treated equally for VAT purposes. Any foreign company that makes taxable supplies in Bahrain - and where no one else in Bahrain is liable to account for the VAT – must register with the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR). Once all six GCC countries implement, GCC-resident companies will only have to register with the NBR if their taxable supplies to nonVAT registered customers in Bahrain exceed BHD 37,500 over a 12-month period. There are also special place of supply rules for services that may trigger a registration requirement in Bahrain. Companies can appoint a tax agent to look after the VAT registration process.
How can businesses claim back their VAT if a client doesn’t pay for services provided? Businesses must wait 12 months before claiming bad debt relief (unless a customer has not paid due to bankruptcy) and be able to show attempts to collect an outstanding debt, including emails, phone calls, letters and legal proceedings. A supplier must also have written the debt off, partially or fully. The supplier must send a VAT-compliant tax sales credit note to the customer, obliging the customer to repay the input tax recovered. If a supplier is paid after claiming bad debt relief, they must account for the VAT by issuing a VAT-compliant debit note to the customer.
If you have paid VAT on purchases in another GCC country, can you claim the VAT back in Bahrain? No. Input tax paid in another GCC country can’t be recovered using the Bahrain VAT return. GCC countries will be setting up mechanisms allowing the recovery of certain types of input tax paid in another country, however, this may not occur until all six countries have implemented VAT. The UAE allows businesses to recover input tax paid on services related to exhibitions and conferences, subject to certain conditions. GCC businesses should retain purchase invoices and supporting evidence in the event they are able to recover input tax. The tourist refund scheme is different – you claim the VAT in the same country in which you purchased the goods.
The Bahrain based lifestyle and luxury magazine with style and editorial flair that is enjoyed by affluent customers both Arab and Expats. Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com
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Education Special
Education Insider
Bahrain
Private Schools Guide 2019 An essential guide to help parents choose the right school in Bahrain for their children.
British School Bahrain
M
any new private schools have opened across the Kingdom and are predicted to educate up to 33% of the country’s children by 2020. As new private schools spring up across Bahrain, the Government has stepped in to ensure the quality of education for students. The Directorate of Private Schools and Kindergartens (DPS) under The Education and Training Quality Authority (BQA) review, monitor, and reports on students’ achievements and the quality of teaching and learning
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Gulf Insider April 2019
in private schools and kindergartens according to best international practices. Considering the high demand for private school teaching among the expat and many native parents, Gulf Insider’s July 2018 Education guide featured the five outstanding schools in Bahrain as per the BQA accreditation. However, many of our readers commented on the high fee structure in these schools that not every parent can afford! The main aspects that parents look into while enrolling their children are the curriculum, quality education provided and the fee structure. Where
the supplies, uniforms, meals and transportation are free in the public schools, the fee structure, curriculum and facilities vary in each of the private schools. With an aim to provide authentic information to parents on the curriculum, fee structure and BQA accreditation, Gulf Insider collected information from 50 private schools in the Kingdom. Many of the schools were willing to share their information while others denied us detailed information.
Education Special
Arabic Curriculum School
Fees per Annum (BD)
BQA Accreditation
Bahrain Bayan School
BD 3362-4415
Outstanding
British School Bahrain
BD 2601-6726
Outstanding
Ibn Khuldoon National School
No Response
Outstanding
St. Christopher’s School
BD 2991-7299
Outstanding
What is The Education and Training Quality Authority?
Creativity Private school
No Response
Good
Shaikha Hessa Girls School
BD 1955-3968
Good
The Education and Training Quality Authority is an independent entity established as part of the National Education Reform Project, an initiative of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030. The main aim of the Education Reform Project is to fundamentally improve the services provided in education and vocational training in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Since 2008 the Authority has embarked on a number of quality assurance activities, including setting performance standards and carrying out objective reviews of all education and training institutions licensed to operate in the Kingdom. BQA hasn’t started to review Kindergartens yet.
Al Noor International School
No Response
Satisfactory
Al Raja School
No Response
Satisfactory
Al Wisam School
No Response
Satisfactory
Hawar International School
BD 1395-3318
Satisfactory
Modern Knowledge School
BD 1288-2169
Satisfactory
Palms School
No Response
Satisfactory
Capital School Bahrain
BD 2400-2800
Not yet Accredited*
The Eastern School
No Response
Inadequate
Little Gems Pre School
No Response
No Assessment
The average fee structure for Arabic curriculum is BD 2284 to BD 4385 per annum.
Arabic curriculum is provided as mainstream in most of the schools that promote bilingual education. British School Bahrain, Bahrain Bayan School, Ibn Khuldoon National School and St. Christopher’s School are accredited as ‘Outstanding’ by BQA.
British Curriculum The average fee structure for British curriculum is BD 1840 to BD 3831 per annum. There are 14 leading schools in Bahrain who provide British curriculum. British School of Bahrain, Nadeen International School, and St. Christopher School are accredited as ‘Outstanding’ by BQA.
School
Fees per Annum (BD)
BQA Accreditation
British School Bahrain
BD 2601-6726
Outstanding
Nadeen International School
BD 2376-3096
Outstanding
St. Christopher’s School
BD 2991-7299
Outstanding
Abdul Rahman Kanoo International School
BD 1066-2690
Satisfactory
Al Noor International School
No Response
Satisfactory
Al Mahd Day Boarding School, Saar
No Response
Satisfactory
Al Wisam School
BD 886-3000
Satisfactory
Palms School
No Response
Satisfactory
Talent International and the Infant School, Manama
BD 1350-2640
Satisfactory
British Preparatory School
BD 1050-2400
No Assessment
Capital School Bahrain
BD 2400-2800
Not yet Accredited*
Early Learners Nursery
No Response
No Assessment
The Eastern School
No Response
Inadequate Gulf Insider April 2019
31
Education Special
Education Insider
American Curriculum School
Fees per Annum (BD) BQA Accreditation
Bahrain Bayan School
BD 3362- 4415
Outstanding
Ibn Khuldoon National School
BD 3165-4225
Outstanding
Creativity Private school
No Response
Good
Al Hekma International School
BD 1353-3603
Satisfactory
Al Raja School
No Response
Satisfactory
Hawar International School
BD 1395-3318
Satisfactory
Modern Knowledge School
BD 1288-2169
Satisfactory
AMA International School
BD 1331-2891
Inadequate
Beacon Private School
BD 3900-7600
Not yet Accredited*
The average fee structure for American curriculum is BD 2256 to BD 4031 per annum. American curriculum - Bahrain Bayan School is a leading name among this category with an experience up to 3 decades and with an ‘Outstanding’ accreditation by BQA.
Central Board of Secondary Education School
Fees per Annum(BD)
BQA Accreditation
New Millennium School Bahrain BD 948-1638
Good
Bahrain Indian School
BD 900-1300
Satisfactory
Al Noor International School
No Response
Satisfactory
The Indian School
BD 180-250
Satisfactory
The Asian School
BD 432-432
Satisfactory
The New Indian School
No Response
Inadequate
The New Horizon School
No Response
Inadequate
The average fee structure for CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) is BD 615 to BD 905 per annum. The Indian community has a strong presence in the Kingdom and The Indian School teaches the highest number of students in comparison with any other school in Bahrain.
International General Certificate of Secondary Education School
Fees per Annum(BD)
BQA Accreditation
Arabian Pearl Gulf School
No Response
Good
Shaikha Hessa Girls School
BD 1955-3968
Good
Abdul Rahman Kanoo International School
BD 1066-2690
Satisfactory
Al Mahd Day Boarding School
No Response
Satisfactory
Talent International and the Infant School
BD 1350-2640
Satisfactory
Sacred Heart School
No Response
Satisfactory
Capital School Bahrain
BD 2400- 2800
Not yet Accredited*
The Multi National School
BD 2460-4200
Not yet Accredited*
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Gulf Insider April 2019
The average fee structure for IGCSE is BD 1846 to BD 3259s per annum. Bahrain hosts some of the best international schools in the world offering curriculum in IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education)
Education Special
The International Baccalaureat Curriculum School
Fees per Annum(BD)
BQA Accreditation
Riffa Views International School
BD 2750-9900
Outstanding
St. Christopher’s School
BD 2991-7299
Outstanding
Arabian Pearl Gulf School
No Response
Good
Naseem International School
BD 1898-3732
Good
Shaikha Hessa Girls School
BD 1955-3968
Good
Modern Knowledge School
BD 1288-2169
Satisfactory
The average fee structure for IB is BD 5413 per annum. The IB (The International Baccalaureat) curriculum is offered by leading schools like Naseem International School and Riffa Views School in Bahrain.
Early Years Foundation Stage School
Fees per Annum (BD)
Little Gems Pre School
BD 2220-2280
British Preparatory School
BD 1050-2400
Budaiya Pre-School
BD975 -2400
Early Learners Nursery
BD 1560-2310
Evolution Childcare
No Response
KG Kids Pre School
BD 2322-2322
Kidz World Kindergarten
BD 1500-1500
Ajyaal Montessori Pre School
BD 3300-3300
Al Shorooq International Preschool
BD 1530-1530
The Morning Star Montessori
BD 1650-2190
* The accreditation reviews are based on the BQA report 2018.
The average fee structure is BD 1789 to BD 2248 per annum. The education of children under 5 years has gained much needed attention over the years. The two curriculums provided for this age group are Montessori and UK EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage).
There are also schools providing unique curriculums such as Alia International School, Bahrain School, KIPINA, Pakistan Urdu School, Philippine School, The International School of Choueifat (SABIS) and Japanese School for Bahrain. Unfortunately we did not receive responses from them to our queries.
While Gulf Insider has taken every reasonable measure to ensure the accuracy of this information, it is recommended that parents use this information only to assist their own enquiries.
Riffa Views School
We will be grateful for any and all feedback, comments, criticisms, and corrections from readers and institutions which we can use to update future editions and the current online edition of this guide which can be viewed at www.gulf-insider.com/ category/sections/health-education/ Gulf Insider April 2019
33
People & Culture
BAHRAINS BIGGEST
WATER PARK
Set as Bahrain’s biggest waterpark, the Lost Paradise Of Dilmun currently covers an overall area of approximately 77,000 square metres with 18 slides and attractions are blended seamlessly to create a desert oasis and garden of paradise for guests to enjoy.
T
he Lost Paradise of Dilmun embarked on its 12th season with a bright line up of activities & events coping with all ages and a guaranteed place of fun in the Kingdom. As witnessed, The Water Park had just launched its biggest color festival in collaboration with 104.2 Radio Mirchi FM. Guests enjoyed live musical shows by a popular International singer Nikhita Ghandi and DJ Richard, with a mix of full Nonstop fun filled environment for families. 34
Gulf Insider April 2019
April is a fun and more exciting month with events & activities for families and tourists visiting the Kingdom. Safari being the theme of the month, guests will enjoy special performances from Acrobats. Acrobats are talented and disciplined athletes who are masters of agility and have entertained people around the world by performing and leaving audiences amazed and delighted. Show will feature fire blazes, flips, jumps and dives through multiple hoops and the dramatic performance of a female contortionist who balances
crystal glass. Alongside the cultural shows, Bahrain’s favorite themed ladies nights and Songran Thai event will also be happening in the month. Ladies Night outs will be happening every Thursday night, starting on April 4th from 6pm to midnight. Ladies will be enjoying themed nights and all rides will be opened for them to have fun.
For more information please visit www.LPODwaterpark.com or call +973 1784 5100.
People & Culture
Safe ride with Careem Careem Provides Safety Measures for the Customers.
Before Your Ride
During Your Ride
• All of our Captains go through a rigorous screening process and background check.
• The telematics technology (which monitors driver behavior) is under development. Telematics can detect and evaluate our Captains driving skills in real-time to make sure your ride is as safe and smooth as possible. It also allows Careem to proactively coach the Captains to improve their driving skills while identifying Captains whose skills are not up to our standards.
• Before the Captain arrives, the details which include Captains photo, name, rating, vehicle type and plate number are sent to the customers. • Captains attend mandatory training sessions to provide them with instructions and guidance on smooth driving as well as following standard safety and security protocols in the unlikely event of an incident. • Captains vehicles are assessed and the insurance is confirmed prior to their onboarding. • Customers have the option to mask their telephone numbers from Captains to ensure their privacy. They can communicate anonymously with the Captain to direct them to the location of pick up.
• Any issues during the ride can be addressed to the 24/7 multilingual Safety & Security Operations Centre (SSOC) specialists. Simply tap ‘Contact us’ in the app • Each trip is tracked in real time. The ride can be shared with friends and family to let them know you are on the way. • The app is geofenced to avoid dangerous neighborhoods.
After Your Ride & Other Measures • The rating of Captains is super important. They help identify Captains for reward or removal from the platform. • The extensive ‘mystery shopper’ program checks vehicles, driving skills, customer service, and documentation to make sure everything is as it should be. • The team of dedicated professionals, from the Safety & Security team to the SSOC specialists, makes sure the customers and Captains have a safe and pleasant experience. • In order to help keep the communities safe, law enforcement agencies are actively supported with basic trip information when formally requested.
• Child seats are available in Careem Kids’ cars to keep little Careemers safe. Gulf Insider April 2019
35
People & Culture
PREMIUM Security Services G4S provides Integrated Security Solutions to all.
G
4S, have been operating in Bahrain since 1993 and currently employs around 600+ people. It provides top-of-the-line integrated security solutions to embassies, ministries, retail, banking, oil and gas, construction, transportation, major corporations and the aviation sector amongst others. The range of services includes manned security services, event security, emergency response, cash, valuables and ATM management, Cash360 Deposita machines, electronic security systems and security consultancy services. With the approved manpower limit extension from 500 to 750 guards, as well as opening of a new facilities management, manpower recruitment services and a new guarding company expected to open within the year, G4S Bahrain will surely grow their business even further to meet customer demands and to stay on top for years to come.
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Gulf Insider April 2019
G4S is the leading global, integrated security company, specialising in the provision of security services and solutions to customers. G4S is the leading global, integrated security company, specialising in the provision of security services and solutions to customers. The mission is to create material, sustainable value for the customers and shareholders by being the supply partner of choice in all the markets. G4S is quoted on the London Stock Exchange and has
a secondary stock exchange listing in Copenhagen. It is also active in around 90 countries and has over 540,000 employees. The vision is to be recognized as the global leader in providing secure outsourcing solutions, to help customers achieve their own strategic goals and deliver sustainable growth for G4S and long-term value for shareholders. Drawing on more than 100 years of history, G4S is proud of its distinct culture and strong values. These values are guidance as to how to conduct a business and also develop positive relationships with all stakeholders including customers, employees, investors and the communities in which they work.
For more details, contact Tel: +973 1771 4409, 1771 0994 or visit www.g4s.com/en-bh
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News Roundup
Saudi: Helicopter service launched to meet luxury tourism demands Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning tourism industry has taken off in a new direction with the launch of the Kingdom’s first national commercial helicopter operation. The Helicopter Co. will provide private air transportation services within the main cities of Saudi Arabia, along with tourist trips to top attractions throughout the Kingdom. Tourism officials in the country welcomed the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) announcement of the launch and said the service would offer an exciting new visitor experience to leisure and business travellers. Backed by the PIF with an initial capital outlay of SR565 million ($151 million), the initiative aims to satisfy an emerging demand for luxury tourism and exploit an untapped market for urban flights, while supporting the development of the wider aviation sector. The Helicopter Co. will be able to provide access to remote parts of the Kingdom, offering a high-end experience on a par with other global destinations. Major tourist sites such as Al-Ula and the Red Sea will now be in easy reach for those wanting to avoid lengthy journeys. The launch of the new helicopter company is in line with the PIF’s strategy to generate sustainable returns, establish and develop new sectors in Saudi Arabia, and support the realization of the country’s Vision 2030 reform plan by acting as a catalyst for the tourism sector. The PIF has a wide-ranging investment portfolio in numerous sectors of the economy which stood at $300 billion in 2018.
Saudi Arabia denies plans to increase islamic tax on private sector Saudi Arabia clarified it has no plans to raise Zakat on the private sector after Bloomberg reported last week that the kingdom was considering to double the rate. Bloomberg had reported Saudi Arabia was considering raising the tax to as much as 20 per cent from the current 10 per cent. “The authority wished to clarify that there are no current plans to increase the Zakat levels in the private sector,” a statement from the authority said. The government body said it had started a public consultation on draft regulations for Islamic tax (Zakat) after making some amendments to the content of the regulation. “All stakeholders have responded positively and stated their comments which the Authority has received with interest and has expressed its appreciation for their input,” it said, without elaborating. It also said the authority had made settlements with a number of financial institutions and others regarding their pending Zakat positions. 38
Gulf Insider April 2019
Saudi Arabia announces longer Eid holidays for private sector The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced a four-day holiday for private sector employees for both Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. Employees in Saudi Arabia’s private sector are entitled to a 4-day holiday for Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, announced the country’s Ministry of Labour and Social Development on its Twitter account. The authority said Sunday that the move is part of an awareness campaign revolving around the rights of private sector employees’ official holidays. For the Eid Al-Fitr holidays, June 2 is expected to be the last working day, while the Eid Al-Adha holiday will begin from the Day of Arafat, which is expected to take place in the evening of August 10. Moreover, if National Day falls on a holiday, the day preceding or following it will also be given as a day off from work, the ministry said. However, if it falls on one of the Eid days, it will not be compensated. As part of the campaign, the ministry reiterated that private sector employees are entitled a three-day paternity leave with full pay, five-day marriage leave and five-day leave in the event of the death of a direct family.
People & Culture
Business Meets Pleasure Gulf Insider experiences a relaxing remedy program at Live Your Life @ Al Areen Spa & Wellness.
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estled at the luxurious Al Areen Palace & Spa is a haven for hedonists also known as Live Your Life. The wellness centre offers the unique services of integrated healthcare that seamlessly combines Western and Eastern medicines with the latest technologies. Each service is practiced by a group of internationally certified therapist and health professional. Just recently we had the chance to review one of Live Your Life’s Remedy Programs.
Post-work Indulgence Aside from a wide array of purification, detoxification and weigh optimization programs, Live Your Life also offers relaxing remedy programs, perfect for those who want a break from the hustle bustle of the city. Most of us don’t practice healthy 40
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The wellness centre offers the unique services of integrated healthcare that seamlessly combines Western and Eastern medicines with the latest technologies. workplace habits and more often than not, this leads to suffering pain in several parts of the body. Luckily, Live Your Life highlights special Remedy
Massage & Therapy Programs that help people melt away the physical stress of a busy workday. The programs include MyoFascial Release, relief from Migraine, Trigger Finger Piriformis Syndrome, Cramps and Back Pain. During our visit, we had the chance to review the Remedy Massage that focuses on Office Syndrome. After filling out the necessary information sheet, our relaxing experience commenced. Ni, our lovely therapist, led us to one of the massage rooms and explained what the treatment is. Office Syndrome is the pain in the spine and muscles caused by sitting in a same position without sufficient movement. At first, it may seem like an ordinary soreness but it often leads to chronic pain when not treated. Unlike most massages that just use essential oils, this particular treatment also utilizes the Thai Herbal
People & Culture
Ball. A selection of therapeutic herbs including turmeric, lemongrass, Kaffir lime and tamarind leave etc. and more are wrapped in a muslin compress, streamed and then applied to the body in gentle, pressing and
Before
with Schwarzkopf. The charming stylist, Sofia worked on reviving our dry and limp hair! It is worth noting that a FREE hair blow-dry is offered to those who are staying at the hotel. Overall, the experience felt like a total
After
Overall, the experience felt like a total makeover. The warm, attentive service of the staff made our visit even more special. For more information: www.alareenpalace.com +973 1784 5081 IG: @liveyourlifebahrain
circular movements. The massage concentrated on pressure point on the neck, shoulders and back to rejuvenate the muscles and joints. The herbal compress definitely released all our tension making us feel lighter. Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we were led to the Salon to try out a Hair Treatment
makeover. The warm, attentive service of the staff made our visit even more special. Looking for a way to escape your daily routine? Live Your Life’s treatments definitely hit the spot after a long day at work – we left the spa feeling rejuvenated and ready to face another day at the office!
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People & Culture
Letter from Kuwait
50% fewer expats in five years? Come on! I read another disturbing article about expats. This time, MPs are calling on the government to cut the number of expatriates by 50 percent within the next five years. And one of the MPs stated that a reason expats come to Kuwait is for a better life. Well, of course, that’s what they are here for. Who else would choose to uproot their lives in their home countries if they had it good? That’s why we all emigrate, to find better lives for ourselves and families. We Kuwaitis know what it is like to live outside our country, but we were quite fortunate that the invasion only lasted seven months. And fortunately, we were treated well by citizens and governments of other nations, because that’s what we should do as human beings – let others know that our country is their home away from home. I cannot bear to read these articles about expats anymore. In fact, while I am writing this, I have tears in my eyes. Tears for all the families who read the article, wondering whether they are next. Tears for the nativism that seems to have taken effect. Tears on behalf of my ancestors who were ambassadors of coexistence. Tears that in five years there may be fewer expats in my country. 50 percent in five years? Do you know what we could do in five years instead of blaming foreigners for issues that are ours alone? We can focus on sustainable resources, build resorts, enhance tourism, promote women’s rights, eradicate discrimination, clean up our sea, reduce the use of plastic and plant more trees. Do you know what we can do in five years? We can improve education, expand the cultural and arts scene and make history as a nation built on love and harmony. So much can be done, but it seems that berating expats is our wag the dog tactic to avoid cleaning up the mess we have made, a mess that can take five years to clean up if we start now.
Nejoud Al Yagout is the author of a novel, Motorbikes and Camels, ten collections of poetry and two compilations of essays. You can find more information on her websites: www.nejoudalyagout.com www.coexistkuwait.com
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Bahrain Duty Free holds their Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting at Downtown Rotana
People & Culture
Best Content Creator of Sadeem for 2019 Sadeem launches Season 2 with 20 contestants from across the Middle East.
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he second season of Sadeem that was launched in March aims to find the best up-andcoming content creators in the Arab world by providing them latest technology and expertise. The 20 finalists competing for the title
of Best Content Creator and Influencer on social media will be awarded with a prize of One Million Riyal and also have the opportunity to produce their own social media show. Different content types such as travel, adventure, fashion, entertainment,
inspiration, lifestyle, rap, poetry and environment are offered by the contestants. Sadeem’s main goals include building the participant’s self-confidence and helping them make a difference in their communities. It is an important reference point for all young Arab influencers who want to make popular and purposeful content in the future. The jury members consists of few of the most influential names in the MENA region including Ascia from Kuwait, DZ Joker from Algeria, Zap Tharwat from Egypt and Ahmed Sherif from Bahrain. Through a daily guidance of motivational lessons, challenges and tips, the contestants are evaluated based on the content type and the impact it creates on their surrounding communities. The new episodes are available every Saturday and Sunday on Sadeem’s YouTube channel, Facebook page and the website.
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News Roundup
Bahraini women among top 100 Fintech list
Bahrain ranked as the second best place for women to work Bahrain has been ranked second on the list the 10 best places for women to work prepared by Forbes, the American business magazine. According to the list, 66 per cent of women in Bahrain were satisfied with their career prospects while men’s percentage was 62. The percentage was internationally second best. The best place went to the Czech Republic where women rated their career prospects at 73, while the men’s percentage was 63. Taiwan came third, followed by Norway, Denmark and Luxemburg. Women in the Kingdom enjoy an advanced status thanks to a high level of education and openness among the people and to the intense efforts exerted by the Supreme Council for Women, the official entity in charge of promoting the status of women and empowering them politically, socially and economically, the magazine said. Bahrain has been globally recognised as a top destination by leading several international surveys held among the communities of expatriates about the place to work or live, it added. Last year, InterNations, a global information site for people who live and work abroad said Bahrain leads the list of the best destinations for expatriates for the second year thanks to great results for working abroad and the ease of settling. The Kingdom, home to people from more than 160 nationalities, was particularly applauded for working abroad and the ease of settling in, topping both categories and family life.
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Two Bahraini women have been ranked among top 100 as part of the Fintech Bahrain Initiative launched last year by the Economic Development Board Bahrain. Fatema Ebrahim, Founder of Andra Public Relations & Corporate Communications, and Board Member at the Economic Development Board Bahrain, and Yasmeen Al Sharaf, Head of the Fintech Unit at the Central Bank of Bahrain were on the list released by Miss Kaya in collaboration with LATTICE80. The Fintech Initiative in Bahrain has provided empowerment and courage for more women to participate within its landscape. The platform is entitled to launch several initiatives throughout the year focussing on education, awareness and creating cross border ties. LATTICE80 is the World’s Largest Fintech Hub which promotes its ecosystem as KAYA Network that connects over 11,000 Fintech startups and over 200,000 professionals. LATTICE80 commits to recognize the contribution of female leaders as a global community partner to the financial sector and its sub-categories. The winners expressed their gratitude to represent Bahrain and its strong ecosystem in the Fintech space further enhancing the role of women in the growth of the financial sector in the global market.
Saudi discovers ‘Massive’ gas deposit in Red Sea Large quantities of gas have been discovered in the Red Sea, Saudi state news agency SPA quoted energy minister Khalid AlFalih as saying. Falih also said Saudi Aramco was studying possible Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) project acquisition opportunities in the United States, adding that Aramco also aims to invest in South Africa where the oil giant is studying a petrochemicals project.
News Roundup
Bahrain: Arab woman fired ‘for refusing to remove hijab’ An Arab woman employed by a local hotel was sacked after she refused to remove her hijab, the Local Court heard. The woman is said to have been asked to remove her hijab by her superiors, citing the working environment in the hotel. However, her disobedience proved costly as she lost her job. She filed a complaint against the hotel for unjustified dismissal and won the case, receiving a compensation of BD5,726. Revealing the details of the case, lawyer Mohammed Al Thawadi, said that the hotel management tried to cook up reasons for firing her and claimed that she failed to report for work for over one month. “They said that they had set up an investigation committee to inquire about her alleged absence on December 13, 2016, while the papers showed that the woman was fired on December 8, 2016. Therefore, their claim was a lie,” Mr Al Thawadi stated.
Bahrain: Report on ‘Deporting all Expats in 38 Professions’ refuted Officials representing the Ministry of Labour and Social Development have deemed the news posted by online news portal Arabia Today as ‘illegitimate’ and an attempt to misguide the public. An online report, which stated that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development is officially set to deport expatriate workers in 38 various professional fields in April 2019, has been refuted. Labour Ministry Undersecretary Sabah Al Dosari said, “There is no intention of deporting any expatriate worker from Bahrain. The Kingdom is very thankful for the contribution of expatriate workers towards the economy,” revealed Mr Al Dosari. “This is a very bad rumour that is making people worry,” he added. The article that was posted on the website during the early hours of Tuesday morning raised concern among various expatriate communities in Bahrain. “The expatriate community is very dear to us and we have no intentions of deporting them. They will always be a part of the development of Bahrain,” assured Mr Al Dosari. The false article stated the Ministry plans to deport migrant workers between the ages of 30 and 58 years in a bid to avail positions in 38 different professions to Bahraini nationals. The list of professions included pharmacist, driver, administrative clerk, public relation executive, storekeeper, carpenter, human resources officer, librarian, reporter, cashier and security guard, among others. Bahrain was ranked among the best destinations for expat careers this year, according to a survey conducted by HSBC Expat. The Kingdom came second, just behind Germany, in the Expat Explorer survey, which combed through insights from more than 22,000 expats to identify the best destinations for expat careers in 2019.
Oman to enforce new ‘selective tax’ from june Cigarettes, alcohol, energy and soft drinks are going to be more expensive from June when a new national tax is applied in Oman. The Royal Decree stated: “By the first Royal Decree, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said approves the Selective Tax Law. The Tax Law will come into effect after 90 days.” “The Selective Goods Tax Law comes as a result of the GCC Standard Agreement on Selective Tax, issued in 2016 by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Qatar. This tax shall be levied on goods that have damage to public health or the environment in varying proportions,” a statement from Government Communication Centre said on Wednesday.
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Business Society
Mena Tour Prize Distrubution at the Royal Golf Club
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McLaren Bahrain Parade at Arcapita Building
CAR News
& reviews
Porsche Macan
2019 Nissan Altima
New Mercedes-Benz GLE
Porsche Cayenne Coupe
Car Bahrain
Porsche Macan Gulf Insider goes all the way to Hamburg in Germany to test drive Porsche’s new generation Macan.
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he Macan is a major success story for Porsche. Until 2014 this sport SUV didn’t exist yet it’s now Porsche’s biggest selling model responsible for no less than forty percent of all Porsche models sold. It outsells the 911, the Cayman, the 718, the Cayenne, and the Panamera. I remember how impressed I was on driving the Macan for the first time when it had just arrived in Bahrain. It
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felt like a jumbo hot hatch - a cross between driving a 911 and a Cayenne. So I was delighted to be invited to Germany to test the updated model on that country’s autobahns. I was curious to discover how Porsche had improved this car. The new Macan is an evolution of the model and not a revolution. Porsche have understandably been careful not to change what didn’t need to be changed. Like the Cayman, the Macan is an
‘entry level’ Porsche – but, also like the Cayman, you wouldn’t think so as neither feel they have been the victim of cost cutting in any way. As you would expect, the interior is beautifully designed using top quality materials throughout. Everything has a solid feel and with a craftsmanship attention to detail. It now has a much larger infotainment screen; the new high-definition 10.9-inch touchscreen replaces the
Car Bahrain
previous 7.2-inch unit - and there are all sorts of engineering upgrades. More aluminum is used, improving rigidity while reducing weight. There’s now wraparound rear lighting, new bumpers and headlights. Porsche has fitted all the very latest electronic technologies including LED headlights, and a ‘traffic jam’ mode offering better low-speed cruise control in stop-start traffic. The seven-speed PDK is superb. Few other dual-clutch designs offered by other carmakers can match the smoothness of the Porsche design. Drive modes are: Comfort = fun for normal driving conditions. Sport = more fun Sport Plus = even more fun, but not really practical for normal road conditions. There are two engine options:
The new Macan is an evolution of the model and not a revolution. Porsche have understandably been careful not to change what didn’t need to be changed.
The 348 hp Macan S has a 3.0-litre V6, similar that in the Panamera and Cayenne, with a single twin-scroll turbocharger producing 260kW. Zero to 100km/h drops by 0.1sec to 5.3 seconds compared to the old model, and minus another two-tenths if you use the Sport Chrono’s launch-control feature. The base model 2.0-litre offers 248 hp though because it’s lighter than the Macan S this, to a degree, helps to offset the performance shortfall of the smaller engine.
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Car Bahrain
The seven-speed PDK is superb. Few other dual-clutch designs offered by other carmakers can match the smoothness of the Porsche design. Here’s a funny thing – both my driving companion and I, and we are both experienced motoring journalists, really liked the less powerful Macan. Okay, so it’s not as powerful and doesn’t sound as good, but you feel like you can push it and play with it whereas the Macan S feels like it has more power than you can ever realistically use. I recommend spending time driving both cars and comparing them, and not just assuming that the more powerful and expensive Macan S must automatically be better – particularly bearing in mind Bahrain’s roads, before you decide which model to buy. Starting Prices inclusive of VAT: Macan BD 22,242 Macan S BD 29,310
To arrange your own test drive in Bahrain, call Porsche Centre Bahrain on +973 1745 9911 50
Gulf Insider April 2019
Car Bahrain
Service Truck Roadshow The Mercedes-Benz Mobile Service Truck Roadshow is back in the Kingdom
McLaren 720s Spider by MSO Showcases Aerodynamic Lines in Colour for the Geneva International Motor Show
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cLaren Special Operations (MSO) is using the Geneva International Motor Show to display a unique car that showcases the artistic finesse and design subtlety that is possible with an MSO Bespoke order. It highlights the advanced aerodynamics of the new Super Series convertible by accentuating elements of the Car’s aero design, in a spectacular fusion of colors. Each aero accent features a harmonious blend of three MSO metallic paints: Cerulean Blue, Burton Blue and Abyss Black. The tri-tone paint is used in parts like the front splitter, hood air intakes, front air intakes and side panels, lower door and lower ide air intake panels, door mirrors, rear bumper and the underside of the active rear spoiler- all key elements in delivering the exceptional aerodynamic performance of the new Super Series convertible. Ever since it was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 2017, the 720S Coupé’s design has been acclaimed for its innovative aerodynamics, characterised by its ‘eye socket’ front air intakes and double-skin dihedral doors that channel air into the side radiators. The 720S Spider seamlessly combines the Coupé’s aerodynamic performance with one-piece retractable hard top and glazed flying buttresses. With light weight, Proactive Chassis Control II and 720PS 4.0-litre twinturbocharged V8 engine, it is the most accomplished convertible supercar ever from McLaren – and with this MSO treatment, has the visual innovation to match.
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l Haddad Motors is bringing the MercedesBenz Mobile Service Truck back to the Kingdom. The Mercedes-Benz owners can now get a diagnostics test carried out on their beloved vehicles by the German expert
technician. The service truck which is a part of a Regional Service Roadshow that brings complimentary visual and functional inspection and diagnostics tests close to the customers. The customers will also receive a report detailing the vehicles condition as well as advice on fixing any issues it may have.
The Mercedes-Benz owners can now get a diagnostics test carried out on their beloved vehicles by the German expert technician. The service Roadshow took off in Dubai followed by Oman then to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and now in Bahrain. The truck is accompanied by other facilities that include lounge tents, waiting area, car display and a car stimulator. The customers and owners are invited to visit the Mobile Service Truck which will be available at the Seef Mall from 1st to 6th April and at Amwaj from 8th to 13th April. Complimentary vehicle diagnostics in addition to several additional benefits like gifts and discounts are provided.
To book an appointment, please call +973 17785454. Gulf Insider April 2019
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Car Bahrain
2019 Nissan Altima SOPHISTICATED SEDAN
Gulf Insider travels down to Dubai to test drive the all new 2019 Nissan Altima.
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issan has recently unveiled their latest addition to the Altima line, creating a new standard of design, driving enjoyment, and technology within the mid-size sedan segment. The car is packed with power, sophistication, space, and security.
Comfort and Convenience The 2019 Nissan Altima offers a larger and more sophisticated body compared to its predecessors. Its seats are upgraded with bolstering for improved holding and support. It has more room at the backseat and rear compartment. The all-new premium interior features a wide ‘gliding wing’ instrument panel which accentuates the exterior’s low cowl and hood, helping create an open, airy environment. The car also offers an 8-inch multitouch colour display for complete car entertainment (features Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™) and ease of driver control. Remote Engine Start System with Intelligent Climate Control adjusts temperature and airflow in the most efficient way to guarantee a cool car in a hot day or a warm one in cold ones. Its Drive-Assist Display can also be toggled through the screen and customized 52
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to show what info you choose to see. Bose Premium Audio System installed in the car boasts 9 speakers throughout the cabin providing richness and detail that puts you in the front row.
Nissan Intelligent Mobility Technologies Cutting-edge Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies have been integrated into the 2019 Altima as standard. Nissan Intelligent Mobility responds to the world around you in real time, offering incredible assistance
to the driver. Make every move with greater awareness and get a little help when you need it. Its features include High Beam Assist which automatically switches to low or high beam headlights based on the vehicles and terrain ahead. Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection uses forward facing radar and camera technology to track vehicles and crossing pedestrians. Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Warning warns the driver from drifting in lanes, approaching vehicles, and it’s blindspots. All of the
Car Bahrain
features warns the driver with visual, audible, or haptic signals. Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility technology also includes Intelligent Around View Monitor which uses 4 cameras to give a virtual composite 360° bird’s-eye view of your Altima’s position. On-screen help gives a headsup when detecting moving objects near your vehicle.
Power and Efficiency The 2019 Nissan Altima has the world’s first production variable compression turbo engine. It is able to give turbocharged power that pushes you back in your seat or efficiency in conserving fuel, even in city streets. This significant breakthrough enables the VC-turbo for seamless compression ratio, delivering the performance of a much larger powerplant with fuel efficiency and improved emissions. The all-new shape-shifting VC-Turbo engine gives you the best of both worlds.
Sports Car The Altima attracts attention with its athletic stance and proportions – lower, wider and more dynamic than previous generations. It is a dramatically sleeker yet more sophisticated look. Larger 19inch wheels and tires help elevate the vehicle’s appearance, giving it a more linear, tailored feel that’s emphasized by the sharp horizontal lines, and
Whether you drop off the kids, plan a ride to the beach, or date a special someone, the 2019 Nissan Altima is sure to impress. signature Nissan design cues such as the V-motion grille and streamlined boomerang lights. Whether you drop off the kids, plan a ride to the beach, or date a special someone, the 2019 Nissan Altima is sure to impress.
“The all-new Altima builds on 25 years of heritage; it is an incredibly popular model in the Middle East, and we are confident that the advancements made in the sixth generation of the car will heighten its appeal.” said Kalyana Sivagnanam, Regional Vice President, Marketing and Sales, AMI. “The all-new Altima is designed to shake up the midsize sedan segment in terms of design, driving enjoyment and technologies that are simultaneously advanced and affordable. Between the sleek exterior, luxurious interior, engine improvements, tighter suspension and increased seat support, the 2019 Altima is a class above.”
For more information contact Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons Tel. +973 1773 2732
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Bahrain Car Market News Saudi: Women drivers commit 8,772 violations in 6 months
Saudi women still can’t do certain things, despite driving ban lift In a decree issued in September 2017, Saudi King Salman ruled that women would be allowed to drive cars in 2018, a move which ended the kingdom’s status as the only country in the world where it was forbidden. Saudi’s law against women drivers was one of many controversial laws presenting a web of restrictions to women. Saudi women are required to get permission from a male family member, sometimes even a younger brother, for some of the most important decisions of her life. And whilst they are now allowed to drive, here is a list of things Saudi women still can’t do: 1. Eat freely in public : As part of the kingdom’s dress code, women are required to wear a face veil. This, whilst selectively enforced, means that wherever it is, women must then eat under their face veil. 2. Dress ‘for beauty’: They must cover their hair and bodies. The kingdom’s dress code requires women to wear an “abaya,” a dress-like full-length cloak. 3. Freely socialize with non-relative males : Women are not free to socialize with men outside of their immediate families, and can even be imprisoned for committing such an offense. 4. Marry whomever they like : There are rulings against Saudi marrying non-Muslim, Shia, or atheist men. 5. Travel : Traveling without a male guardian’s permission is prohibited. 6. Open a bank account : In Saudi Arabia, women still need their husband’s permission before they are allowed to open a bank account. 7. Get a job : Although the government no longer requires a woman to have a guardian’s permission in order to work, many employers still demand permission before hiring. The struggle for greater women’s rights in the kingdom has been a difficult one, with activists arrested for defying the driving ban last year. In recent months, a model was arrested for wearing a short skirt. 54
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Women in Saudi Arabia have committed as many as 8,772 traffic violations, the Arabic daily Al-Watan reported, quoting industry sources. The sources said in the last two months alone, women drivers had to face a total of 701 lawsuits at traffic courts over accidents they had caused. They said the women drivers caused heavy damage and had to go to the courts because their victims refused to accept compensations they were offered. Asem Al-Mullah, a lawyer and a legal consultant, said accidents caused by women drivers accounted for about 8 percent of all traffic accidents committed since last June. He attributed the accidents to the fact that not many women were good drivers and some of them were not able to obtain driving licenses. Mullah said the women drivers banged other cars from behind, hit pavements or ran into lampposts. He said some women drivers who ran the red lights were detained for three days in traffic police detention centers assigned for them. Traffic courts became operational all over the Kingdom a few months back and they are considering all kinds of traffic violations. According to the sources, there were 2,537 traffic lawsuits against women in Makkah province, 2,216 in Riyadh, 864 in the Eastern Province, 781 in Asir and 477 in Madinah.
Car Bahrain
Quick Review
Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 43
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ccording to Mercedes-Benz, the new GLE Class has “the world’s most intelligent SUV suspension” to deliver a super smooth ride comfort along with its high performance handling. This powerful and agile five-passenger midsize SUV is equipped with standard 4Matic all-wheel drive and can tow up to 7,200 pounds. The sloping coupe-like roofline is only offered on AMG models and gives this vehicle a completely different and far sportier appearance compared to the standard GLE. Everything about this vehicle says quality – both inside and out. Its well-laid-out cabin is intuitive to use, with big climate control knobs and a thick steering wheel. You can customize the displays, and there’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, plus five USB ports. Powering the AMG GLE 43 is a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (385 horsepower, 384 pound-feet of torque) and a nine-speed automatic. Standard equipment includes 21-inch wheels, an adaptive air suspension, LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, power-folding side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, driver-seat memory functions, 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and intervention, and a forward collision warning system with automatic emergency braking. The Bahrain price for the sporty AMG GLE 43 is BD 37,380. The dealership currently has an offer on this model which is 5 years’ service package, 5 years’ unlimited mileage warranty, and zero VAT to pay.
To find out more call Al Haddad Motors on +973 1778 5454 Gulf Insider April 2019
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Car Bahrain
Porsche Cayenne Coupe New body variant added to the SUV range Porsche is adding an even sportier vehicle to the third generation of the highly successful SUV range – the Cayenne Coupé. The highlights of this model include sharper lines with a unique rear section, an adaptive rear spoiler, a rear bench with the characteristics of two individual seats. It also offers two different roof concepts, which includes a panoramic fixed glass roof fitted as standard and an optional carbon roof. Redesigned rear doors and fenders broaden the shoulders of this vehicle by 18 millimeters, contributing to its overall muscular impression. The rear number plate is integrated into the bumper, making the vehicle seem closer to the ground.
The Coupé comes with a 2.16 m2 panoramic fixed glass roof as standard. The 0.92 m2 glazed area gives all passengers an extraordinary sense of space, while the integrated roller blind protects against sun exposure and the cold. A contoured carbon roof is optionally available. It offers plenty of space for up to four people. At the front, the new eight-way sports seats with integrated headrests offer exceptional comfort and optimum lateral support. In the rear, the Coupé comes fitted as standard with a rear bench that has the characteristics of two individual seats.
Bahrain: Fatal traffic accidents drop by 50% The number of fatal traffic accidents in the Kingdom has reduced by 50% in the past five years, said the Director-General of Traffic, Brigadier Abdulrahman bin Abdulwahab Al Khalifa. The deaths caused by accidents came down from 7.36 for 100,000 people in 2013 to 3.66 in 2018, the official said, quoting WHO statistics. The rate is the lowest in the Gulf region and the Middle East and reflects the continuation of the reduction of serious traffic accidents as results of steps of monitoring wrong practices and awareness activities. The achievements were a result of the directives of Interior Minister and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Traffic, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa to set plans to limit wrong traffic accidents. He said that despite the increase in the number of vehicles by 36% in the last five years, the accidents in general reduced by 21.55% and the fatal accidents by 30%, while the fatalities dropped by 38% and injuries-related accidents among drivers by 41% and passengers by 52%. 56
Gulf Insider April 2019
Last Word - Social Media Advice
5 reasons
how the cloud can improve your business Social Media Tactics - Part - 5 View more Insider Tactics FREE by visiting Fabianca.com
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eing able to generate ideas and being able to execute those ideas effectively are two different things. With the unpredictability of doing business combined with unprecedented speeds in technical innovation, organisations have to move faster than ever before. This has left traditional approaches to executing ideas no longer fit for purpose. In the face of digital competitors, companies must innovate to safeguard their businesses and grow. But why do we struggle to execute? Look at Xerox, Kodak, Nokia - big names that had “the next big thing” before anyone else yet failed to deliver and found themselves ceding to others. Why? Underpinning it all is technology - the digital foundation on which everything is built: the infrastructure, apps, services and devices which allow forward looking businesses to beat their competitors to experiment, to scale, to be nimbler at speeds with lower risk. The role of cloud computing in this cannot be underestimated. There are five core ways that cloud 58
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enables organisations to execute.
1. It delivers. It is ‘sign up and go’
simple. Need additional licences, servers, functionality, features, applications? If it’s delivered by cloud and set up time is minute compared to classic IT.
2. It empowers users to be innovative
with access to cloud native applications and delivers a heightened, intuitive experience. It means the technology is in the background, IT ceases to be an inertial barrier, and users get on with the task at hand.
3. Cloud delivers financial freedom. Traditional IT required upfront investment to be hedged against expected requirements. Cloud changes that dynamic – with most services being subscription based, cash can now flow in the form that best meets the needs of the work being done. 4. Cloud delivers scale. It allows organisations to scale up and down all of their resources as business demands it, quickly and without a high cost of change.
5. Cloud offers access to shortcuts. That might be prebuilt platforms or X-as-aservice solutions – whatever it is, and whatever you need, it’s likely that, a version of it already exists. This is what allows digital native companies to scale rapidly. By being able to change and deliver results rapidly, rather than long term planning, we can turn the established business model into an innovative one. Innovation is king, but a failure to execute is the death knell for any organisation. Cloud can help provide the digital foundation to unlock rapid results.
Fabianca is a Bahrain based digital marketing specialist. For a FREE 30 minute digital strategy session for your business visit Fabianca.com or call +973 36 188 100.
Securing Your World
With features like Call Masking and Ride tracking, Careem is the safest way to get around Bahrain! Download Careem, open the app and book a ride with a tap! Yalla, let’s go ;)