Hi weekly - September 4, 2015

F A L A F THIS WEEK IN OMAN

GET HOOKED Oman is a fisherman’s paradise. Buy the right gear and cast a line of your own.

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YOU SAY KAHWA, I SAY COFFEE

HI’S AUTOMOTIVE CRUSH

Learn about the most iconic beverage in the Sultanate from Chef Malik Al Jahdhami. PAGE 20

Meet the new-to-Oman, super swoon worthy Jaguar XE. PAGE 22

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HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 21 SEPTEMBER 4, 2015

Give us a shout with questions, comments, compliments, complaints, or just to say “Hi” Founder Essa bin Mohamed Al Zedjali Chairman Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali CEO Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali scottarmstrong@timesofoman.com

Chief Executive Editor Scott Armstrong felicia@timesofoman.com

Executive Features Editor Felicia Campbell hubert@timesofoman.com

Editors Hubert Vaz, Swati Dasgupta swati@timesofoman.com

Chief Sub-Editors Mohammed Shafeeqe, Ashish Dubash shafeeq@timesofoman.com

Special Correspondent Salim Joseph Reporters T. A. Ameerudheen Faisal Mohammed Naim Mahran Shaukat Ali

ashishdubash@timesofoman.com salim@timesofoman.com faisal@timesofoman.com

ameerudheen@timesofoman.com mahran@timesofoman.com

Chief Creative Officer Adonis Durado Associate Art Director Waleed Rabin Graphic Editor Antonio Farach Design Editor Sahir K.M. Lead Designer Ali Jani Designers Antonio Ismael Sandiego Geri Batara Sonny Gregory Fernandez Photography MMG Photographers aziz@timesofoman.com

Head Of Advertising & Marketing Aziz K. Baker Production Manager Shafi Shaik Circulation Manager Vinod Panicker vinodpanicker@timesofoman.com

On The Cover Photography by Shabin E Design by Gregory Fernandez

Muscat Media Group An ISO 9001:2008 certified company Post Box: 770, Postal Code: 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman EDITORIAL 24726600/24726666 Ext 235/160 felicia@timesofoman.com

CIRCULATION 24726600/24726666 Ext 135/136 circulation@timesofoman.com

ADVERTISEMENT 24726600/24726666 EXT 435/193 hi7ayam@hotmail.com

SAY HI ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER facebook.com/hiweekly twitter@hiweekly

Tell us what you’re doing this weekend: Tweet @hioman

Tag us in your weekend instagram photos #HiWeekend

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THE WEEKEND LINEUP Catch the hottest events that are happening this week in our calendar.

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Have a Desert Crossing Adventure

Spend 3 days dune bashing and 2 nights camping under the stars in the Sharqiyah desert with a huge group of adventure-buffs with The Guide Oman expedition.

The weekend journey will begin on September 3rd in Al Kamil and end in Khuwaymay on the 5t 5th. th The Guide Oma Oman an +968 9803 8820 882 20

Photography: Supplied

Let Sabrina Terrenc Terrence ce You Move Yo ou 9:00pm 9:00p pm Sabrina Terrence, th the he most popular female DJ in the UAE, will be spinning spinnin ng a range of House and Progressive House music in Muscat for the first time Thursday. this Thursday Golden Tulip Seeb On The Rocks +968 9798 3333

FRIDAY

Find Your Dream Home

10:00am-8:00pm Spend an afternoon doing the ultimate windowshopping at the two-day (September 4 & 5) India Homes Fair at the Al Falaj Hotel. Peruse the vast selection of available and upcoming properties in India to find your dream home. The offerings of over 40 reputed builders will be showcased courtesy of Indian home loan bank, HDFC. Al Falaj Hotel, Ruwi +968 9538 3199 hdfc.com

Shop and Snack 10:00am-10:00pm Local and expat artisans will gather for the Meena Bazaar to sell ethnic wear, fashion jewellery, and handicrafts, as well as exotic food and drinks.

Al Bahja Hall, Jungle Restaurant Al Qurum +968 9871 3403

SATURDAY Find Your Zen 7:00pm End your weekend on a placid note with a visit to the Rajyoga Centre for Self Development in Ruwi for a free two-hour meditation seminar. The centre teaches a form of meditation that aims to relax the mind and nurture a healthy balance between one’s inner and outer worlds. +968 2478 2924 rajayogaoman.org

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Going out of town to see any of these events?

Tag us on Instagram @HiWeekly_Oman

Will you be there this weekend?

Show us your pics! Tag us on Instagram #HiWeekend and tell us about it on Facebook.com/HiWeekly

KHALEEJI HAPPENINGS Broadcasting the best events in the GCC

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FIVE TO TRY Water Sports Centres hiweekend@timesofoman.com

Al Marassi in Jebel Sifah

Shangri La Resort in Qantab

Al Mouj Marina in Al Seeb

Al Marassi (adjacent to the Jebel Sifawy Boutique Hotel) offers a range of water sports activities from dolphin watching and fishing trips to diving and snorkelling lessons, jet ski rentals and banana boat rides. +968 9692 3969

Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa offers all kinds of sea sports — diving, sailing, snorkelling, fishing, yatching — for guests and day-pass visitors as well as dive excursions and scuba diving courses at the Dive Centre jetty for tourists and residents. +968 2477 6666, shangri-la.com/muscat

This marina is designed to accommodate 10-40 metre yachts and has five-star state-of-the-art facilities for thrill seekers interested in jet-skiing, kayaking, wakeboarding, diving and parasailing. You can even learn the basics of sailing at the onsite Oman Sail school. +968 2453 4544, almoujmarina.com

Photography: Supplied

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Thursday, September 3 - 5 Swan Lake Ballet (Dubai) Witness the Great Chinese State Circus perform a unique blend of traditional art, Chinese acrobatics, and ballet with their novel presentation of the popular opera ‘Swan Lake’. With 150 shows under their belt, this group have finally come to Dubai for six shows on Sept 3 (6:30pm, 10:00pm), Sept 4 (5:00pm, 9:00pm), and Sept 5 (4:00pm, 8:00pm)

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Dubai World Trade Centre Contact: + 971 4338 3911

Saturday, September 5 Bollywood Lifestyle Exhibition (Dubai) Find some amazing shopping deals at the Bollywood Dubai Lifestyle Exhibition fashion gala at the Oberoi Hotel. Keep an eye out for beautiful garments as well as celebrities and acclaimed designers. Oberoi Hotel,

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050 9805499, info@beingposh.ae

Friday, September 4 Sheikha Hind Women’s Sports Tournament (Dubai) Go cheer on participants of the 3rd Sheikha Hind Women’s Sports Tournament as the female Emirati Dubai government employees compete in volleyball, basketball, and handball matches as well as badminton, swimming, races, and even chess. The event started to encourage physical activity in the Emirates. Dubai World Trade Centre, dubaisportscouncil.ae

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8:00pm, Friday, September 4 One Love (Qatar) Spend the evening practicing your moves at Fabric Lounge at the Grand Regal Hotel, Doha where you can groove to the Caribbean sounds of The Dancehall Ambassador G MONEY and opening reggae act DJ Kinky D. Grand Regal Hotel, +974

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Saturday, September 5 Afro Beats Big Friday (Qatar) Head to Wahm Lounge at the W Doha Hotel to turn up to the sounds of house music peppered with modern Congolese Rumba, West African voices, US R&B, and AfroCuban rhythms by Boddhi Satva.

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Wahm Lounge, W Doha Hotel & Residences, +974 4453 5323

Al Nimer Tourism in Al Qurum

Kiteboarding Oman in Al Sawadi

On the beach at Shatti Al Qurum, Al Nimer Tourism offers water sports enthusiasts access to jet-skiing, parasailing, wake boarding, kayaking, and rides on ski tubes, right in the heart of the city. +968 9955 0535

Just past Barka at the Al Sawadi resort, experienced kiteboarders can rent all the gear they need to hit the waves while beginners can take courses to get them up to speed. A rescue boat helps kiters who drift away and an assistant is there to help with starts and landings. +968 9632 3524, kiteboarding-oman.com

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Qatari Urban Graphic Artist Self-taught designer Razan Suliman transforms traditional Arabesque patterns into unconventional fabric designs with neon accents and layered iconography. Her men’s v-neck t-shirts are especially dapper. Order one from her directly (fanillaCouture@gmail.com) or pick one up here at Boutique Muscat (boutiquemuscat.com). OMR 30

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Saudi Pop Artist Saudi fashion designer and illustrator, Fyunka, has created her own burqa (face mask) and burka (long garment) clad characters that appear throughout her collections. We love the hip stencilled handbags and embroidered pouches available here in Oman at Boutique Muscat, Jawharat A’Shatti Mall, +968 2469 9949, boutiquemuscat.com.

OMR 49 (hand bag), OMR 15 (pouch)

WEARABLE ART Add instant style to the most basic outfit with garments and accessories created by visual artists. Felicia@timesofoman.com

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Parisian Fashion Illustrator French fashion icon Clément Dezelus designed a special collection for Promod featuring super-cool t-shirts with black and white screen-printed illustrations of models accented with playful red lips and accessories. As a bonus, they come with a free Dezelus tote bag. Find yours at Promod, Qurum City Centre, +968 2455 8240, promod.eu OMR 12.900

Photography: Shabin E

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Tell us about you’re ideal weekend getaway: Tweet @HiWeekly_Oman

We wanna see photos!

Post on our Facebook page and tag us in your weekend Instagram photos @HiWeekly_Oman

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What is your favourite Oman travel splurge?

Crazy for spas? Find dining? Room Service?

Tweet us @ HiWeekly_Oman

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FRIDAY

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9:00AM HIT THE ROAD Depart from Muscat in your 4WD vehicle (you can’t reach the hotel without one, so if you don’t own a 4x4, plan to rent one/ borrow one from a friend).

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9:30AM BREAKFAST Just past the airport and the Burj Al Sahwa roundabout, stop at the petrol station and order Omani bread stuffed with cheese and egg and a sweet, milky karak tea from the adjacent tea shop.

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12:00PM ARRIVE IN TIME FOR LUNCH Arrive at Alila, check in and walk around the property to take photos of the breath taking views, then head to the Rose Lounge for lunch. Have light salads like the unusual pickled beetroot with crumbled labneh, or a more traditional citrusy cucumber, tomato, and fried pita fatoush salad, or go for an “Omani lamb burger” topped with sweet-tangy date and tamarind sauce.

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2:00PM FRESHEN UP Go to your suite and refresh with a spritz in your walk-in shower, then sit and take in the view from your private balcony.

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4:00PM SPA TIME Go down to the subterranean Alila spa for some serious beautification. Start with an hour-long Balinese body massage, which involves stretching and skin rolling to alleviate muscle pain and promote relaxation, followed by an avocado and coconut hair and scalp treatment to restore moisture to your locks after this incredibly hot summer. Alternatively, try out the men’s and women’s facials, 75 minute intensive therapies to give you a just-back-from-vacation glow.

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OPULENCE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

“GLAMPING” IN JABAL AKHDAR

A few hours north of Muscat, the spectacular vistas of the Jabal Akhdar mountains are most often associated with outdoorsy adventure travel — camping trips, rock climbing, even mountain biking — but atop one of the towering plateaus sits a luxurious oasis perfect for a weekend of relaxation and pampering in the lap of nature. No bug spray or sleeping bags required.

–hiweekend@timesofoman.com

SATURDAY

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9:00AM TAKE A LAP Go for a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the canyons of Jabal Akhdar, then relax in the Jacuzzi.

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10:30AM ROOM SERVICE Order breakfast and enjoy coffee and pastries on your balcony.

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12:00PM CHECK OUT Check out and make your way down the mountain. Stop to snap some pictures of the spectacular cliffs.

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7:30PM DINNER WITH A VIEW Take an outdoor table at Juniper restaurant to take full advantage of the cool mountain air while dining on seasonal dishes like turmericscented chicken tagine over olive rice, spicy sheri fish over freekeh, or American Angus beef steaks.

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9:00PM REFRESH YOURSELF Wind down your evening with a refreshing iced cucumber or milk and rosewater bath, or the super-indulgent champagne berry bath, before slipping into bed.

12:30PM LUX LUNCH Continue your weekend of indulgence with a stop in Nizwa at the high-end food plaza, Dar El Ezz (+968 2521 7100) for a luxurious lunch in the castle-like structure.

In cooler weather, the rooftop restaurant, Clouds, offers phenomenal views along with excellent Mediterranean cuisine, and inside Memories, featuring an international menu, is the first fine dining restaurant in the city and well worth a try.

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4:00PM Arrive back in Muscat before the sun sets and spend a restful evening basking in the afterglow of your weekend escape.

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SO FRESH AND SO CLEAN S

haikha Al Mahrooqi and her daughter, feel that the one place in their beautiful Al Khoud villa that wholly and solely belongs to them is their kitchen. This is where their creative juices get churning as they cook and bake. Since this is the room in which they spend most of their free time, it makes sense that the architecture of this space was given utmost importance. Shaikha wanted a kitchen that felt bright and airy, so the crisp, white cupboards, sleek, low-proďŹ le appliances, huge windows overlooking her garden, and a fantastic geometric tile, backsplash for a colourful focal point.

Space Designers International in Ghubra (+968 2461 9400, spacedesignersoman.com) customised this incredibly fresh, clean kitchen for Shaikha using subtle pops of colour, plenty of light, natural elements, and clutter-free counters - great inspirations for our own culinary workspaces.

HiWeekend@timesofoman.com

Do you have a beautiful space to feature in Hi? Tell us about it HiWeekend@ timesofoman.com

Inspired to recreate one of the Hi Spaces? Show us before and after pics on Facebook.com/HiWeekly

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THE DETAILS MAKE YOUR KITCHEN AIRY AND CHEERFUL

COLOURFUL ACCESSORIES Liven your kitchen with subtle pops of colour with colourful small electronics and cooking accessories available at Home Centre, Al Khuwair +968 2460 1569, homecentrestores.com.

HANGING LIGHTS If you don’t have a big window in your kitchen, keep your space bright and beautiful with interesting drop lights, like this rustic collection from Marina Home, Al Araimi Complex, Qurum, +968 2456 2221, marinahomeinteriors.com.

WALL HANGINGS If you rent, you likely don’t want to re-tile your kitchen, so instead add some texture and beauty with inexpensive, geometric wall art, like this mirrored piece from Homes R Us, MGM, +968 2439 6160, homesrusgroup.com

Photography: Shabin E (kitchen), Supplied (products)

FLOWER POWER Nothing adds colour and a feeling of freshness to a space better than flowers. So in lieu of a garden view, keep a vase of fresh cut stems or a planter box of herbs in your cooking space.

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Fishing is fun; and fishing is not just about fish. During a fishing trip, families and friends can relax together as they enjoy being outdoors and have the thrill of catching a big one. Fishing makes for a big hobby in Muscat and around, with Oman’s vast sea-line surrounding the city, giving anglers, both amateurs and professionals alike, a shot at having fun uninterrupted in the deep blue waters. Wanna go angling already? Check out the essentials before heading out.

Here is a round-up of what to look for and where.

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FISHING ROD: A good fishing rod is probably the most important part of an anglers’ fishing gear. After all, it’s hard to cast a line without one. While a fishing rod can be as simple as a bamboo pole with a length of line attached at the skinny end, modern fishing rods come in a vast array of types and materials. However, they all have a common anatomy.

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FISHING LINE: Without fishing line, there’s no fishing.

Fishing line provides the connection between you and the fish. From hook to rod, every motion, every tug, every drag-screaming run flows through the line to the angler. Modern lines are made from strong synthetic materials like nylon, dacron, dyneema, and fluorocarbon.

Take your pick.

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FISHING REEL: The reel holds and spools out fishing line, and once the fish takes the bait, reel has a big role to play. It has a brake to slow running fish, a handle to retrieve line and a bracket to fasten the fishing reel to the rod. Available in vast variety, this one needs to be selected carefully, especially keeping in mind the size of your game.

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LURES: If your bait isn’t natural, it’s a lure, and lures have some really great names: poppers, spinners, jigs, blades, plugs and spoons. Choose what you fancy. However, it’s the jigs mostly that the fishes fancy.

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HOOKS: Having a bent profile and pointed sharp at the end, the hook is the oldest and most trusted ally of anglers. Lure or bait, be it any form of trap, you still need the ever faithful hook for the catch to be actually stuck to the bait. Available in many size and shapes, hooks are chosen depending on the size of the intended catch.

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SEARCH LIGHT: One of the very essential must haves on a fishing trip, if planned at night, or if you plan on trapping squids. They run towards light, we all know that. Look for one with different lighting modes and luminous strengths, and is head strappable. Who knows you might need to go underwater to get the squids.

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HUNTING KNIFE: You might need to cut out the entrails on the spot, if a fish barbecue is in order, and that’s where the knife comes in handy. Better to have a folding one, to avoid any unwanted cuts and injuries.

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SPOOL: You will want to have spare line ready at hand in case your catch runs away with your lure and line both.

Keep the line ready to be rolled on to the reel by winding it onto the spool.

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SAFETY GLOVES: Whether you are trying to pull the line once the fish is pulled near to the boat, or simply trying to pick the fish up from water by the hand, safety gloves keep you safe from unwanted injuries from bites and cuts.

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FREE DIPPED NET: Ok so you see a lot of squids surfacing or you are fishing in rocky waters, or you find it hard pulling your catch out from water, the net comes in real handy. Just swipe it in the water below the catch, and it is yours. Especially the big fishes are brought out easily by these nets only.

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SNAPS AND SWIVELS: Swivels are used to join two parts of your line so that the far end can spin freely.

This keeps it from twisting and causing problems on the spool. Snaps are swivels with a closure on one end that locks securely. If you tie a snap to the end of your main line, you can quickly attach hooks that have been snelled to a leader with a loop at the end. Some lures dance and spin so much that they call for swivels in order to move freely.

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WEIGHTS AND SINKERS: A fishing sinker or knoch is a weight used in conjunction with a fishing lure or hook to increase its rate of sink, anchoring ability, and/or casting distance. A large variety of sinkers exist, in varying size and shapes, which are used depending on the fish being pursued.

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BOBBERS AND FLOATS: Just the opposite of sinkers, these help in keeping the floating at a desired height.

Especially in rocky waters, they stop the bait from going too down, lest it gets stuck in the rocks.

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Photography: Shabin E

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GET YOUR GEAR AT: Al-Fuqaei Trading & Contrating, Muttrah +968 2471 3391 Marassi Al Jissah LLC, Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Sidab +968 9888 2822 TLC, Sultan Centre, Qurum + 968 24 567-666

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Show us your fav falafels!

Instagram @HiWeekly_Oman

or at Facebook.com/ HiWeekly

FALAFEL STAND

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What's the best snack in the Sultanate? Tweet @HiWeekly_Oman

DINE OUT

Here in Muscat there are all kinds of places to pick up a sandwich or a bag of fresh-fried falafels. Here are a few of the Hi Weekly staff’s top picks from around the city. Order a dozen from each and have a taste-test party this weekend.

DINE IN

NEW LEBANESE VILLAGE, AL KHUWAIR On the service road near the Said Bin Taimur Mosque,

Most people think of falafels as the fluffy chickpea-and-breadcrumb versions found at takeaway restaurants, but Iraqi falafels — a hearty blend of chickpeas, fava beans, and fresh and dried herbs — born out of the ancient Mesopotamian culinary traditions of the region, will change what you think you know about this popular snack. Try this great recipe from Nawal Nasrallah's Iraqi cookbook this weekend.

visible on the right hand side of the road going towards Qurum, just past the petrol station.

Open after 5pm daily.

Is there anything as satisfying as a hot chickpeaparsley fritter fried to crunchy, golden perfection? One bite and you’ll know how this ubiquitous Middle Eastern Street food became a global favourite. felicia@timesofoman.com

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Crispy, fluffy, classic chickpea falafels served with a garlicy yoghurt dipping sauce

TARBOUSH, QURUM Across the street from the Sabco Shopping Complex.

Open after 5pm daily.

Cilantro-packed green orbs with lots of flavour

FILAFEL RESTAURANT, RUWI Just off of the Hamriyah Roundabout, before the Al Maha station and the flashing ice cream sign.

Open after 6pm daily.

Greasy and delicious, sandwich topped with cabbage and white sauce *Pro tip: get a side order of their hummus, which is so thick with tahini, it’s basically Middle Eastern peanut butter.

AL SHADI TURKISH, WADI KABIR Next to the Wadi Kabir Shell Station.

Open 24-hours.

Salty, extra-crunchy balls perfect for snacking

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INGREDIENTS • 1 cup cooked (or canned) fava/broad beans, drained • 1 cup cooked (or canned) chickpeas, drained • 1 cup parsley, chopped • ¼ cup cilantro/fresh coriander, chopped • ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped • 4 garlic cloved, minced •¼ cup minced or grated onion •1 tsp zataar (the spice blend, not wild thyme) • 1 tsp ground coriander seed • 1 tsp ground cumin • ½ tsp salt • ¼ tsp black pepper • ½ tsp chilli powder • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 3tbsp breadcrumbs • Oil, for frying

INSTRUCTIONS • Puree beans in a food processor or blender, then mix in all the remaining ingredients, except for the oil. Kneed to combine, then let rest for an hour in the refrigerator.

• Using a heaping tablespoon of the mixture, form small round balls about 5cm in diameter. Arrange on a tray and let rest an additional 15 minutes.

• Heat oil over medium high heat. Add falafel balls, being sure not to crowd the pot, and cook 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

• Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining balls.

• Serve hot with a dip as an appetiser, or roll them into flatbread sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, yoghurt sauce, hot sauce, and a pickle.

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Do you have before and after pics to share? Instagram @HiWeekly_Oman

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Ask any professional makeup artist about the key to achieving a “healthy glow” and they will tell you that all beauty regiments should begin with proper skincare. But sometimes sunscreen, moisturising, and taking care of their skin in general is not enough, and many women in their early thirties and beyond seek non-surgical beauty treatments that target specific concerns, especially fine lines, creases, frown lines, and sagging skin. Kaya Skin Clinic, one of the top skincare treatment facilities in Oman, specialises in range of well researched, top-of-the-line treatment options, so we went in for a consultation with clinic manager Rohita Balagopal and Dr Muzna Al Taie about the three most popular rejuvenation options on offer. HiWeekend@timesofoman.com

Dermal Fillers: Best for deeper wrinkles and restoring facial fullness As we age, our faces naturally lose subcutaneous fat, making smile lines and crow’s feet more apparent.

Fillers are a gel like substance composed of hyaluronic acid that restores volume and fullness to the face and helps to fill out fine lines diminish lines for a fresher, younger look. The gel is injected into the face with a needle and the skin is massaged and assessed throughout the process, which takes between 15 minutes and an hour. The effects of a dermal filler are visible immediately and can last up to three years.

Micro-threads: Best for sagging face and neck skin Also known as the “lunch hour face lift” this procedure uses micro thread absorbable, single strand, sterile medical sutures made from Polidioxanine to target saggy necks, cheeks, jowls, and droopy eyebrows with more natural results, at a much lower cost, than a traditional facelift. A small incision is made behind the ear or hairline and fine treads are inserted. The body naturally produces collagen, which surrounds the thread and tightens the entire area.

The procedure takes around an hour and any swelling and discomfort usually resolves within a day or two.

The results typically last 3-4 years.

Different age groups require different treatments depending on the skin type, texture, and the conditions the skin has been exposed to over time, so each treatment must be customised.

For more information get in touch with KAYA SKIN CLINIC in Al Sarooj (+968 2460 1700, kayaskinclinic.me, kayacare@kayame.net).

Illustration by Lucille Umali

Botox: Best for fine lines and wrinkles Botox is an injectable treatment to get rid of frown lines, crow’s feet, and other fine lines on the face.

Botox freezes the facial muscles, tightening the skin to eliminate the creases, and preventing the frowning that causes the lines in the first place.

Studies have shown that this actually makes botox an effective preventative measure against future wrinkles. The procedure takes only a few minutes and visible results are immediate, though the full effect will be seen after a few days and generally lasts around 3 months.

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TA’AL QAHWI. ALL ABOUT OMANI COFFEE The invitation to drink steaming, aromatic coffee from tiny ceramic cups (called fenjan) is an integral part of Omani culture and a symbol of Omani hospitality.

Malik Al Jahdhami, head chef at Bait n Restaurant in Muttrah, tells us Al Luban about the most Omani of drinks.

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TA’AL FUWALA.

Story | T.A. Ameerudheen Photography | Shabin E

A S K A N O M A N I

ahwa, or Omani coffee, occupies a special place in Omani society.

The aromatic scent of freshly brewed coffee bridges the gap between people and fosters friendship among them.

“Omanis always keep visitors in high esteem.

It is mandatory to serve Qahwa to the guests.

Besides, it is an essential drink during special ceremonies,” explained chef Malik of Bait Al Luban restaurant.

“People always use the Qahwa session to greet each other and exchange pleasantries.

But each region has got its own distinctive style of doing it. Those in Batinah and Dakhiliyah regions exchange pleasantries before inviting the guests for the coffee, while citizens of Sharqiyah, Wusta and other southern regions prefer to serve coffee first before talking to the guests.”

The methods of preparing coffee powder also vary from region to region, though most of them prefer coffee bean from Sri Lanka (Ceylon Coffee). In the past, people used to fry the bean in pan, putting it over charcoal and powder it manually. “Cardamom, rose water and saffron will be added to enrich the coffee powder all over Oman. But there are people who prefer cloves and cinnamon too,” he says.

He also explained the Qahwa etiquette. “If you attend a wedding ceremony, you should first eat Halwa before drinking Qahwa. If you give the cup straight to the person, he will pour some more coffee into your cup. If you don’t want coffee any more, you have to shake the cup and give it back.”

Even the person who serves the coffee has to follow certain rules. “He should not disturb people while talking. He should make a tick noise by hitting the cup on the pot to divert their attention. It is the polite way of serving it.”

A person who will not compromise on quality, Malik always buys the powder from a shop in Seeb which roasts the coffee beans and grinds it with cardamom according to his preferences.

“I boil the coffee powder with water. I put two teaspoons of rose water and a pinch of saffron in the pot. Once the coffee is ready, I will pour it into the pot. I don’t cook saffron and rose water. If you boil rose water, the essence goes away, and it is the type of the bean and the roasting process that will decide the strength of the coffee.”

Though ready-to-use Arabic coffee powder is available in the market, Malik chooses to make the long drive from Mutrah to Seeb to continue buying directly from his favourite grinder. “I prefer to continue the tradition. We should strive to preserve our roots.” ameerhudeen@timesofoman.com

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SCAN TO SEE THE VIDEO REVIEW

Story | Faisal Mohammed Naim Photography | Shabin E

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appear t i g n i k a tance, m XE is instantly s r a l u c s and mu bly Jaguar, the e h t i l a e most e a h t k t a a e e t r t s i c a i s c m appre us line nce. Un Its sinuo s ready to pou ood, but to fully to drive one. g ve ay as if alw le. Sure it looks ade, you just ha ab m recognis ic Jaguar ever am aerodyn

t makes a powerful first impression, with its stand-out looks. Inspired by the F-TYPE, its grille gives it a strong sporting look. The sculpted bonnet sweeps back from the distinctive ‘JBlade’ HID Xenon headlamps, imparting a sleek, yet dominating, appearance. You fall in love the moment you set your eyes on it. This is an absolute beauty.

Enter XE, the latest compact saloon series released

by Jaguar, which claims to be the most advanced, efficient, and refined sports saloon car the company has ever produced. We were lucky enough to get our hands on the XE R Sport (thanks to MHD Automotives LLC, the brand’s authorised distributors in Oman), and boy were we impressed.

The XE creates a compelling case for car lovers: posh and plush, you connect with XE the moment you slide into the form hugging seats. You sit low. Directly ahead are two large, sports car analogue dials and a message centre - modelled after the Jaguar’s top-end F TYPE. Bold and assertive, XE R Sport displays its unmistakable sporting character, inside and out, with an exciting blend of style and agility, starting with the chunky sports steering wheel. The raised centre console adds a cockpit feel, while the very latest in Jaguar Touch-screen technology feels almost futuristic.

But again, this is all aesthetics. Press the start button and the beauty awakens to life. Under the hood, the R Sport packs a powerful 2.0 litre i4 Turbocharged petrol engine, holding out 237 ponies. It feels really punchy from below 2000rpm, spins up extremely smoothly and cruises in near-silence. In both higher- and lower-output tunes, the engine feels entirely comfortable with a car of the XE’s bulk. The result is 0 to 100 kmph in under 7 seconds (yeah we tried that too, and believe it or not we were almost there. Venue – Al Amerat Expressway). XE is the first in a new generation of Jaguars to use the brand’s Aluminium Intensive Architecture - a body-shell that’s exceptionally light, yet strong. The result is excellent balance, even at the highest of speeds, and reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

But amidst the sporty features and slick styling, what really struck me was the refinement. You have to work this motor extremely hard before it borders on the thrashy side; it spins up willingly and smoothly, and it drops to a background whoosh once you’re up to cruising speeds. The wind noise from the side mirrors drowned the engine whirring easily as we breezed along the smooth and twists and turns along the highway heading towards Yiti beach.

Whether you’re driving XE enthusiastically or simply want the assurance of a car that will remain

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pension, and advanced Integral Link rear suspension throughout the range, offering benchmark Sports Saloon dynamics.

On the inside, standard RSport gets eight-way adjustable Luxtec Sport seats with electric recline. The seats are comfortable and supportive, the wheel brought easily into reach and the dials clear.

With an ‘R-Sport’ branded soft grain leather steering wheel, etched aluminium veneer and a choice of four exclusive trims, the interior blends race-inspired looks with refinement and comfort. All the goodies are quite driver oriented, and laid out logically. The driving position is also sound.

Things are not quite so impressive in the rear of the cabin however, where the seats have a smidgen less room than the leading cars in class. Forget a heavy built guy like me (almost 250 pounds), the rear proved to be quite tight even for our slender videographer Kris,

stable in challenging conditions, Jaguar’s Stability Systems keep the XE safely balanced through unexpected driving situations. All models in the new XE range feature a decent amount of standard equipment including cutting edge safety technologies like autonomous emergency braking, self-parking and lane departure warning systems as well as luxury basics such as smart key, climate control and an 8 inch touch-

screen infotainment system labelled as ‘In Control’. The Traffic Sign Recognition displays speed limit signs, in case you miss them.

The ‘All Surface Progress Control’ (ASPC) is a categoryfirst technology from Jaguar, and standard on all XEs (with automatic gearbox). Acting like a low-speed cruise control, it enables firm traction, in even the most slippery conditions. So whether you’re driving up an icy slope or tow-

ing on wet grass, ASPC will gain traction, allowing you to concentrate on steering (need not to worry about the ice in here though).

‘Adaptive Dynamics’ and ‘Torque Vectoring by Braking’, are some other amazing features delivering outstanding sports car agility and added driver confidence.

XE R Sport takes XE’s sporting prowess to the next level, with confident styling including 18 inch alloy wheels

who somehow still managed to squeeze inside with all his baggage and lenses.

But it’s only a centimetre or two here and there, you might argue, and the bench in usual circumstances is only occupied by children anyway.

Fair point.

A superb 380W Meridian audio system brings entertainment to life in the RSport. Designed specifically for the XE Series, the system offers superb audio reproduction through 12 channels and 11 speakers – including a subwoofer.

Feeling more like a compact V6 than a blown four, the motor offers excellent throttle response without a hint of lag, rushing headlong toward its redline with a vigour that can have inattentive drivers rapping on the rev limiter.

Drivers looking to get the most out of the car can go further by selecting a dynamic mode that sharpens the suspension, steering and throttle responses, while

and unique R-Sport body kit.

The sport bumper features Noble Chrome blades whilst body colour side sills and boot lid spoiler emphasise XE’s muscular stance. ‘RSport’ embossed side power vents complement interior sill finishers.

The R Sport also offers sports suspension as standard, delivering an enhanced handling experience, with sublime ride comfort from double wishbone front sus-

Jaguar Generation The Swallow Sidecar Company was founded in 1922 by two motorcycle enthusiasts, William Lyons and William Walmsley

Jaguar Mark VII wins the prestigious Monte Carlo Rally Rally

1956

2.5

The Jaguar label is born and app pears for the first time on a 2.5 2 5 litre saloon saloon, the SS

1922

1935

1927

The Jaguar C-Type wins Le Mans 24 Hour race – three years in a row

‘Inspector Morse’ Mark 2 launched

1951 - 1953

1945

1955 - 1957

1959

1961 196 The iconic Jaguar E-Type launched

The very popular and relatively inexpensive Austin Seven Swallow produced

The company is rechristened as Jaguar Cars Ltd

1968

The Jaguar D-Type wins Le Mans 24 Hour race – three years in a row The XJ6 Series 1 is launched – tthe definitive Jaguar Saloon

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XE brings together the latest innovation, technology and design. It is packed with systems that empower the driver and enhance the driving experience. XE rewrites the rules. The XE is a wakeup call for every other car in its class

of roles with ease. It can be a luxury cruiser, back-road blaster or, in the right environment, a tail-happy fun machine. It is an invigorating proposition that reveals more of its nature the further - and faster - you go.

We are only now able to get a subtle hint of the sheerness of its bigger sibling; the XE S, running on a 3.0 V6 340PS Supercharged engine. With five different models, offering different configurations, you can find your own blend

and neutral balance make it a rewarding proposition on challenging roads, encouraging drivers to press on and make the most of a machine that drives like much more than an executive sedan with added grunt and grip. Three digit speeds at most of the tight hairpin bends on the road to Jebel Sifah definitely bear testimony to the statement.

In all, the R-Sport is a wellhoned performance machine, one that can play a variety

The XJ220 confirmed the fastest production d ti car in i the th world ld att 217 217mph h

$ $

normal, eco and wet-weather modes offer more forgiving takes on the same theme.

The fit and flexible motor drives the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission that features a sport mode that accompanies its regular drive setting, along with plastic shift paddles behind the steering wheel, allowing an extra degree of control.

Responding rapidly to driver input, the tech loaded R Sports’ pin-sharp reflexes

of performance and luxury.

With the XE, Jaguar has created a potent alternative to the German ‘Big Three’–A brave enough move to make a car capable of taking on the established players at their own game.

Agile on the streets, powerful on the roads: You will enjoy every moment with the XE, wherever you experience it. Feels like a Jaguar, drives like a Jaguar, the XE is a Jaguar to its core. faisal@timesofoman.com

Tata becomes thee brand’s brand s new owner.

Sale completed att 1.7 billion b pounds

2008

1992

The latest sports saloon series, the XE iis llaunched h d with i h five fi different diff variants i

August 2015

1988 - 1990

2011

Le Mans wins

X awarded ‘Car of the XF Decade’ by Auto Express D

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SHOTS Story | Salim Joseph Photos | Said Al Shanfari

Journeying into Dhofar with Said Al Shanfari, I discovered what he and other passionate wildlife photographers already know: with caracals, hyraxes, wolves, and more, Dhofar during Khareef season is the most photogenic destination in the Sultanate.

Photos: Supplied

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itting in the passenger seat of a Land Rover, I look over at the man behind the wheel and wonder why he’s taking me away from the lush, emerald green hills and springs of the Qamar mountain range in Dhofar to the deserted, rocky valleys of Jabal Samhan near the coastal town of Mirbat. I then recall reading something somewhere about the Arabian leopards that inhabit the Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve.

“Arabian leopard…?” I ask with excitement and a hint of nervousness. Said Al Shanfari, wearing a cap from the Gir National Park and Sanctuary in India, turns towards me with a mischievous smile.

“That’s my dream, to see one in my lifetime. Of course, I have seen its pugmark in Kharfut during a trip with Hadi Al Hakmani, who works with the ministry. Maybe one day I will capture him — with this,” he points at the Canon EOS 5D, by his side, which he calls his “second wife.”

According to statistics, Jabal Samhan has a small population of the critically

endangered Arabian leopard, but finding them is no simple task. We are just a few kilometres off the main road, and the leopards could be prowling somewhere very remote.

Said tells me to be on the lookout for Arabian mountain gazelles, wolves, and little owls in the wadi.

“What do you call this wadi?” I ask.

“Don’t write the name. You could say a wadi somewhere in Mirbat. We have to be careful about hunters. In disguise, they approach wildlife photographers and activists to get information about sighting of animals. They won’t spare journalists either.”

As we move a few hundred metres ahead, Said pokes me in the shoulder.

“Look. There they are… mountain gazelles.” I gaze in the direction he is pointing and see nothing but brown and grey rocks. I finally detect slight movement, then I see them: two adults and a calf.

Said stops the car and snaps a few shots using his 400mm lens. Clearly, to be a wildlife photographer, that’s the first

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WILDLIFE IN DHOFAR Caracal (caracal): The largest of Africa’s small cats, caracal’s most distinguishing feature is the long black tufts on the back of the ears which is around 5cm long Spotted Eagle Owl (Bubo africanus): One of the smallest of the eagle owls Little Owl (Athene noctua): Has a large head, long legs, and yellow eyes and inhabits temperate and warmer parts Common Golden Jackal (Canis aureus): Have a slender build, a narrow and pointed muzzle, a shorter tail, and a lighter tread Arabian Wolf (Canis lupus): One of the subspecies of the grey wolf, fur in winter turns thick, but it gets thinner during summer except for the tail. It hunts Arabian partridges, Arabian rock hyraxes, Nubian ibexes, even goats and other domestic animals Nubian Ibex (Capra nubiana): Desert dwelling goat species found in mountains in Dhofar (Oman), Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Palestine, Sudan, and Pakistan Arabian Donkey (Equus africanus): Widespread in Dhofar wilderness, Oman, and also in the rest of the Arabian Peninsula Arabian Mountain Gazelle (Gazella gazella subsp. Cora): This subspecies is found in Dhofar (Oman), western Yemen, southwestern and western Saudi Arabia and holds 2/3 of the population of the species Genet (Genetta): Various species of genetta are found in Dhofar, identifiable by the colour of its tail.

Indian Crested Porcupine (Hystrix indica): An adaptable rodent, found throughout southern Asia and the Middle East Arabian Ratel, Arabian Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis subsp. Pumilio): Widespread in Dhofar mountains and plains.

NATURE RESERVES Ras Al Hadd Turtle Reserve for green turtles Arabian Oryx Sanctuary, in Jalooni, Al Wusta for Arabian Oryx Wadi A’Sareen for Arabian Tahr Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve for Arabian leopards Damaniyat Islands for nesting birds, hawksbill turtles and marine life of coral reef For more information contact the Environment Society of Oman, +968 2479 0945, eso.org.om

hyrax, honey badger, porcupine, caracal, mountain gazelle, and various species of reptiles and birds.

“I use social media to display photographs to the public, like the facebook page: Wildlife of Oman, and to create awareness about the rich wildlife we have here in Dhofar,” Said explains.

And we have to conserve it.”

We drive on to another wadi in Sadah, where we see more gazelles and little owls, but no wolves. But that doesn’t matter, as I am eagerly listening to Said’s tales of wildlife adventures — how he spent hours lying down in a cave with his camera focused on an Arabian Eagle Owl, how he ended up nose-to-nose with a caracal, and many other accidental encounters.

Said also tells me about how he caught an Arabian genet in a camera-trap. Since many animals, like wolves, foxes, and hyenas, mostly come out after dark, the safest way to monitor their movements is by setting up camera-traps in areas where they are likely to hang around. Said often utilises this method, especially near the

springs (Ains) of Dhofar during Khareef where night wildlife thrives. Besides Said, few photographers in Oman have tried night wildlife photography. “But we have many who are now well-known wildlife photographers in Oman, like Abu Hazim (Mohammed Al Shanfari), Khalid Ateeq and Haitham Al Shanfari in Salalah, and Nasser Al Kindi and Hamed Al Wardi in Muscat,” he says.

We enter the thick vegetation in Wadi Nahiez by foot. “I want to bring out a book on wildlife in Dhofar and another one for children, which could include small stories and photographs, to teach them about our country, the nature and wildlife.

Another dream is to establish an organisation for wildlife in Dhofar, partnering with a likeminded person. I need to make my own contribution in conserving wildlife in Oman,” he says, before going quiet.

We continue to move silently through the darkened forest, not making a sound. We will talk more later, now it’s time for the surprises for which mother nature has no equal.

CONTACT SAID: EMAIL:OMANDIVER1@GMAIL.COM, INTSAGRAM:OMANI_DIVER WATCH VIDEOS: YOUTUBE.COM/USER/OMANDIVER1/VIDEOS

thing you need — a sharp eye.

Said explains that he’s been dabbling in photography since his childhood days, when he just wanted to have cameras to capture photos of anything around him. He recalls his mentor and teacher Sayyid Musallam Ali Al Busaidi, who gave him his first camera as a gift years ago, and the lasting impact that it had.

“Through him I learned about the wildlife in Dhofar.

And now I stay in the wild, at one place, for hours and days to take a photograph of just one animal.” We are now driving deep into the wadi, beyond the humble shacks of people who live in the mountains, where we might spot a few little owls and some wolves in the caves, if we are lucky. It turns out we are.

“See the droppings on those rocks in front of those caves?

Let’s take a closer look,” he says and stops the car. It’s time to have a little adventure. Once out of the car, we are silent as we come face to face with a little owl, amazingly camouflaged between the rocks.

“Have you seen a little owl before?” he asks when we get back into the car. I tell him I don’t remember ever seeing one before, so what just happened was quite exciting. “See, this is a special day for you, seeing a new thing for the first time in life. That’s how it is. The days will be so special when you spot a mammal, reptile, or a bird in the wild which you haven’t seen before,” Said says.

But Said isn’t just seeing, he’s capturing these moments with his camera. He currently has five or six hard drives containing around 10,000 select photos of Dhofar’s wildlife, including those of the Arabian wolf,

Arabian Rock Hyrax (Procavia capensis subsp.

Jayakari): It’s a funny, social animal, lives in communities between 3 hyraxes - up to 80.

It’s not a rodent. As per scientific analysis, hyraxes, elephants, and hippos are relatives Egyptian Fruit Bat, Egyptian Rousette (Rousettus aegyptiacus): Nocturnal like many other bats. They spend their days roosting in trees or caves with large groups of other bats Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes subsp.

Arabica): This subspecies is endemic to Oman, in Dhofar and Al Hajar Mountains in the north

SALALAH’S REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS Puff Adder (Bitis arietans subsp. Arietans), Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas subsp.

Mydas), Dhofar Toad (Duttaphrynus dhofarensis), Dhofar Saw-scaled Viper (Echis khosatzkii), Dhofar Leaf-toed Gecko (Hemidactylus lemurinus), Anderson’s Rock Agama (Laudakia adramitana), Arabian Cobra (Naja Arabica), Wadi Racer (Platyceps rhodorachis subsp. Rhodorachis), Thomas’ Racer (Platyceps thomasi), Schokari Sand Racer (Psammophis schokari), Sinai Agama (Pseudotrapelus sinaitus), Arabian Cat Snake (Telescopus dhara)

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Huawei Oman Media Club The launch of the Huawei Oman Media Club event held at More Café in Al Mouj, Muscat.

IN FOCUS WERE YOU AT ONE OF THESE EVENTS? SEE IF WE CAUGHT YOU ON CAMERA. SCAN QR CODE TO SEE THE FULL GALLERY

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IN FOCUS WERE YOU AT ONE OF THESE EVENTS? SEE IF WE CAUGHT YOU ON CAMERA. SCAN QR CODE TO SEE THE FULL GALLERY

The New India Assurance Company Ltd. The opening of the New India Assurance Company’s Al Khuwair branch in The Avenues Mall, Al Ghubra.

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