Gulf insider March 2018

The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

Bahrain BD2 KSA SR20 Kuwait KD1.75 Oman RO2 Qatar QR20 UAE DHS20

158

Issue

knowledge is power

+ Inside Guide to New York Personal Finance Insider Tech & Telecoms Insider

Personal Finance News that may affect your personal wealth Follow us on

GulfInsider

www.Gulf-Insider.com

Gulf Financial Insider

Contents March 2018 Issue 158

20 54 Facebook Followers

311, 463 Simply unparalleled online presence that connects region’s most inspired communities.

Lifestyle

18 20

Crossing Boundaries

Money & Business

26 32 34

Personal Finance Insider

Gulf Insider Guide to New York

BCCI Elections 2018 Still Here: Interview with G4S Managing Director

People & Culture

44

Profile: Syeda Al Iqtadar

Car News & Reviews

54 56

BMW X3 M40i

‌and much, much more!

Porsche Studio Lebanon

Comment...

Knowledge is power

Publisher & Editor in Chief

- Nicholas C. Cooksey

Editorial

- Ainne Frances dela Cruz

Regular Contributors

- Hugh Haskell-Thomas - Nicholas Cortes - Bill Daly

Guest Contributors

- Sawsan Abu Omar - Ryan Ernst - Dhanyasree M - Angela Acosta

“Life is like riding a bicycle.

To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” -

Business Development

- Charlie Cooksey

Layout Designs

- Dhanraj S

Admin & Finance

- Nikesh Pola

Photography

- Aneesh Mathew - Rafnaj K P

Albert Einstein

Distribution Executives

- Mohammed Yousif

Dear Reader,

For Advertising Opportunities Call

We are happy to have you as a reader of Gulf Insider!

Wishing you all the best for the month ahead!

The Insider Team!

Charlie Cooksey

Dhanyasree M

M. +973 3652 0004

M. +973 3612 8111

charlie@gulf-insider.com

sales1@gulf-insider.com

Published by:

Media P.O. Box 26810, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 1700 4575 Fax: +973 1772 1722

Printed at Awal Press, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Distribution Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation, Tel. +973 1748 0800 UAE: Jashanmals, Tel. +971 4341 9757

Bahrain BD2

Bahrain BD2 KSA SR20

Kuwait KD1.75 Oman RO2 Qatar QR20 UAE DHS20

Kuwait KD1.75 Oman RO2 Qatar QR20 UAE DHS20

158

Issue

knowledge is power

The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

KSA SR20

+ Inside

+ Inside

Guide to New York Personal Finance Insider Tech & Telecoms Insider

EDUCATION REVIEW

CONSUMER TEST Complimentary Copy

Personal Finance news that may aFFect your Personal wealth

157

knowledge is power

Issue

The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

Government agencies encourage the public to contact them online, so we did… with ‘surprising’ results

GulfInsider

www.Gulf-Insider.com

Follow us on

GulfInsider

www.Gulf-Insider.com

Follow us on

GulfInsider

www.Gulf-Insider.com

Follow us on

GulfInsider

www.Gulf-Insider.com

Personal wealth news that may aFFect your

Personal Finance

ypoC yratnemilpmoC

Follow us on

www.Gulf-Insider.com

with ‘surprising’ results to contact them online, so we did…

Government agencies encourage the public

CONSUMER TEST

Arabia’s Intelligent Magazine Established since 2004, Gulf Insider is the multi award winning Arabian business and current affairs magazine that also covers property and expat news, interviews, car reviews, travel features, even a bit of art and fashion.

The monthly print edition of Gulf Insider is distributed to Bahrain’s highest spending consumers and decision makers. There’s also limited distribution in other GCC states via airline lounges, duty free, ARAMCO in the KSA, and other strategic locations.

Registered with Ministry of Information approval no. TFI-431©. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. *Articles by these correspondents are the copyright of Telegraph Media Group, 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0DT, England.

GOLF

TUITION

Individual Lesson Packages Prices start from BD150 for 5 lessons

Group Coaching Mens, Ladies & Junior 8x1 hour lesson = BD80

Custom Fitting

With major Golf brands

Learn to play golf with one of our PGA Professionals. Golf lessons specifically designed to suit your ability.

Contact b.todd@theroyalgolfclub.com

Inbox

Follow @Gulf Insider A few of our social media posts from last month. Don’t forget to like our Facebook page!

Highlighted Posts:

60, 261

people reached

179, 737

21, 314

18, 253

694

people reached

video views

reactions, comments & shares

reactions, comments & shares

Facebook Fans

311, 463 46, 453

people reached

15, 115

video views

950

reactions, comments & shares

Follow us on /GulfInsider

6

Gulf Insider March 2018

@GulfInsider

@GulfInsider

Events

Day & Night Art Bahrain Across Borders (Art Bab) 2018 When: 15th to 18th March, 2018 from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre ArtBAB, is Bahrain’s foremost contemporary art fair with the mission to attract leading international galleries to the Kingdom, so powering the expansion of the art market whilst facilitating the development of local Bahraini artists.

For more information: Art Bahrain Across Borders Tel: +973 1750 3080 www.artbab.com

Bahrain Hospitality & Restaurant Expo 2018 (BHRExpo) When: 21st to 24th march, 2018 Where: Bahrain International & Exhibition Centre The BHR Expo is a 4-day industry expose’, which includes a culinary tour, forum and exhibition and is the largest gathering of industry thought leaders, restaurant owners, hospitality specialists and industry suppliers.

For more information: Bahrain Hospitality & Restaurant Expo Tel: +973 1730 0070 www.bahrainhre.com

Education & Training International Exhibition (Edutex Spring) 2018 When: 20th to 22nd March, 2018 from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Edutex is an annual and strategically important event providing an indispensable platform, which will comprehensively showcase Higher Education, Digital Education, Vocational & Occupational Training and Human Resource Development courses to over 5000 prospective students and affluent visitors spanning over 30 nationalities from Bahrain and the eastern province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

For more information: Edutex 2018 www.edutex.org 8

Gulf Insider March 2018

Geo Science 2018 (13th Middle East Geosciences Conference and Exhibition) When: 6th to 8th March, 2018 from 9:00AM to 6:00 PM Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Inaugurated in 1994, GEO is the largest and best attended technical event of its kind in the region. A world-class exhibition and an exceptional technical conference with presentations by key industry figures.

For more information: Geo Science 2018 www.geo2018.com

If your business isn’t winning on social media you’re not taking business seriously!

For most businesses, keeping up to date on social media marketing takes too much time. Since time is a valuable asset for a business, their social media marketing is usually done by someone lacking advanced skills and expertise – and they are missing opportunities they don’t ever realize.

The good news is we can inexpensively manage your social media and help transform your business.

We can: p Create engaging stories on social media that attract followers p Set up email marketing and social media sales funnels so your businesses collects leads (and monetizes them, building an asset that increases in value) p Create social media content people cannot help but like, share, and comment on … AND MUCH MORE!

Call us on +973 36 188 100 for a coffee and FREE evaluation of your social media needs.

Fabianca.com

Events

Best of Dubai Here are our top picks in Dubai you would want to fly out for.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2018

Van Gogh Alive The Experience

When: 2nd to 10th March 2018 Where: Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City

When: 11th March to 23rd April, 2018 Where: Dubai Design District

The 2018 edition of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature takes place in March, with exciting activities based around all things literature. The festival will be celebrating its tenth anniversary with its strongest-ever line-up of international writers including Anthony Horowitz and Mark Billingham.

Van Gogh Alive – The Experience is an acclaimed art exhibition showcasing works by the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. It’s been touring the world, and will be stopping off in Dubai for a sixweek stay in March. It’s more than just an exhibition, with over 3000 images, including Van Gogh’s vibrant paintings as well as other inspirational images.

For more information: Emirates Festival of Literature Tel: +971 4 355 9844

For more information: Van Gogh Alive UAE www.vangoghaliveuae.com

My Beauty Fest When: 9th to 10th March 2018 Where: Burj Park This one-of-a-kind beauty event returns to Dubai bringing together some of the biggest international brands as well as beauty icons and influencers. Visitors will also get the chance to attend Ultimate Master Classes from celebrities including: Hrush Achemyan (@StyledByHrush), make-up artist to the Kardashians; Fouz Al Fahad (@TheRealFouz), the Middle East’s biggest beauty guru; and Sonia and Fyza (@SoniaxFyza), the Dubai-based beauty bloggers.

For more information: My Beauty Fest www.mybeautyfest.com 10

Gulf Insider March 2018

Applied Linguistics & Language Teaching Conference When: 8th to 10th March, 2018 from 9:00 AM Where: Zayed University The theme of the event is set to be ‘Language Teaching and Learning in a Globalised World.’ The conference aims to help enhance the knowledge and expertise of teachers and applied linguists, by presenting the latest technologies, highlighting the importance of scientific research, and promoting the culture of innovation and leadership.

For more information: Applied Linguistics & Language Teaching Conference www.allt-uae.org

Telecoms

Life

Style insider

Gulf Insider August 2017

48

Lifestyle

Elite Hospitality wins

“World Luxury Hotel Awards”

E

lite Hospitality Group, a luxury four-star hotels group in the kingdom of Bahrain, has recently won ten prestigious awards at the “World Luxury Hotel Awards which were presented in December ‘17 in St. Moritz, Switzerland.

The Elite Hospitality Group has been honored with the “World Luxury Hotel Awards” through voting by guests and travelers from across the globe. The Group won in 3 categories; “Luxury Collection Group” award & “Luxury Management Group” award - Bahrain.

In addition, Elite Hospitality Group won the “Luxury Brand” award – Middle East.

Further, Elite Resort and Spa Muharraq, won the “Luxury Spa Resort” – Bahrain and “Luxury Family Beach Resort” – Middle East.

The “Luxury Design Hotel” and “Luxury Contemporary Hotel” – Bahrain awards were won by Elite Crystal Hotel in Juffair. While Elite Grande Hotel in

12

Gulf Insider March 2018

Seef District received excellence awards in three categories in Bahrain: “Luxury Business Hotel”, “Luxury All Suite Hotel” and “Luxury City Hotel”.

Excelling in the Industry The World Luxury Hotel Awards’ represent the pinnacle of recognition in hospitality, since these are awarded to hotels and spas championing the best in their respective fields and excelling in the industry in their regions.

“We are indeed delighted to receive ten World Luxury Hotel Awards; it is a great recognition of our commitment to excellence, demonstrated by Elite Hospitality Group. Under the guidance of our MD, Shabeer Dadabhai, our three winning hotels have succeeded in maintaining high standards of service and are continuously offering guests from the entire world pleasant and exceptional experiences,” says Sarosh Aibara; Chief Operating Officer of Elite Hospitality Group.

Elite Hospitality Group is famous for the comprehensive and personal service provided by its highly qualified staff across all its hotels and residences. It welcomes both business and leisure guests to a customized experience.

They offer a range of accommodation, from one to three bedroom fullyequipped suites in multiple locations to suit individuals. From the vibrant streets of Juffair and Muharraq, to the prime shopping and business hub of Seef district, each of their unique locations is tailored to cater to their guests’ every need with an array of facilities such as specialty restaurants, nightclubs, executive lounges and bars, modern conference and banquet facilities, health clubs and wellness spas.

For more information: Elite Hospitality Group Bahrain www.elitegrouphotels.com Tel: +973 1755 8200

Lifestyle

In Full Swing The Middle East golfing season is already in full swing and the Royal Golf Club keeps pace with the best of them.

A

s we approach the end of February, the Middle East golfing season is in full swing. In January the Royal Golf Club welcomed Ben Todd to head up the Royal Golf Academy as the New Head Teaching Professional.

Ben comes from the prestigious Troon managed Montgomerie Resort, Dubai where he worked for 4 years under

some of the most respected instructors in the Region.

Since Ben’s arrival in 2017, the Royal Golf Academy has introduced a new price structure for individual and package lessons with better value options for all golfing abilities. The revised lesson prices include Flight Scope and V1 Coaching Technology.

In addition, the Academy has started

new golf programs such as Men’s Golf along with golf clinics for Ladies, Juniors and of course the Future Champions League for new up-and-coming junior golfers.

In recent weeks, the Royal Golf Club has also completed the renovation to the Teaching Academy Studios and fitting bays which now have a fresh new look with painted walls, Astroturf flooring and custom fitting golf equipment from new partner EGolf Megastore based in the UAE who provides the Golf Club with the latest Cleveland, Srixon and Cobra hardware.

Three full time PGA Teaching Professionals Ben, Marc and Zander provide a variety of different programs and classes that are suitable for all ages and golfing abilities. The club can provide equipment for all golf lessons which are included in the package and program prices.

For further details visit The Royal Golf Club’s website at http://theroyalgolfclub. com/index.htm or contact Ben Todd at b.todd@theroyalgolfclub.com.

Gulf Insider March 2018

13

Lifestyle

Fraser Suites Seef ensures you a healthy stay!

Enjoy Health Club memberships (monthly, quarterly and yearly) & day access, at Fraser Suites Seef, providing you a healthy stay in Bahrain.

Our 24/7 fully equipped gym is ideal for our active Guests looking for a comprehensive workout. Our gym is equipped with a Pilates wall, top range weight-training equipment and a modern Technogym.

The Health Club membership also gives you access to the outdoor temperature controlled swimming pool & Jacuzzi, indoor Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.

Fraser World

A World of Privileges at

Fraser Suites seef Your Home Away from Home Experience with Frasers Suites Seef Bahrain

H

ave you been planning a leisure or a business trip to Bahrain lately? If so, we have the most ideal address for you! Welcome home with Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain, your luxury serviced apartment right in the heart of the city.

Strategically located and easily accessible to the key business and leisure destinations in Bahrain, Fraser Suites Seef offers, well-appointed 5-Star facilities with spacious and fully furnished luxury suites. Directly connected to Seef Mall, Fraser Suites Seef guests have the mall at their door step. And what’s more, you have a wide

14

Gulf Insider March 2018

range of fashion retail outlets, multicuisine restaurants and movie halls just a walk away.

We bring a whole new world of privileges when you book your stay directly with us. Our tailormade packages are prepared keeping in mind your distinct requirements, thereby offering you exactly what best suits a discerning individual such as you. You may avail special advantages when you book directly with us:  Lowest rates guaranteed  All-exclusive offers as a Fraser World member  Loyalty Points when you enroll to Fraser World Loyalty Programme

‘Fraser World’ an exclusive awardwinning program for our members, with the aim of offering what they deserve. Members can enjoy a plethora of exclusive privileges with the special rates and rewarding redemption program. Each stay at any of our participating properties worldwide, guarantees an increase in your points, which can be redeemed for e-shopping vouchers, upgrades and much more.

As a Fraser World member you also enjoy up to 20% off on scrumptious in-house food and beverages, with added privileges of early check-ins and late check-outs, complimentary airport transfers and a lot more.

Comfort, Convenience and Care – The experience our Guests receive at Frasers. This is what we take pride in.

If Bahrain is where your travels brings you, we will welcome your home.

For more information: Web: bahrain.frasershospitality.com Email: sales.bahrain@frasershospitality.com Tel: +973 17171626

your home away from home

With its outstanding location in the heart of Seef district, the award-winning Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain enjoys close proximity to many multi-national companies and Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre. Directly connected to the Seef Mall, this serviced apartment offers a vast variety of leisure, shopping and dining options to all guests at their door-step.

10% discount

for Gulf Insider Readers (until the end of Ramadhan)

Sign up now at fraserworld.frasershospitality.com

For more information, call +973 1717 1626 Or email: sales.bahrain@frasershospitality.com | bahrain.frasershospitality.com Scan for Location

Lifestyle

Island feels like a tropical resort in the heart of the city.

Serenity Sea breezes, the sound of water, and the unobtrusive service all combine to create a feeling of calm.

How to make the most of your stay in Reef Island Resort…

Try any of the 6 new restaurants: Chocolaterie promises to be a sophisticated café for breakfast and high tea transforming into an elegant “Champagne and Caviar Lounge” by night.

Tokyo Reef is a contemporary Japanese restaurant overlooking an ornately designed fish pond.

Pool Delight is a lively, interactive restaurant offering lavish buffets.

Fine Café focuses on fresh and healthy Mediterranean cuisine.

Bahrain’s Newest

Luxury Resort Gulf Insider Media went to Reef Island Resort for a guided tour. To put it simply, we were impressed.

C

onceived to be Bahrain’s benchmark of luxury, serenity, and relaxation; Reef Island presents an exclusive lifestyle experience on a purpose-built island with state-of-the-art amenities.

The Reef Island Resort, home to Reef Aqua Spa, may soon become one of Bahrain’s most sought-after destinations for complete relaxation of mind, body and soul.

The resort is built on three pillars; Sea, Style, and Serenity.

16

Gulf Insider March 2018

Sea Water is a recurring theme and motif of the resort with 61 whimsical water features scattered throughout the resort. Guests and visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views of the lagoon and sea from the outlets and villas.

Style The whole resort is built to be a feast for the senses: works of art are strategically placed in the most unexpected areas, highlighting the luxurious feel of the area. Indeed, Reef

Shisha Lounge offers an enchanting twist to Lebanese cuisine with an assortment of grills, Arabian desserts and Shisha.

Sunset Saloon is an elegant establishment where one can enjoy cigars, bespoke cocktails and an Asian Tapas-inspired menu.

Stay in one of the villas Each luxurious villa is unique with its own design and furnishings, with prices ranging from BD130 upwards.

Pamper yourself at the spa Get pampered, groomed and styled.

With a full range of relaxing facilities like sauna, steam and Jacuzzi, plus a range of treatments (using Elemis beauty products), you will emerge from Reef Aqua Spa a new person.

For more information: Reef Island Resort Tel: +973 1311 0110

Lifestyle

It’s now time to get high and the fastest way is to ask one of New York’s finest, a city cop! art including the fantastic tapestry of fashion icon, Kate Moss in the lobby.

Steps away from the Surrey are some of the finest art galleries and museums in the world. Turn left for Central Park, and Museum Mile, or turn right for every fashionista’s dream with designer boutiques and couture creations in every direction. If you want to turn right please read Bahrain Confidential, as I’m turning left. Before I do, I pick up a City Pass.

New York City Pass

Gulf Insider Guide

New York

Our new Travel & Lifestyle editor Christine Warren-White takes a big bite out of the Big Apple

I

’ll get right to the heart of it, I love New York, New York. Who doesn’t want to wake up in a city that never sleeps; especially when sleeping involves a twenty thousand dollar Duxiana bed, custom Sferra bedding with a selection of eight different pillows! Welcome to the perfect Surrey Hotel in Manhattan’s Upper Eastside.

18

Gulf Insider March 2018

Staying at the Surrey Hotel is like having your very own New York residence that happens to have an incredible wrap around roof terrace, serene Cornelia spa and Daniel Boulud’s eponymous Café Boulud. This discreet, desirable address, once the long-term residence to Bette Davis and JFK, now home to celebrities wanting a private stay, also houses an array of

A great way to see the best attractions New York has to offer is a CityPASS. I may be British but I really don’t love a queue so avoiding them, whilst saving money, works for me.

Admission includes entry to American Museum of Natural History—I love a night at the museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Guggenheim or Top of the Rock (I choose Guggenheim, well I did tell you I was turning left!), Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises or Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum or Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.

Armed with my CityPASS I happily skip off through Central Park and, even happier, skipping main entrance lines into the Metropolitan Museum of Art. VIP entrance gained— I now know how Anna Wintour feels and understand why it’s the annual Met Ball, the building is absolutely fabulous. Located on Fifth Avenue, over two million square feet houses 5,000 years of art spanning all cultures and time periods. Glad I’m not wearing heels, I head for the great Masters, they’re all here, and the Michelangelo exhibition. Breathtakingly beautiful beyond words. My soul sated, time for more earthly pleasures from favourite Italians, Dean and Deluca.

Handily around the corner on Madison Avenue this delicious den of delicacies is just the ticket for a light lunch (that’s

Lifestyle

an oxymoron, there’s nothing light about NYC portions!) before heading Downtown.

Manhattan to Staten Now if like me you want to see all five boroughs, three NYC rivers, all the major bridges, marvel at the majestic Manhattan skyline and an up close and personal selfie with Lady Liberty herself in just two and a half hours; you shall go to the Ball, well Pier 83 actually. My trusty CityPASS has come up Trumps as I choose the Circle Line’s Best of NYC Cruise. The only sightseeing cruise completely circumnavigating the island of Manhattan, taking in all of the above and more. Seeing this stunning city from the water is sensational. The sun hitting the skyscrapers of Wall Street as

we sailed under Brooklyn Bridge was a perfect movie moment. Back on dry land it’s now time to get high and the fastest way is to ask one of New York’s finest, a city cop!

Empire State of Mind New York is one of the friendliest cities in the world and if you’re as geographically challenged as me, you’ll need directions. Cue the NYPD officer who even let me wear his hat!

Directions given, selfie taken, now to the most iconic building in the world, the Empire State. This Art Deco beauty has the famous open-air 86th Floor Observation Deck, revealing incredible 360-degree views. I truly do want to be a part of it and, although not quite vagabond, my shoes are ready to stray

to the dizzying heights of the 102nd floor Top Deck. The panoramic views, if possible, even more spectacular.

Royal Views If instead of looking out of you’d like to look at the Empire State, the impressive view is from the top of the Monarch hotel. The Crown hotel bar in Bowery St, on the edge of Chinatown, is also worth a visit, especially at night as it gives a full panoramic perspective of that famous skyline. Sundowners had, time for dinner and for me it’s my favourite New York eatery—Mary’s Fish Camp in Greenwich Village. Lobster Roll, Louisiana Crab au Gratin, the stuff dreams are made of and I have the perfect New York residence to have them in. Taxi! Surrey Hotel, please.

The Surrey Hotel 20 East 76th Street New York, NY 10021 www.thesurrey.com Dean & Deluca 1150 Madison Ave New York, NY 10020 Mary’s Fish Camp 64 Charles St, New York, NY 10014 www.marysfishcamp.com Buy a City Pass www.citypass.com Circle Line Ferry Pier 83, W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036 www.circleline.com Guide to NYC www.nycgo.com Gulf Insider March 2018

19

Lifestyle

What inspired you to create an international art fair in Bahrain?

There are two questions to ask when trying to establish an art fair in a country. One is, does the economy itself have its own strength? In Bahrain, though buyers are conservative in their approach to art; there is already a stable audience that have been buying art for generations.

In addition, there is a plethora of artists with different styles and forms in the country. As my relationship with Bahrain developed (through organizing various exhibits and being part of the development of Bahraini art), I realized that there was a lot of talent waiting to be discovered. I wanted to find a space where art in all its forms can be brought together and developed—that was my goal.

How does an art fair develop the economy of a country or a region?

Kaneka Subberwal Founder and Director of Art Bahrain Across Borders

Crossing Boundaries Art Bahrain Across Borders, Bahrain’s premiere international art fair is back for its 3rd edition this March 15-18. Gulf Insider sat down with Kaneka Subberwal, Founder and Director of Art Bahrain Across Borders to talk about preparations for the fair.

K

aneka Subberwal came to the island 10 years ago as an art consultant and entrepreneur. She was drawn to Bahrain because of the beauty of its culture.

She fondly recalls her first foray into the Bahrain Art Scene, when she curated and promoted an exhibit for the Bahrain Art Society, which was almost sold out. She then began to have the idea of creating something specific for Bahrain. That something specific materialized into Art Bahrain Across Borders (ARTBAB)--Bahrain’s premiere international art fair; a forward-thinking platform that aims to promote the growth of art in the country and the region.

20

Gulf Insider March 2018

Art, design, and lifestyle fairs are one of the best forms of marketing a brand or a concept. The audience you target in those 5 days are a diverse crowd that includes buyers, investors, and entrepreneurs—some of whom visit the country for that specific purpose. So the influx of people coming in to watch/ witness/participate in an event already benefits the country through luxury, airline, resort and hospitality traffic.

This is apart from the amount of art that is sold; the free marketing and publicity for a country or region because of the art fair—and the perception of the public about the country or region where the fair is held. This all leads to tangible and intangible development in the economy of a country.

To give you an example, we participated in the India Art Fair this year. The footfall was massive—with 15,000 people a day for a period of 5 days. So the India Art Fair was a big boost to the economy in terms of hospitality and tourism, and the same thing happens to other major art fairs around the world.

What do you hope to achieve with ArtBAB 2018 As an art fair, ArtBAB is not trying to be adventurous, we are taking very

Lifestyle

Lulwa Al Khalifa “Dhow 2 (2018)”

Ahmed Alasad, “The ancient mariner”

In Bahrain, though buyers are conservative in their approach to art; there is already a stable audience that have been buying art for generations.

Sana Al Borshaid “The blue life” small steps but we have been consistent in our stability and growth. This is what I believe will lead to bigger achievements in the succeeding editions of the fair.

In the second edition of ArtBAB 2018, we sold BD256,000 worth of art and merchandise. As I mentioned, Bahrain is a market that has been collecting art for centuries back. That in itself, places us in a good position to grow as an art market.

In addition, this year has begun on a high note. The participation has gone up by 35-37% for galleries, artist participation and organizations who are involved in the fair. I am excited to see it all come to pass on the event itself.

Reem Janahi “Girl in wonder” Gulf Insider March 2018

21

Lifestyle

Shift Happens!

Live Well

Challenge

Now shift doesn’t just happen. It takes time, especially as this isn’t just a diet, but an entire life makeover.

My health, wealth, home and even my phone (digital detox anyone?) are getting a radical overhaul. Shifting 25 kilos and putting myself first, will require discipline of the kind I’ve, so far, never been able to master. So I’m going to need some help. Cue experts from psychologists to personal trainers, doctors to dentists and I’ll be sharing tips, tricks and results right here in Gulf Insider, our sister publication Bahrain Confidential and on social media.

You can expect tuition on nutrition; sighs, highs and definitely no pies (honest!); defiance, compliance and a whole heap of science as I swap my nom nom nom for some om om om.

And, of course, where else would my Live Well adventure begin but up the Himalayas for a five-star detox boot camp? Eek! See you in April!

Our new Travel & Lifestyle editor Christine Warren-White gets to grips with Living Well…

W

orking for the past four years with a celebrity chef, and now Gulf Insider, I’m constantly surrounded by incredible food. My husband, and two step-sons are all foodies and even our pets Frank and Furta are sausage dogs.

Having a job where I have to travel the world, attend parties, and review restaurants means I’m very lucky. But the downside is it’s impossible to say no to Michelin-star menus, business class beverages and sky-high snacks and so the kilos have piled on. Juggling a hectic career and family, I’ve abandoned the gym and now, looking in the mirror I realise something has to change.

Mostly my belly! So I’m going to get fit, changing my eating and drinking habits, and transform my body and my life within a year. It’s my Live Well

22

Gulf Insider March 2018

I’ve ended up not living my best life; I’ve set a one year ‘Live Well Challenge’ for myself to recalibrate, recalculate and redress every area of my life.

Challenge which I’ll be sharing with you every month. There’s nothing like public accountability to motivate me into going from flabulous to fabulous.

Christine Warren-White From setting up then selling her PR business to the world’s largest communications agency, Christine has worked domestically, regionally and internationally with renowned global brands and governments across multiple sectors. Over 20 years, she’s managed high profile accounts, campaigns and crisis communications whilst being a regular media commentator on TV, radio and in print, including for the BBC. She lives with her family in Bahrain.

Telecoms

money &

business insider

Gulf Insider August 2017

48

Leading to ACC or PCC with ICF. Delivered by a Master Certified Coach.

Culminating in 53 hours ICF Approved Coach Training and required Mentor Coaching via Blended Learning.

Coach training and experience required.

Contact BMC today to find out more

Contact us for the next available date.

Office: +973 17590135 Mobile: +973 38377186 Email: coachme@beckett-mcinroy.com

Money & Business

Personal Finance Insider

Gulf Personal Finance Insider News that may affect your personal wealth

Technology and the future of finance

Property slump to continue: S&P A three-year downturn in Dubai’s property market will likely continue until at least 2020, Standard & Poor’s said Tuesday, citing low oil prices, the introduction of VAT and a Gulf diplomatic crisis.

A glut of housing units and weak demand were also key reasons for the decline, the credit ratings agency said in a report.

The emirate’s real estate sector has been on the slide since 2014, when crude oil prices crashed, dealing a harsh blow to many Gulf investors.

Home prices dropped more than 15 percent between then and mid-2017.The downward trajectory continued through to the end of last year, the S&P report said, with prices of residential units falling a further five to ten percent.

It said the introduction of a value added tax and a prolonged crisis between Qatar and its Gulf neighbours, including the United Arab Emirates, had also put pressure on real estate prices.

S&P called the downturn a “correction” but said the sector may start to bounce back when Dubai hosts a six-month World’s Fair in 2020.

26

Gulf Insider March 2018

The application of technology to finance has gone mainstream.

Investors (speculators, really) are lining up to be fleeced on the Bitcoin and cryptocurrency exchanges all over the world. On the same day that Bitcoin slumped to half its December value – it was just over $10,000 per coin on January 16th – so one Saxo Bank analyst predicted it could rise to $100,000 per coin at some point.

Blockchain, the algorithmic foundation under Bitcoin, however, continues to be applied to an increasing number of truly valuable functions across finance, commerce and government. In a recent report to the UK Government, the Chief Scientific Adviser, Professor Sir Mark Walport, wrote: “[blockchain technologies]… should not be seen as an end in themselves.

It is only when they have other applications — such as smart contracts — layered on top of them, that their full potential can be realised.”

And blockchain is just one of several umbrella terms to describe technologies reshaping the way finance will work: robotics, AI, big data and cloud computing are others. Anyone who actually works with or near

Money & Business

these technologies realizes that these umbrella terms are as imprecise as using the word ‘finance’ to describe a myriad of functions performed within, for example, just one bank – let alone a national or global system. But it is true to say that Fintech (financial technology) is an increasingly important part of the future of finance.

However, the point Sir Mark is making is that, whilst the technologies themselves are important, it’s what you do with them that’s vital.

Bahrain’s economic growth expected to accelerate Bahrain’s central bank governor said that the country’s economic growth might accelerate because of the recovery of oil prices since mid-2017, but he warned that the government needed to be careful about its budget deficit.

Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, speaking at an investment conference in Bahrain, also said it was only a matter of time before Bahrain introduced a value-added tax.

Bahrain’s state finances are among the weakest of the six Gulf Arab oil-exporting states, and all three big credit rating agencies assess Bahraini debt as “junk.” The International Monetary Fund projected the government would run a deficit of 11.9 per cent of gross domestic product this year.

Annual growth in Bahrain’s real gross domestic product edged up to 3.6 per cent in the third quarter of 2017 from a revised 3.5 per cent in the second quarter.

Interests on Personal Loans from Bahrain Banks Expected to Increase An economic report published by a local newspaper mentioned that interest on personal loans in Bahrain increasingly rose nearly two years ago and it is expected to increase this year with the expectations of US steps to raise the interest rate, as the interest on Bahraini dinar is linked to US currency.

The official interest rates is a main indicator and plays a role in determining the direction of bank interest. With the Bahraini dinar link to the US dollar, the Central Bank of Bahrain raises interest on bank deposits with any similar move by the US Federal Reserve, and so does most of the Gulf States; in order to prevent speculation on the national currency.

According to the newspaper, the average interest rates on personal loans has risen within a year, from 4.7% in the third quarter of 2016 to 5.04% at the end of November 2017, according to the latest data issued by the Central Bank of Bahrain, which measures the average interest rates in commercial banks operating in the kingdom.

Despite expectations that the US Federal Reserve would increase interest, bankers see that banks enjoy high liquidity rates which keeps them in a strong position to finance and control prices. However, the US interest rates that Bahrain is following has its effect eventually.

The size of the loans and the facilities provided by the Bahraini banks for their clients in Bahrain from individuals and companies reached 8.6 billion dinars, 3.7 billion of which were personal loans.

The Central Bank does not put any administrative controls on interest rates in the market. Nonetheless, there are no high or low limits for domestic interest rates, as the bank does not seek to directly influence the cost of credit and therefore the banking sector is free to allocate credit the way it sees suitable.

Gulf Insider March 2018

27

Money & Business

Personal Finance Insider

Bahrain will go ahead with value-added tax, finance minister says Bahrain will go ahead with imposing a value-added tax to strengthen state finances, Minister of Finance Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed al-Khalifa said after domestic political opposition slowed the plan.

“We’ll be working with parliament on VAT and aim to have everything set up by the end of 2018,” Sheikh Ahmed told an investment conference in Manama, without giving a firm date for when the tax would be launched. Bahrain originally planned to introduce VAT at a 5 percent rate on January 1st, at the same time as neighbouring Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

But the plan ran into resistance from some members of parliament, and last month officials said the government would not proceed with new austerity steps until parliament agreed on a new system to compensate citizens for a higher cost of living. Kuwait, Oman and Qatar also planned originally to introduce VAT last month but have not done so; in the cases of Kuwait and Oman, domestic political concerns are one reason.

Dubai Trader Gets First Middle East License in Cryptocurrencies Saudi Arabia’s economy is already feeling the effects of VAT A measure of business activity in Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy dropped sharply to a record low in January, as the implementation of a new value-added tax hit output and purchasing. The Emirates NBD Purchasing Managers’ Index fell from 57.3 in December to 53, the lowest reading in the survey’s history, as production and new orders slowed. Companies had boosted output and purchasing at the end of last year, ahead of the new tax, meaning the slowdown “is likely to be transitory,” Khatija Haque, head of Middle East and North Africa research at Emirates NBD, wrote in the report. A reading above 50 indicates that the economy is still expanding.

28

Gulf Insider March 2018

Dubai gold trader Regal RA DMCC is the first company in the Middle East to get a license to trade cryptocurrencies, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre said. The company will offer storage of Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies in a vault located in DMCC headquarters in Almas Tower in Dubai, the DMCC said in a statement. Regal RA started trading gold in Dubai in 2016.

Money & Business

Departure of expats seriously affects real estate market Secretary of Kuwait Real Estate Association Qais Al-Ghanem affirmed that the real estate market in the country has been seriously affected by the departure of expatriates, indicating that they had warned about this crisis last year, reports Al-Rai daily.

He said he is expecting the trend of expatriates’ departure to increase in June 2018, as they are either searching for better opportunities in other destinations or choosing to return to their countries of origin. Al-Ghanem explained that the recent pressures imposed on expatriates resulted in a large number of vacant flats especially in the investment residential sector.

The Kuwaitization policy, which is aimed at terminating the contracts of expatriates in the public sector and increasing the charges of services offered to them, and the announcement about a new tax system have contributed to the crisis.

A large number of expatriates are considering sending their families back to their countries of origin but keeping their residency valid, and choosing to stay in Kuwait as bachelors.

This trend will further worsen the current situation of the real estate sector. He said he is expecting the rents to drop after the decisions concerning expatriates are announced.

Al-Ghanem indicated that this crisis has not only negatively impacted the real estate sector but it has also badly affected the economic circulation, affirming that the real estate sector is one of the basic pillars of the economy.

This Is the Amount of Money You Need to Be Happy, According to Research A large analysis published in the journal Nature Human Behavior used data from the Gallup World Poll, a survey of more than 1.7 million people from 164 countries, to put a price on optimal emotional well-being: between $60,000 and $75,000 a year.

That aligns with past research on the topic, which found that people are happiest when they make about $75,000 a year.

But while that may be the sweet spot for feeling positive emotions on a day-to-day basis, the researchers found that a higher figure — $95,000 — is ideal for “life evaluation,” which takes into account long-term goals, peer comparisons and other macro-level metrics.

The researchers, from Purdue University, also found that it may be possible to make too much money, as far as happiness is concerned. They observed declines in emotional well-being and life satisfaction after the $95,000 mark, perhaps because being wealthy — past the point required for daily comfort and purchasing power, at least — can lead to unhealthy social comparisons and unfulfilling material pursuits.

Gulf Insider March 2018

29

Money & Business

Dubai International Financial Centre joins the world’s most influential

global Takaful forum Over 300 industry leaders are expected to congregate at the 13th World Takaful Conference in Dubai this April that will feature keynote addresses by H.E. Ebrahim Obaid Al Zaabi, Director General, U.A.E. Insurance Authority (IA) and Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, CEO, Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC), amongst others.

M

iddle East Global Advisors, a leading financial intelligence platform facilitating the development of knowledge-based economies in the MENASEA markets, will convene the 13th edition of their annual offering – The World Takaful Conference (WTC), in strategic partnership with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading financial hub in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region (MEASA), on April 09. The forum will take place at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Dubai, UAE. Speaking ahead of WTC, Ehsan Abbas, Chairman of Middle East Global Advisors, shared: “It is with great pleasure that we announce the 13th edition of the annual World Takaful Conference. Although Takaful markets have not grown in tandem with the sukuk and Islamic banking markets, the global Takaful sector is projected to reach USD 86 billion by 2022, from USD 31 billion in 2012, signifying the massive opportunities the sector harbors (ICD Thomson Reuters 2017). However, fragmented markets, a lack of uniformity in standards, and undifferentiated competitive strategies are some of the key obstacles that block the niche industry from unlocking its full potential.

Additionally, in light of the recent regulatory and economic developments

30

Gulf Insider March 2018

Since its inception in 2006, The World Takaful Conference has been a significant contributor to enhancing growth, excellence and innovation in the global Takaful industry, an endeavor we set forth to continue in its 13th edition. in the GCC region, it becomes critical for the industry to unite on a common platform and deliberate on the apt way forward. Since its inception in 2006, The World Takaful Conference has been a significant contributor to enhancing growth, excellence and innovation in the

global Takaful industry, an endeavor we set forth to continue in its 13th edition.”

Speaking on Dubai International Financial Centre’s partnership with the World Takaful Conference (WTC), Salmaan Jaffery, Chief Business Development Officer at DIFC Authority, said: “With Islamic finance assets expected to grow to US$3.8 trillion by 2022, there is a massive opportunity for Islamic Finance. This sector remains a key focus area for DIFC in line with Dubai’s vision to be the world’s capital of the Islamic economy”.

Time and again, the WTC has proven to be an ideal launching pad for research and intelligence reports that provide strategic insights to the most pressing issues targeting the industry at large.

Last year’s edition saw the launch of the groundbreaking Global Takaful Report 2017 by Milliman, equipping Takaful leaders in the regulatory, economic, demographical and technological landscape to take stock of the key industry trends, analyze forecasts and projections, and explore factors that are critical to their organization’s long-term growth.

To find out more about WTC 2018, visit www.wtc18.com Join the global conversation on Twitter at: @WorldTakaful #WorldTakaful18

Money & Business

BCCI Elections 2018 Gulf Insider covered the 2018 BCCI Elections campaign- which promises future economic and business growth to Bahrain’s business sector.

By Dhanyasree M

T

he Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) will hold elections for a new Board of Directors (BOD) at the Isa Cultural Center on the 10th of March, 2018.

Members from three blocs-Al Ghad, Al Sharaka and Al Tojjar – as well as independent candidates have registered their candidacy for the 18-member BOD panel.

The 29th election of BCCI welcomed more discussions than the previous elections owing to the increase in the number of eligible voters. During the first electoral committee meeting held at Beit Al Tijjar, Jassim Abdul A’Al Chairman of the Election Committee ensured transparency and fairness

32

Gulf Insider March 2018

“It’s sad that many voters are not utilizing their rights, which would have given them greater benefits in the future.” based on BCCI’s law and executive regulation during the election.

“This election is going to be very important for the future economic and business growth of Bahrain,” Abdul A’Al told Gulf Insider Magazine.

As the campaign, election predictions,

and inevitable election scandals heat up the island’s business industry, Gulf Insider analyzes the election from an independent view.

The Voters The BCCI members entitled to vote are eight times more compared to previous elections. There are 35,000 members represented by 81,000 votes at present. Any CR owner in the Kingdom, who has registered as a voter before February 19th, 2018 is eligible to vote. Out of the 20,000 inactive memberships, many are reactivated, and the increased number of voters makes the election a remarkable one in its history.

Money & Business

There are 35,000 members represented by 81,000 votes at present.

The candidates have been busy with their campaigns: visiting prominent business communities, and holding conferences for potential voters. Gulf Insider Magazine visited some of the CR owners to gather their ideas on the BCCI elections.

“What do you mean by BCCI elections?” The uproar of BCCI election campaigns apparently failed to reach an Indian CR holder, who has a series of cold stores at Salmaniya.

“I hold a CR and a successful salon, why should I waste my time to go and vote at BCCI elections? What benefit will I get out of that?” A Filipino salon owner at Seef questioned us.

Similarly, we didn’t get much response from many of the local CR holders. Therefore, we decided to meet

with the registered BCCI members.

Most of them are positive about the changes that the new Board Members can bring to Bahrain’s business sector.

The unanimous prediction is that a single bloc will not win the elections and the best candidates from each of the blocs will form the new Director Board.

Apart from the above questions, the registered voters had a specific question to the candidate. “The BCCI Board membership is an unpaid profession. However, each of the candidates spend a minimum 10,000 BHD for their campaigns. Why do you want to be a Board member if you don’t have any benefit out of that?”

Candidates’ answer…

Voting will start from 8am until 10pm on March 10th, 2018. If there are voters in the elections hall who haven’t cast their votes, the election will extend after the stipulated time.

Gulf Insider took the questions to the candidates and they were ready to answer the questions. We will not reveal the candidates here, since we couldn’t meet with all the candidates.

“It’s sad that many voters are not utilizing their rights, which would have given them greater benefits in the future.” One of the independent candidates expressed her concern at the comments of the unregistered voters.

“Let the members come to us.

We are ready to listen and solve their problems,” one of the candidates announced at a Press conference.

The candidates unanimously agree that they have given their nominations to add value to the BCCI with their proven business expertise. They all agree on the urgent need to uplift the SME’s since they are the backbone of the Bahraini business sector. Being experienced leaders from diverse business sectors in the kingdom, the candidates have their own platforms to improve the Bahrain economy.

Voting for the 29th BCCI elections will start from 8am until 10pm on March 10th, 2018 at the Isa Cultural Center.

If there are voters in the elections hall who have not yet cast their votes and wish to do so, the election will extend after the stipulated time. The elections committee will announce the end of the voting time after the last voter has cast his vote.

The results will be announced in the subsequent days and if two candidates obtain the same number of votes, the committee will elect one candidate by lot.

Gulf Insider wishes success to all the candidates. May the righteous win!

Gulf Insider March 2018

33

Money & Business

security innovations G4S Bahrain is continuing with a good double digit growth for 3 consecutive years. Gulf Insider meets Atanu Sanyal, MD of G4S Bahrain, to talk about innovating and turning the business around through changing strategy.

Atanu Sanyal

G

4S is the only multinational security solutions company operating in Bahrain. It’s the largest employer listed on the London Stock Exchange with branches in around 100 countries. The company specializes in providing security product and solutions through advanced electronic security systems, cash and atm management, manned security services, emergency response and risk consultancy services.

They have operations throughout the GCC.

34

Gulf Insider March 2018

On success of the business The Bahrain operation of G4S had its best year of growth in 2017. In fact in the last 3 to 4 years, the company has registered a significant growth in Revenue and Profit. Sanyal had a great belief on his team and the people that worked for G4S Bahrain. He believes the current team is very matured which worked on making root and branch changes to the culture and its strategic direction. Sanyal said, “The core value of G4S makes G4S Bahrain office as Home away from Home and

the current success is nothing but right implementation of G4S values in the business�. Sanyal and his team began focusing on providing new and additional services and moving more towards technological integrated security solutions for the last 2 to 3 years. Bahrain operations have seen the success due to the ability of the team to sell solutions as a bundle to the customers. He said the security industry will move more towards the solution than individual demand for guarding, cash or systems.

Money & Business

Moving forward

Security Company Restrictions

Atanu informs us that G4S Bahrain is in the process to open 2 new companies: one specializing in facility management/cleaning services and the other on manpower recruitment.

G4S has got many years of experience in Facility/cleaning management in different parts of the world and Atanu wants Best Practices to be shared so that the customer in Bahrain gets the best when this company opens. He expects the manpower recruitment market to grow significantly in Bahrain as many establishments are increasingly embracing outsourcing and he expects to be seeing a lot of skilled labour requests.

Apart from having plans to open 2 new companies, G4S Bahrain has got significant expansion plans for the existing business by adding more facilities.

As part of the expansion of the cash business, G4S is now investing approx.

USD 300,000 for a new Cash Centre.

The new Cash Centre should be up and running by middle of this year. The team of G4S is now ready to approach different Banks for cash processing and other cash related advance solutions.

G4S also introduced Cash360, an endto-end, multiple benefit solution that provides essential cash management, banking and security protection to safeguard cash.

The Electronic Security Solutions business last year did very well. As part of the expansion of the ESS business, G4S has now entered into Fire Fighting and Retail solutions. In case of Fire Fighting, automatic fire fighting/ suppression systems can control and extinguish fire without human intervention.

When fire is extinguished in the early stages, loss of life will be minimal since 93% of all fire-related deaths occur once the fire has progressed beyond the early stages. In case of Retail products, we are offering an electronic article surveillance which is a technological method for preventing shoplifting from retail stores, pilferage of books from libraries or removal of properties from office buildings.

When asked about the biggest challenge the company faces, Atanu instantly replies that as a security company they are not allowed to have more than 500 guards which, for G4S is nowhere near enough and acts as a break on the company’s growth.

Due to the restriction of 500 guards, the growth for Guarding division was restricted which eventually affected

the company growth. The growth of the company could have been much higher had there been no restriction on manpower limit. The growth of the business is definitely suffering due to this manpower restriction. That said, he is hoping there would be a possibility for the relevant ministry to help them get the manpower extension or a new guarding services company which could potentially offset at least part of this problem.

On making the right decisions

In fact in the last 3 to 4 years, the company has registered a significant growth in Revenue and Profit.

When asked if there’s anything that keeps him awake at night, he says; “Social responsibility grounds me to make better decisions. I always think of my staff and their families, sometimes it haunts me and I think twice or thrice before making a decision that can potentially affect their lives”. But once he’s made a decision he relaxes and just focuses on implementing it.

When we ask him if he believes the latest plan for expansion and implementation of technological innovations that G4S Bahrain is introducing will all be successful. Atanu laughs saying “Let’s see which strategy works”.

For more information: G4S Tel: +973 1771 4409

Gulf Insider March 2018

35

Money & Business

Elite

The World of Privileged Banking from Arab Bank

E

lite is a unique and highly personalized banking service that is tailor-made to meet the requirements of Arab Bank’s most valued customers. As a member you will notice the Elite difference from the moment you join this exclusive program. Elite entitles you to a world of privileges, carefully developed to meet your evolving banking needs, including a dedicated and experienced relationship manager who will ensure that you receive personalized attention with regards to your banking needs as well as a dedicated service area to conduct a simpler and differentiated banking experience.

Financial Security The financial strength of Arab Bank combined with our commitment to conservative and prudent policies make us a safe haven for your assets.

Established in 1930 as the first private sector financial institution in the Arab world, Arab Bank has enjoyed continued success partnering in the socioeconomic development of the region.

With our roots deep set in the 36

Gulf Insider March 2018

Middle East, we thrive to offer you services to complement your assets and your needs. As an Elite member, you can enjoy complete peace of mind knowing that you can rely on us- one of the largest financial institutions in the Middle East- as your financial partner.

Our suite of account services includes multi-currency current and saving accounts and time deposits.

Network Access To date, the Arab Bank Group has established an extensive network with over 600 branches spanning five continents making it one of the largest global Arab banking networks. You can benefit from our wide presence by maintaining cross-border accounts, remitting money free of charge and availing of our overseas property

financing offers in select countries within our regional network.

Our award-winning Arabi Online Banking platform ensures that you can monitor and access all your accounts anytime and anywhere.

When you travel within the region you will be recognized as a valued Arab Bank Elite member and have access to Elite centers across our network with preferential services on offer.

Life Style Benefits Elite Program membership provides you with a host of superior benefits and exclusive features that are carefully designed to suit your lifestyle.

Offered exclusively to our Elite program members, the Visa Signature Credit Card offers you a wide range of prestigious benefits and distinguished features. The Card is automatically enrolled in our Elite loyalty program and ‘Arabi Rewards’ program which allows you to reap a myriad of benefits by using your credit card.

For more information: Arab Bank Tel: +973 1754 9000

Tech & Telecoms Insider

Money & Business

A World of Firsts Huawei Revolutionizes Smartphone Photography

I

n today’s world, armed with a mobile device, anyone can become a photographer, recording their life and capturing every worthy moment. In the age of social networks, where hundreds of millions of photographs are uploaded and shared across the world, mobile phone phototography is replacing portable digital cameras as one of the most effective mediums of communicating information.

The camera is indeed one of the influential elements that defines a premium smartphone and it is one of the most significant key selling points for consumers. We have seen that innovations in smartphone photography were focused on clarity and speed of the pictures. Consumer preference have now shifted beyond the usual megapixel count where higher quality of focus, better perspective, and more visible depth of field is not just ‘nice-to-have’, but a prerequisite.

Redefining the limits between professional and amateur photography, Huawei’s partnership with premium camera manufacturer Leica offers new and improved dual-lens camera

technology that sets a new standard in smartphone photography. By leveraging the unrivalled capabilities of Leica, the leader in the world of imaging for more than 100 years, users of the Huawei smartphones can now enjoy more accurate colors, more refined interaction between light and shadow, and more life-like pictures. Huawei has taken dual camera technology to the next level.

Reinventing Smartphone Photography During the past couple of years, HUAWEI has built a strong competitive advantage in smartphone photography through its core technology, improvements in image quality thanks to its exceptional partnership with the photography giant Leica, and the adoption of AI technology, substantially enhancing its overall photography experience.

The latest HUAWEI product coengineered with Leica is the Mate 10 series. Built with the world’s first AI processor for smartphones, the Kirin 970 chipset, the Mate 10 series delivers the ultimate intelligent experience in

smartphone photography. It features an AI-powered Real-Time Scene and Object Recognition and Real-Time Auto Settings allowing the camera to automatically adjust and choose settings to help users capture better photographs in a range of different environments. It also features AIpowered Bokeh Effect for a more natural and detailed transition between the background and subject and AI-powered Digital Zoom brings far-off text into clearer focus.

Combining a 12-megapixel RGB sensor with a 20-megapixel monochrome sensor, the HUAWEI Mate 10 new dual cameras co-engineered with Leica features 2x lossless zoom, optical image stabilization, and lenses boasting the “world’s largest aperture” of f/1.6. The Mate 10 series also has 4K video recording. This is the first intelligent photography smartphone that truly turns every shot into a perfect memory.

For more information Huawei Tel: +973 1756 8708

Gulf Insider March 2018

37

Money & Business

Tech & Telecoms Insider

Tech & Telecoms insider A look at the latest updates in tech & telecoms.

Neil Harbisson is first half-human robot Meet Neil Harbisson, known as the first person in the world with an antenna implanted in his skull.

Harbisson, who was in Dubai to attend the World Government Summit, was recognised as the world’s first cyborg in 2004, and has since become the cofounder of the Cyborg Foundation – an international organisation that defends cyborg rights, promotes cyborg art and supports people who want to become cyborgs.

Harbisson a Catalan-raised, British-born cyborg artist, explained how the antenna in his head has helped him cope with colour blindness. “I have an antenna that is implanted inside my head, which allows me to extend my perception of reality beyond the visual spectrum. I can sense infrared and ultraviolet, and I also have internet connection in my head that allows me to receive colours from other parts of the world, or connect to satellite so I can send colours from space,” he said.

His wifi-enabled antenna sends vibrations in his skull to report information to him, such as electromagnetic radiation, videos or images which are translated into audible vibrations. “I see this as a body part, not a device, but as an organ. And I don’t wear an antenna, I have an antenna. So I see this as part of me,” he said.

38

Gulf Insider March 2018

Google will let you book hotels and flights through search results Google announced that it has changed the way people can search for hotels and flights using smartphones in a bid to make trip planning simpler on mobile devices. The company said hotel and flight bookings can now be made through Google Search results. Users can scroll through search results for hotels that include photos, and swipe through those photos without having to leave the list of results. Date and price filtering can also be done through the results page, and users can also now book through Google.

It’s a similar story for flights, as bookings can be done through search and the same filtering and comparisons as hotels can be done on air travel searches. Google says users can now toggle more easily between flights and hotels with a new tab layout. Users can also search by destination to determine the best hotel and flight options. The “More Destinations” tab also offers suggestions on nearby trips for that original destination and, of course, Google-approved companies that might offer additional services along the way.

Google’s realization here is that more and more people are doing planning and booking for travel on a smartphone, rather than carving out time on a computer at home. Or that more people are deciding to make last-minute changes and don’t have the patience to flip through multiple windows and apps to get where they want, or need, to be.

Money & Business

Ex-Google employee calls tech addiction an ‘existential threat’ and calls for regulation Former Google employee Tristan Harris said large tech companies have a “moral responsibility” when it comes to shaping billions of people’s attention — one he believes they are abusing in favor of profits.

“Technology is often exploiting how our minds work,” said Harris, who said he first brought up the issue back in 2013 to colleagues at Googlewhen he was employed there. “We’re pointing the most powerful supercomputers in the world at our brains to suck the attention out of it,” Harris, who once worked as a design ethicist at Google, told CNBC. “Then if that stock price has to keep going up I have to actually point it at your kids.”

In 2014, amid growing concern about technology’s dominance in people’s lives, Harris and a few other Silicon Valley tech alums founded the Center for Humane Technology, where Harris is executive director.

Can social media persuade you to spend more money?

Towards the end of last year, two of Facebook’s social scientists acknowledged in a blog post that passive consumption of content on the platform can affect a user’s mood and mental health. The authors, director of research David Ginsberg and Moira Burke, a research scientist, say that recent research blaming social media for an increase in alienation, depression and anxiety is “compelling.” They go on to cite a number of findings including one that found a direct relationship between clicking “likes” and links and a reduced sense of mental health.

The researchers, Keith Wilcox of Columbia University and Andrew T. Stephen of the University of Pittsburgh, sought to find out if there were any negative effects of social media amid reports that social media made users feel more connected and also helped improve their self-esteem, boosting their overall happiness. They already knew that when people are happy, and they feel good about themselves, they’re likely to “license themselves…to let their guard down,” says Stephen. In other words, the emotions contribute to lower self-control. “We wondered if that would play out in this instance.” It did.

Stephen points out an experiment where after using Facebook briefly, users were taken directly to an eBay-type auction and told to bid on an iPad. Surprisingly, those with stronger networks on social media ended up bidding up to 30 perfect more than they’d have spent on the same device if they had just walked into a store.

Gulf Insider March 2018

39

Money & Business

Tech & Telecoms Insider

Cryptojacking

I

t’s a fairly safe bet you’ve heard of Bitcoin, the first and most important cyptocurrency. Bitcoin was invented by Satoshi Nakamoto as “A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System” and not a digital currency though it became the most renowned cryptocurrency. Satoshi’s greatest achievement was to prove it’s possible to decentralize record keeping; to obtain consensus for every transaction without a central authority.

What’s fascinating about cryptocurrency is the tokens of the curency are created in a process known as ‘mining’. Miners confirm and rebroadcast transactions which is how the entire system fundamentally operates. Miners are rewarded in tokens, i.e., Bitcoins, for their efforts. To avoid abuse, cryptocurrencies require miners to qualify by investing large sums of computing power through the creation of cryptographic hashes.

Where’s there’s money to be made, there’s also criminals lurking nearby.

Bitcoin became synonymous with ransomware infections as it’s used as a payment method by cybercriminals.

A computer infected by ransomware generally includes a ransom note with 40

Gulf Insider March 2018

Cybercriminals are also taking aim at enterprise workstations and consumer personal computers to cryptojack them into large botnets. instructions on how to make payment to a Bitcoin wallet operated by the criminals. Payment is usually the only way to regain access to files encrypted by ransomware unless you were diligent in backing them up to an offline storage device.

Ransomware payment through Bitcoin was only the start of organized crime interest in cryptocurrency. The new trend is called ‘Cryptojacking’, or the unauthorized use of a computing device to mine cryptocurrency. This is often accomplished via insiders

working at a facility with powerful computing resources. One such egregious effort involved scientists working at the Russian Federal Centre in Sarov, a nuclear warhead factory, who commandeered one of Russia’s most powerful supercomputers in a failed attempt to mine cryptocurrency.

Cybercriminals are also taking aim at enterprise workstations and consumer personal computers to cryptojack them into large botnets. Low-powered PC’s are poorly equipped for the task of mining cryptocurrency, but become profitable when the mining task is spread across thousands to millions of devices. Legitimate apps already exist for mobile phones to get into the cryptomining game. So, it’s only a matter of time before hackers develop malware to cryptojack your mobile as well.

Cryptomining consumes large quantities of processer time and electrical power. Cybercriminals, through cryptojacking, are pushing the electrical bill onto companies and consumers. A sluggish computer is a good sign of there may be a cryptojacking program running in the background without your consent.

Avoid paying for a hacker to get rich by running up-to-date antivirus, routinely patching the operating system and applications on your computing devices, and by practicing safe email and web browsing.

Ryan Ernst - Affectionately known as the “Tony Stark of Bahrain” is an Enterprise Security Consultant at Sword & Shield. www.swordshield.com

Telecoms

people &

culture insider

Gulf Insider August 2017

48

People & Culture

what’s happening

Audi Sport Driving Experience Gulf Insider went to the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) to test-drive the Audi Sport.

Hublot Geneve Days Novelties 2018

Hublot held a press conference for its Geneve Day Novelties 2018 at the Four Seasons Hotel, Bahrain Bay. David Tedeschi, Regional Director of Hublot Middle East & Africa graced the event.

42

Gulf Insider March 2018

People & Culture

Launch of the MercedesBenz Certified Pre-Owned Showroom Al Haddad motors held a launch event to unveil the newly renovated state of the art Mercedes-Benz Certified PreOwned showroom at the Al-Haddad Motors premises.

Basant Festival at Al Areen Palace & Spa Al Areen Palace & Spa held a Basant Festival, highlighting the beauty of Hindu culture.

Gulf Insider March 2018

43

People & Culture

Profile: Syeda Al Iqtadar, Wealth Management Expert

W

hat is ‘Wealth Management’?

It is mostly about educating and inspiring people to protect their assets and invest in their future. It could be saving up for children, retirement, travel, or property investment. And essentially it’s about having a plan to ensure you get to your desired destination.

Why doesn’t everyone have a Wealth Manager?

Often people don’t want to hire a financial advisor as they instead prefer to ask opinions from their friends or search for answers on the internet.

This can be very harmful in the long run, especially if people seek advice from people or entities who don’t have financial backgrounds.

The best thing that people can do for themselves is to diversify their assets-and, I believe, invest in properties.

What is Holborn Assets?

Syeda Al Iqtadar

44

Gulf Insider March 2018

Holborn Assets is a global financial services group and a leading financial advisory firm established in Dubai for over 20 years and now operating throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Our financial advisers are trained and qualified to United Kingdom standards with many holding qualifications from the UK’s Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) or Chartered Institute of Securities and Investment (CISI).

People & Culture

What are your areas of specialty?

Independent Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Financial Planning, Wealth Management, Shariah Wealth, Currency Exchange, Employee Benefits, Management Services, Insurance, Investments, Protection & Insurance, Pensions, Mortgages, Offshore Services, Tax Planning, Will Writing, Pension Transfers, and QROPS.

What’s the biggest challenge of your job?

At the very beginning, getting people to open up about their finances as money is a very sensitive topic and people often shy away from such discussions. Therefore as a financial advisor I am an open book and very transparent with my clients.

Are your own personal finances in immaculate order?

(Smiles) I try for that to be the case.

How did you become a personal financial advisor?

I have a background of twenty years in corporate banking and finance. I made the switch to personal financial advising in 2008, in the midst of the banking crisis. I became tired and a little cynical of the corporate world and I wanted to feel I was doing something that was beneficial to changing people’s lives - not just putting more money into rich people’s bank accounts.

You work with many expats, what would you say are typically their biggest financial mistakes?

Not accumulating wealth while they are in the region. A lot of expats have trouble saving money. Should take advantage of the tax free salaries and control their costs of living to accumulate wealth but too many instead spend more than is advisable on ‘living the life’ and keeping up appearances.

Far too many people in the GCC live beyond their means. As expats here typically have little to no job security they should have at least one year’s salary saved up so if they lose their jobs they are secure in the knowledge they will not go into debt (for at least a year).

Briefly share with us just 2 or 3 pieces of financial wisdom The best thing people can do is to diversify their assets and invest in property . For families the breadwinner should take life insurance to ensure his family are financially taken care of if anything happens to them. You would insure your car or your home so why not yourself?

Do you financially neglect your PR Department?

“Why do you need an allocated budget for your campaign? Public Relations is free!”

T

he above line has been the main struggle I had been facing throughout my career. Senior management and the Finance department always had the assumption that the main (and only) difference between marketing and Public Relations was that Public Relations is free, and therefore, did not require a budget.

Usually this happens when the PR professional is working in-house, where colleagues and senior management do not really understand what PR is, and how it can play a significant role in the company’s strategies, and ultimately its success.

In such cases, it is important that the PR professional maintains open and continuous communication with the senior management and across departments to show and explain the importance of PR, how PR can play a key role in the success of the company, the different tasks and responsibilities pertaining to PR, PR’s role in maintaining and enhancing the positive reputation of the company both online and offline. The PR professional should keep the concerned departments and teams updated with the achievements of PR and provide evidence on how PR efforts do have a positive impact on the company’s overall performance.

And in general, business owners and senior management should always remember that in order to make money, you have to spend money. Nothing good or impactful is for free.

Including PR! When working on the annual budget, the PR team should be involved, whereby a proposed PR plan for the upcoming year is discussed and tweaked to meet the company’s goals and objectives. Thereafter, a sufficient budget to cover the PR plan is allocated to help the PR team achieve said desired goals and objectives.

As always, it all comes down to two-way communication horizontally across the various departments, as well as vertically with senior management.

Finally, what questions should anyone ask before choosing a financial advisor?

Check their financial qualifications and experience and don’t be afraid to ask for references.

Syeda Al Iqtadar Senior Associate, Holborn Contact: syeda@holbornassets.com

Sawsan Abu Omar, MCIPR PR & Communications Professional www.sawsanabuomar.com contact@sawsanabuomar.com

Gulf Insider March 2018

45

People & Culture

Expat insider News and information about expats in the GCC.

2

1

1. Kuwait condemns Manila ban on Filipino workers; hundreds of maids abscond

2. Bahrain: wage protection system underway for private sector employees

Kuwait’s foreign minister yesterday condemned what he called an “escalation” by Manila after the Philippines expanded a ban on its nationals working in Kuwait. Manila announced a “total ban” on employment in Kuwait, including Filipinos who already have employment permits. The measure came after President Rodrigo Duterte angrily lashed out at Kuwait over reports of Filipino workers suffering abuse and exploitation. Duterte said that his government would ask private airlines to evacuate Filipino nationals from Kuwait after the discovery of the dead body of a Filipina maid in a freezer.

Meanwhile, heeding the call by Duterte, the numbers of runaway Filipino housemaids have begun to swell at the Philippine embassy’s shelter in Salam, with an unprecedented number of domestic workers absconding from their sponsors. The shelter normally receives 5 to 10 runaways a day, but on Sunday, 92 runaways were recorded, and on Monday, 111 domestic helpers went to the Philippines Embassy demanding to be repatriated back home.

Kuwaiti authorities say 252,000 Filipinos work in Kuwait, many as maids. They are among over two million employed in the region, whose remittances are a lifeline to the Philippine economy. Domestic workers in Kuwait are not covered by regular labor legislation.

The Cabinet, chaired by HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain, yesterday initiated a step to implement a system that seeks to ensure wage protection and end exploitation of staff in the private sector.

Due to be launched in May 2018, and completed in May 2019, the system will be applied gradually according to the size of the establishment and in consultation with Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as clarified in the memorandum presented by the Labour and Social Development Minister.

Under the proposed system, payment of salary to employees in the private sector will be allowed only through their bank accounts. HRH the Premier told the Cabinet that the move would ensure that the private sector employees are paid “according to schedule.”

46

Gulf Insider March 2018

People & Culture

3 5

4

4

3. Kuwait: Departure of expatriates seriously affects real estate market

4. Expats in Mumbai are the world’s highest-paid, earning over twice the global average

Secretary of Kuwait Real Estate Association Qais Al-Ghanem affirmed that the real estate market in the country has been seriously affected by the departure of expatriates, indicating that they had warned about this crisis last year.

He said he is expecting the trend of expatriates’ departure to increase in June 2018, as they are either searching for better opportunities in other destinations or choosing to return to their countries of origin. Al-Ghanem explained that the recent pressures imposed on expatriates resulted in a large number of vacant flats especially in the investment residential sector.

A large number of expatriates are considering sending their families back to their countries of origin but keeping their residency valid, and choosing to stay in Kuwait as bachelors.

Mumbai, India is home to the world’s highest-earning expats, according to the latest HSBC Expat Explorer survey.

Expats working in India’s largest city can typically expect to bring home a sizable $217,165 salary, more than twice the global average of $99,903.

Mumbai was one of four Asian cities to rank in this year’s top 10 highest paying cities for expats. Shanghai, Jakarta and Hong Kong all featured alongside traditionally high paying cities in the U.S. and Europe.

Expats working in India’s largest city can typically expect to bring home a sizable $217,165 salary,

5. 22 people found hiding inside cement mixer in UAE Customs officials in Sharjah have nabbed 22 people hidden inside a cement mixer, trying to evade a customs checkpoint. The operation was carried out by the Federal Customs Authority and the Sharjah Ports Authority, who nabbed the people as they were trying to get away.

The customs officers had scanned the truck via routine X-ray inspection and were surprised to find 22 people — one African woman and the rest Asian — hidden within. Upon their discovery, the on-duty officials reported to their superior officer, who instructed them to handle the situation with utmost care because of the large number of infiltrators.

The customs authority had issued a memorandum prior to this incident, regarding greater sophistication in customs evasion techniques by offenders.

Gulf Insider March 2018

47

People & Culture

Kuwait panel rejects

anti-expat proposals In a landmark move, the Kuwait National Assembly rejected a string of proposals that specifically targets expats.

K

uwait’s National Assembly’s interior and defense committee yesterday rejected a string of proposals targeting expatriates, including calls to sharply raise fees on driving licenses and stop the issuance of dependent visas. The committee unanimously rejected a proposal submitted last month calling to raise charges for obtaining a new driving license for expatriates from the current KD 20 – for all – to as much as KD 1,000. The proposal also called for raising the renewal fees of the license from just KD 1 to KD 500 annually, and to raise expats’ vehicle registration fees to KD 500 annually from the current KD 5.

The committee said that although the intent of the proposal is to help resolve the traffic problem in the country, the proposed fees are too steep and will overburden expatriates, many of whom receive low salaries, and it will be extremely difficult for them to pay 48

Gulf Insider March 2018

The panel said that although the proposal will help in rectifying the imbalanced demographic structure, it will add a huge financial burden on expatriates. the increased charges. The committee also rejected another proposal calling to ban expatriates from obtaining family dependent visas except for their parents and to double the fees for the recruitment of expatriates, in addition to limiting the stay duration of expatriates

in the country to just 10 years.

The panel said that although the proposal will help in rectifying the imbalanced demographic structure, it will add a huge financial burden on expatriates. It said limiting the stay of expats to 10 years will create shortages in certain jobs in the local market. The committee however approved a third proposal calling on the government to force contractors of government projects to ensure the departure of their manpower after the completion of the project.

In a related development, the Assembly’s human rights defense committee approved a proposal calling on the government not to pay contractors any money before they submit evidence that they have paid their employees. Head of the committee MP Adel Al-Damkhi said the proposal aims to end strikes by workers who complain of not being paid.

Source Credit: Kuwait Times

People & Culture

Scam Alert! Indians warned of fake ’embassy calls’ the telephone network to indicate to the receiver of a call that the originator of the call is a station other than the true originating station.

A number of middle and high-income Indians working in Bahrain received these calls.

Following this, the Indian embassy has issued an alert which urged its nationals to contact authorities if they have fallen victim to the scam saying:

Advisory on Spoofed Calls

T

he Indian Embassy in Bahrain has issued a warning to its nationals to beware of fake callers claiming to be from the embassy following reports of fraudsters impersonating diplomats over the phone. Local authorities have been notified after

the Embassy has received several complaints wherein Indian nationals are asked to pay outstanding fees or penalties to the Embassy.

When traced, the phone numbers of the fake callers appear to be the embassy number. This scam is called ‘phone spoofing’ wherein hackers cause

The Embassy of India in Bahrain would like to advise members of the Indian community to remain vigilant about fraudsters duping Indian nationals residing abroad by impersonating as officials of Indian Missions and Posts, by spoofing the numbers of the diplomatic facilities. Recipients of such calls may inform the Indian Embassy immediately, with all relevant details at hoc.bahrain@ mea.gov.in

Bahrain withdraws book misnaming Arabian Gulf

A

foreign company had to apologise after it misnamed the Arabian Gulf in a textbook commissioned by the Ministry of Education. Under the deal, the company that went unnamed was to print 17,000 copies of a textbook in English for third graders.

The ministry provided the material for the book, including a map of the region that refers to the Gulf, the waterway separating the Arabian Peninsula from Iran, as the Arabian Gulf. However, upon reception of the textbooks, the ministry discovered that the map had been replaced by another that referred to the Arabian Gulf as the “Persian” Gulf.

The ministry rejected the textbooks and the company sent a representative to Bahrain to offer an apology for the mistake.

The company fixed the error and re-printed 17,000 copies of the textbook, Fawaz Al Shroogui, the head of public Relations and media at the ministry, said.

Gulf Insider March 2018

49

Business Card Revised

NEWS for British Expats in the Middle East Far From Blighty supports British Expats in the Middle East with the latest news from the UK, Middle East, and internationally - a unique new online news service categorized into time-saving sections (Business, Property, Tax, Health, Education, Career, Retirement, Travel etc.).

Stay informed - visit

Best of all, Far From Blighty is FREE!

www.FarFromBlighty.com Half Page Ad

ChAnge your lIFe!

Whether you want to slim down or bulk up, we’ll get you there faster than you think

18 years of field expertise in Nutrition, Training, and Supplementation

p Strength training – Bodybuilding - Aerobic conditioning -

Functional & sports specific training - In-home training & outdoor conditioning - Fitness monitoring p Personal program development - body assessments - designing personal training programs for clients - providing advice on the best diets to follow for different clients - Extensive knowledge of different exercise techniques - Great understanding of, and commitment to, the importance of customer care and its implementation

Training /Certification

p Ben Wider Diploma of the trainer’s culture from the International

Call for Free one-on-one assessment

+973 66 33 55 04

Federation of Bodybuilding with overall estimate (Excellent) Sports Massage Diploma from the Olympic Academy - Course in sports injuries from International Association of Football (FIFA).

Bachelor degree in Physical Education

Telecoms

CAR News &

reviews insider

Gulf Insider August 2017

48

Car Insider

new porsche cayenne models The latest generation of Porsche’s successful SUV model line is now available in Bahrain.

T

he arrival of the Porsche’s flagship SUV was celebrated at a special event held by Porsche Centre Bahrain, Behbehbani Brothers W.L.L at The Ritz Carlton Hotel, where the Cayenne and Cayenne S were showcased.

A completely new development brings the Cayenne closer to its racetrack roots and offers greater versatility and more performance than ever before. Powerful turbocharged engines, enhanced chassis systems, a range of off-road modes and a sharper design underpin the model’s credentials as a true sports car in its segment. Additional enhancements to the latest generation also include intelligent assistance systems and more connectivity features aimed at offering improved driver and passenger comfort.

Colin Sattar, Brand Manager of Porsche Centre Bahrain, said: “Since its initial launch, the Cayenne has been one of the most popular models in Bahrain,

52

Gulf Insider March 2018

and I have no doubt that the third generation, which offers even more sports car performance and practicality, will continue this success story. We’re very excited to be welcoming it to Bahrain today.”

A True All-Rounder The new Cayenne offers a spacious cabin, with several comfort and convenience features throughout.

The luggage compartment has been increased by 100 litres, meanwhile the Porsche Advanced Cockpit concept brings the vehicle and the occupants closer through increased connectivity and intuitive controls.

A true all-rounder, five preprogrammed drive and chassis modes can be activated in accordance to the terrain via the PCM. As well as the default Onroad programme, drivers can choose between Mud, Gravel, Sand and Rocks settings to adapt to the relevant conditions.

For the first time, the Cayenne is available with rear-axle steering as an option, and a mixed tyre configuration.

The tyres are also larger than before, ranging from 19 to 21 inches. Both developments are derived from the 911 to improve agility, stability and safety, whilst rear-axle steering also reduces the turning circle by 0.6 metres for even greater practicality.

The Cayenne S is powered by a 2.9-litre, biturbo-charged V6 engine with 440 hp (an increase of 20 hp) and 550 Nm of torque. It reaches 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds (4.9 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package) and boasts a top speed of 265 km/h.

Basic retail prices are as follows: Cayenne

BHD 30,900

Cayenne S

BHD 37,600

For more information: Porsche Centre Bahrain Tel. +973 1745 9911

Car Insider

Porsche Studio Lebanon

Gulf Insider was invited to Beirut, Lebanon to witness the first-of-its-kind Porsche studio in the region.

K

nown as the design hub of the region, the Lebanese capital is a hedonistic mix of culture, fashion, art and tradition. The fusion of East and West, of tradition and modernity, earned Beirut the nickname: The Paris of the Middle East. To strengthen its presence in the Middle East, Porsche recently opened the world’s third Porsche Studio in Beirut.

Located in the heart of downtown Beirut, the new premises offer visitors an immersive brand experience, which highlights a range of the brand’s services. The new site in the Lebanese capital adopts an innovative sales format, which enables the sports car manufacturer to interact with a wide spectrum of target groups, similar to 54

Gulf Insider March 2018

“Porsche on Sylt” and the “Porsche Studio Guangzhou”.

“The capital city of Beirut, as the economic and cultural centre of the country, is particularly attractive as

a location for a Porsche Studio. The new sales concept is an important instrument for further increasing the attractiveness of the brand and reaching new fans and customers, especially in growth markets”, says Detlev von Platen, Member of the Executive Board responsible for Sales and Marketing at Porsche AG. Porsche Studio Beirut is located in the Solidere shopping district, covering an area of over 309 square metres. The studio is just a stone’s throw away from the Four Seasons Hotel and near the stunning Zaitunay Bay. The showroom offers visitors an immense brand experience and gives them a real feel of the luxury brand that is. At the same time, providing the brand with a strong presence in the immediate vicinity of its

Car Insider

current and prospective customers.

The Porsche Studio appears more like a fashion show rather than a car lot with a special runway staging area, LED screen (which plays visual content depicting various sports cars in realworld scenarios), high fidelity sound system and fragrance elements – all of which create an experience that appeals to all senses. In hindsight, our visit to the studio was amazing.

Inside, there’s a coffee bar where you can get a drink, talk to an expert, and share ideas. The entire range of vehicles are available for test drives upon request. If a visitor is interested in making a purchase, their vehicle of choice can be customised on-site in the Trimming and Configuration Labs, with further tailoring possibilities from Exclusive Manufaktur. The Porsche Studio works closely with the existing

Porsche Studio Beirut offers a truly welcoming and engaging environment for customers, enthusiasts and the public to interact with our brand.

Porsche Centre in Beirut, making it possible to purchase vehicles directly on site We were also treated to a showcase

of the third generation Cayenne. A completely new development, Porsche’s flagship SUV is closer to its racetrack roots and offers greater versatility and more performance than ever before.

Powerful turbocharged engines, enhanced chassis systems, a range of off-road modes and a sharper design underpin the model’s credentials as a true sports car in its segment. Additional enhancements to the latest generation also include intelligent assistance systems and more connectivity features aimed at offering improved driver and passenger comfort.

The Cayenne S, which was displayed on the Porsche Studio Beirut runway, is powered by a 2.9-litre, biturbo-charged V6 engine with 440 hp (an increase of 20 hp) and 550 Nm of torque. It reaches 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds (4.9 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package) and boasts a top speed of 265 km/h.

Commenting on the opening, Deesch Papke, Chief Executive Officer of Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE, said: “Porsche Studio Beirut offers a truly welcoming and engaging environment for customers, enthusiasts and the public to interact with our brand.

The wide variety of digital touchpoints integrated into the space enable all visitors to learn more about the heritage of Porsche and the infinite possibilities available to them when configuring their very own sports car. It is certainly a must-visit destination that appeals to all senses and I would like to congratulate our long-standing partner Porsche Lebanon SAL on the completion of this well executed project.”

Gulf Insider March 2018

55

Car Insider

BMW X3 M40i Gulf Insider’s Charlie Cooksey tests the new BMW X3M40i.

T

his is the first BMW I’ve ever driven, so you can imagine my eagerness to get behind the wheel. We picked up the car from EuroMotors and drove it down to the south of the island.

First impressions - I love the look of this SUV, and get the feeling its imposing profile draws admiring glances from other drivers throughout the drive.

The cabin is luxurious, sporty, and full of comfortable soft leather and all sorts of other top quality materials.

56

Gulf Insider March 2018

The powerful 3 liter M Performance Twin Turbo 6-cylinder engine handles perfectly, knocking out an impressive 355 horse power which propels this rocket from zero to a hundred kph in just 4.6 seconds.

There’s an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission with Launch Control – yes, an SUV with Launch Control!

So how does this model compare with the previous one? The 2018 BMW X3 M40i was completely redesigned,

upping performance and technology considerably and comes standard with several new, comfort enhancing features not offered on its predecessor.

These include 3-zone automatic climate control, which adds separate temperature controls to the rear compartment. BMW has also liberated more room in the interior as the wheelbase of the new X3 is increased by 55mm. It’s also noticeably better looking.

We took it on a bit of sand and

Car Insider

The powerful 3 liter M Performance Twin Turbo 6-cylinder engine handles perfectly, knocking out an impressive 355 horse power which propels this rocket from zero to a hundred kph in just 4.6 seconds.

Specifications

Starting Price: BD25,995 along Al Jazeera beach and it handled exceptionally well.

The steering is quick, accurate, and well weighted in its default mode so driving it on a rough road won’t slow you down. Alternatively, Adaptive M Sport suspension ensures comfort and control when you’re speeding down the highway.

I particularly liked the brilliant 16 speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system. The first thing I did when I

jumped into the car was to hook up my phone’s Bluetooth to it. With my collection being techno and house, it was amazing.

But, I also loved the growl of the engine and exhaust sound, and for some of the drive I decided to switch off the music just so I could enjoy the sound of the engine.

This X3 is really put together beautifully, using top quality materials.

I couldn’t find a single thing that I don’t like about this BMW.

To arrange a test drive in Bahrain call Euromotors on +973 1775 0750.

Price Comparison

Displacement

183 cu in, 2998 cc

Power

355hp@6500 rpm

Torque

369 lb ft. @1520 rpm

Transmission

8 speed automatic

Audi SQ5 BD28,995 For more information: Audi Bahrain Tel: +973 1745 9933

Jaguar F-Pace

Range Rover Evoque

BD28,000

BD19,000

For more information: Jaguar Showroom Tel: +973 1746 0460

For more information: Euromotors Tel: +973 1746 0460

Gulf Insider March 2018

57

Last Word

Old Bahrain

Manama waterfront, 1949.

Photo taken for Life Magazine, a New York based weekly general interest magazine notable for the quality of the photography. At the time it was one of the most famous magazines in the world and it was running a special feature on the island of Bahrain.

58

Gulf Insider March 2018

A lifestyle vista in Bahrain

Features: • The best in events, dining & nightlife • A blog that provides unbiased reviews • Discounted vouchers and coupons for fantastic dining experiences!

Join us as we search for the island’s best parties, restaurants, and deals!

Never miss a single deal!

www.bahrain101.com

Because your journey of success deserves the finest banking services

Join the world of Elite today and enjoy a host of exclusive banking benefits specially designed to offer you the ultimate levels of personalized services and distinction locally and regionally.

Discover more about the world of Elite Today.

Licensed as a Conventional Retail & Wholesale Bank by the CBB. This service is available to our Retail Bank customers.