Travel Arabia Jan 09 by Kalimat Group International

Online Version: www.travel-arabia.com

January 2009, Volume 5, Issue 1

Around Town

Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Marathon Living Arabia

Salalah â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Garden City of Oman

Attractions, s The Addre n Downtow i Burj Duba

WINTER

GETAWAYS Relaxing Places to Enjoy Winter

editor’s note

n January of 2008 we wrote: “What will the year 2008 bring to the travel and tourism industry?” We said “With a burgeoning economy like Dubai and the rest of the emirates heading to the same direction, we can be sure that the year 2008 will bring more visitors and travels to the UAE.” Now we ask the same question. “What will the year 2009 bring to the travel and tourism industry?” Will it be as promising as 2008? With the financial crisis sweeping every nation’s economy, I guess we will expect less people travelling outside of their country mainly because they want to hold on to their resources and not deplete their cash reserve. At this point, everybody is watching and waiting how US President Barack Obama will turn the economy around. One friend said that “everything will turn around once Obama comes into office. With the world’s economy at its lowest, this is the best time to invest and once America is back on its feet, everything else will follow.” When this happens, this will give a great encouragement to people all over the world. This means jobs and having work means people will be able to provide for their family, the kids, the school and everything else, including travel. Travel will probably be the least priority of many this year because of the credit crunch and job insecurity. But the harder we work, the more we need our holidays. I think its human nature. The more we think about the widening recession or the credit crisis, the more we need to get away.

But travel doesn’t necessarily mean leaving the country to enjoy a good holiday. We can always enjoy travelling around the UAE which has so much to offer – be it cultural, modern and contemporary. The UAE is composed of seven emirates and each has something unique to offer. If not, you can drive to the neighboring countries of Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. We are still experiencing good and cool weather so driving to these places will definitely result to a relaxing and enjoyable trip. We must be flexible in our choices of travel destination. Research is the key. A lot of airlines and hotels offer special promotions from time to time so this is a good way to book and plan your holiday. We must also choose other alternatives. We do not need to be luxurious, just enough to satisfy our needs. There are countries especially in Asia that could offer more for your money than in Europe. If you could travel during off-peak season, it would bring lots of benefits due to lower prices and fewer crowds. This means we have better chances of exploring the place, enjoy the attractions and making ourselves familiar with the country’s heritage and culture. Whatever 2009 brings us is anybody’s guess. What is important is the quality of life that we will have and we choose to have. Life is not always rosy so we should always be prepared. At the end of the day, it’s us who will take control of everything we do. Whatever your plans are for 2009, may it be as memorable, enjoyable and unforgettable. Cheers!!!

Flor B. Pamintuan

14 I Travel Arabia I December 2008

CONTENTS january 2009 32

22 Great Winter Gateaways Winter is a fantastic time of the year to make a getaway. You can see the snow and avoid the crowd in some popular destination. Check out places to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

32 Dubai Shopping Festival 2009

Since its inception in 1996, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) has endeavoured to provide visitors from around the world an unparalleled experience and an unforgettable holiday in Dubai.

38 Let the race begin Thousands are expected to run the streets of Dubai on January 16 with Haile Gebrselassie to compete in the 2009 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon.

44 Salalah – The Garden City of Oman Set in a tropical atmosphere, Salalah is rich in lush greenery. Explore the main city of the Dhofar region, with its green paradise, pristine beaches and luxuriant landscape.

54 Scotland’s Most Scenic Island

Think of Scotland and most people associate it with the Highlands, the remote northern countryside that is both wild and haunting. And if you were to pick just one place to visit in the Highlands, then perhaps Skye would have to be it.

58 The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai The newest hotel in Dubai, developed by Emaar Hospitality Group, brings to the city a new luxury hotel experience defined by a spectacular location advantage, tangible guest benefits and superior service standards.

60 A Knight’s Dream

About the Cover: Winter is a fantastic time of the year to make a getaway. You can enjoy the cool weather, practice your skiing skills and explore a lot of places.

16 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

The poetry of HH Sheikh Mohammed has been immortalized in art through a new master calligraphy exhibition, A Knight’s Dream, organized by The Ministry of Culture, Youth & Community Development.

66 New Year’s Treats Indulge yourself into the scrumptious meals offered by the UAE’s leading restaurants.

www.travel-arabia.com Publisher KALIMAT GROUP INTERNATIONAL FZ-LLC Travel Arabia Head Office Office G4, Building No.1 Phase One, P.O.Box 502408 Dubai Media City, UAE Tel +971 4 391 0410/1/2/3 Fax +971 4 391 6619 E-mail editor@travel-arabia.com General Manager Hekmat el Zein Editor Flor B. Pamintuan editor@travel-arabia.com Staff Writers Jay Cunanan Canlas Jojo Dass Contributors Habeeb Salloum Chuck Wightman Photographers Maher El Zein Designer Allan Ronald V. Castro Assistant Designer Altaf Hussein df Christopher Pilapil Sales & Marketing Manager Syed Muhammad Arif arif@kalimatgroup.com Sales & Marketing Executive Crisna De Guzman Distributor Jashanmal National Co. LLC Travel Arabia Lebanon Office Riad el solh 11072070 P.O.Box 11-1197 Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961 3 435 780 Fax +961 7 762 104

Travel Arabia disclaimer All text and layout remains the copyright of Kalimat Group International FZ LLC, unless stated otherwise. Travel Arabia is fully independent, and its views are not those of any company mentioned herein. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. © 2007 Kalimat Group International

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your letters Happy 37th National Day I was visiting Dubai last month and was fortunate to witness the country’s celebration of its 37th National Day. The day before the event, I saw a lot of vehicles, buildings and government offices decorated with the UAE flag and the mood was very patriotic. I can feel the nationals are really looking forward to this event. A marine parade was held with traditional dhows followed by modern sailboats festooned with UAE flags. The colourful flotilla comprised seafaring crafts of all shapes and sizes – old and new, slow and fast – encapsulating the evolving relationship between the people of Dubai, the Creek and the sea. It’s a beautiful sight and it shows how the Emaratis love and value their country so much. Mrs. V. Roberts USA

QE2 arrives in Dubai The world’s best loved cruise liner, QE2, arrives in Dubai at the end of her ultimate voyage. It is an event that will attract international attention. I am glad that Dubai will be the ship’s final destination where it will become a floating hotel which in turn will be one of the must-visit attractions for many thousands visitors and tourists. QE2 has circumnavigated the world 25 times, crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times and carried more than 2.5 million passengers including kings and queens, prime ministers and presidents, astronauts and The Beatles. She survived a 95 ft wave during Hurricane Luis, carried 3000 troops to the Falklands War and rescued 500 passengers from a burning ship. She is a record breaker for both speed and endurance, has featured in countless films and television shows and draws crowds to every port she docks in. A remarkable feat. A. J. Dubai

Atlantis grand opening

Salik gates

The grand opening of The Atlantis, The Palm is indeed a spectacular sight. The entire Palm Jumeirah island and the flagship resort were lit up on a firework display. I think for a week the event is the talk of the town. Kylie Minogue made her debut Middle East performance alongside Middle-Eastern pop sensation Nawal and Bollywood star, Priyanka Chopra. Celebrities came from across the globe to grace the event. I want to congratulate Nakheel for such a very successful opening.

I applaud the UAE government for scrapping the toll for taxis plying the Salik gates. It is a relief for passengers and tourists because it’s a big hassle especially for visitors who are not aware that they need to pay the additional 4 dirhams for the toll fee and the journey fee. I see a lot of taxi drivers getting into argument with passengers because sometimes they forgot to inform them of the additional fees. A lot of commuters who also rely on taxis for their transport will be relieved. Kudos to a great decision.

An avid reader Dubai

Abdul R. Sharjah Travel Arabia would like to receive your comments and suggestions. Write to editor@travel-arabia.com

January Events 4

World Hypnosis Day 4th January 2009 Conference Room 4 , Dubai Knowledge Village, 6pm - 9pm Dave Crane is holding a Life Design Session where he will discuss how to make your dreams a reality, followed by a live performance of his best- selling CD ‘Now That’s What I Call Hypnosis - Volume 1’. Whether you want to: Stop smoking; Lose Weight; Find Love; Make Money and Become Happier than ever before. Book it now and invite friends, colleagues and family to join you. Only 100 places at a nominal fee of Dhs. 150 For reservation and more details please email: info@lifedesigners.com

Wine & Dine at Rodeo Grill Rodeo Grill Restaurant and Bar at the Al Bustan Rotana Dubai presents with pride a wine makers dinner with renowned wine brand Clos St. Thomas. The stunning evening will feature the restaurant’s finest dishes complemented by the best wines of the famous winery on Wednesday, 21st of January, 2009. Mr. Touma, the man behind the award-winning wine brand will personally present his personal wine choices. Be part of this extraordinary dining adventure for only AED 345*inclusive of canapes, coffee and tea.

MRO Middle East 2009 MRO Middle East will bring together top airline and government officials, maintenance and safety experts from the region and around the world for management-level discussions on the theme ‘Connecting Industry Growth and Prosperity.’ During two days of intensive sessions and workshops, industry leaders will discuss the necessary next steps for the region, where air transport is a catalyst for growth, economic development, and job creation. Additional information and online registration for MRO Middle East are available at http://www.aviationweek.com/ conferences/mmemain.htm or by calling +1-212-904-4682 or +971-4-286-7755.

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Dubai Lime Art Exhibition January Featured artist – Shohreh Shohreh was born and raised in Iran until she moved to Canada in 1989. She has completed a degree in dental science and is working as a professional in this field, but continuously pursed her talent and passion for painting. She has started painting since early ages and participated in various school art competitions and was able to make her name known through the local media. She has been developing her interest in painting by taking classes conducted by notable Canadian and Iranian artists and attending art exhibitions. Her works are mainly being done by using acrylic, guash and oil and are clearly expressing her pure love for nature and humanism. She has a fascinating collection of paintings reflecting her sense of color, shapes and spaces. Dubai Autism Centre and Dubai Centre of Special Needs will also be exhibiting alongside the featured artist 5th – 15th January - Central Perk, Mirdiff 16th – 31st January - Central Perk, Jumeirah

Commercial Bank Qatar Masters US Ryder Cup star Boo Weekley will be aiming to become the first American winner of the Commercialbank Qatar Masters, Presented by Dolphin Energy when he tees up at Doha Golf Club from January 22-25, 2009. The colourful star from Florida, a key player in Paul Azinger’s US victory over Europe in this year’s Ryder Cup, will make his Middle East debut at the $2.5 million tournament, organised in co-operation between the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), the Qatar Golf Association (QGA) and Commercialbank. Currently ranked 40th in the world, Weekley - nicknamed after cartoon character Yogi Bear’s sidekick Boo Boo - claimed his first Tour victory at the Verizon Heritage in April 2007.

COVER STORY

Great Winter

Skiing in Canada

Getaways Winter is a fantastic time of the year to make a getaway. You can see the snow and avoid the crowd in some popular destination. Check out the following places to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year. 1. Canada Canada is a skier’s paradise – wide open ski areas with stunning scenery is what makes it special and an all around unique and affordable destination, suitable for skiers of different abilities. Additional activities like dog sledding and snow mobiling make this destination a winder paradise for everyone. In Canada Emirates Holidays has a special offer at the Hilton Toronto, a modern hotel close to the entertainment and financial districts, five minutes away from the CN Tower and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Guests can stay in a Hilton

22 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

room for three nights with American breakfast, room tax and service charges. This package includes a half day seatin-coach excursion to Niagara Falls, the most powerful waterfall in North America and one of the world’s most stupendous natural sights. Flying Economy Class from Dubai/Toronto/Dubai this package starts from AED 7, 641 per person on twin-sharing basis. Alternatively guests can enjoy the same package, but flying Business Class with prices starting from AED 22, 526 per person on twin-sharing basis. 4

Get away and enjoy a spectacular seashore

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2. San Francisco Only a few miles north of San Francisco, in an isolated canyon grows the ancient coast redwood forest known the world over as Muir Woods. The park offers solitude, interpretive displays and programs, and numerous hiking trails. Come stroll through 1000 year old giant trees towering 260 feet high. The Westin St Francis in San Francis is renowned for its legendary service and luxurious accommodation and is just minutes away from top tourist attractions. Guests can stay in a Traditional room with three nightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; accommodation on room only basis, room tax and service charges. This Emirates Holidays package includes a Muir Woods and Sausalito half day seat-in-coach excursion. See the giant red wood trees of Muir Woods and visit Sausalito, once a rough little town, today dotted with exclusive restaurants and fashionable boutiques. This package starts from AED 9, 166 per person on twinsharing basis with Economy Class airfare from Dubai/San Francisco/Dubai. Alternatively guests can enjoy the same package, but flying Business Class with prices starting from AED 28, 518 per person on twin-sharing basis.

Paris

24 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

San Francisco

3. Paris A visit to Paris during the wintertime can be a great way to see the city without the crowds and still not burn a hole in the pocket at the same time. Paris is at its most natural during winter when it is almost utterly devoid of tourists. Emirates Holidays offer a Paris winter city break with Paris and Versailles excursion. Located in the heart of Paris, a short stroll from the Champs Elysees and Faubourg SaintHonore is the Hilton Arc de Triomphe Paris. Guests can stay in a Deluxe

room for three nights with American breakfast, room tax and service charges. This package includes a full day excursion by minivan in Paris and Versailles. This excursion is the ideal introduction to this enthralling city. Flying Economy Class from Dubai/ Paris/Dubai this package starts from AED 7, 172 per person on twinsharing basis. Alternatively guests can enjoy the same package, but flying Business Class with prices starting from AED 15, 316 per person on twin-sharing basis.4

Troodos Mountain Village

Misty Forest in Cyprus

4. Cyprus Cyprus continues to be a popular tourist destination during the winter months of December, January and February. Although winter normally brings the rainy season, there is still an average of six hours of bright sunshine a day and it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t uncommon for visitors to be seen wearing shorts and sandals during the day! This being said, it is wise to bring warm winter clothing for any rainfall and the evenings, when temperatures drop. In the coastal resort of Paphos, visitors have the advantage of being able to watch some of the most stunning sunsets of the year during winter and by the time February arrives, the almond trees are in bloom. Outdoor activities can be enjoyed at this time of year and conditions are ideal for skiing in the Troodos Mountains inland, particularly in January. The Londa Hotel is a contemporary boutique hotel set away from the bustle of Limassol. Its stunning shore-side setting reflects an aura of calm and elegance. Guests

5. Switzerland Switzerland is home to some of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest mountains. Visitors can enjoy the magnificent scenery of lakes and dramatic peaks, renowned Swiss hospitality, exceptionally high standards of facilities and of course, some of the finest winter sports in Europe.

26 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Switzerland

can stay in a Deluxe Sea View room for three nights with American breakfast, room tax, service charges and transfer from Larnaca Airport/Limassol/Larnaca Airport by private taxi. This package includes Troodos Mountains jeep safari. This captivating journey takes guests high into the mountains through rugged pine-

scented hills and sheltered valleys. Flying Economy Class from Dubai/Larnaca/ Dubai this package starts from AED 5, 059 per person on twin-sharing basis. Alternatively guests can enjoy the same package, but flying Business Class with prices starting from AED 9, 511 per person on twin-sharing basis.

Emirates Holidays offer a seven night ski package at The Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage located in the city centre, just five minutes from the Interlaken East railway station which offers access to the entire ski region. Guests can stay in a Classic room for seven nights with American breakfast,

room tax, service charges and airport transfer by private car. Flying Economy Class from Dubai/Zurich/Dubai this package starts from AED 8, 478 per person on a twin-sharing basis. Guests can enjoy the same package, but flying Business Class starts from AED 18, 135 per person on twin-sharing basis.4

6. Austria Austria is a land of peaks and valleys, ski slopes and lofty meadows. One of the world’s premier destinations for winter sports, the country is considered to be the cradle of Alpine skiing. A seven night ski package at Seefeld is offered by Emirates Holiday. A great choice for family holidays, located in the centre of Seefeld’s pedestrian zone, the Hotel Klosterbraeu offers a truly medieval ambience. Guests can stay in a Standard room for seven nights on half-board basis including room tax, service charges and airport transfer by private car. Flying Economy Class from Dubai/Munich/Dubai this package starts from AED 13, 348 per person on a twin-sharing basis. Alternatively guests can enjoy the same package, but flying Business Class with prices starting from AED 22, 426 per person on twin-sharing basis. The above offers are valid until 31st January 2009. Travellers can book with Emirates Holidays through preferred travel agents; or via Emirates Holidays on 8005252 and www.emiratesholidays.com.

Igloos in Mountain Austria

7. Moscow Moscow during winter could be is harsh and unyielding, but also magically enjoyable in a strange sort of way. Winter brings an entirely different face to Moscow, blanketing the city with snow and covering up some of the uglier portions of town. Winter transforms the residents as well who disappear into Moscow’s many bars and cafes to warm up and have fun. The strangest thing about visiting Moscow in the wintertime is the festive mood. Part of what contributes to this air of pleasantry is the fact that most Russian don’t work the first two weeks of January. The holiday period kicks off with New Year celebrations and then carries on for another 14 days after that. It’s almost as though Moscow assumes an entirely different personality during this time--a time that is well worth visiting. Customers can fly with Etihad to Moscow and stay at one of five hotels for

28 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

three nights from Dhs 2,980. These hotels include the four star Holiday Inn Lesnaya hotel from Dhs 3,120, the four star Park Inn hotel from Dhs 3,805 and the five star Baltschug Kempinski from Dhs 4,940.

Extensions to St Petersburg are also available from Dhs 3,340 for two nights and include rail tickets from Moscow for the nine hour scenic journey.4

Bridge in Moscow

South Africa

8. Johannesburg, South Africa Johannesburg enjoys pleasant weather all year round. Indeed, this is amongst the city’s main attractions for holidaymakers. One of the reasons for such a great climate is the fact that Johannesburg is located at high altitude, at some 1,753 metres / 5,751 feet above sea level. Another reason is that there’s often a light breeze, helping to ward off extremely hot temperatures. Johannesburg’s seasons are not always clearly defined, with summer sometimes running and merging into autumn. The winter promotion from Etihad Holidays offers hotels in Johannesburg and the nearby resort of Sun City with flights and three nights at the four star Protea Hotel Balaika from Dhs 4,980. Also available is a two night Kruger safari from Dhs 2,335. To book one of the winter offers

customers can visit Etihad Holiday shops in Al Wahda Mall, Khalidiyah Mall and Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi or call the UAE toll-free telephone number 800 2324. The travel period is until 31 March 2009.

9. Singapore To help usher in a new season, Singapore’s iconic shopping belts of Orchard Road and Marina Bay will be transformed into a magical wonderland as the streets and shopping malls are draped with dazzling lights and shimmering decorations. All visitors can enjoy the light-up along Orchard Road by boarding an open-top bus for a free 30 minute tour. Kids can also holiday for free as over 30 of Singapore’s top attractions and dining establishments such as the Singapore Zoo, the Singapore Flyer, Sentosa Island and Hard Rock Café are offering complimentary rides or admissions, as well as free meals for kids. Since December 14, the RiyadhSingapore route began operating four times a week; in addition to the three flights a week currently between Jeddah and Singapore.

Ireland

30 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

The new flights allow travelers from Saudi Arabia to fly to Singapore via Singapore Airlines daily. Prices for the Singapore Airlines Riyadh-Singapore flight starts at SAR 1999, inclusive of taxes and fuel surcharges. Singapore

10. Ireland’s South Coast The picturesque South of Ireland is famed for its relaxed pace of life and outstanding natural beauty. Encompassing the counties of Carlow, Cork, Kerry, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford, the South promises a wealth of variety whether you want to tee off on a lush coastal links or take some precious pampering time in a world-renowned spa. With an exquisite coastline that ranges from rolling green hills in the South East to the craggy, mountainous peninsulas of West Cork and Kerry, the sea is central to the identity of this region with a range of excellent watersports, delicious seafood and romantic stretches of deserted beach. West Cork is fast gaining a reputation as Ireland’s top gourmet spot; Kerry boasts an abundance of incredible spas, while Waterford and Wexford are well-known for their pretty, sun-warmed beaches and lovely coastal villages. Inland lies the vibrant counties of Kilkenny, Tipperary and Carlow, with their ancient heritage, endless festivals, cracking pubs and peaceful riverways. Throughout the South, you’ll be thrilled with endless opportunities for sightseeing, exceptionally picturesque landscapes, great shopping, adventure and outdoor activities, lively towns and villages, and some real gourmet delight. Throughout the winter, there are lots of clubs for kids with special activity breaks from sports to arts and cookery. For more information, please visit: www.discoverireland.com/south n

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P.O BOX: 116250 Tel: 04 3407709 Fax: 04 3416553 info@bigbustours.com www.bigbustours.com Passengers can hop on and hop off at any time and design their own excursion spending as much time as they want in each place before boarding the Big Bus to take them on their next adventure. To make this experience enjoyable and unique, Big Bus tickets also include a large selection of additional activities such as walking tours, a traditional Dhow Cruise and entry to Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House – all at no extra cost! The Big Bus Company offers frequent departures from 09.00 until 17.00 7 days a week and we make sure that Big Bus speaks your language with live

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 31

AROUND TOWN

Dubai Shopping Festival 2009

Since its inception in 1996, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) has endeavoured to provide visitors from around the world an unparalleled experience and an unforgettable holiday in Dubai. DSF is unlike any other event in the world. It is also very much a celebration of Dubai that hosts more than 200 nationalities, in peace and harmony, displaying the warmth and hospitality of this cosmopolitan city. Indeed, the slogan for DSF â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;One World. One Family. One Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; embodies the values that are the main characteristics of Dubai. DSF 2009, which will be held from January 25 to February 25, 2009, presents a unique opportunity for visitors to participate in one of the leading festivals in the world today.

32 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Like in the past, this year will see signature events that will be highlighted with shopping, family entertainment, and winning.

grand manner. Extravagant settings are hallmarks of the opening and provide a fitting launch to every DSF edition.

Dubai Food Festival DSF Opening Ceremony Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the opening ceremony is a dazzling display of art, fireworks, laser shows, and entertainment, and announces the beginning of DSF in a

A favourite of DSF visitors, Dubai Food Festival attracts people of diverse backgrounds to a celebration of international cuisine. Celebrity chefs, live cooking counters, and culinary workshops, in addition to interactive events and exciting prizes, add to the excitement of this truly one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience.4

Solomon Islands performance at MOE

Events in Shopping Mall

Dubai Records Dubai Records was launched as a new record breaking initiative in DSF 2008 to commemorate a decade of Guinness World Records events in the festival. Dubai Records will focus on the accomplishments of Dubai’s multicultural society and highlight local records and achievements. With Dubai Records taking its stand, every record breaking enthusiast now has a chance to shine under the spotlight and leave his own mark in the making of a new historical journey.

Dubai Fashion Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum - wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE VicePresident and Prime Minister, and

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Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Fashion was launched in 2004 and is an initiative by the DSF Office to bring top notch international designer labels to Dubai and showcase the latest collections to fashion enthusiasts in the emirate. The long term vision of the event is to position Dubai as a prime destination in the annual calendar of world renowned fashion.

Fringe Festival The ‘Fringe’ festival concept was established over 60 years ago and continues to celebrate various forms of arts including theatre, comedy, visual arts, dance, and music. Major international cities that host fringe festivals include cities such as Toronto, Montreal, Edinburgh, Dublin, Melbourne, Prague, and now, Dubai.

Creations

House of Talents

‘Creations’ was initiated during DSF 2004 and was conceived as a platform for upcoming local and regional fashion designers aiming to establish themselves in the region. With DSF providing all the logistical support, amateur and budding fashion designers are given the opportunity to showcase their work within the fashion industry in Dubai.

Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum - wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE VicePresident, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai - House of Talents is an annual event that has provided a platform to gifted women to showcase their talents and skills in handicrafts, architecture,

Wooden boat motor race

Mexican Mariachi musicians

Food Festival

fashion design, sculpting, information technology, drawing, interior design, music, jewellery designing, photography, perfume making, poetry and writing, and make-up and hair styling, to a wide audience since 1999.

Dubai Carnivals Based on the idea of floats, Dubai Carnivals features platforms with different themes. The themes include Russian, Arabic, Japanese, Chinese, and seek to portray cultures from around the world through the Carnivals. Different locations in Dubai host the Carnivals thus making it possible for visitors anywhere in the city to view them. A total of 300 performers took part in the Carnivals during DSF 2008.

Fireworks Festival Fireworks have been a hallmark of

every DSF edition and 2009 is slated to be bigger, better, and longer. Dazzling fireworks were launched from a specially created floating platform on the Dubai Creek in DSF 2008. An attraction during the weekends, visitors can witness some of the best pyrotechnics in the region and a spectacular display of colour, light, and sound.

Carpet Oasis

Art Avenue

Closing Ceremony

Introduced for the first time in DSF 2008, Art Avenue is a gathering of artists of unique calibre. Art enthusiasts in Dubai get the opportunity to see generic, innovative, and experimental art all in one go. Featuring some of the finest resident talents in UAE, activities include paintings, caricatures, spray paint art, sculptures, rangoli, origami, mask making, and car painting.

Every DSF closing ceremony is a spectacular event by itself, summing up the excitement and festivities of DSF in a single evening of celebrations. Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s night sky will be adorned with fireworks, signalling the end of events for the year. The ceremony also witnesses the hand out of numerous awards for excellence achieved by persons and organisations in various spheres during DSF. n

Craftsman at the Bazaars of the World

Organised in cooperation with the Dubai Customs, the Carpet Oasis is a spectacular display of carpets, rugs, and handicrafts from around the world. The exhibition features some of the finest and rarest handmade carpets. Carpet Oasis is organized at the Airport Expo Dubai throughout the duration of DSF.

Night Souq

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 35

Global Village

102

in New Season

New and Fun-Filled Activities to Raise Enter tainment Quotient of Annual Event

he 13th edition of Global Village will run until 21 February, 2009 and has witness the participation of 31 country pavilions, including two new entrants, Iraq and Oman. The longer duration of the season comes in response to the popular demand from enthusiastic residents and visitors to extend the colourful offerings of the festival for more number of families and children from across the region and beyond.

36 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Abdul Redha Ali Bin Redha, Global Village Project Director, said: “As with every year, we aim to introduce innovative elements and attractions with an objective to exceed audience expectations. This year, we have endeavoured to incorporate new activities to enhance our loyal patron’s experience of the much awaited calendar event.” For the first time this season,

Global Village hosted the Guinness World Records Pavilion, which provides visitors with exciting opportunities to participate and set new records in a variety of categories. Hosting an exciting schedule of activities and entertainment including 40 fun fair rides, the fun quotient of Global Village is also raised through the presence and delightful participation of international children’s characters of

Barney TM, Thomas the Tank Engine TM, Bob the Builder TM and Pingu TM the Penguin at the “Friends from The Little Big Club” attraction. Themed outlets featuring a series of popular cartoon characters, including those from the UAE’s very own animation production Freej, were also be part of this season’s Global Village. Another new attraction this season is the Italian gondolas, traditional Venetian rowing boats, which have been specially designed for Global Village. Ten of these boats steered by operators in traditional Egyptian uniform traverse the lake every day, each with a four-passenger capacity, offering a scenic ride and an overall view of Global Village’s attractions. A return trip will cost AED10 per person, while children under three can ride for free. All passengers will be provided with life-jackets. The entertainment events include the World Culture Stage, showcasing premiere entertainment from around the world. Featured on the lake is the “Beach Adrenaline” Jet-Ski Show, which provides nightly thrills with exciting stunts from a team of internationally awarded jet-ski champions. Additionally, a Lantern Festival (Festival of Lights) - an array of specially created Chinese lanterns - beautifies the entire park including the entrances and canal to create a wonderful festive ambience throughout the entire destination. Located in Dubailand on the Emirates Road, the Global Village is anticipated to welcome at least five million visitors during the 102 days of fun and entertainment this season, exceeding the 4.5 million footfall registered during the 2007-08 edition. Since inception in 1996, Global Village has evolved into a premier regional venue, celebrating diverse cultures, cuisine and commerce from around the world and a family destination for unlimited entertainment. For more info about the events and shows, please call 04-3624114 or visit our website www.globalvillage.ae

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t e L 38 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

n i g e b ce

a r the

Thousands are expected to run the streets of Dubai on January 16 with Haile Gebrselassie and Berhane Adere to compete in the 2009 Standard Char tered Dubai Marathon

unners from across the world including Ethiopian running legend Haile Gebrselassie and women’s record title Berhane Adere will meet in Dubai to compete in the word’s richest athletics race, the 2009 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon. Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and staged under the aegis of the Dubai Sports Council, the 2008 Dubai Marathon saw Ethiopian legend Gebrselassie set the then second fastest marathon time in history and narrowly miss out on a record US$1 million bonus. “The 2008 event was the best in the history of the Dubai Marathon and we are looking forward to a record turnout in 2009,” said Event Director Peter Connerton. “Thanks to the support of title sponsors Standard Chartered as well as our other supporters such as Dubai Holding, who are again offering US$1 million for a new world record, and with the regular appearance of athletes such as Haile, Dubai is now well established as a leading marathon venue in world athletics.” Standard Chartered has been the title sponsor of the Dubai Marathon for the last four years and sponsoring the event for the fifth time this year. “The Dubai marathon has grown into an international success story that reaches out to every member in our local UAE community,” said Shayne Nelson, Standard Chartered Regional CEO, Middle East and North Africa. “The Standard Chartered Dubai

Marathon, the 10km race and the 3km ‘Seeing is Believing’ Fun Run are great ways to get fit as well as raise money and awareness for local and international charities. For us, the marathon is a key component of the Bank’s community strategy as we help to raise awareness about the rise of diabetes in the region, and how we can effectively combat this illness through regular exercise. Those who take the challenge to participate in any one of the runs has the potential to make a significant difference. I look forward to welcoming thousands of athletes of all ages, nationalities and abilities to the starting line on January 16.” The 2009 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon will have a brand new race route starting and finishing at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, the new headquarters for the world’s richest athletics event. To be staged on January 16, the US$2 million race over the classic 42km, 195m marathon distance will see the field – led by world record holder Haile Gebrselassie – tackle an “out and back” course from the new HQ with the turn to be made at the towering UAE flag at Union House. Paul Hodgson, a Grade “A” Course Measurement Official with the Association of International Marathons and Road Races (AIMS), was in Dubai to measure the route and ensure that nothing is left to chance in an event worth US$1 million in prize-money as well as a further US$1 million for a new world record. “The new route is a classic “Out and Back” configuration with only a minor detour required near Madinat Jumeirah to provide the mandatory distance,” 4

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 39

said Hodgson. “The route configuration will provide spectators with the opportunity to see the athletes in both the outward and return legs. In particular a vantage point in the vicinity of Souk Madinat Jumeirah will witness the runners pass by at 5.5km, 7.5km and 36.5km.” With Gebrselassie intent on breaking his current world best – set in Berlin in September – the spotlight of the athletics world will be on the Dubai race. And the man charged with measuring every last millimetre believes the new course could well be the setting for a slice of running history. “The course compares favourably with that of this year when Haile ran the second fastest marathon in history,” he added. “Although there is no significant change in the elevation profile, we’ve eliminated the sinuous nature of the early and latter stages of the route, which will be appreciated by the elite athletes.” The marathon will see all activities operate out of The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina. “The Westin Dubai creates a perfect backdrop for this event as well as contributing state of the art facilities for pre and post marathon events, athletes will appreciate the fact that the race HQ is adjacent to the start and finish, which means no early rise or long bus ride to the start, as is the case with most international marathons,” added Connerton. “I am delighted to welcome The Westin to the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon – I’m sure with the fabulous facilities and their excellent support we will again see another world-class sporting event in the city.” Michael Scully, Complex General Manager, added: “We at The Westin Dubai are delighted to be playing such an integral part in the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon and look forward to providing both runners and spectators with a fantastic event.” n

Haile Gebrselassie Winner of 2008 Dubai Marathon

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ARABIAN GALLERY

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AJMAN

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LIVING ARABIA

Salalah –

The Garden City of Oman Set in a tropical atmosphere, Salalah is rich in lush greenery. FLOR B. PAMINTUAN explores the main city of the Dhofar region, with its green paradise, pristine beaches and luxuriant landscape.

t was 27 degrees Celsius when the plane landed at Salalah Airport. A view of Salalah from the plane is like looking at a picture from the pre-Creation days – when there was nothing on Earth but arid, chocolate-coloured land filled with waterless trails. Salalah is located in the Dhofar region, the southern region of the Sultanate of Oman, known for centuries for the production of frankincense. The charm of the region lies not only in its tropical nature and endless unspoiled beaches but also in its ancient history. Salalah is the main city of Dhofar and is spread out along the coast. Set in

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a tropical atmosphere, the city is rich in lush greenery, which is why this place is branded as the “Garden City of the Sultanate of Oman.” The lush greenery is a benefit from the annual Indian monsoon, locally known as the Khareef, which extends from early June to mid September, transforming the countryside into a veritable garden with tumbling waterfalls and meandering streams. The Khareef season is a good time to visit Salalah that’s why in July and August, the government plays host for the annual Khareef Festival, a cultural highlight of the season, which is being attended by a lot of tourists from the region and abroad. It’s a little over past

the monsoon season when I visited Salalah but there are still traces of greens on several areas in the mountain. Fresh coconut and fruits, farming, boat building and fishing, jewellery making, leather and needlework make Salalah an important place to feel the traditional style of the people of Oman. Here, coconut trees are abundant than palm trees which is an unusual feature for a country in the Arabian Peninsula. The residents sell coconut fruits along the highway as well as bananas. Along the corniche old houses are scattered among the new. Many people walk along the beautiful beaches in the late afternoon and evening enjoying 4

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Salalah is steeped in myths and legends that date back to biblical times

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the cool breeze from the sea. The old souq, called Al Haffa has been completely modernized. The souq offers an experience to cherish. On sale are fresh vegetables and fruits along with frankincense and incense burners, gold and silverware and the traditional Dhofari dress of velvet with glittering beads and sequins. Salalah is steeped in myths and legends that date back to biblical times. In the Jebel Qara can be found the tomb of the Prophet Ayoub, better known as Job of the Old Testament. In Khor Rhori (the ancient Sumhuram) lies the ruins of the palace reputed to be that of the Queen of Sheba. Khor Rori lies on the coast 40 km. east of Salalah. In this khor or inlet stands the ruin of an important and wealthy settlement with impressively strong fortifications. It is called Moscha in the “Periplus of the Erythrean Sea” but inscriptions, coins and pottery refer to the city as Sumhuram (Smhrm). The ancient city of Sumhuram, built in the area of Khor Rori, is the most important pre-Islamic settlement in the Dhofar region. Excavation work is ongoing at Khor Rori and Alexa, one of the archaeologists at the site said that the excavation work revealed a city protected by walls. There were storage rooms, temples, houses, workshop and other artifacts that were unearthed showing the existence of a community or a kingdom in this area. The first excavation on the site was carried out in the 1950s by the American Foundation for the Study of Man. Since 1996 the Italian Mission to Oman (IMTO), directed by Prof. A. Avanzini, has been working in the area of Khor Rori. As attested by inscriptions found in the site, Sumhuram was an outpost of the kingdom of Hadramawt, founded for commercial and economical reasons far from the capital Shabwa, along the Omani coast. In the surrounding countryside on the flanks of the jebels grows the Boswellia sacra better known for the sap it produces: Frankincense. Frankincense,

of course, is best known to Christians as one of the gifts of the Magi in Nativity story. In all probability the Frankincense that was a gift to the baby Jesus came from Oman as the Boswellia sacra tree grows no where else. For most of the year, the unspoiled beaches of Salalah are ideal for scuba diving, canoeing, sailing, jet skiing and diving. The marshy khawrs along the coast line are sanctuaries to a broad variety of migrating birds turning the region into a bird watchers paradise. But during the summer Salalah is easily Oman’s coolest destination to visit during the Khareef with its crisp unpolluted air, cool misty clime, high rolling seas and leafy ambiance. Less than half an hour’s drive from Salalah is Ain Razat, a picnic spot with springs, hills, gardens and streams. Nearby is the equally resplendent Ain Sahanawt. Seventy kilometers east of Salalah lies Mirbat, famous for Bin Ali’s tomb (Bin Ali was revered in the early days of Islam as a sage and holy man.). Taqah, 36kms from Salalah is a picturesque, quaint village. The fort at Taqah goes back several hundred years and is well stocked with authentic decorations and appointments. Rising high above the coast is the Jebel Samhan plateau, the highest point in Dhofar at 1800 meters. Here you can find the hanging valley of Wadi Dirbat which is impressive in full flood. Further into the jebels is Tawi Attir (the hole of the birds), a natural sink hole over 100 metres wide and 250 metres deep. Nestled in a hidden valley is the Baobab Forest with huge bulbous trees, one tree over 2000 years old and 30 feet in diameter at its base. The baobab trees are native of Africa and are called the Tree of Life. It is capable of providing shelter, food and water for the animal and human inhabitants of the African savannah regions. The cork-like bark is fire resistant and is used for cloth and rope. The leaves are used for condiments and medicines. The fruit, called “monkey bread”, is rich in vitamin C and is eaten. The tree is capable of storing hundreds of litres of

water, which is tapped in dry periods. Mature trees are frequently hollow, providing living space for numerous animals and humans alike. Trees are even used as bars, barns and more. To the west of Salalah are many stretches of beautiful beaches. One of the most popular of these is Mughsayl where you can find unusual blow holes in the rocky shelf close to the shore. These holes display dramatic bursts of water and foam sometimes reaching 50 feet in the air. Further to the west close to the Yemen border lies the town of Rakhyut and is a pleasant spot for picnic and swim in the ocean. In the morning you can rent a boat and do some dolphin watching. While the weather was not very cooperative during my visit, I didn’t see any dolphins during our trip out in the sea but I 4

FAST FACT Distance from Muscat 1030 km 12 hours by road, (1 hour by flight) Average drive time How to get there By buses / coaches belonging to the

Government Major industries Ruling body

Population

Area

Oman National tourist Corporation (ONTC). Cars can be hired from Car rental agencies. Oman Air operates regular flights from Muscat to Salalah Monarchy with a provisional legislature (the Majlis Ash Shura) Oil, natural gas, agriculture, and fishing His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said is Head of State and rules by decree. He is assisted by a cabinet of ministers, Diwan of the Royal Court (the central body of bureaucratic affairs), and the Majlis Ash Shura, a body of representatives elected by the populace. Approximately 2 million. Around 1.5 million are Omani nationals. The remaining are expatriates from India, Asia, other Arab countries, Europe and USA. The Sultanate encompasses an area of 300,000 sq kms.

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 47

Airport

Climate

Religion Currency was not disappointed because while having lunch before I head back to Dubai, a couple of dolphins showed up and displayed their tricks. To the north of Salalah is the region known as the Nejd. This is a barren desolate area that is actually the southern fringe of the R’ub Al Khali. Here you find sweeping sand dunes and parched wadis. Lying 175 km north of Salalah is the remote village of Shisr. Here in the early nineties, with the help of satellite imagery from the space shuttle, explorers found what they believe to be the lost city of Ubar. Called by T. E. Lawrance (of Arabia) as the “Atlantis of the sands”, Ubar was once considered to be the trading centre for frankincense before it was buried in the rising dunes. If you are driving around Salalah, one should be cautious on the road because of cattle and camels unexpectedly crossing the roads – unmindful of their safety. The sun was setting when I head back to the city. As dark engulfed Salalah, another chapter begins. A new chapter of exploring Salalah by night and that’s another story to tell. n

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Passport/ Visa

Language

Culture

Seeb international airport, 40 km from Muscat city centre. Seeb International Airport, located in Muscat, serves many international airlines such as British Airways, KLM, Kuwait Airways, Swiss Air and Emirates. The national carrier is Oman Air, which flies to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), India, Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, and Sri Lanka as well as performing domestic flights to Salalah, Masirah Island and Musandam. The country’s climate is predominantly arid and varies slightly from one region to another. In the coastal areas, the weather is hot and humid during the summer months, while it is dry elsewhere in the interior. Milder weather dominates the mountains and Dhofar region all the year round. Winater temperatures can be as low as 15°Celsius and summer temperatures can be as high as 48° Celsius in Muscat and as high as 54° in the desert. Dhofar, located in the southernv region of the country however, enjoys a regular monsoon between June and October, every year. Best Time to visit : The best time of the year to visit Oman is between October and April, when the weather is pleasantly warm in the day and cool in the evening. Temperature averages at 25-35 degrees centigrade during the day and dips to 17-19 degrees centigrade at night. Islam, predominantly Ibadhi sect. Omani Rial (OMR) = 1,000 baiza. Notes are in denominations of OMR50, 20, 10, 5 and 1, and 500, 250, 200 and 100 baiza. Coins are in denominations of 50, 25, 10 and 5 baiza All passengers are required to travel with a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your expected return date and obtain a visa upon entering the country. Official language is Arabic. Other languages spoken include Urdu, Swahili and Baluchi. English is widely spoken and along with Arabic is the common business language. Most Hotel staff speak German and French as well. Like all the Arab countries, Arab Islamic Culture dominates the life style in the Sultanate. However, being an international market, people of various other nationalities are also present. National Dress: Men - dishdasha (robe),Kimah (cap),mussar (turban) Women - jallabia (dress), sirwall (trousers), thobe (overdress cloak, lahaf (head shawl), abaya (black cloak). Women generally leave their face and hands exposed.

A Promising Future for

Ras Al Khaimah

Beneath a serene and tranquil setting, Ras Al Khaimah is surging ahead into a new era of development and expansion. RAK is ideally located to offer a modern infrastructure, backed by the latest communication facilities, set within a pleasant stress free city environment.

t was 30 degrees Celsius when I reached Ras Al Khaimah. I would say the weather is not accommodating today considering it’s the winter season in the UAE. Had I arrived the day before, the host said, I would really enjoy it. But I didn’t mind because I am here to explore a thriving emirate that has many things to offer – beaches, mountains, wetlands, rich tourist attractions plus its friendly and hospitable people. As you enter the emirate, you will be greeted by the scenic Al Hajjar Mountains with its quiet and serene surroundings. In Ras Al Khaimah, old traditions and

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modern life co-exist in harmony. Beneath a serene and tranquil setting, Ras Al Khaimah is surging ahead into a new era of development and expansion. It is among the fastest growing tourism destinations in the Arabian Gulf region. Currently, there are several ongoing development projects – the Mina Al Arab, the Al Marjan Island and Saraya Islands which are expected to support the projected 2.5 million tourists in the emirate by 2012. RAK Tourism, the organisation tasked to support, regulate and standardise tourism initiatives in Ras Al

Khaimah, announced that nearly two dozen 5-star hotels plus several more premium hotel and hotel apartment operators are poised to start operations in Ras Al Khaimah within the next five years, as the emirate continues to enjoy its unprecedented tourism boom. From a current capacity of over 1,800 hotel rooms, the influx of new hotel developments – including at least 20 internationally renowned 5-star hotels – will deliver up to 7,500 new rooms by 2012. Moreover, RAK Tourism is bringing in a wide range of hotel brands with the aim of providing a diverse

selection of speciality offerings and services to suit various tourist profiles. “Hotel development has jumped to a new level in Ras Al Khaimah as tourism activities continue to attract domestic, regional and international tourists to the emirate. There is still so much room for expansion in this sector and we are looking forward to establishing partnerships with more world-renowned hotel brands in the future,” said Dr Khater Massaad CEO RAKIA. “We already have an impressive line of reputed hotels operating in the emirate; we are now eyeing some exciting new names in the industry that have both a solid regional and global following,” said Hilary McCormack Manager, RAK Tourism. The new hotel brands launching their flagship projects in Ras Al Khaimah include BanyanTree, which will operate two hotels, Jumeirah Group, Millennium Hotels, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Rotana Group, The Luxury Collection and the Coral Hotel International. Al Hamra Hotels Management, the proud owner of the widely popular hotel chain in the emirate, will also be developing new hotels and expanding its local operations. In line with the current development projects, the Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is also busy with its expansion plans to accommodate the influx of tourists. Michelle Soliman, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport said that a new terminal for

arriving passengers is underway. The new terminal will have new concessionaire for car rentals, money exchange and food and beverage. Ras Al Khaimah is popular with European tourists mainly Germans, French, Italians, Russians and Scandinavians who come to Ras Al Khaimah to enjoy the excellent weather, the beaches, the desert and its calm and peaceful surroundings. “We are also cheaper that the other emirates so Ras Al Khaimah is a good alternative. Here, you can enjoy and feel the charm of the Arabic culture, less crowd, no traffic and you can get good value for your money with top quality facilities and services,” adds Soliman. Ras Al Khaimah is rich in history with many firsts to its credit. In 1955, the UAE’s first agricultural experiment station was established in Digdaga; 1986 saw the opening of the first limestone quarry behind Khor Khuwair; 1987 was the year the first cattle farm was started at Digdaga; in 1977, Port Saqr, the first fort inside the Gulf was constructed and in the 1980s, the Ras Al Khaimah National Museum opened, the first natural history centre in the Northern Emirates. With the sea, desert, fertile plain and mountains, Ras Al Khaimah is a good place for leisure, sports and exploring. For leisure, soft adventure sports and exploring the opportunities are vast and varied providing activities suitable for all ages and interests throughout the year. In addition to the many archaeological sites such as Shimal, Ghalilah and Dhayah Fort, the wadis, mountains, desert and mangroves provide abundant opportunities for discovering the great outdoors. Very much an outdoor pursuit area, RAK has many sporting activities on offer to suit the terrain and climate including golf, mountaineering and biking, trekking, camel racing, among others. Ras Al Khaimah is definitely the next attraction. A day’s visit is not enough to really explore the entire emirate. This trip only gave me a glimpse of what to look forward to the next time I return. And it won’t be long, I told myself.

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 51

AMBIENCE

Desert Safari

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January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 53

OUTSIDE ARABIA

S cot l an d â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s

Most Scenic Island

54 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

f you’ve been to Britain before and think you know it well, then maybe Scotland awaits. This certainly isn’t anything like England, with its quaint little cottages and sentimental nonsense about Shakespeare and Jane Austen. Proud of their distinctive heritage, the Scots haven’t prettified their country to suit the bland tastes of modern tourism. Oh no, not at all. Tour guides relate stories of ancient defeat at the hands of the English, and the countryside is littered with battlefields and monuments. Scotland is a land of

invigorating weather, dark castles and wild landscapes suited to those with poetry in their souls. Think of Scotland and most people associate it with the Highlands, the remote northern countryside that is both wild and haunting. And if you were to pick just one place to visit in the Highlands, then perhaps Skye would have to be it. The drive northwest from Edinburgh to this remote island passes by miles of chilly sandy beaches, moors and peat bogs, sheep farms and lush, deep valleys.

Shaggy Highland cattle moan on the hillside beneath ruined castles where jackdaws cackle on the battlements. The castles are a reminder of Scotland’s embattled past: this is a defiant and battered country that has clung to the remnants of its culture for a thousand years, and is imbued with a deep historical sadness. The constant struggle for independence against England, made famous in the movies Rob Roy and Braveheart, finally ended when the two kingdoms were united in the early 17th century – though some would say it continues to this day. 4

View to the Cullin Mountains from Sligachan, Isle of Skye

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 55

Skye lies off Scotland’s northwest coast and is separated from the mainland by a narrow strip of water known as the Sound of Sleat. The most traditional – and romantic – way to arrive is by ferry, as seagulls shriek and plunge in the sky overhead, but a modern bridge also now connects the island to the mainland. If Skye is the quintessential Highlands, it isn’t only because of its spectacular scenery but as a bastion of Highland culture. Nearly half the population still speaks Gaelic. Skye is really a Highlands in miniature, with a haunted history of rebellion and emigration, and strong traditional values. The people of Skye are proud of their past, and anyone interested in Scottish heritage or ancestry will find a wealth of information, from archives and survey records to antiquarian books dating back centuries. The landscape is also a typical Highlands one of rolling hills and spectacular crags. As for the island’s name – Skye is Old Norse and means ‘cloud island’ – it’s a fair indication of the weather. Come prepared for some rain, but don’t by any means let it put you off. While there’s nothing to beat a sunny day when the heather glows on the hillsides and the mountains are clear, the tempestuous moods of the weather add a dramatic beauty that entirely suits this brooding landscape. When the wild southerly wind is up to strength, waterfalls can be blown back uphill, spreading

Dunvegan Castle

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Scottish highland piper in full military regalia

rainbows into the air and chasing cobwebs away from stuffy urban heads. The occasional rain shower has another advantage: it’s always a good excuse to retreat into a teahouse, where old women will call you ‘love’ and ply you with scones and tea. When God made time, he made plenty of it, goes a Scottish proverb; you could while away a good hour enjoying the chat. Out in the streets, locals still smile and say hello to passers-by, and take the time to talk about their island. And when it comes to time, there’s literally plenty of it: in summer it doesn’t get dark here until eleven o’clock at night. On rare occasions, even the night skies are lit up by the aurora borealis, dancing across the heavens in an eerie show of green and yellow light. In any case, if the rain does set

in, there are some indoor treats to be enjoyed. The best is surely the Clan Donald Visitor Centre in the ruins of Armadale Castle, where a multi-media show relates the Celtic culture of the island and introduces you to its natural history. The Skye Museum of Island Life in Kilmuir also focuses on the island’s past, and has reconstructed the interiors of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century farms. There are actually still a few of these old farms – or crofts, as they’re called hereabouts – dotted across the island, with thick white walls an thatched roofs pulled down low against the Atlantic winds. Skye has also persevered many traditional crafts such as tanning, spinning and weaving. The island’s knitting is also famous, creating the hearty, thick sweaters that are just the thing in the Scottish spring and autumn.

At the other end of the scale from peasant life, Dunvegan Castle has been the seat of the MacLeod clan for eight hundred years and lays claim to being Britain’s old inhabited castle. Quite how they held onto it that long is a mystery, since this part of the Skye coast is famous in history for its uprisings, shipwrecks and clan battles. (Today, rather more pleasantly, it boasts some awardwinning restaurants.) The coastline on this part of the island is dramatic, with rocky promontories and pounding waves, and other Scottish islands strung along the horizon. It’s not the indoors but the outdoors where you’ll want to spend most of your time in Skye. Despite its northerly latitude (similar to that of central Russia), the island is surprisingly mild, benefiting from the relatively balmy Gulf Stream. In fact, the south of the island actually has palms and other exotic trees, and enjoys soft landscapes suitable for cultivation. This has earned the Sleat Peninsula the nickname ‘the garden of Skye’. Here the rolling countryside is a patchwork of green fields overlooking the sea. Drive along its gentle roads, lined with hedgerows where pink fuchsia bloom, and it’s hard to believe the region lies just fifty kilometers from the rugged mountains to the north of the island. As you head further into the island, Skye starts to provide some stunning scenery. One of its most scenic roads leads from Broadford to Elgol. It passes by lakes where shaggy cattle stand knee-deep in the water, contemplating their reflections, before entering mountains where blackfaced sheep sulk on the windblown hillsides. Eventually the little road plunges down to a tiny port in a sheltered sea cove, from which you can make various walks along the sea cliffs. Some of the best walking in Skye is in the magnificent Cuillin Hills. These are dark and brooding remnants of worndown mountains whose sheer cliffs attract climbers from all over Britain, but whose valleys and hillsides also offer plenty of easy walking. The scenery is breathtaking in that sullen, Highlands sort of way: dark streams tumble, waterfalls hiss, and purple clouds paint frescoes across the sky. The scenery is dramatic and tortured, the valleys ripped apart by ancient glaciers and filled with lakes that seem to reflect Skye’s dark and romantic history. Anyone with a bit of poetry in their soul will appreciate Skye. The perfect day here is spent tramping the moors, watching the sun as it sets over the ocean from a cliff top. Or an afternoon of trout fishing, perhaps, lulled into meditation, or a quick trip out to see the whales and porpoises on a wind-tossed sea. Skye doesn’t get more exciting than that, and if its life in the fast lane you want – as I was told by a farmer one afternoon, propped against a farm gate – then you ought to have been born a greyhound. But if it’s the great escape you’re after, your urban soul will rejoice. Scramble over the wall of a sheep paddock and then look up: a patchwork of green fields and yellow gorse tumbles down to the glittering sea below. Ancient hill forts and ruined castles brood under cloudy skies. The mountains are purple, the sea blue and white against gullhaunted cliffs. Now that’s Skye to perfection. n

Mealt Falls, Isle of Skye, Scotland

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ATTRACTION

THE ADDRESS, DOWNTOWN BURJ DUBAI

offers a new lifestyle experience Emaar Hospitality Group’s first and flagship project under its own five star global luxury hotel brand

he newest hotel in Dubai, The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai, developed by Emaar Hospitality Group, brings to the city a new luxury hotel experience defined by a spectacular location advantage, tangible guest benefits and superior service standards. At an imposing 306 meters in height, the 63-storey hotel is located at the heart of the most prestigious square kilometre on the planet. The hotel is the first and flagship property from Emaar Hospitality Group’s home-grown brand, The Address Hotels + Resorts and is the second tallest tower in Downtown Burj Dubai, next only to Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building. The contemporary hotel has 196 rooms and suites, and a rich array of amenities that appeal to both business and leisure travellers. Wearing an elegant cladding, the striking architecture is reminiscent of the art deco era and the tower is creatively illuminated at night. Mr. Marc Dardenne, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Hospitality Group, said: “The defining character of The Address Hotels + Resorts brand is the location advantage we offer, the tangible guest benefits we provide and the service standards that we assure at each of our hotels. The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai is the first and flagship property of The Address Hotels + Resorts, and is a sterling addition to the hospitality sector of the region. As the profile of today’s discerning travellers is changing, there are new definitive preferences and requirements which must be addressed by hotels. Our brand offers a new definition of global luxe life and is carefully positioned to meet the demands of leisure and business travellers.” The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai is implementing innovative services and exceptional guest benefits. Guests opting to stay in suites or executive rooms can enjoy the innovative and convenient privilege of a total 24-hour stay. This path-breaking service will revolutionise the hospitality industry as guests arriving in the afternoon, evening, or even midnight have the option of keeping their room for up to 24 hours without having to follow the traditional check-out time of 12 noon established in the hospitality industry around the world. The Address Hotels + Resorts brand defines itself on a ‘one size fits one’ approach where benefits to guests and service excellence are a priority. For the convenience of guests all check-ins are processed at the airport 58 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Guest Room

lounge or in the limousine en route to the hotel or in the guestrooms upon arrival. In addition, complimentary wireless internet is available throughout the hotel, a 24 hour fitness centre, select 24 hour food and beverage venues as well as a full time dedicated concierge service that can provide valuable information on the cities social hot spots further add to the lifestyle offerings of the hotel. All the rooms at The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai vary in design and aesthetics thus assuring guests highly individualised choices. Apart from spectacular views of Downtown Burj Dubai and the awe-inspiring tower, the contemporary rooms feature lifestyle amenities such as a large flat screen television and iPod docking station. The well-designed bathrooms with their double vanities, marble floors and mosaic finishes feature luxurious toiletries from renowned brands that would only enhance the in-room experience. Dining at The Address offers an array of options with international cuisine prepared and served by top class chefs and associates. The hotel

Business Lounge

pampers guests with eight food and beverage choices including the upbeat and sophisticated Chinese restaurant, Hukama and Fazaris, an all-day dining restaurant offering a blend of Japanese, Asian, Indian, Arabian and Mediterranean cuisine. Those who like to socialize in trendy and stylish ambiances can select

and a luxurious range of products designed by ESPA, a world renowned name that is synonymous with quality and outstanding results. Guests also have the option of receiving their special treatment on private outdoor terraces. The hotel also places strong emphasis on banquets, meetings and events. The function rooms, some of them overlooking the Burj Dubai tower, offer a majestic environment for highly professional or social events. The ballroom which can be divided into three smaller rooms with sound-proof partitions boasts a seven meter high ceiling and impressive floor-to-ceiling windows and can accommodate up to 550 people. All meeting venues feature the latest technology for the convenience of users, while the banqueting team pampers guests with a choice of international cuisine.

Hotel Lobby

one of the hotel’s venues such as the vibrant latin-inspired Calabar lounge; the winter time terrace, Bajjah, with direct views of Burj Dubai from its 14th floor; or the panoramic sky lounge, Neos, located on the 63rd floor. For a relaxing setting, the options include Risala, the inviting Lobby Lounge, the outdoor pool outlet, Zeta and Xpresso, a lake-side coffee shop. All the food and beverage outlets within The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai are tailored to maximise views of Burj Dubai and The Address’ philosophy of ‘Where life happens’ resounds in each and every outlet which provides ideal venues in which visitors can do business, relax or socialise. The Spa at The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai features nine treatment rooms, as well as steam rooms, saunas, nail studio and even an ice cellar where guests can cool off after a luxurious treatment. The Spa offers treatments

Dardenne added: “The attention to minute details paid throughout the hotel also extends to the welfare of the hotel’s associates, who are the very pillars in assuring the guest experience. Drawn from 45 diverse nationalities, the young and enthusiastic recruits have been extensively trained to uphold our founding and operational philosophy while adding their own personality and charisma to the overall hotel ambience.” The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai is located in close proximity to The Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destinations and is less than 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport and easily accessible to several of Dubai’s landmarks and key destinations. Reservations for The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai can be made at UAE toll free number 800 ADDRESS and +971 4 436 8888 or by logging onto the newly launched web site, www. theaddress.com. January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 59

ART & ENTERTAINMENT

Knight’s

Dream

Poetry of HH Sheikh Mohammad Immortalized in Art Through Ministry of Culture’s Master Calligraphy Exhibition

he poetry of HH Sheikh Mohammed has been immortalized in art through a new master calligraphy exhibition, A Knight’s Dream, organized by The Ministry of Culture, Youth & Community Development. A Knight’s Dream featured the work of three master calligraphers, Abdul Qader Al Rais, Hakem Ghannam and Mohammad Ozjay, outlining across more than 19 pieces of artwork an epic Nabati poem authored by HH Sheikh Mohammed. “A Knight’s Dream is a tangible example, executed by three of the world’s most renowned Arabic calligraphers, of the cultural legacy being created by HH Sheikh Mohammed. The works of Al Rais, Ghannam and Ozjay showcased in A Knight’s Dream demonstrate for a wider audience how words become art to celebrate the vision of an extraordinary poet and leader,” said the host of the exhibition, His Excellency Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Owais, UAE Minister for Culture, Youth & Community Development. “Apart from being a political and economic visionary, HH Sheikh

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Mohammed is also a remarkable poet, whose works have touched the hearts of people across the Arab world. The calligraphic rendition of HH Sheikh Mohammed’s epic Nabati poem captures the wonderful creative vision of His Highness’s work. The exhibition A Knight’s Dream is an unique tribute to HH Sheikh Mohammed’s poetic creations,” said HE Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre and the Managing Director of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. Recognised as a romantic poem, A Knight’s Dream was translated by Al Rais as one man’s declaration of love, whereas Ozjay interpreted the poem as one man’s patriotic wisdom and love for his country. HH Sheikh Mohammed has been composing Nabati or colloquial Gulf-based poetry since his school days and A Knight’s Dream represents the broadest exhibition of an artistic interpretation of his writings to date. The contemporary works of Abdul Qader Al Rais have earned the Emirati artist much respect admiration in the Arab world. Al Rais’ work reflects inspiration derivative of Arab culture and tradition. His style of art work incorporates watercolour scripts that are

both colourful and contemporary. In Al Rais’ work, words overflow with a sense of freedom and flexibility that can only be witnessed by the leading painters of the world. His works have been exhibited in leading galleries worldwide, including Europe, United Kingdom and the United States of America. Iraqi artist Ghannam has produced a work which will feature in the

exhibition, also inspired by HH Sheikh Mohammed’s poem. In this piece, rhythmic patterns which show his acute awareness in measurements as well as an accurate understanding of calligraphic shapes and forms. Ozjay, a master calligrapher from Turkey, executes A Knight’s Dream with more of a traditional approach with hand-made ink on paper. His sensibilities lie more in religious and patriotic themes than Al Rais. In almost all of the Arabic scripts painted by Ozjay, the spacing, symbols and characters are executed with a sense of freedom and spontaneity that can only come from such a skilled and practiced artist.

PROPERTY

Al Habtoor Island Resort & Spa delivers residential superlatives with substance

new benchmark for residential excellence will be established by the new Al Habtoor Island Resort and Spa, which is set for completion by 2011 - situated in the most desirable location on the Crescent of The Palm Jumeirah (secured by The Al Habtoor Group when The Palm was no more than an ambitious vision), the project is set to become one of our planet’s most exclusive addresses. “Destined to be the jewel in the crown of the Al Habtoor property portfolio, this truly unique development will offer levels of luxury, superlative design, build quality and contemporary, innovative elegance never before seen in the Middle East. I am certain that it will genuinely take people’s breath away and I am positive that it will be an outstanding residential address,” said Khalaf Al Habtoor, Chairman of The Al Habtoor Group. The Al Habtoor Group has opened a prototype residential apartment which is now available for viewing. A very limited number of exclusive freehold apartments, penthouses and villas - all with privileged access to the luxury resort and spa - are available within the resort. Initial demand has been strong, with

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discerning buyers from all around the world showing considerable interest in the unrivalled property. Residents staying at the exclusive freehold apartments, penthouses and villas of the Habtoor Island Resort & Spa will enjoy a complete lifestyle experience. The resort offers guests and residents access to options ranging from the serenity of its spa, health club, beach and gardens to the activity of the gym, swimming pools, tennis and squash courts. The natural beauty of the ocean is a recurring theme throughout the project, and this has been translated into a tasteful, soothing environment that will both calm and stir the senses. The Al Habtoor Group is determined to deliver a property that actually lives up to the superlatives that are used to describe the development, and to that end scoured the world to find the most innovative and creative designers, architects, interior and landscape artists - the resulting team selected to turn Khalaf Al Habtoor’s ambitions into reality brings together world-leading expertise and a shared ethos of honesty, enthusiasm, passion and commitment to create an archetypical

residential and tourist destination. The entire development will also be one of the world’s most environmentally friendly, as it has been designed to meet the highest LEED Gold requirements. Surrounded by the stunning crystal waters of the Arabian Gulf, the property will also boast inspirational views of two of the world’s major landmarks - The Burj Al Arab and The Palm Jumeirah, and will deliver an exceptional living experience that has been created with care, thought and an appreciation of the very finest things in life.

“70% of the entire development (one of the highest ratios in Dubai) has been allocated for beautiful gardens and water features, so there’s a real feeling of space,” added Khalaf Al Habtoor. “As a Group, we are uniquely positioned to develop, build and manage the resort’” concluded Khalaf Al Habtoor. “Habtoor Engineering built the Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah and Terminal Three at Dubai International Airport and is building Trump Tower along with several other multi-billion projects, and our Hotels division has a proven track record of delivering excellence in hospitality and property management.”

The Nakheel Harbour & Tower:

Dubai’s Capital

The project demonstrates Nakheel’s drive to provide a reflection of the future Arabia – a modern, global city of significance rightly assuming its place in the world.

he Nakheel Harbour & Tower offers the ultimate symbol of Dubai’s evolution as a commercial and cultural capital, according to project designers Woods Bagot. The global architecture practice believes that the design for the 270 hectare masterplan and more than 1 kilometrehigh tower will provide the centrepiece for the future of Dubai’s development, altering its skyline forever. As a focus for the city’s intermodal transport system, the project will create the most progressive mixed-use development in the world offering both functionality and lifestyle, while evolving the city’s infrastructure. The design has been founded on the influence of Islamic tradition to produce an aspirational display for the region. Described as “Dubai’s Capital” by its developers, the project is a dramatic demonstration of tower technology with a design that soars over one kilometre above ground level. Mark Mitcheson-Low, director in charge of the project and Woods Bagot Middle East Managing Director explains: “The Nakheel Harbour & Tower is a feat of design excellence on all levels and across all disciplines – it is truly a mark of the epoch. The project demonstrates Nakheel’s drive to provide a reflection of the future Arabia – a modern, global city of significance rightly assuming its place in the world. “The design is an example of the human ability to overcome the forces of nature and harness them to create a monument dedicated to past, present and future generations of the Gulf. Nakheel and Woods Bagot have pushed the design envelope with a project that will be central to the development of one of the world’s most exciting cities.” The masterplan and tower display

all the potent cultural imagery of Dubai in thoroughly modern form. The design represents a powerful symbol of change in the region, and has been developed for the future generations of the UAE who will, ultimately, live, work and play within its confines. Taking its inspiration from the geometric patterns instilled within Middle Eastern architecture, these cultural aspects have been absorbed into the design and synchronised with engineering principles. From a residential, retail and hospitality element perspective Woods Bagot has endeavoured to explore the Middle East’s rich architectural language and express Dubai’s cultural vernacular throughout the spaces of the public realm. The tower itself is an advance in skyscraper design not only in terms of height and stature but in function, as it knits together a blueprint for the mixed-use community of the future. The cylindrical tower is 95m in diameter, but in actuality is four towers encircling an internal void, linked at intervals by ‘sky bridges’. This design mitigates the effects of the wind load, allowing the air to pass freely through the building. The individual quadrants of the building allow for structural rigidity against the strong winds usually experienced at the higher building levels. Often limiting engineering possibilities beyond 500 metres, the wind will pass through vertical gills, which have been proven in wind tunnel testing to reduce the windload by three-fold. An added benefit of this design is to allow large floor plates at high levels, as the building does not have to taper to counter the wind effect. The first tower of this kind to reach these heights, the project has been developed through the design intelligence and research

of the Woods Bagot design team. Mark Mitcheson-Low explains: “The futureproofing thought process of the design team makes Nakheel Harbour & Tower a model for a sustainable, vertical community. It has the flexibility to adjust and react to the future demands and requirements of its tenants, owners and operators in the way in which they work, live and play. “ At approximately every 25 levels, the sky bridges will bind the building together and delineate the different uses of the building. This provides a structural integrity which, unlike any building before it, affords the tower greatly increased stability and the opportunity to build higher. They also house mechanical, electrical and plumbing services and would provide safe crossing points if one of the towers were disabled due to an emergency. Each sky bridge will have its own amenities and facilities, acting as gateways to the transport structure. Functioning as communities, the sky bridges will offer people a space where they can still interact and engage with others regardless of the external environment. The mixed-use building will contain commercial offices, three sections of residential quarters and hotel accommodation with a two-storey observation deck at the top of the tower.

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GREAT FLAVOURS

omotaro, named after a Japanese mythological character, is a premium dining outlet with a unique ethnic Japanese food concept. Set in a stylish red and black dĂŠcor, Momotaro will transports you to a chic Tokyo restaurant ambience. With something on the menu for everyone, Momotaro offers a lot of variety. Be it a choice for something vegetarian, a cold soup or your own choice of sushi, Momotaro ensures a unique dining experience which can be well compared to a great meal served in Japan. The best way to go through the exhaustive Momotaro menu, and enjoy a bit of everything is to order a variety of items and share it on the table. For the authentic taste of Japanese cuisine, their Gindara Miso (miso marinated black cod); Seafood Gyoza and Unagi Chawan Mushi (a traditional grilled eel soufflĂŠ) are a must-try. This is one restaurant where vegetarian foodies can also get a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine with a wide choice of vegetarian maki rolls, robata grills, tempuras, udons and much more. Food prices are from AED150 to AED200 per person. Momotaro also serves a host of signature dishes that are unique to the restaurant with special touches from their Japanese corporate chef Junichi

a new Japanese dining concept 64 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Kawamura. The Foie Gras Unagi (a maki made with these special ingredients and sesame seeds) or the Honetsuki Kohitsuji (their miso marinated grilled lamp chops) are perfect examples of the chef’s signature dishes. Along with the elaborate and exotic food menu, Momotaro also boasts of a splendid beverage menu complete with a choice of sakes, shochus and umeshus with a wide choice of champagnes, wines and handcrafted Cocktails. At the launch of Momotaro, well known restaurateur, Avinash Bal, said: “With Japanese cuisine becoming more and more popular in the cosmopolitan world of today, and with our chef ’s authentic contribution, well-trained staff and a congenial ambience we are confident that Momotaro will become a much favoured restaurant for food lovers in Dubai.” “We expect it to be particularly appealing to customers in Downtown Burj Dubai, visitors from Dubai International Financial Centre, and the numerous residential neighbourhoods plus offices in the free zones of Dubai Media City, Knowledge Village and Internet City, which are all in close proximity to the restaurant”. “Douzo omeshiagari kudasai!” Open from 12 noon to midnight, contact 04 4257976 for reservations.

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DINING PROMOTIONS

JW Marriott Friday Brunch

N e w Ye a r â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s

Treats

AL BUSTAN ROTANA DUBAI Benihana

Benihana Restaurant offers Sushi Night every Tuesday and Saturday, a theme night that guarantees an exciting culinary adventure. Enjoy a lavish buffet of authentic sushi, sashimis and other

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Japanese delicasies freshly prepared by our Master Chef as well as an extensive dessert selection for only Dhs 159* net per person inclusive of unlimited selected beer, house wines and soft drinks, from 06:30 pm till 11:30pm. Be an early bird and dine between 6:30 and

8:00 pm and receive a 20% discount on your bill.

Choices Restaurant Explore the rich culinary traditions of France without leaving the city as Choices Restaurant offers French Night!

Every Wednesday, the restaurant goes totally French in ambience with an extensive buffet of authentic French dishes prepared under the watchful eye of our French Executive Chef, Christophe Prudhomme. From salads to main courses to desserts, sample traditional dishes such as Salad Nicoise, French Onion Soup, Beef Bourguignone, Macaron and Tarte Tatin. Live cooking with our chefs for an authentic French show is also a treat not to be missed. For only AED 179* inclusive of selected beverages including French wines.

Come Prima! Come Prima presents a theme night that all food lovers cannot afford to miss. For only AED 119* net per person, inclusive of selected beverages, experience an extensive buffet of authentic Italian fare in a classy ambience without spending a fortune. Every Monday and Saturday, choose from a wide selection of fresh and dried pasta, complete with a variety of sauces and condiments prepared to your liking by our Master Chef at the live cooking corner. For reservations, please call 04 2820000.

AL DIAR SIJI HOTEL Al Diwan The hotel’s flagship restaurant welcomes guests with the exciting world of the famous Teppanyaki with nightly live cooking station every Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Relax, enjoy and savor this authentic cuisine as the chef prepares your meals before your eyes through this ancient art Al Murooj Rotana Zaika Business Lunch

Al Bustan Sushi Night at Benihana

of cooking on iron plates. A selection of highest-grade beef, juicy chicken, sweet and fresh seafood cooked on a hot iron griddle will be served to you hot off the grill by our specialty chef Rogelio Martin Mico. Menus include sets of Fujiyama and Hokkaido, served with mixed vegetables, deep fried ice cream in chocolate sauce and strawberry compot salsa. Meantime, the sushi feast will feature a wide selection of Japanese foods which include Sashimi varieties, Tako sushi, Kani (crab meat) sushi, and wide range of maki such as California Roll, Hana Maki, Kappa Maki (cucumber), Crispy Roll, Rainbow Roll, Caterpillar Roll, Canadian Maki, Unagi (eel), Futto, and more. For reservations

and other enquiries call (09) 223 2000.

AL MUROOJ ROTANA Pergolas While the outdoors are pleasantly cool and refreshing, capture these beautiful moments in tranquillity of spacious terrace of Pergolas Restaurant with their new Cheese Fondue Night. Specially designed for the group of 2 or more persons and accompanied by white house vine included in the offer, this traditional Swiss specialty is an ideal option for the night out being it an intimate dinner or friends’ get together. The best and carefully selected cheese, home made breads and relaxing settings of Pergolas terrace make it a “must to try” deal. The Cheese Fondue Night is available every Saturday from 7:00 pm till 11:00 pm for the price of AED 180* net for 2 persons including 2 glasses of white house wine.

Zaika With time becoming the most precious commodity, Indian restaurant Zaika in Al Murooj Rotana Dubai has introduced special business lunch taking only 45 minutes from the moment of food order. The business lunch menu is comprised of 3 courses. 4

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The business lunch is available from Sunday to Thursday from 12:00 noon till 3:00 pm. The price is AED 99* net per person. Vegetarian menu is AED 89* net per person. For reservation and more information please call (0)4 3211111, ext. 2202 or e-mail fb.almurooj@rotana.com.

AL RAHA BEACH HOTEL Café Mozart: Come and experience a delicate selection of sweets, pastries, cakes, cocktails and chocolate with a menu that takes inspiration from the globe with traditional English teas to Italian Espresso and the finest pastry recipes from France and Austria. Let Café Mozart spoil you with their selection of treats such as Palet de Dame, Chocolate Truffles or for the savoury fans try our exquisite Assiette Anglaise or Nordic Platters. Meal for two from Dhs 65.

Sevilla For a unique alternative to the mundane lunch spots, treat your special clients or colleagues to an exquisite lunch experience at Sevilla restaurant located in Al Raha Beach Hotel. Choices include a Chilled Buffet, Hot Lunch Buffet, Dessert Lunch and a Set 3 course. Menu with prices starting from Dhs 60++ per person. For a perfect and unforgettable day, spoil the family with a fun packed Friday brunch. You will discover a wide range of exciting activities run by a professional entertainment team, the younger ones

FourPoints the Promenade

will be kept amused for hours, leaving adults free to relax and unwind to enjoy the a sumptuous buffet of exquisite delicacies from around the world. All tastes are catered for and you are guaranteed to find something you will love, that will keep making you go back for more! From 12:30pm to 4:00pm Dhs 165++ for adults and Dhs 85++ for children under 12. For more details, call 02 508 0555.

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON BUR DUBAI Promenade Back by popular demand, the Asian dinner buffet at Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai’s Promenade Hilton Dubai Creek Glasshouse

Restaurant is all set to tempt your tastebuds with new dishes on its buffet line. Available every Thursday evening, the delicious spread boasts of delicacies from Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, China and Japan. This value for money spread is only priced at AED99 net per person, inclusive of one beverage and is available every Thursday from 7.30pm to 11pm. For those who love a Mexican meal, look no further as The Promenade serves up a delicious spread every Tuesday evening. On the buffet table, look out for Enchiladas (beef, chicken & cheese), Fajitas, Cajun Grill Salmon, Tex Mex Lasagna, Mexican Rice, Tortilla Soup, Beef Gree Chilli Stew and much more. The buffet is priced at AED99 net per person, inclusive of one beverage and is available every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 11pm. For reservations, call 04 397 7444.

HILTON DUBAI CREEK Glasshouse For the first time, Glasshouse Mediterranean Brasserie – the stylish and popular Gordon Ramsay-run restaurant in Hilton Dubai Creek is pleased to offer diners a five-course Tasting Menu. The carefully selected menu is a perfect reflection of the

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restaurant’s modern Mediterranean cuisine; each dish boasting the preparation of fresh seasonal ingredients and a flavoursome style of cooking. For Dhs 325 per person without wine/ Dhs 475 per person inclusive of wine. Glasshouse Mediterranean Brasserie continues its fantabulous “10 Dhs Drink Nights” promotion on Mondays and Wednesdays. Available during dinner only, this sensational new promotion is superb value for money as all house beverages including wine, beer and selected spirits are a mere Dhs 10 per drink when you order two courses! For further information or reservations, please contact: (04) 212 7551 or email glasshouse.creek@hilton.com

HILTON DUBAI JUMEIRAH

menu of cocktails, spirits and fine wines to leave you in a state of bliss. Book now for Special Promotional Offers. Call :+971 4 323 4333.

Pachanga Join us at Pachanga to celebrate ‘Rozhdestvo’ in true Russian style on Saturday, 6th January! This year we have organized an exclusive Russian ChristmasPartywith a delicious buffetoffering traditional Russian dishes, complete with a live Russian band and DJ playing the greatest of Russian hits. Time: 19:00 – 23:30. Priced at Dhs 400 per person (beverages not inclusive). For further information or reservations, please contact: (04) 318 2530. Renaissance Harry’s Place

BiCE With a menu mixing traditional Italian comfort food with the latest dining trends straight from Italy, BiCE is the place to come for an authentic experience. To top it all off, make your way to BiCE Sky Bar to enjoy a relaxing drink as you gaze at the amazing views over Dubai’s skyline. Open for lunch and dinner. For further information or reservations, please contact: (04) 318 2520.

HOLIDAY INN DUBAI AL BARSHA The Royal Buddha A new spot for Thai Fine Dining. Dripping in regal luxury be treated like royalty as you choose to try the set Menus specially designed for a King, Queen or Princess of delectable mouthwatering fare. A La Carte also available. Extensive

Lagoon, Hobräuhaus and The Market Place. No where else can you find in Dubai where you sit in any of these 3 restaurants and get to savour the buffet spread from all three restaurants. In addition, the dishes in these restaurants are not the same. In Market Place, you can savour international dishes and we suggest guests to try the Grilled Seafood section as there are about 6 different types of sauces to go along with the seafood items. Get a taste of amazing Asia at the Bamboo Lagoon. Hobräuhaus is very popular with the Germans as it serves traditional Bavarian cuisine. The package prices to eat at all three restaurants are very affordable. Package prices per person include: Simple Treat: Dhs 195 beverages not included; Deluxe Treat: Dhs 295 including house beverages and Royal Treat: Dhs 395 including free flow bubbly.

LE MÉRIDIEN ABU DHABI Pappagallo

JW MARRIOTT The Market Place, Hofbräuhaus and Bamboo Lagoon The Xll (12 hour) Friday Brunch is the longest brunch in Dubai starting from 12noon to midnight. The buffet spreads to 3 restaurants which are Bamboo

“All roads lead to Rome,” and this month your road will lead to Pappagallo to experience the signature dish of Gnocchi alla Romana; Semolina gnocchi with veal ragout. Start your new year with an experience of a typical Roman dish during month of January and share the best moments with friends and family in Pappagallo, your favorite dining destination in the capital.

Al-Finjan Elegantly prepared cheese temptations will mesmerize your taste buds especially when accompanied by the vast selections of gourmet designed, freshly brewed Dilmah tea, or your favorite cup of Illy coffee at Al Finjan during month of January.

Talay Our Talay Thai chef Jintana will be delighted to prepare for you a tasty Quail signature dish of Geang Oom Nok 4

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Kra-tar; spicy quail with Thai vegetables in clear broth. Discover the tantalizing flavors of Thailand in the recently refurbished surroundings of our Thai restaurant Talay. For reservations or additional information kindly contact Le Méridien Abu Dhabi 02 644 6666.

Renaissance Sails Reef and Beef

MEDIA ROTANA DUBAI Channels Asian Channels theme night will start in January at the recently opened Channels Restaurant. India, Japan, China, Singapore, Sri Lanka; which of these destinations would you like to explore on an exciting culinary adventure around the Asian region. Choose from a wide selection of Asian dishes inspired from our buffet while our live cooking offers a wide range of Asian delights. Enjoy Channel Asia every Monday for only AED 159* net per person including unlimited selective beverage form 6:30 pm until 11:30 pm.

Nelson’s Bar Are you feeling thirsty? Enjoy the 5 thirsty Happy Hour daily at Nelson’s bar form 5:30 pm until 8:00 pm. The new Nelson’s bar invites all guests to quench their thirst at the Victorian gastro pub during Happy Hour.A wide selective variety of beverages will be available to meet your thirst! For those who wish to continue there’s a lot more to enjoy at this trendy late-night destination. For Reservation or more information, please call 04-435 0000 or e-mail: fb.media@rotana.com

PARK HYATT Traiteur Every Friday guests can experience a wide variety of culinary delights, from the

Traiteur kitchen from 12:30–4:00pm. Enjoy the stunning architecture and theatre-style kitchen of Traiteur whilst listening to the live jazz entertainment; alternatively, relax and enjoy your brunch at the outside terrace area overlooking the yachts, as the temperature continues to be pleasant during January. This interactive bunch will allow diners to experience the different elements of cuisine from the Chefs of Park Hyatt Dubai, priced at Dhs 550 per person including the exclusive Veuve Clicquot Champagne, which cannot be found at any other brunch in the city.

The Thai Kitchen The Thai Kitchen features the flavours, colours and aromas of authentic Thai cuisine. Friday Lunch: An extensive menu of authentic Thai dishes prepared in four open kitchens, one each for wok, grill, noodles and desserts. The Thai Kitchen’s Friday Lunch is available between 12:30 and 4:00pm and priced at Dhs 175 per person, including soft drinks, or Dhs 225 per person, including soft drinks, beer and wine. Reservations recommended.

Café Arabesque Park Hyatt The Terrace

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Café Arabesque celebrates the culinary influences of the Levant region. Friday Family Lunch: More than 40 cold

and hot mezze treats, followed by six main courses of traditional specialties from the wood rotisserie, plus a selection of 12 desserts, fruit and authentic kunafa. Café Arabesque’s Friday Family Lunch is priced at Dhs 129 per person, including soft drinks. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount. For reservations, please call 04 317 2222.

RAFFLES Fire & Ice The culinary team of Fire & Ice, led by award-winning Chef Cedric Darthial, has come up with a series of innovative menus, promising to tantalize all your senses and create an experience above the ordinary. Fire & Ice offers a modern European cuisine with colorful presentations, delicate textures and exquisite flavors. Sample signature dishes from the new menus and try the ‘Nitro Wagyu Beef’ (Fire), ‘Toro Sashimi’ (Water) or ‘Foie Gras Tower’ (Air). As an alternate option, combine your courses with the revised a la carte menu and make your own selection, for a memorable customized dining experience. To complement this superb menu, our award-winning Head Sommelier Nicolas Murcott and his dedicated team will be on hand to recommend wine pairing with each course, based solely on your preferences. With no less than 600 references offering the best from both

borne out of the genteel ways of the East and the old world charm of the West. Feast on a delectable set menu which combines the harvest of a fertile land and abundant seas with the cosmopolitan flair of select French wines. Four-course set menu at AED 400 per person. Available daily for dinner from 1 January until 24 January 2009. Hoi An is open daily from 19h00 to 01h00.

Sheraton Deira Friday Brunch

Dunes Cafe

the Old and New World, each glass will perfectly accompany your meal while exploring any of the four elements. For Dining Reservations and Inquiries, please call directly +971 4 314 9888 or Email: dining.dubai@raffles.com

RENAISSANCE HOTEL

Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday); Reef n’ Beef (Monday and Tuesday) “All you can eat and drink”. A huge selection of the most spectacular seafood and Australian cuts of rib eye and sirloin beef at all you can eat and drink packages!

Marrakech

Spice Island

Harry’s Place!

Chinese New Year is that time of the year wihich signifies celebration and merriment for millions of Chinese people all over the world. Celebrate Chinese New year on January 26th in Spice Island with your favorite Chinese lucky food: chicken black bean sauce, chicken kung pao, dumpling fortune cookies, sweet and sour fish, sweet and sour soup and sesame seed balls deep fry and more. Let our skilled Sushi chefs tantalize you with the fabulous selection of Sushi and Sashimi. Sushi and Sashimi are one of the world’s celebrated healthy meals that have a history that could be traced back to the 4th century BC. We bring the art and the drama of Japan to Spice Island with unique specialties such as Nigiri Sushi, assorted Sashimi (Salmon, Tuna, Red Snapper, Cattle fish) and many more such as green tea cake and green tea ice cream.

Sample Italian food specials form the 5th till the 20th of January. Exclusive Italian wines are paired with every dish to match your dinner. Dhs. 78/- per person inclusive of one main course and a glass of wine.

Sails! Throughout January, 2009. From 6.30pm to 11.30pm is Seafood Nights (Friday,

Everything is grilled to perfection every Tuesday evenings at Dunes as your favourite barbecue items take centrestage in our popular buffet spread. Indulge in an array of succulent meat and poultry items, fresh seafood as well as a selection of vegetarian choices – well done or as you like it. Dinner buffet at AED 150 per person (food only), AED 210 per person (with wine) and AED 250 per person (with alcoholic spirits). Available every Tuesday evenings the whole month of January.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, DUBAI Hoi An Experience the mystique of a land Sheraton Dubai Creek Scallops from Creekside

Surrender to the lure of Morocco’s most captivating city. Yield to the gastronomic temptations it offers as resident Moroccan chef Hakim whips up a captivating set menu inspired by Casablanca by night. Indulge in scrumptious Moroccan dishes masterfully paired with choice Medaillon wines, Casablanca beer and cocktails. Set menu at AED 328 per person. Available for dinner the whole month of January. Marrakech is open from 19h00 to 01h00 (except Sundays). For further information and reservations, please call (04) 405 2703.

SHERATON ABU DHABI Flavours To celebrate the Chinese New Year and to welcome in the year of the Ox we have prepared a succulent and traditional Chinese buffet prepared by our Chinese Chef James Wang for the occasion in our Flavours Restaurant for only AED 180 per person inclusive of unlimited house wine. Buffet opens at 19:00 hrs. Price at AED 180 per person inclusive of unlimited house wine, AED 90 per Child (below 11 years). For reservations, please call 02 697 0262. 4

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 71

Terrace restaurant at Sheraton Deira Hotel from 12 noon till 1600 hrs. The lavish Friday Brunch serving Mediterranean specialties offers an array of International hot and cold dishes, soups, veggies, salads, cold cuts, seafood, meats, rice, noodles, sweets, all for Dhs. 115 net per person. Another option is to go for Dhs. 89 net, which accompanies soft beverages. For reservation or more information, please call 04-2078615.

SHERATON DUBAI CREEK Sheraton Dubai Creek Foie Gras fom Vivaldi

La Mamma During the Month of January we will do our Virtual Gourmet Tour of Italy, visiting this time Sicily, an enchanted Island in the Mediterranean and one of the two major islands of Italy. Ancient foods and traditions with a close link to Arabic favourites such as spices like saffron or grains like cous cous. And during February we will be visiting Valle D’Aosta, the smallest Italian Region, yet packed with delightful foods and traditions. Famous for its ski resorts the region is also well known for it wonderful cheeses, game meats such as red deer, polenta prepared with butter and cheese and cured meats. Let Chef Rakesh bring to your table the intense flavours of these beautiful regions! Everyday different, everyday Italian! For reservations or take away Pizza orders, please call 02 697 0258.

El Sombrero: Regularly in Mexico the quesadilla is made with an uncooked tortilla that is stuffed and cooked on a hot griddle, cheese is the classic filling but popular variations include chicken, mushrooms, chilies, here at El Sombrero Chef Salvador using the flour tortillas and prepare a variety of fillings that you will find irresistible to taste! Sing along the Kanela Trio some of their Latin tunes, while sipping one of our famous Margaritas or share a jug with

72 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

your friends and you’ll know what real Mexican feels like! Hasta luego amigos…! For reservations, please call 02 697 0238

SHERATON DEIRA HOTEL The Terrace Get a detox from the festive delicacies with light Finger foods this New Year January 2009 at the newly revamped The Terrace restaurant, at Sheraton Deira Hotel, Dubai, a venue where you can just unwind and be yourself. A limited luncheon menu on Finger foods is available from 12 noon till 3pm with prices starting from Dhs. 45 net. Feel the ‘Mediterranean’ while you enjoy the Friday Brunch at the

Sheraton Dubai Creek Salmon from the Lobby

Ashiana Ashiana takes you on a nutritious lentil culinary from 14 to 24 January 2008. Chef Gaurav uses his secret traditional recipes and spices up the menu with dishes such as Kashmiri Rajmah (juicy red kidney beans cooked with onions, tomato and Indian spices) and Tomato Pappu (Andhra-style spicy tomato and yellow split peas). Indian cuisine will never be complete without dal dishes, therefore there will be a host of delightful dishes to choose from. Price from AED38 per dish. For reservations, call 04 207 1733

Vivaldi This January, Vivaldi gives patrons an Italian twist to foie gras by preparing it in the most sumptuous ways. You can have it prepared the minimalist way by Chef Andrea, such as the Baby Spinach Salad with Raw Foie Gras, Walnuts,

Parmesan and Nut Oil. But for those who are aware, he never fails to intrigue one’s palate with his creativity. Try the Tartare of Foie Gras and Mushrooms with Confitted Potatoes or the Royale of Foie Gras with Porcini Mushrooms Saute. Price from AED79 per dish. For reservations, call 04 207 1717.

Traders Hotel Pita Bread Stuffed with Tandoori Chicken and Bean Sprout

Creekside Best eaten during the season of September to March, scallops are the flavour of the month in Creekside this January. Scallops can be eaten in many ways, but Chef ’s favourite is to serve it as simply as possible. Start off with scallops grilled to perfection with the Grilled Scallop Sushi and it’ll be sure to entice you to order for more. Some of the must-try dishes are Scallops with Creamy Spicy Sauce and Enoki Mushroom, Grilled Scallops with Tomato Creak Sauce, Grilled Scallops with Yuzu Sauce and Stir Fried Scallops with Mixed Mushrooms. However Chef does it, it will always leave customers wanting for more. Price is from AED39 per dish. For reservations, call 04 207 1750.

THE ADDRESS, DOWNTOWN BURJ DUBAI Fazaris The city’s newest hotel, has launched a Friday Brunch at its eclectic all day dining restaurant, Fazaris. The Friday Brunch at Fazaris is a welcome addition to Dubai’s brunch scene and an ideal venue for friends and family to get

together in a vibrant and contemporary environment to enjoy exceptional cuisine. The Friday Brunch at Fazaris offers a spread of international cuisine. A cosmopolitan blend of authentic Japanese, Asian, Indian, Arabic and Mediterranean cuisine is prepared at live cooking stations by a team of multicultural chefs. Available from 12:30pm to 3.30pm. Prices start at AED 350 per person inclusive of free flow soft drinks and tea or coffee and AED 475 per person inclusive of two glasses of bubbly, unlimited soft drinks and tea or coffee. For reservations please contact telephone 04 423 8888.

TOWERS ROTANA Flavours on Two

Traders Hotel Pizza Pasta

Our infamous contemporary all day dinning restaurant Flavours On Two is promoting “Flavours from Blighty”. Every Tuesday, check out all your favorite Brit Bites, from fish and chips to pies, roast and curries for only Dhs169* net per person

Teatro The finest cuisine at the trendiest venue offers the best value in town. Dine in Teatro between 6:00pm and 8:30pm and enjoy 50% off your food bill. (Last Order at 7:15pm). Please call

04-3122202 for reservation.

TRADERS HOTEL, DUBAI The Junction Traders Hotel, Dubai is offering bread lovers a “Pizza and Paratha Craze” promotion from 1 to 31 January 2009. The promotion is available daily for dinner from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at The Junction restaurant, located next to the Lobby Lounge. Diners will have the opportunity to try a selection of creative pizzas and paratha (Indian flat bread) as well as international cuisines. Highlights of the promotion range from the all time favourite Joby Paratha, specially made by Indian Chef Joby, to other bread varieties such as Smoked Salmon and Mixed Salad Pizza, Lamb and Mint Pizza, Tandoori Chicken Pizza with Marinated Coriander Leaves and Raita, Keema Naan and lots more. Vegetarian diners can savour various vegan creations such as Baby Artichoke and Vegetable Pizza, Roasted Eggplant and Grilled Asparagus Pizza, Mixed Vegetable Pizza, Potato and Cauliflower Paratha, Kashmiri Naan and many more. The “Pizza and Paratha Craze” promotion is priced at only AED99 nett per adult and AED49 nett per child. For reservations, please call The Junction at (04) 214 7272. n

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 73

TRANQUIL MOMENTS

Chi, The Spa at

EDSA Shangri-La, Philippines

The CHI concept is to create a sanctuary of tranquility inspired by the legend of “Shangri-La,” high in the mystical Himalayan Mountains. The CHI spa philosophy is based on the fusing of ancient traditions, beliefs and rituals from China and the Himalayas.

ollowing weeks of indulgence during the festive season, January is the month to focus on well-being. After all, we all want to start the new year with balance and harmony to our mind and body and where best to experience this than at Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La. Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La embraces a holistic approach to physical and spiritual well-being. Inspired by traditional healing philosophies, their treatments are based upon the principles of restoring balance and harmony to mind and body. In traditional Chinese philosophy, chi represents the universal life force that

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governs well-being and personal vitality. To maintain good health, it is believed that chi must flow freely within the body, and if blocked, illness will follow. The CHI concept is to create a sanctuary of tranquility inspired by the legend of “Shangri-La,” high in the mystical Himalayan Mountains. The CHI spa philosophy is based on the fusing of ancient traditions, beliefs and rituals from China and the Himalayas. The concept was also developed in collaboration with a team of recognised specialists with treatments based on the Chinese philosophy of the

Five Elements, in which metal, water, wood, fire and earth are in balance with the positive Yang and negative Ying energy within the body. For balance to occur, the harmony of Ying and Yang must be restored. The Philippines is home to Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La. One is located at EDSA Shangri-La Manila, which is set in a lush tropical garden at the hotel’s Garden Wing. Chi is the largest hotel spa facility in Manila, covering over 3,000 square metres of floor area, complete with sunken spa tub, spacious relaxation area, herbal steam room and

showers. A separate entrance for both hotel residents and external clients provides exclusivity. From the calm serenity of the spa’s welcoming Sanctum, guests can enjoy the changing and lounge area as a prelude to a relaxing and revitalizing treatment. If you want complete privacy, the Chi Garden Suite experience is recommended where you can have an atmosphere of peaceful privacy and total relaxation. The Chi Garden Suite experience starts with an overnight stay in the Chi Premier Room nestled on the hotel’s fifth room where you have an access to the exclusive Horizon Floor. Then your journey continues in the Chi Garden Suite (Single Suite Rooms or Couple’s Suite Rooms) where a memorable spa experience is created with an array of spa treatments and therapies designed to soothe the senses and invigorate the spirit. Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La boasts of a variety of luxurious treatment suites and features Himalayan as well as in Philippine-inspired spa treatments. The treatment menu features over 30 face and body treatments, massages and special spa packages. The Himalayan Tsangpo Ritual is one of Chi Journeys offered at Chi. The treatment includes a signature bathing and cleansing ritual using ingredients based on the Sowa Rigpa, the 1500-year old healing traditions of the Himalayas. The ritual starts with a potently cleansing Himalayan salt scrub which takes place on a warmed stone plinth. The salts used are gathered by nomads from the ancient Tethys Sea, found at 15,000 feet high in Tibet where it is believed to be 250 million years old. It is the purest salt of its kind available,

infused with trace minerals and elements, and combined with aromatic herbs such as spikenard, a high-altitude Himalayan herb known to dispel stress and calm the senses. Audrey, the therapists informed me that I might experience some itchiness on my skin which is a result of the salt’s detoxifying effect, said to reduce acidity in the body. After a vigorous exfoliation, the body is treated to the application of Himalayan red mountain mud mixed with silagit, a rare mineral extract from the Himalayas and coveted by maharajas as a rejuvenator. The skin releases toxins while absorbing the minerals through osmosis. After simple, gentle cleansing with warm water, skin is left soft and supple, circulation is improved and vitality is restored. This is followed by a soak in the Blue Moon Spring Bath, a stone bath with subdued lapis blue light, the healing color of cleansing rivers of the Himalayan plateau. Bathing in the warm bath imparts a sense of serenity. On emerging from the bath, one can lean up against a cooling rock wall to heighten the senses with a rush of contrasting sensation. The experience is completed with a soothing Himalayan Head and Shoulder massage amidst the primal sound of singing bowls, known to put one in touch with soothing vibrational energy and for cleansing the mind. The 90 minute ritual is an ideal precursor to a full body massage or facial. The Himalayan Tsangpo Ritual is a two-hour treatment which leaves your body relaxed and rejuvenated, ready to face the hustle and bustle of city life again. Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La is Shangri-la’s luxury spa destination

Himalayan Treatment

Couple’s Suite

Chi, Premier Room

and is available worldwide. The twelfth CHI to open is located at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi, with others in Thailand, mainland China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Oman and Fiji, with plans for over 20 CHI to be introduced in selected Shangri-La city centre and resort locations during the next four years. For more information about the treatments, email chi.edsa@shangri-la.com or log on to www.shangri-la.com/spa.

Chi, Private Entrance

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 75

Rediscover your glow with the Moroccan Hammam Ritual at The Spa,

The Palace -

The Old Town 30 minute treatment builds on the finest Oriental beauty tradition

efresh your body and mind, rediscover your glow and feel fresh, alive and full of life. Experience the Moroccan Hammam Ritual at The Spa in The Palace - The Old Town. Building on the Moroccan tradition of ‘hammams’ that have time and again proved to be one of the finest ways to restore body glow through systematic exfoliation and cleansing, the Moroccan Hammam Ritual at The Spa is tailored to meet the needs of the modern busy executive as well as a leisure-loving guest. Michael Monsod, Spa Manager, said: “Hammams are a tradition associated with the heritage of Morocco, and today, spas have integrated the essence of the exfoliating and cleansing treatment in a modern environment. The Spa at The Palace - The Old Town features one of the finest settings for a Moroccan Hammam Ritual with guaranteed privacy and superior customer service.” Prior to the treatment guests enjoy

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a foot bath ritual where the feet are cleansed with water, peppermint oil and rose petals. The essence of the Moroccan Hammam Ritual is captured in the décor of the Oriental Bath House and The Spa’s signature fragrance, Frangipani, permeates throughout the room, adding to the relaxing mood. After a steam bath, the body is covered with traditional black soap which gently glazes and exfoliates the entire body. The vigorous scrubbing on the Hammam table that follows is one of the most effective exfoliation treatments available. The new skin cells are pampered and nurtured using a selection of traditional scrubs, followed by a thorough dousing. Finally, at the end of the ritual, for that extra pampering, the therapist uses an authentic Moroccan moisturizing lotion. A multi-step cleansing technique the Moroccan Hammam Ritual can be completed in 30 minutes and will rejuvenate users through its effectiveness as a thorough body cleaning treatment. In addition to this, guests have the opportunity to avail of the facilities at The Spa including use of the Monsoon showers, Jacuzzi and

steam rooms, facilitating the opening of the skin’s pores prior to the treatment. Michael Monsod added: “The Moroccan Hammam Ritual at The Spa is undertaken by a team of experienced professionals. The soothing spa environment will further relax visitors, who can also opt for more beauty treatments that will help them keep rejuvenated and refreshed.” The Spa at The Palace - The Old Town has six spacious treatment suites offering visitors total comfort to stimulate the senses, relax the body and restore balance to the spirit with authentic therapy methods. The Spa also features two Oriental bath houses, two steam rooms, Monsoon showers and two Hydrospa bathtubs with therapy jets. Ladies and gentlemen have individual changing areas and separate relaxation areas where delicate herbal teas and fresh juices are served.

INDUSTRY NEWS

New Family Programmes Discover the underwater life of the seas around us without getting wet at Sharjah Aquarium! Starting in January Sharjah Aquarium will begin holding drop-in family workshops on the 3rd Saturday of each month between 3-5pm. Each month the Aquarium will highlight an aspect of its collection with hands-on and minds-on projects and activities for children aged 5-12 and their parents/guardians. Saturday 17 January: Clownfish and anemones – best friends Uncover the special symbiotic relationship between clownfish and some types of sea anemone, two creatures who live harmoniously by benefiting each other. Clownfish are the only fish that are not stung by the tentacles of the sea anemones they use as their habitat – come and find out how and why! Drop-in workshops will be held in the Aquarium classroom located at the end of the self-led visit. Parents and children can enter the workshop at any time between 3-5pm providing space is available. If space is unavailable staff may suggest a time to return to the workshop. Activities take approximately 20 – 30 minutes. There is no charge for workshop participation. Children may not be left unattended by parents/caregivers in the workshop area. RETURNING FOR A SECOND YEAR! Weekend Family Workshops Each Saturday this programme will be held bilingually at 11am This programme lasts for one and half hours, and is 6-11 year olds and their parents/caregivers. Saturday 3 January: Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: The science of the Trebuchet machine Saturday 10 January: Sharjah Art Museum: Focus Orient – dressing up old style Saturday 17 January: Sharjah Archaeology Museum: Living in the Stone Age Saturday 24 January: Al Hisn Fort, Sharjah Heritage Area: Al Hisn: home to leaders

Emirates’ Flight to San Francisco Arrives to Warm Welcome Emirates, one of the world’s fastest-growing international airlines, marked the arrival of flight EK225, its first non-stop service between Dubai and San Francisco, at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). At a media briefing held after the arrival of the flight, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed AlMaktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group was joined by Steve Kava, San Francisco Mayor’s Chief of Staff, and San Francisco International Airport Director John Martin. “Emirates promises Bay Area travellers and business people an opportunity to reach Dubai and key transit markets including the Indian Subcontinent and Africa easily and more quickly than ever before,” said Sheikh Ahmed. “This new service from SFO creates a critical new connection between Northern California and Dubai – a destination for business and tourism unlike any other in the world. We look forward to contributing a significant, positive economic impact for San Francisco and its surrounding region with our new service,” he added. The arrival of Emirates Airline to San Francisco will facilitate incoming tourism and business traffic, bringing in travellers from the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa; creating new jobs in the Bay Area while generating state and local tax revenue, and business revenues. The non-stop air link will also help the growth of trade between California and the UAE which in 2007 saw close to $950 million worth of exports from the US state to the UAE. “The arrival of Emirates Airline to San Francisco is an economic boon for the city of San Francisco,” said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. “Emirates’ new route will bring new jobs and revenue to San Francisco, while creating a vital new corridor for business and tourism between the Bay Area and Dubai. It’s my pleasure to welcome Emirates to San Francisco.” “The greater the global connections the greater the success for regions like the Bay Area and Dubai in the new global economy,” said Jim Wunderman, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council. “The Bay Area has the fourth highest concentration of Forbes 2,000 Global Companies and 645 foreign-owned company

At a media briefing held after the arrival of the flight, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group (centre) was joined by Steve Kava, San Francisco Mayor’s Chief of Staff (pictured right); and San Francisco International Airport Director John Martin.

subsidiaries. In uncertain times, the Bay Area needs the economic stimulus and expansion of business opportunities this launch represents.” Emirates’ inaugural flight was a dual milestone of commencing services between two great cities and demonstrating the best the airline industry can offer in environmental efficiency. The first DubaiSan Francisco non-stop service marked the world’s longest green flight, on which Emirates employed multiple eco-efficient initiatives to save fuel and emissions. Emirates has made a multi-billion-dollar investment in new, eco-efficient aircraft, and on its San Francisco route it will deploy the state-of-theart Boeing 777-200LR. Emirates worked closely with government agencies in Dubai, Iceland, Russia, Canada the United States and other countries to plot the most environmentally-conscientious trip possible to save approximately 2,000 gallons of fuel and 30,000 pounds of carbon emissions on the 16-hour direct service. The 777-200LR is a member of the most fuelefficient airplane family operating today. Along with its unique ability to connect Dubai and San Francisco non-stop, the 777-200LR brings better environmental performance to destinations around the world. The aircraft’s aerodynamic landing gear and twin engines also allow for a smaller noise footprint- as much as 25 decibels below the standard. Emirates’ Boeing 777-200LR offers 266 seats in a three-class configuration and provides up to ten tons of cargo capacity. Emirates will operate non-stop flights between San Francisco and Dubai three times a week – on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays – before increasing to daily service in May 2009. Emirates Flight EK225 departs Dubai at 8:45 am and arrives in San Francisco at 1:00 pm local time the same day. The return route, Flight EK226, departs San Francisco at 4:45 p.m., arriving in Dubai at 7:25 p.m. the following day.

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 77

Dubai Ranked as Top Five Winter Destinations

British Airways – the UK’s flagship carrier which operates 21 weekly flights from Dubai to London Heathrow – has revealed it will fly a staggering 1.6 million people during the peak festive period (December 17 to January 4). And while the airline’s top longhaul destination remains its flagship New York (JFK) route, Dubai – along with Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Washington – make up British Airways’ five most popular winter getaways. “With three daily flights from London Heathrow to the emirate, Dubai is already our busiest regional route and as a result of the unprecedented demand on our current 21 weekly services, we are adding another five weekly flights to the route in January. Dubai is now firmly established in our top five winter destinations,” said Paul Starrs, British Airways’ commercial manager, Middle East. “Our frequent schedule and low prices on flights to London and the USA give our local customers the best reason get away to visit friends and relatives and experience our new home in London, Terminal 5”, added Starrs. Flights to London on British Airways start from just AED2,550, while flights to the USA start from only AED 3,640 return including taxes, fees and surcharges and can be booked online at ba.com – where the lowest British Airways fares to London are guaranteed – and customers can book, pay and check-in online for their flights.

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Rolls-Royce Water Jets to Power New Dubai Water Taxis A fleet of innovative new water taxis powered by Rolls-Royce waterjets is being introduced in Dubai by the Road Transport Authority (RTA) to help improve transport infrastructure in the fast-growing United Arab Emirates state. This is the first order for waterjets for water taxis in the UAE, where Rolls-Royce, the world leader in marine propulsion, is already a supplier of marine, aerospace and energy power systems in the region. The first of ten catamaran-based vessels, a modern version of the traditional abra water taxi, is scheduled to carry out sea trials in August 2009. Deliveries are due to be completed by early 2010 and, if the water taxis prove successful, there is significant potential for future orders from the RTA. Each water taxi is capable of more than 30 knots and will be able to carry 11 passengers. They will work around the Dubai Creek as well as the Dubai coast to provide a more modern, flexible and integrated public transport service. Esa Uotinen, Rolls-Royce Regional Manager – Marine, said: “Waterjets are ideal for these taxis because they a practical way of driving fast vessels and are most efficient at speeds of about 30 knots and upwards. They are lightweight, simple to maintain and provide excellent manoeuvrability.” The taxis, to be built by the Damen shipyard in the Netherlands. will each have a pair of FF310 waterjets built by Rolls-Royce at Kokkola in Finland.

Dubai Witnessing Car Rental Boom

Nigel Johnson, General Manager of Hertz UAE

Car rental has risen sharply in recent months as more residents and visitors seek to navigate the city in comfort and with ease, says Hertz. The world’s largest car rental firm, which now has 15 branches in the UAE and has been based in the country since 1993, says one of the factors contributing to the rise is difficulties experienced by expatriates and holidaymakers to get a taxi. Nigel Johnson, General Manager of Hertz said: “When tourists and expatriates arrive in Dubai, the first thing they want to do is explore the city’s wonders. This can be challenging as there is limited public transport at present and taxis can be hard to come by during peak periods.” Johnson explained that while the RTA is continually addressing ways to improve the flow of traffic in Dubai and build new modes of transport, such as the Dubai Metro, more visitors to the city are now opting for the stress-free and

convenient alternatives of car rental. “We’ve witnessed a considerable rise in car rentals in Dubai in recent months and that’s partly down to the traffic problems people are enduring. More people are turning to car rental as it’s an easy, hassle-free and affordable option.” “All of our cars are fully insured and undergo a 40-point quality check-up prior to rentals. Therefore, we can provide visitors with new, safe vehicles from the moment they enter the country, something that can bring peace of mind and avoid headaches,” continued Johnson. Johnson predicted that car rentals would continue to rise into 2009 and in conjunction with that trend; Hertz will continue to expand its operations to keep pace with rising demand. Hertz recently opened a new branch at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3 (T3), following the opening of the Hertz Radisson SAS Dubai Marina branch last month and the Dubai Festival City branch in June. As part of Hertz’s ongoing growth, the company is also investing heavily in two megasites at Dubai Investment Park and Mussafah in Abu Dhabi, with parking for 500 vehicles and full servicing facilities, in addition to plans to introduce a branch in Al Ain.

The First Christmas Tree Lighting at Media Rotana Dubai

The traditional Christmas Tree Lighting which started a season of long activities at Media Rotana Dubai was held at the Grand Lobby in Connexions Lounge. The event was attended by the hotel’s guests and some of the bookers along with their children. Everybody enjoyed the Christmas carols that were performed by the lovely staff of Media Rotana while enjoying the Christmas

candies sponsored by Sweet factory, Christmas cakes and beverages in a warm atmosphere. To capture the childish delight, passions and traditional ritual of the Christmas season, Santa Clause offered a variety of gifts to everybody with a special joyful entertainment that spread the joy among the families and friends. Not only the children enjoyed their gifts, the parents got a joyful part as well. A raffle draw was done at the end of the event with prizes sponsored by Tanagra. Guests enjoyed the tour around the different outlets of the hotel such as Prego’s the Italian restaurant, Channels the all day dining and Nelson’s Bar. They left carrying with them not only gifts but also a joyful peace in their hearts!

Christmas Celebration at the Millennium Hotel Sharjah In a very warm and family festive atmosphere, the Millennium Hotel Sharjah management and staff organized the Christmas event for the first time in the Hotel’s lobby on December 23rd 2008. Mr.Sherif Ezzat ,Acting General Manager, had a welcome speech and Santa Claus distributed chocolate stockings to all the kids amid the children’s carols and Christmas decorations.

Christmas at the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi In a very warm and family festive atmosphere, the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi’s management and staff celebrated the lighting of the Christmas tree in the Hotel’s lobby wahere 150 people from different walks of life attended with their families and friends. Mr. Moine Kandil, the General Manager of the Hotel had a welcome speech and Santa Claus distributed chocolate stockings to all the kids amid the children’s carols and Christmas decorations.

BurJuman announces winners of Runway Art fashion contest

With avant-garde designs covering all aspects of the theme of Freedom, and inspiring creations such as “Heal the World”, “Talk of the Town” and “Open Road”, some of the UAE’s most talented designers battled it out on the catwalk at BurJuman’s Runway Art contest. Runway Art, now in its third successful year, is a fashion competition composed of two categories: the professional category for designers with at least three years’ fashion experience, and the amateur category which is open to all emerging talent. The winner and runner-up in the professional category were Joseph Lalongisip Jr. and Ramil G. Noveda, receiving AED 20,000 and AED 10,000 respectively The winner and runner-up in the amateur category were Fatma Farhan and Elmira Borubaeva, receiving AED 15,000 and AED 7,500 respectively. “Each year we are amazed at the caliber of the talent emerging in the contest and this year’s theme of freedom has touched on important social issues. BurJuman, through its extensive fashion offers, sees Runway Art as a way to recognize and reward fashion creativity by local and UAE-based fashion designers,” said Sabina Khandwani, Head of PR and Marketing, BurJuman. The contest is an ideal launching pad for aspiring designers, as all of the 19 participants were rewarded with certificates, in addition to having their designs exhibited at BurJuman from 20 to 27 December 2008. This year’s judges were international fashion stylist Derek Khan; Louise Foster, the editor of Grazia magazine; Mandi Kingsbury, an awardwinning designer currently working as a freelance fashion stylist/designer in Dubai; and Pieter Richweisz, the creative director and photographer for Dubai-based concept-driven fashion magazine, Desert Fish. Sponsors were Formul’A, providing hairstyling, and Max Factor, providing make-up.

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 79

ALGERIA

GENERAL INFORMATION

80 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

may have a mixture of 127 and 220 volts.

Algiers (920 Km from city centre)

Visas

2,381,741 Sq.Kms

Annaba (12 Km from city centre)

Visas are required by all except nationals of

Population

Constantine (9 Km from city centre)

Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya,

33,739,635 (2008 est.)

Wahran 910 Km from city centre)

Mauritania, Morocco, Sudan,Syria, Tunisia,

Capital

Tlemcen (20 Km form city centre)

Yemen, Andorra Denmark, Finland, Guinea,

El-Djazair (Algiers)

No airport tax on departure

Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Leichenstein, Mali, Monaco,

Main Cities

Ports

Norway, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland

Algiers, Wahran/Oran,

Algiers (principal), Annaba, Oran, Skikda,

Customs Regulations

Constantine, Annaba Al-Boulaida,

Mostaganem, Bejaia

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400 gr of

Si di Bel-Abbes, Setif, Tizi Ousou.

Business Hours

tobacco and 1 bottle of wine are admitted free

Temperature/climate

Government offices and state Enterprises

of Duty

Summer: 27 to 32C

08.00 to 17.00 Sat to Wed

Currency regulations

Coast temperature,13 to 24C

0800 to 12.00 Thu

Any amount of foreign currency may be taken

Winter:Temperature variations inland,dropping to

Banks

into Algeria but is prohibited to take any Algerian

as little as 10C in the Sahara at night

09.00 to 16.00 Sat to Wed

currency into or out of the country. Proof of all

Languages

08.00 to 12.00 Thu

foreign exchange transactions must be presented

Arabic (official)

Electricity

on departure.All foreign visitors must change a

French (commercial)

220 volts (110 volts in some areas).

minimum of AD 1000.

Berber (in rural areas)

A continental adapter is necessary 127 volts or

Currency

3-phase 127/220/380 AC 50 cycles. Hotels

1 Algerian dinar (AD) =100 Centimes

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES Argentina 718683 643843 7 Rue Hamani Australia 40593300 592081 7 Rue Jean Rey, 75724 Paris cedex, France Austria 562699 567352 Les Vergers,Rue No.2 DZ-16330 Bir Mourad Rais Bangladesh 594805 603629 14 Ave.des Frères Oughlis Belgium 922446 925036 22 Chemin Youssef Tayebi,El-Biar Brazil 749575 749687 48 Boulevard Mohammad V Bulgaria 691514 691787 13 Boulevard Bougara,El Biar Canada 914951 693920 18 Mustafa Khaled St.,P.O.Box 48 China 692724 693056 34 Boulevawrd Des Martyrs Colombia 922090 923817 7 Avenue Malika Gaid,El-Biar Cote D’ivoire 692828 693683 Parc Paradeaux P.O.Box 710,Hydra Czech Republic 692274 693031 P.O.Box 999,Villa Malika Denmark 692234 692846 12 Ave.Emile Marquis,Hydra Egypt 691807 692952

Airports

Area

P.O.Box 297,Hydra Finland 691212 691637 P.O.Box 256 Hydra France 692488 691369 25 Chemin Gaddouche,Hydra Germany 741956 740521 P.O.Box 664,165 Chemin Sfindja Greece 600855 691655 60 Blvd.Col.Bougara Holy See 623430 572375 1 Rue Noureddine Mekiri 16090 Bologhine Hungary 691709 694431 P.O.Box 68 ,El-Mouradia India 923444 924011 14 Rue Des Ambassades Iraq 603125 601097 4 Rue Arezki Abri,Hydra Italy 292330 793766 18 Rue Mohammad Ouidir,Amellal Al-Biar Japan 912004 912046 1 Chemin Al Bakri,El-Biar Jordan 692031 691554 6 Rue Chenoua,Hydra Korea Repub 692076 693014 21 Rue Stambuli El-Mouradia Kuwait 693408 693037 Chemin Abdel Kader Gaddouche

Lebanon 594977 692397 Rue Du Hoggar,Hydra Libya 921502 924687 15 Chemin Sheikh Bashir Ibrahimi Mauritania 792139 784274 107 Lot Baranes,Air de France, Bouzareah Mexico 924023 923451 P.O.Box 329,El –Biar Netherlands 922828 923770 P.O.Box 72 El-Biar Nigeria 691849 691175 P.O.Box F629,Hydra Oman 941310 941375 126 Rue Didouche Mourad Pakistan 693781 692212 P.O.Box 621,Djeann El-Malik,Hydra Poland 922553 37 Ave.Mustafa Ali Khodja,El-Biar Portugal 925313 92541 12 Lot El-Feth El-Biar Qatar 922856 922415 P.O.Box 118,Bin Aknoun Romania 690871 693642 24 Rue Arezki Abri, Hydra Russia 783134 782882 Chemin Prince D’Amman El-Biar Saudi Arabia 603518

4 Rue Arezki Abri,Hydra Spain 922713 922719 10 Rue Azil Ali Sweden 692300 691917 Rue Olof Palme Nouveau Paradou,Hydra Switzerland 737310 738158 P.O.Box 482,27 Boulevard Zirout Youssef Syria 912026 912030 11 Chemin A.Gaddouche Hydra Tunisia 691388 692316 11 Rue Du Bois De Bologne Hydra Turkey 691257 693161 Chemin De La Rochelle, Blv Col.Bourgara UAE 692574 593770 P.O.Box 454 El Mouradia UK 230068 230067 P.O.Box 8,7 Chemin DES Glycines USA 691255 693979 4,CHEMIN Sheikh Bashir El-Ibrahimi Yemen 693085 691758 Villa 41,Ave.Les Verges Venezuela 693846 607555 Chemin du Kadous Hydra Zaire 591227 5 Rue Saint Georges,Kouba

KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Business Hours

Customs regulations

Area

Government Offices

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 250g of loose

716 Sq.Km

07.30 to 14.30 Sat. to Wed.

tobacco, 8 oz of perfume, 1 liter of wine and gifts

Population

Commercial Offices

up to the value of BD 250.00

(2007 estimate) 1,046,819

07.30 to 12.30 and 15:30 to 19:30 Sat to

Capital

GENERAL INFORMATION

Thu.

Currency regulations

Manama

Banks

There are no restrictions on the amount of

Main Cities

7.30 to 14.00 from Sunday to Wendesday.

currency bring in/take out of Bahrain.

Manama, Muharraq Town, Isa Town, Jidhafs,

Thrusdays bank are open from 7.30 to 13.00

Currency

Rifaa.

but closed on Friday and Saturday.

1 Bahraini dinar (BHD)=1.000 FILS

Temperature/climate

Electricity

Qatari riyal and UAE dirham are exchangeable at

Summer: 40 to 45 C,hot, humid.

220-240 volts, Single-phase AC and 400 volts,

rate of DH 10 or QR 10=BHD 1.

Winter: Warm, dry, 10 C to 20 C.

three-phase AC.

Languages

Visas

Arabic (official), and English (commercial).

Visas required for all except GCC and UK

Airport

nationals.

Muharraq (505 Km from Manama)

Tourist visas available at Bahraini embassies or

Taxis, hotel reservations, duty free shop Airport

on arrival at entry points-Bahrain Airport or the

tax on depature BHD 3.

King Fahd Causeway from Saudi Arabia.

Ports Mina Sulman

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

Algeria 713669 P.O.Box 26402,Manama Bangladesh P.O.Box 26718,Manama 714717 Belgium P.O.Box 5820,Manama China P.O.Box 3150,Manama Denmark P.O.Box 997,Manama Egypt P.O.Box 818,Manama

224631 723800 725119 720005

France P.O.Box 11134,Manama 291734 Germany P.O.Box 10306,Manama 530210 Greece P.O.Box 5790,Manama India P.O.Box 26106,Adiliya

Iran P.O.Box 26365,Manama 722400

722101

New Zealand P.O.Box 5881,Mnama

210284

210271

Sweden P.O.Box 412,Mnama

531085

530063

710031

Iraq P.O.Box 26477,Manama 786929

786220

Norway P.O.Box 10580,Manama 531480

530158

Switzerland P.O.Box 795,Manama

227811

224623

229994

Japan P.O.Box 23720,Manama 716565

715059

Oman P.O.Box 26414,Manama 293663

293540

Tunisia P.O.Box 26911,Manama 714149

715702

727304

Jordan P.O.Box 5242,Manama

291980

Pakistan P.O.Box 563,Manama

255960

Turkey P.O.Box 10821, Manama 533448

536557

826582

Korea Rep P.O.Box 11700,Manama 291629

291628

Palestine P.O.Box 1102

276054

UAE P.o.Box 26505, Manama 723737

727343

721518

Kuwait P.O.Box 786,Manama

536475

Philippines P.O.Box 26681,Manama 710200

710300

UK P.O.Box 114, Manama

534404

531273

293655

Lebanon P.O.Box 2102,Manama

784998

Portugal P.O.Box11030,Manama 531533

272594

536282

Libya P.O.Box 26062,Adliya

262358

713662

291109

534040 786994

259211 712785

Netherlands P.O.Box 350,Manama

715527

224320

276099

530445

USA P.O.Box 26431, Manama 273300

Russia P.O.Box 26612,Manama 725222

725921

Yemen P.O.Box 26193,Manama 277072

740178

Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1085,Manama

537722

533261

212295

Sudan P.O.Box 5438,Manama

252546

252578

714162

Morocco P.O.Box 26229,Manama 740566

244113

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 81

EGYPT

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

997.738 sq.Km

Population (2008 est.) 80 million

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES Afghanistan 4177236 4177230 59 El Ourouba St. Heliopolis Algeria 3407671 3414158 14 Al-Brazil Street, P.O.Box 39, Zamalek Argentina 3401501 3414355 8 Al-Saleh Ayoub street,Zamalek Australia 5750444 5781638 1191 Corniche El-Nile, Boulaq Austria 5702974 5702979 5 Wissa Wassef St.Giza Bahrain 3407996 3416609 15 Brazil Street,Zamalek 3407996 3416609 Bangladesh 3402642 3412631 47 Ahmed Heshmat Str.Zamalek Belgium 3547494 3543147 20 Kamel El-Shinnawi St.Garden City 1125 Brazil 5756938 761040 Corniche El-Nile Maspero Bulgaria 3543110 3563548 6 El-Malek El-Afdal Street, Zamalek Canada 3543110 3563548 5 El-Saraya El-Kobra Square,Garden City China 3411219 3409459 22 Bahgat Ali Street,Zamalek Cyprus 3411288 3415299 23 A Ismail Mohammad Street,Zamalek Czech Republic 3485469 3608089 4 Dokki St.,Giza

82 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Local airports at Aswan, Hurghada, Luxor, Sharm

declared on entry.

El –Seikh.

Goods valued up to £E100 may be

Ports

exported.200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 200

Alexandria (principal), Port Said, Suez, Damietta,

gms tobacco,1 litre wine or spirits.

Safaga.

Capital

Business Hours

Cairo

Government: 08.00 to 14.00 Sat.to Wed,08.00

Main Cities

to 13.00 Thu,10.00 to 12.00 Sun.

Cairo,Alexandria,Ismalia,Port Said.

Businesses: Variable (some closed on Fri, others

Temperature/climate

on Sun.)

The import or export of Egyptian currency is

Banks

Winter: 9 to 22 C in Cairo.

09.00 TO 13.30 Mon.to Thu.,10.00 to 12.00

More temperature along Mediterranean coasts

Sun.

“Khamsin” (hot,dry wind in Spring)

Electricity

Languages

220/240 volts 50 cycles AC in Maadi and

Arabic, ( official),English and French (

Heliopolis some 110 volts, 50 cycles AC.

commercial).

Visas

Airports

Visas are required by all foreign visitors except

Cairo (22.5 Km from city centre).

most Arab nationals.

Coaches/taxis,duty-free shop,airport tax on

Customs regulations

departure.Alexandria (8 Km from city centre)

Currency,jewellery and other valuables must be Lebanon 3610623 5 Ahmad Nesim Street,Giza Libya 3402487 7 El-Saleh Ayoub,Zamalek Mauritania 3490671 14 Mohu El-din Abou El-Ezz St.,Dokki Mexico 5716156 6 Ahmed Shawki Street,Giza Morocco 3409849 10 Salaheddine Street,Zamalek Netherlands 3401936 18 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek Norway 3413955 8 El-Gezira St.Zamalek Oman 3031708 52 El-Hegaz Street, Mohandiseen Pakistan 3487504 8 Al-Salouli St. Dokki Portugal 3363950 57 El- Giza St.,Giza Qatar 3604693 10 El-Themar St.,Dokki , Giza Romania 3410107 4 Aziz Abaza Street, Zamalek Russia 3489354 95 Giza St,Giza Saudi Arabia 3490797 2 Ahmad Nessim St.,

prohibited.All receipts for the exchange of foreign currency into Egyptian pounds should be kept to be presented on departure.

Currency 1 Egyptian pound(£E)=100 piastres=1.000

Summer 22 to 35 C in Cairo,

Denmark 3402505 3411780 12 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek Finland 3411487 3421376 3 Abdul Feda Sreet,Zamalek France 5703920 5710276 29 El-Giza Street, Giza Germany 3410015 3410530 8 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek Greece 3547200 3563903 18 Aisha El-Taimouria St.Garden City Holy See 3402250 3406152 Apostolic Nunciature 5 Mohammad Mazhar Street Hungary 3408634 3408648 29 Mohammad Mazhar Street, Zamalek India 3413051 3414038 5 Aziz Abaza Street,Zamalek Iraq 3408087 3415075 9 Mohammad Mazhar St.,Zamalek Italy 3543194 3540657 15 Abdel Rahman Fahmi St. Garden City Japan 3553963 3563540 2 Abdel Qader St.,Garden City Jordan 3485566 3601027 6 El Guhaini Street,Dokki,Giza Kenya 3453628 3443400 7 El-Mohandis Galal St.Mohandisin Kuwait 3602661 3602657 12 Nabil Al-Wakad Street,Dokki

Currency regulations

3610463

3489060 5783040 3400937 3415249 3420709 3036464 3480310 3363952 3603618 3410151 3609074 3494590

millimes.

Singapore 3490468 40 Babel Street, Dokki Slovakia 3486550 4 Dokki St. Dokki Spain 3406397 44 Ismail Mohammed St.Zamalek Sudan 3545658 3 El Ibrahimi Street, Garden City Sweden 3411484 13 Mohammad Mazhar St.Zamalek Switzerland 3402250 10 Abed Al Khalek Sarwat St. Syria 3358320 18 Abdel Rahim Sabri St. Dokki Thailand 3408356 2 Malik El-Afdal St.Zamalek Tunisia 3408962 26 El-Gezira street,Zamalek Turkey 3563318 25 El-Falaki Street,Bab el-Louq UAE 3609722 4 Ibn Sina St.,Giza UK 3540850 7 Ahmed Ragheb St.,Garden City USA 3557371 5 Latin America Str.,Garden City Yemen 3614225 28 Amin El-Rifaii Street,Dokki

3481682

3547359 3542693 3404357 5745236 3358232 3400340 3412479 3558110 5700844 3543065 3573200 3604815

IRAQ

GENERAL INFORMATION

Visa applications should be made well in advance

Ports

Area

Basra (principal),Fao (oil)

and supported by a written invitation from a

438.317 sq.Km

Government Offices: Summer 08.00 to 14.00

government organization.No admission granted

Population

Sat.to Wed & 08.00 to 13.00 Thu.

to visitors holding passports showing evidence of

29.58 million(2006 est.)

Winter: 08.30 to 14.30

travel to Israel.

Capital

Sat To Wed. and 08.30 to 13.30 Thu.

Visitors must register for stays exceeding

Baghdad

Shops and Firms: Summer 08.30 to 13.00

14 days and exit visas are required for visits

Main Cities

and 16.00 to 20.00 Sat.To Wed.& 08.30 to

exceeding 30 days.Apply to Directorate of

Baghdad, Basra, Mosul, Kirkuk

13.00 Thu.

Residence,52nd street Baghdad, Tel:92377 Test

Temperature/climate

Winter:08.30 to 14.30 and 17.00 to 19.00 Sat

for HIV (The Aids Virus) is required.

Summer 24 to 42C in Baghdad,humid,hotter

To Wed and 08.30 to 13.30 Thu.

Customs Regulations Country under UN embargo,The import of most

and more humid in Basra

Banks

More temperature in north.Winter:4 to 16 C in

Summer 08.30 to 12.30 Sat to Wed. and

Baghdad.

08.30 to 11.30 Thu.

Currency

Languages

Winter: 09.00 to 13.00 Sat To Wed. and 09.00

1 Iraqi dinar (ID)= 1.000 FILS

Arabic (official and commercial).

to 12.00 Thu.

Airport

Electricity

Baghdad (17 Km from City Centre)

220 volts,50 cycles AC.

goods is prohibited.

Coaches/taxis,duty free shop-airport tax on

Visas

departure

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Egypt, Jordan, and Sudan.

Afghanistan P.O.Box 674 5560562 Algeria P.O.Box 444, Lane 35 5372181 Argentina P.O.Box 2443,Lane 24 7768140 Australia P.O.Box 661, Al Masbah 7193434 Austria P.O.Box 294,Lane 2 7199033 Bahrain P.O.Box 27117, Lane 7 5428945 Bangladesh 75/17/929 Hay Babe 7196367 Belgium Hay Babel,Mahallat 929 7198297 Brazil P.O.Box 2088, Lane 16 5411365 Bulgaria 5568197 Amireyah Embassies Quarter Canada P.O.Box 323,Lane 1 5421459 China P.O.Box 225 5562741 Czech Republic Mansour St., Lane 37 7767367 Denmark

5430275

P.O.Box 2001, Alwiyah 7717052 Egypt P.O.Box 6315,Lane 11 5430572 Finland P.O.Box 2041, Alwiyah 7766271 France P.O.Box 118 7196061 Germany P.O.Box 2036, Lane 2 7192037 Greece 63/3/913 Hay Al-Jamia AL-Jadiriya 7766572 Holy See P.O.Box 2090,Lane 2 7195183 Hungary P.O.Box 2065 7765000 India P.O.Box 4114, Adhaiyah 4222014 Indonesia St. 2, Houre 77, P.O.Box 420 7198680 Italy P.O.Box 2043,Lane 73 7765058 Japan P.O.Box 2369, Lane 17 7195157 Jordan Kindi Quarter 1 sec.213 5412892

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES 7170635

7760488

7180340

7196520

4229549 7198677

7196186

Korea Rep. 915/222/8278, Hay al -Jamia Malaysia 6/14/929 Hay Babel 7762622 Mauritania Al Mansour, Baghdad 5518261 Mexico 601/11/45 Al- Mansour 7198039 Morocco P.O.Box 6039,Lane 11 5421779 Netherlands P.O.Box 2064, Lane 35 7767616 New Zealand P.O.Box 2350 7768176 Norway 20/3/609 Hay-Al Mansour 5410097 Oman P.O.Box 6180, Lane 13 5518198 Pakistan Al-Mansour 14/7/609 5415120 Palestine P.O.Box 3122 7183146 Philippines P.O.Box 3236,Lane 3 7193228 Poland P.O.Box 2051, Lane 13 7190297 Portugal

7765496

P.O.Box 2123,Lane 25 7764953 Qatar P.O.Box 2445,Lane 46 5412186 Romania P.O.Box 2571 7762860 Russia 4/5/605 Al-Moutanabi 5414749 Somalia P.O.Box 2078, Lane 1 5410088 Spain P.O.Box 2072, Lane 1 7192852 Sudan P.O.Box 213, Lane 15 5424889 Sweden P.O.Box 720, Lane 41 7195361 Switzerland P.O.Box 2107, Lane 5 7193091 Thailand P.O.Box 6062, Al-Mansour 5418795 Tunisia P.O.Box 6057,Al Mansour 5517786 Turkey P.O.Box 14001,Waziriya 2220021 UAE P.O.Box 6192, Lane 13 5417026 Yemen P.O.Box 13037,Lane 28 7760647

2228353

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 83

JORDAN

GENERAL INFORMATION

08.30 to 15.30 Sat to Thu Ramadan: 09.30 to 13.30 Sat to Thu.

Currency

92.000 sq.Km

Commercial Offices:

1 Jordanian dinar(JOD)=1.000 fils.

Population

Summer:08.00 to 13.30 and 15.30 to 19.30

Area

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

(2000 est.) 5 million

Sat to Thu.

Capital

Winter: 08.30 to 13.30 and 15.00 to 18.30

Amman

Sat to Thu.

Main Cities

Banks

Amman, Aqaba, Irbid, Zarka

08.30 to 15.30 Sat. to Thu.

Temperature/climate

Electricity

Summer 18 C to 22 C in Amman,Dry,

220 volts,50 cycles AC.

Winter 4C to 12 C in Amman,dry.

Visas

Languages

Visas required by all and can be obtained from

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

any Jordanian consulate.

Airport

Some visitors may acquire visas on arrival at

Amman (32 Km from city centre. Taxi, duty free

International airports.

shop,airport tax on departure.

Customs regulations

Port

200 cigarettes,25 cigars or 200 g tobacco,1

Aqaba

bottle of spirits.

Business Hours

Currency regulations

Government Offices:

Export of currency equal to the amount declared

Algeria 4641271 P.O.Box 1223,3rd Circle,Jabal Amman

4616552

France P.O.Box 5348,Mutanabi St. 4641273

Australia 5930246 Bet.4th & 5th Circles,Zahran St.

4616552

Germany Jabal Amman

4612725

Greece P.O.Box 35069

5664190

Holy See Amman

Belgium 5931859 5930487 Hawari Boumedienne St.,Near 4th Circle

Hungary Amman

Brazil Jabal Amman,3rd Circle 5925416

Austria Jabal Amman Bahrain Jabal Amman

Bulgaria Amman

4644635 5664148

4612964

5529391

5539393

Canada 5666124 P.O.Box 815403,PC 11180

5689227

on entry is permitted.

4659606

Libya Amman

5693102

5693404

Sudan Jabal Amman

4644251

4644187

5930351

5932887

Morocco Jabal Amman

5921771

5925185

5930179

5672331

5696591

Oman Jabal Amman

Sweden 5931177 12 Embassy St. Jabal Amman Jabal Amman 5931416

5686155

5680404

5929934

5694059

Pakistan Jabal Weibdeh

4624680

4611633

5925614

5930836

Philippines Amman

5518134

5518441

India P.O.Box 2168,1st Circle 4623175

4619172

Qatar Jabal Amman

5607311

5607350

Syria Jabal Amman, 4th Circle 4641935

4651945

Tunisia Jabal Amman

5674307

5605790

Turkey P.O.Box 2062,PC 11181 4641251

4612353

Italy 4638185 5/7 Hafez Ibrahim St.,Jabal El Webdeh

4659730

Romania 5667738 Jabal Amman, P.O.Box 2869

5684018

UAE Jabal Amman

Japan 5930486 Al-Aqsa Street,Jabal Amman

5931006

Russia Jabal Amman

4641158

4647448

UK 5923100 P.O.Box 87, Abdoun, Amman

5923759

5920101

5920121

4642381

4654717

China P.O.Box 2023,PC 11181 5931530

5932607

Kuwait Jabal Amman

5675135

5681971

Saudi Arabia Jabal Amman, 5th Circle 5924154

5921154

USA P.O.Box 354,PC 11181

Egypt Jabal Amman,3rd Circle 5605175

5604082

Lebanon 2nd Circle, Amman

5929111

5929113

Spain Jabal Amman

4614173

Yemen Jabal Amman

84 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

5930685

4614167

5934780

5932666

KUWAIT

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

17.8182 sq.Km

Population (2005 estimate) 2.7 million

Capital Kuwait City

Main Cities Kuwait City, Ahmadi, Hawali, Farwaniya, Al-Jahra

Temperature/climate Summer 40 to 45 C, dry, dust, storms. Winter cool, some rainfall in November to January.

Languages Arabic (official), English (commercial).

Airport Kuwait (16 Km or 30 mn from city center). Taxis, duty-free shop, no airport tax.

continiuing their journey to a third country bt the

Business Hours

same aircraft,or by passengers transiting within

Government Offices:

24 hours.However,passengers must have tickets

Winter 07.30 to 13.00 Sat to Wed.,

with reserved seats and valid documents for their

07.30 to 11.30 Thu.

onward journey.With visas for a visit sponsored

Summer 07.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Wed.

by a kuwaiti resident a form in duplicate must

Ramadan 08.30 or 09.00 to 13.00 Sat to Thu.

be validated by the Ministery of Interior.For a

Commercial Offices:

visit without a sponsor, form in duplicate can

08.00 to 12.00 and 15.00 to 18.00 Sat.to

be obtained from a Kuwaiti consulate.Some

Wed.08.00 to 12.30 Thu.

Nationals require a No Objection Certificate

Ramadan 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

issued by Minister of Interior.

Banks

Customs regulations

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Thu.

No alcohol,500 cigarettes,2lb tobacco.

Ramadan 8.30 to 12.30 Sat to Thu.

Currency regulations

Electricity

There are no restrictions on the import or export

240 Volts single-phase

of currency

50 cycles AC

Currency

Visas

1Kuwaiti dinar(KD)=1.000 fils

Visas or entry permits are required in advance by

Ports

all visitors except for nationals of the GCC states.

Mina Abdulla (oil)

Transit visas are not required by passengers

Mina Al Ahmadi (principally oil) Afghanistan 2433075 P.O.Box 22944 Safat,13015 Algeria 2427185 P.O.Box 578,Safat Austria 2467421 P.O.Box 44180,Hawali 32056 Bahrain 5318530 P.O.Box 196,Safat 13002 Bangladesh 2542688 P.O.Box 22344,Safat 13084 Belgium 2561029 P.O.Box 3280,Safat Brazil 2561029 P.O.Box 39761,Safat Bulgaria 5314458 P.O.Box 12090,Kuwait City Canada 2563025 P.O.Box 25281,Safat 13113 China 5330165 P.O.Box 2346,Safat 13024 Cuba 5382024 P.O.Box 23685,Safat 13124 Czech Republic 2529015 P.O.Box 1151,Safat Egypt 2519955 P.O.Box 11252,Safat

Shuwaikh (container,ro-ro, slipway) Shuaiba

5326274 2519497 2449993 5330882 5722018 2562153 2562153 5321453 2560173 5333341 2402971 2529021 2563877

Finland 5312890 P.O.Box 26699,Safat France 5319850 P.O.Box 1037,Safat 13011 Gabon 4830975 P.O.Box 1230,Hawali 32013 Germany 4817055 P.O.Box 5930,Safat 13060 Hungary 5312600 P.O.Box 5671,Safat 13057 India 2530600 P.O.Box 1450,Safat 13015 Indonesia 2514588 P.O.Box 21560, Safat 13076 Iran 2560694 P.O.Box 4686,Safat Italy 2445120 P.O.Box 4453,Safat 13045 Japan 2518155 P.O.Box 2304,Safat 13024 Jordan 2533500 P.O.Box 5242,Safat 13053 Korea Rep. 4814004 P.O.Box 20771,Safat 13068

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES 5324198 2571058

2520763 5313782 2525811 4819250 2529868 2445124 5326168 2570894 2526874

Lebanon 2562103 P.O.Box 253,Safat Libya 3529172 P.O.Box 21460,Safat 13075 Morocco 4813700 P.O.Box 784,Safat 13008 Netherlands 5312650 P.O.Box 21822,Safat Niger 5316802 P.O.Box 44451, Hawali 32059 Nigeria 5320794 P.O.Box 6432,Hawali 32039 Oman 2561962 P.O.Box 21975,Safat 13080 Pakistan 5327649 P.O.Box 988,Safat 1310 Philippines 5329315 P.O.Box 26288,Safat 13123 Poland 2510355 P.O.Box 5066,Safat 13051 Qatar 2513599 P.O.Box 1825,Safat 13019 Romania 4843419 P.O.Box 11149, Dasmah 35152 Russia 5646277 P.O.Box 1765,Safat 13018

2571682 2575182 5317423 5326334 5652943 5320834 2961963 5327648 5329319 2534760 2563428 4848929 5659044

Saudi Arabia 2400250 P.O.Box 20498,Safat 13065 Spain 5325827 P.O.Box 22207,Safat 13083 Sweden 2523588 P.O.Box 21448,Safat Switzerland 2551872 P.O.Box 23954, Safat 13100 Syria 2531164 P.O.Box 25600,Safat 13112 Thailand 5317530 P.O.Box 66647,Bayan 43757 Tunisia 2522416 P.O.Box 5976,Safat Turkey 2531785 P.O.Box 20627,Safat 13067 UAE 2518569 P.O.Box 1828,Safat 13019 UK 2403335 P.O.Box 2,Safat 13001 USA 2424151 P.O.Box 77,Safat 13001 Yugoslavia 4818872 P.O.Box 20511,Safat 13066

2420654 5325826 2564224 5340176 5396509 5317532 2528995 2560653 2526382 2426799 2407368 5327568

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 85

LEBANON

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

10.452 sq.Km

Visitors should check with airport duty-free shops

Capital Beirut

Commercial offices

Main Cities Beirut, Tripoli, Jounieh, Zahle, Sidon, Tyre

Temperature/Climate Summer 23 C to 32 C in Beirut, humid. Winter 11 C to 17 C in Beirut,moist, rainfall, especially in January. Highlands are cooler, with winter snowfalls.

Languages

on current regulations.

Currency regulations

Government offices 08.00 to 14.00 Monday to Thursday. 08.00 to 11.00 Friday, 08 to 13 Saturday.

(2007 estimate) 3.9 million

No Restrictions.

Currency 1500 Lebanese pound(ÂŁLeb)= 1 US dollars.

08.30 to 18.00 Mon.to Fri.

Banks

08.30 to 12.30 Monday to Friday. 08.30 to 12.00 Saturday.

Electricity

110 Volts,50 cycles AC and 220 volts,50 cycles AC.

Visas

Arabic (official), French and English (commercial)

Airport Beirut ( 16 Km from city centre) Coaches/ taxis,duty-free shop-airport tax on departure.

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Syria.Telex/Fax invitation required from sponsor to be sent to Embassy. Westerners wishing to visit Lebanon can get instant visas at Beirut airport ,seaport or at Lebanese border checkpoints.

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

86 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Customs regulations

Beirut (principal), Tripoli (main port for North), Jounieh, Sidon (main port for South)

Business Hours

Population

Algeria P.O.Box 4794,Jnah 01/826711 826712 Argentina 01/987900 987903 P.O.Box 11-5245,Starco Area Armenia Rabieh 04/418860 Australia 01/374701 374709 Bliss Street,Ras Beirut Austria 01/217412 217772 Tabaris ,Ashrafieh Bahrain 03/611936 367952 Bliss Street,Itani Bldg Belgium 05/920551 923987 Hebu Building,Baabda Beirut Brazil 05/921138 923001 P.O.Box 166175,Rue Des Antonins,Baabda Bulgaria 01/861352 Raoucheh Canada 0211/6116851 611803 Sheraton Hotel,Damascus Jal el 04/713900 710595 Dib Highway Chile 04/418670 418672 Naccache

Ports

China 01/850315 Ramlet Al-Baida Denmark 01/364264 Ain Mreiseh Egypt 01/867917 Ramlet El-Baida France 01/420000 Hazmieh,Beirut Germany 04/914444 P.O.Box 2820,Rabieh Greece 04/521700 P.O.Box 309,Naccache Hungary 01/898857 Fanar India 01/372811 P.O.Box 113-5240,Kantari St. Iran 01/821230 Bir Hassan Italy 01/985200 Centre Ville,Beirut Japan 01/989751 P.O.Box 3360,Baabda Jordan 05/922500 Baabda

822492 372970 863751 420013 914450 418774

373538 821224 985305 989754 922502

Kuwait 01/822515 Bir Hassan,Jnah Libya 01/806314 805349 Verdun,Beirut Mexico 04/418870 New Naccache Morocco 01/862966 Ain-el-Tineh Pakistan 01/863041 Shell Bldg,Raoucheh Philippines 01/791093 Raoucheh,Beirut Poland 05/468152 Baabda Qatar 01/865271 P.O.Box 6717,Chouran Romania 05/924484 Baabda Russia 01/300042 Mar Elias,Beirut Saudi Arabia 01/860351 Koreitem, Beirut Spain 05/464120 Palace Chehab, Hadath Antounieh

842220

865194 864583 791095 746620 810460 924747 303837 861524 464030

Sudan 01/353270 Mme Curie St. Sweden 01/339505 Achrafieh Switzerland 01/324129 Ave.Fouad Chehab, Achrafieh Tunisia 05/457431 Hazmieh,Mar Takla Turkey 04/412080 Rabieh,Area 2,Str.3 UAE 01/857000 Wafic Tabbara Bldg,Jnah UK 01/990400 Zkak El-Blat USA 04/542600 Aoukar,Beirut Venezuela 01/888701 Zalka,P.O.Box 603 Yemen 01/852682 Bir Hassan,P.O.Box 114-5097 Yugoslavia 01/739633 P.O.Box 742, Sanayeh

339394 324167 950434 407557 857009 990420 544136 403670 821610 739638

LIBYA

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

1,757,000 sq.Km

Population (2003 estimate)5.5 million

Capital Tripoli

Main Cities Tripoli,Benghazi,Misurata,Surt,Sabha Temperature/Climate In Tripoli:Summer:22 to 38 C,dry. Winter:8 to 20C,most rainfall in January.

Languages Arabic(official),English and Italian(commercial)

Airports Tripoli(25 Km from City Centre) Benghazi(main port for East)

Business Hours Government offices Winter:(1 Nov.to 31 March) 08.00 to 15.00 Sat.to Thu. Afghanistan 4775192 Sharia Al-Aftas 4771183,4775192 Algeria Sharia El-Kairouan 4440052 4447042 Argentina Sharia Ibn Mufarrej 4770588 TX20190 Austria 4443393,444 Dahra 4440838 Bangladesh Hadbe El-Khadra 903807 900856 901866 TX20970 Belgium Tower No.4,5th Floor 3333660 3333771 75618 Benin, Quartier Gout-Shaal 830990 Tx 20357 Bosnia, Ben Ashour 602406 602162 Brazil, S.Ben Ashour 607969,608 3614895 Bulgaria S.Benin Ashour 609690/4444 Burkina Faso, Gergaresh 4771221 4772626 Chad Dahra 4443955 TX20341 China, Andalous 4775131 4775689 China-Taiwan 4775052/478 Gergaresh 4774980

Summer:07.00 to 14.00

departure.No restrictions on other currencies

Sat.To Thu.

though the amount taken out must not exceed

Commercial offices

that taken in.

07.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu

Currency

16.00 to 17.30 Sat.To Wed.

1 Lybian dinar(LD) =1.000 dirhams.

Banks Winter:08.00 to 13.00 Sat. to Thu. Summer:08.00 to 12.30 Sat.to Thu.and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat.to Wed.

Electricity 220 volts 50 cycles AC.

Visas Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of all Arab countries.Passport may need Arabic Translation.Invitation from Libyan company required.

Customs regulations No alcohol.200 cigarettes,250 grams tobacco,0.25 litre perfume.

Currency regulations A maximum of 20 Libyan dinar on entry and

Cuba Andalous 4771346 4776294 Cyprus 609547 Ben Ashour 609728/6015 Czech Rep. Ben Ashour 361543/37 600839 Denmark, Andalous 606848 TX20978 Egypt 4444945 Sharia-El-Shatt 4448909 4449262 Finland, Ghot Eshaal 830559 830559 France 4778267 Andalous 4773807 4778266 Germany 4448552 S.Hassan El-Mashai 4448333 4448968 Ghana Al-Suwae Khetumi 4444256 TX20879 India 4447899 S.Mahloud Shaltut 4441835 3337560 Iraq, Gourgi 4770487 4770780 Iran 606871 El-Jamahiriya 6069 602687 Italia 3333447 3331673 S.Uahran 3334131/2/3 Japan Tower No.4 Hall 13/14 607462/3 607462 Korea 8331 833503

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES Gergaresh Kuwait Ben Ashour Lebanon Ben Ashour Malaysia Andalous Mali Rue Dahanal Malta Rue Dahanal Mauritania S.Eysa Wokwak Morocco, April Str. Nicaragua, S.Al Nassr Pakistan Manshia Ben Ashour Palestine, Tripoli Philippines, Tripoli Poland Ben Ashour Ruanda Andalous Romania Ben Ashour Saudi Arabia, Tripoli

833484/ 444 4440282/ 3333733/ 334 833693/ 8337 33313304/ 44 3338081/ 334

607053 TX20609 833692 3331304 4448401

4443223/444 611101 3330800 TX20346 608269 333600411 607619/ 6076 TX20049 4772864/ 4772865 4770317 607904/ 6079 TX20482 3330485/333

Slovak Rep Jallal Bayar St. Somalia Gurji Sudan Gergaresh Syria Mohamed Rashed St. Switzerland Ben Ashour Togo Khalid Ibn Al Waleed Tunisia Tripoli UAE Gergaresh Uganda Ben Ashour UNDP Turkiya Street UNICEF Adr.UNDP UNIC Andalous Venezuela Ben Ashour Vietnam Gergaresh

3332568/ 3332805 4773124/ 477 4772728 3337955/ 333 607365/ 607366

3332568 TX 2205 4774781 TX20218 607487

4449565 3332423 33.310.613. 331.052 TX20217 4773146/ 47 TX20189 4448006 3330852/ 3/4/5/7

TX20219

4770251 3600407/ 36 833704/ 8307

TX20733

3330856

3600408 830994

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 87

MOROCCO

Area

Ports

Visas

710,850 sq.Km

Casablanca (main sea port)

Visas required except by nationals of Andorra, Argentine, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Congo, Côte D’ivoire, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guinea, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Niger, Oman, Peru, Philippines, Porto Rico, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, UK, US, Venezuela.

Population

Tangier (sea port for the North)

Business Hours

33.757 million(2007 estimate)

Capital

Government

Rabat

Winter 08.030 to 12.00,14.30 to 18.00 Mon

Main Cities Rabat, Casablanca, Fez,Marrakech, Meknes, Tangier,Agadir

Temperature/Climate Summer 35 to 45 C in the interior,dry 18 to 28 C along the Mediterrenean,dry. Winter wide daily variation in the interior,dry,8 C to 17 C in the North, With frequent frosts,rainfall in December.

Languages

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES Algeria 765474 46 Boulevard Tarek Ibn Ziad Argentina 755120 12 Mekki Bitaouri str.,Souissi Austria 2 Tiddas,Rabat 764003 Belgium 6 Marrakesh Ave., Rabat 764746 Brazil Cadi Benjalloun St.,Rabat 755291 Bulgaria 4 Ave.de Meknes 765477 Canada 13 Bisr Jaffar Assadik 672880 China 16 Ahmad Balagies Ave 754056 Czech Republic Ate.Zaers,Km 4,Souissi 755421 Denmark 769293 P.O.Box 203, 4 Khemisset St. Egypt 31 Alger Avenue 731833

88 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

762237 755410

765425 767003 755291 763201 672187 757519 755420 769709

706821

to Fri 08.00 to 13.00 Sat. Summer 09.00 to 14.00 Mon to Fri. 08.00 to 12.030 Sat. Ramadan 09.00 to 14.00 Mon to Sat. Businesses 08.00 to 12.30 and 16.00 to 19.00

Customs Regulations

Banks

400 grammes of Tobacco, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars are admitted free of duty.1 litre of wine or spirits.

Winter 08.15 to 11.30 and 14.15 to 16.30 Mon to Fri.

Currency regulations

Arabic, French (commercial), Berber

Summer 09.00 to 15.00 Mon to Fri

Airports

Electricity

Tangier (15 Km from City Centre)

110V.,127V or 220V/50 cycles AC in Rabbat,

Rabat (10 Km from City Centre) Casablanca (30

Casablanca and Tangier.

Km from Town Centre)

115/50 cycles AC in Marrakech,110V/50

Agadir (20 Km from Town Centre)

cycles AC in Fez.

Finland 16 Khemisset Street,Rabat 762312 France 3 Sahnoun Street,Rabat 689700 Germany 7 Maduine St. 709662 Greece Rte. Zaers,Souissi 638975 Holy See P.O.Box 1303, Souissi 772277 Hungary 21 Bisoulad Jerrar,Soussi 750757 India 10 Michlifen Street,Agdal 671339 Indonesia 757861 122 Ambassador Quarter Rte.Zaers Iran 659121 Route des Zaers,Bin Kasem Quarter Iraq 754466 2 Oukaimdem St.Agdal Italy 2 Idriss Al Azhar St. 706598 Japan 631782

463925 689750 706851 702270 756213 754123 671269 757859 659118 754572 706882 750078

39 Ahmed Balafrej Ave., Souissi Jordan Villa Al-Wafae, Soussi 751125 Korea Rep 41 Mehdi Benbaraka Blvd 751767 Kuwait 751775 300 Iman Malik Street, Km 4 Lebanon 19 Fes Avenue, Rabat 760728 Libya 1 Chouaib Doukkali Street 707400 Oman 673788 21 Hamza Street, Agdal, Rabat Pakistan 11 Azrou Street, Rabat 661611 Portugal 5 Thami Lamdouar Street 756446 Qatar 4 Tarik Ibn Ziad Blvd. 765681 Russia Km 4, Route des Zaers 753509 Saudi Arabia 730171 43 Place de L’unite Africaine

758722 750189 753591 766667 705200 674567 766742 756445

753590

No Moroccan currency may be imported or exported.

Currency

1 Moroccan Dirham (MD or DH)=100 centimes

Spain 3 El Fath St. 268000 Sudan 5 Ghomara Ave, Souissi 752863 Sweden P.O.Box 428 759303 Switzerland P.O.Box 169,Berkame Sq. 706974 Syria 757521 5 Rte., Zaers, Km 1, Souissi Tunisia 6 Fez Avenue 730636 Turkey 7 Fez Avenue 762605 UAE 11 Alaouines Avenue 707070 UK 17 Tour Hassan Boulevard 720905 USA 2 Marrakech Street 762265 Yemen 674363 11 Abou-Hanifa Street, Agdal

707387 752865 758048 705749 757522

704980 742145 704531 765661 674769

OMAN

Business Hours

Currency

Area

Government Offices

1 Omani Riyal(RO)=1,000 Baizas

309.500 sq.Km

Winter:7.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu.

Population

Summer:7.30 to 14.30 Sat Top Wed.

(2000 estimate) 2.5 million

Businesses

Capital

08.00 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 19.00

Muscat

Sat.to Wed. 08.00 to 11.30 Thu.

Main Cities

Banks

Muscat-Muttrah-Ruwi-Seeb,Salalah

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Wed.08.00 to 11.30

Temperature/Climate

Thu.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Summer: 35 C - 47 C, Very humid

Electricity

Winter: 20.7 C men minimum

220/240 volts 50 cycles AC

Languages

Visas

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

Airports

of the GCC.

Seeb (40 Km from City Centre).

Customs regulations

Taxis,airport tax on departure,duty-free shop.

No alcohol.No Limit for Tobacco products.

Salalah (domestic)

Currency regulations

Ports

No restrictions on the amount of currency taken

Mina Qaboos, Muscat (principal), Mina Raysut,

into or out of Oman.

Salalah (main port for Dhofar) Algeria 601698 P.O.Box 216, Madinat Sultan Qabous

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES 694419

Germany P.O.Box 128, Ruwi 112 702482

705690

Lebanon P.O.Box 67, Ruwi 118

595844

695633

Syria 697904 603895 P.O.Box 85, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115

Austria P.O.Box 2070, Ruwi 112 793135

793669

India P.O.Box 1727, Ruwi 112 702960

797547

Morocco P.O.Box 3125, Ruwi 112 696152

601114

Tunisia 603486 697778 P.O.Box 220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115

Bahrain P.O.Box 66, P.C., 115

605072

Iran P.O.Box 3155, Ruwi 112 696944

696888

Netherland P.O.Box 3302, Rruwi 112 705410

799020

Turkey P.O.Box 417, Muttrah,115 697050

697053

Bangladesh P.O.Box 3959, Ruwi 112 707462

Iraq P.O.Box 1848, Ruwi 112 604178

605112

Norway P.O.Box 89, Ruwi 112

793892

UAE P.O.Box 551, Seeb 115 600302

604182

Canada P.O.Box 1275,Ruwi 112

Italy P.O.Box 3727, Muscat 112

560968

Pakistan P.O.Box 1302, Ruwi 112 603343

UK P.O.Box 300, Muscat 113 693077

693087

602322

Japan P.O.Box 3511, Ruwi 112 601028

698720

Qatar P.O.Box 802, Muscat 113 701802

794588

USA P.O.Box 202, Muscat

699189

Egypt P.O.Box 2252,Ruwi 112 600411

603626

Jordan P.O.Box 2281, Ruwi 112 786350

619495

Russia P.O.Box 80, Muscat 112 602893

604189

Yemen 600815 605008 P.O.Box 105, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115

Finland P.O.Box 84, Muscat 113 702133

703826

Korea Rep. 691490 P.O.Box 2220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115

Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1411, Ruwi 112 601744

603540

France P.O.Box 208, Muscat 115 604222

604300

Kuwait P.O.Box 1798, Ruwi 112 699626

Sudan P.O.Box 3971, Ruwi 112 697875

699065

605912

China P.O.Box 315, Muscat 112 696782

600972

703289

698989

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 89

QATAR

Area

Doha, Umm Said (oil and petrochemicals)

Customs regulations

11.437 sq.Km

Business Hours

Population

Government

products.

(2004 estimate) 792,883

07.30 to 13.00 Sat To Thu.

Currency Regulations

Capital

Businesses

None

Doha

07.30 to 12.00 and 15.30 to 18.00 Sat to

Currency

Main Cities

Thu.

1 Qatari Riyal (QR)= 100 dirhams

Doha, Rayan, Umm Said,

Banks

Al-Khor, Al-Wakrah, Ras Laffan

07.30 to 11.30 Sat to Wed.

Temperature/Climate

07.30 to 11.00 Thu.

Summer 36 to 40 C, in Doha very humid

Electricity

especially mornings

220/240 Volts 50 cycles AC.

Alcohol is prohibited.No limit for Tobacco

Winter 13 to 23 C in Doha, very humid, wide

Visas

diurnal range

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

Languages

of Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.

Arabic (official), English ( commercial).

No objection certificate required from Qatari

Airport

Minsitery of Foreign Affairs. Other businessmen, if

Doha (8 Km from city centre). Taxis, No

their visit is sponsored by a reputable Qatari, may

Duty- Free shop, no airport tax.

obtain a 72- hour visa at Doha Airport.

Ports

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES Algeria P.O.Box 2494 Bahrain Bangladesh P.O.Box 2080 Brunei China P.O.Box 17200

4831186

4836452

4839360

4831018

4671927

4671190

4884202

4873959

4884202

Ras Laffan (Gaz and ind.) Iraq P.O.Box 1526 Italy P.O.Box 4188

4672237 4667842

4673347

Morocco P.O.Box 3242

4831885

4833416

UAE P.O.Box 3099

4885111

4664644

Oman P.O.Box 3766

4670744

4670747

UK P.O.Box 3

4421991

4438692

4832525

4832227

USA P.O.Box 2399

4884101

4884298

Yemen P.O.Box 3318

4432555

4429400

Japan P.O.Box 2208

4831224

4832178

Pakistan P.O.Box 334

4873959

Jordan P.O.Box 2366

4832202

4832173

Russia P.O.Box 1540

4329117

4329118

4832238

4838264

Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1255

4832030

4832720

Egypt P.O.Box 2899

4832555

4832196

Korea Republic P.O.Box 3727

France P.O.Box 2669

4832283

4832254

Kuwait P.O.Box 1177

4832111

4832042

Sudan P.O.Box 2999

4423007

4329118

Germany P.O.Box 3064

4876959

4876949

Lebanon P.O.Box 2411

4477773

4478817

Syria P.O.Box 1257

4832409

4832139

India P.O.Box 2788

4672025

4670448

Libya P.O.Box 547

4667546

4660548

Tunisia P.O.Box 2707

4832645

4832649

Iran P.O.Box 1633

4835300

4831665

Mauritania P.O.Box 3132

4836003

4836015

Turkey P.O.Box 1977

4835204

4835206

90 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

2.240.000 sq.Km (approx)

Population

(2006 est.) 23.6 million

Capital

Ports

Riyadh

Main Cities Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Dammam, Al-Khobar, Qatif, Makkah, Medina, Abha, Khamis Mushayat, Taif

Temperature/Climate

Summer 38 to 45 C in Riyadh dry diurnal range up to 20 C. 35 to 42 C in Jeddha, very humid.35 to 45 C in Dammam, very humid. Winter 8 to 30 C in Riyadh, night frosts rain in March.19 to 33 C in Jedah,humid 15 to 30 C in Dammam, very humid

Languages

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

Airports

Algeria 4887171 P.O.Box 94388, Riyadh 11693 Argentina 4652600 P.O.Box 94369, Riyadh 11693 Australia 4887788 P.O.Box 94400, Riyadh 11693 Austria 4801217 P.O.Box 94373, Riyadh 11693 Bahrain 4880044 P.O.Box 94371, Riyadh 11693 Bangladesh 4195300 P.O.Box 94395, Riyadh 11693 Belgium 4882888 P.O.Box 94396, Riyadh 11693 Brazil 4880018 P.O.Box 94348, Riyadh 11693 Canada 4882288 P.O.Box 94321, Riyadh 11693 Denmark 4880101 P.O.Box 94398, Riyadh 11693 Egypt 4658425 P.O.Box 94333, Riyadh 11693 Eritrea 4801726 P.O.Box 94002, Riyadh 11693

Dammam (28 Km from City Centre) Jeddah (24 Km from City Centre) Medina (12 Km from City Centre) Riyadh (35 Km from City Centre) Taxis-no duty-free shops except at Jeddah-No airport taxes.

4887616 4653057 4887973 4801526 4880208 4193555 4882033 4881075 4880137 4881366 4652800 4827537

Jeddah(main port for Western province and the Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principal port) King Abdel-Aziz, Dammam (main port for Eastern province) Jubail(industrial port for Eastern province) Yanbu(industrial port for Western province)

Business Hours

Government 07.30 to 14.30 Sat to Wed. Ramadan 09.30 tom 14.30 Businesses Variable from business to business But generally,07.30 to 13.00 and 14.30 to 20.00 Sat to Thu. Banks 08.00 to 12.00 and 16.30 to 18.30 Sat to France 4881255 P.O.Box 94367, Riyadh 11693 Germany 4880700 P.O.Box 9941, Riyadh 11693 Greece 801974 P.O.Box 94375, Riyadh 11693 India 4884144 P.O.Box 94387, Riyadh 11693 Iran 4881916 P.O.Box 943394, Riyadh 11693 Ireland 4882300 P.O.Box 94349, Riyadh 11693 Italy 4881212 P.O.Box 94389, Riyadh 11693 Japan 4881100 P.O.Box 4095, Riyadh 11491 Jordan 4880039 P.O.Box 7455, Riyadh 11693 Kenya 4882484 P.O.Box 94358, Riyadh 11693 Korea(Rep of) 4882211 P.O.Box 94399, Riyadh 11693 Kuwait 4883500 P.O.Box 2166, Riyadh 11451

Wed.08.30to 12.00 Thu. Ramadan 10.00 to 13.30

Electricity

220 Volts and 110 Volts,60 cycles AC.

Visas

Visas are required for all visitors except GCC nationals. Applications have to be applies for by sponsor in Saudi Arabia To the Ministery of Foreign Affairs who will inform Saudi Embassy On approval.Assistance from trade associations and chambers of commerce is advised. Marriage certificate for travelers accompanied by spouse required.

Customs regulations

No alcohol,600 cigarettes,100 cigars or 500g tobacco.

Currency regulations No restrictions

Currency 1 Saudi Riyal(SR)=100 halala

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES 4882882 4880660 4801969 4884750 4888890 4880927 4886590 4880189 4880072 4882629 4881317 488368

Lebanon 4197000 P.O.Box 94350, Riyadh 11693 Libya 4544511 P.O.Box 94365, Riyadh 11693 Mexico 4828218 P.O.Box 94391, Riyadh 11693 Morocco 4826382 P.O.Box 94392, Riyadh 11693 Norway 4881904 P.O.Box 94380, Riyadh 11693 Oman 4823120 P.O.Box 94381, Riyadh 11693 Pakistan 4887272 P.O.Box 6891, Riyadh 11452 Philippines 4880835 P.O.Box 94315, Riyadh 11693 Portugal 4644688 P.O.Box 94328, Riyadh 11693 Qatar 4825544 P.O.Box 94353, Riyadh 11461 Singapore 4657007 P.O.Box 94378, Riyadh 11693 Spain 4880606 P.O.Box 94347, Riyadh 11693

4192767 4567513 4828379 4827016 4880854 4823738 4887953 4883945 4044419 4825694 4652224 4880400

Sudan 4887728 P.O.Box 94337, Riyadh 11693 Sweden 4883100 P.O.Box 94382, Riyadh 11693 Switzerland 4881291 P.O.Box 9265, Riyadh 11413 Syria 4887481 P.O.Box 94323, Riyadh 11693 Thailand 4880300 P.O.Box 94359, Riyadh 11693 Tunisia 4887900 P.O.Box 94368, Riyadh 11693 Turkey 4887721 P.O.Box 94390, Riyadh 11693 UAE 4826803 P.O.Box 94385, Riyadh 11693 UK 4880077 P.O.Box 94351, Riyadh 11693 USA 4883800 P.O.Box 94309, Riyadh 11693 Yemen 4826764 P.O.Box 94356, Riyadh 11693

4887729 4880604 4880632 4826196 4881179 4887641 4887823 4827504 4882373 4883278 4881757

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 91

SUDAN

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

Currency Regulations

departure.

Import or export of Sudanese currency is illegal

Port

2,505,813 sq.Km

Currency

Port Sudan

Population

Khartoum :08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

Khartoum

Other centres :08.30 to 14.00(with Breakfast

Main Cities Khartoum, Oumdurman, Khartoum North, Port Sudan, Wadi Medani

Temperature/Climate Summer : 26 to 45 C, in

interval) Sat to Thu. Businesses 08.30 to 13.30 and 17.00 to 20.00 Sat.to Thu Banks

Khartoum,sandstorms,humid, Rain in August and September,hotter and more humid in South. Winter : 15 to 32 C in Khartoum, dry, wide diurnal range, Chilly nights.

08.30 to 12.00 Sat to Thu.

Electricity 240 volts,single phase AC

Visas Visas are reqiured for all visitors

Languages Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Airport

Customs Regulations 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 1 lb tobacco

Khartoum (4Km from city centre).

Algeria P.O.Box 80

451084

India 451031 P.O.Box 707, 61 Africa Rd.

452266

Libya P.O.Box 2091

2235358

Austria P.O.Box 1860

77170

Iran 81490 House No.8, square 2, Mogran

78668

Morocco P.O.Box 2042

451603

China P.O.Box 1425 Czech Republic P.O.Box 1047 Denmark P.O.Box 2758 Egypt P.O.Box 1126

272730

Holy See P.O.Box 623

271138

Iraq Burri, Garden City

Italy 451614 P.O.Box St.39 Khartoum 2

Jordan 25 Sreet Number 7

80489

Kenya P.O.Box 8242

72836 465928

Korea(Rep of) P.O.Box 322

77990

Kuwait P.O.Box 1457

74692

Lebanon P.O.Box 1407

92 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

Netherlands St.47 House 76

271863

Japan 75875 P.O.Box 1649, St.43, House 67

43448

France 471082 P.O.Box 377, St.3, Plot 29 Germany P.O.Box 970

4899230

millimes

Government Offices

Capital

Belgium 489229 P.O.Box 969,St.33,House 15

1 Sudanese Dinar(SD)=100 piastres=1,000

Business Hours

(2007 estimate) 35.5 million

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

Coaches/taxis, Duty-free shops,airport tax on

451164

451217

Oman P.O.Box 2839

77668

Pakistan P.O.Box 1178

451038

Qatar P.O.Box 223

Sweden (Consulate)P.O.Box 2206 71913 451053

Switzerland P.O.Box 1707

451010

452804

471204

Syria P.O.Box 1139

451152

451066

451027

Tunisia P.O.Box 3533

75906

222000

Turkey St.2, House 31

471197

451620

451036

UAE P.O.Box 1225

451100

761113

UK P.O.Box 801

777105

451042

USA P.O.Box 699

74700

452583

Yemen P.O.Box 1010

451623

Yugoslavia P.O.Box 1180

41252

471012 451605

Romania 440386

452264

P.O.Box 1494

451136

Russia P.O.Box 1161

81525

Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 258

45008

81142

Spain P.O.Box 2621

338114

45072

451069

472542

776457

451020

SYRIA

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

185,180 sq.Km

Population (2007 estimate)10.276 million

Capital Damascus

Main Cities Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Latakia, Hama

Temperature/Climate

Summer : 30 to 42 C, in Damascus, occasionally humid. Winter : 0 to 20 C in Damascus, occasional snowfalls

Languages Arabic (official), French (widely understood in business and government) English (Sometimes used in Business)

Oman, PLO Gvt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia,

departure.

Ports

Sudan, Tinisia, United Arab Emirates And Yemen.

Latakia (principal), Tartous, Banias (oil).

Appilications should be accompanied by

Business Hours

supporting letter from employers.Transit

Government

(for Visits up to 3 days), entry (for visits up to 2

08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

weeks)and visit(for re-entry from neighbouring

Ramadan :08.00 to 13.oo

countries) visas are available.

Businesses

Customs Regulations

Winter :09.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 19.00

200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 250 grams of

Sat to Thu,

tobacco and 1 bottle of wine and one bottle

Summer (May to October) :08.30 to 13.30 and

of spirits.

17.00 to 20.00 Sat to Thu.

Currency regulations

Banks

Up to £Syr 100 in local currency may be

08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

brought into or out of the country.Currency

Electricity

declarations are necessary for more than

220 volts

US$5000 in local or foreign curency.Visitors

50 cycles AC in Damascus.

are advised to keep adequate amounts of Bank

115/220 volts in Aleppo

notes on hand since it is sometimes difficult to

Visas

Airport

Damascus (32 Km from citycentre). Coaches/taxis, duty-free shop, airport tax on

cash travelers checques

Visas are required by all except nationals of

Currency

Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan,

1Syrian pound (£Syr)=100 piaster or qirsh.

Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco,

Algeria Rawdah Street, Nass Bldg

Germany P.O.Box 2237

Argentina P.O.Box 116

Greece P.O.Box 30319, Mezzeh 2233009

3334167

Armenia 3732992 Malekie-Ibrahim Hanano St.

332732 3711757

3323800

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

332812

Kuwait Ibrahim Hanano Street

2233035

Netherland P.O.Box 702

3336871

3339369

3327550

Pakistan P.O.Box 9284, Al Farabi St. 6662391

Sweden P.O.Box 4266

3327261

3327749

3339369

6667917

Poland P.O.Box 501, M.Ben Baraka St.

3330101

Switzerland Al-Mahdi Ben Baraka St. 3715474

3321137

3327691

3329232

Hungary 3337966 P.O.Box 2271, 102 al Fursani St.

Belgium 76 Ata Ayoubi Street

3338098

330426

India P.O.Box 685

3719580

3713294

Qatar P.O.Box 4188

6119632

Romania 8 Ibrahim Hanano St.

3327570

6110997

Russia Omar Ben Khattab St

4423155

Brazil P.O.Box 2219

Indonesia 17 Assalam St., Bldg 10 6119630

Canada P.O.Box 3384

6114000

Iran P.O.Box 2691

3332621

3320325

Saudi Arabia Al-Jala’ Avenue

3339181

3339920

Slovakia P.O.Box 33115

Cyprus P.O.Box 9269

6130812

6130814

Italy 82 Al Mansour Ave

Denmark P.O.Box 2244

3331008

3337928

Japan Al Mindi Bin Baraka St.

France 3327992 P.O.Box 769, Ata Al Ayoubi St.

3332126

Holy See 3337966 P.O.Box 2271, 82 Masr Street

Austria P.O.Box 5634

6116851

Sudan Al-Jala’ Street

6117675

Jordan Abu Roummaneh Street 3334642

Spain 81 Al-Jala’ Avenue

3336717

6669043

3327572

6616714

Tunisia P.O.Box 4114

6660356

Turkey P.O.Box 3738

3331411

3339243

UAE 62 Rawda Street/Abu Rummana St.

3333038

UK P.O.Box 37, Malki

3739241

3731600

USA 3332184 P.O.Box 29, No.2 Al Mansour St.

3319678

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 93

TUNISIA

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

164,418 sq.Km

Population (2007 estimate) 10.276 million

Capital Tunis

Main Cities Tunis, Sfax, Ariana, Bizerte, Djerba, Sousse

Temperature/Climate Winter:13â&#x2C6;&#x17E; with frequent rain. Summer: 35â&#x2C6;&#x17E;C,hot and dry

Languages

Arabic (official), French (commercial), Berber (in rural areas).

Airports

Tunis (8 Km from Tunis) Skanes (8 Km west of Monasrtir) Melita (6 Km west of Djerba) Tozeur (south oasis area) Tunis (main port), Zarzis, Sfax,

783166

788804

Finland 721700 61 H.Bourghiba Ave., Carthage

Argentina 10 H.Hassan Street

231222

750058

France Independence square

358000

358001

767824

Germany 786455 1 al Hamra st., Mutuelleville

788242

Bahrain 231811 72 Bin Abi Soufiane, Menzah

766549

Greece 9 Imp.Atlas, Belvedere

Belgium 781655 47 1st January St. Belvedere

792797

Hungary 12 Achtart St., Al-Menzah 780544

Brazil 37 Africa Avenue, Menzah 232538

750367

288411

Czech Republic P.O.Box 53, 1002 Tunis

280486

793228

Italy 37 Jamal Abdel Nassr St. 321811

Denmark 792600 5 Mauritania Street, Belevedere

790797

Japan 9 Apollo St. Mahrajenne 791251

Egypt 792233 Ave.Med V, Mont Plaisir, Belvedere

794389

Jordan 780875 10 Chankatti st., Mahrajene

Kuwait 32 Mansoura St., Ariana 754811

791923 767669

Currency regulations

The import or export of Tunisian currency is prohibited.O departure all Tunisian currency must be converted into foreign currency on production of exchange slips from Tunisian banks. This can be done at the Airport .The amount of excess currency exchanged back must not exceed 30 per cent of foreign currency originally exchanged or 100 dinars, whichever is the greater.

Currency

1 Tunisian Dinar(TD)=1,000 millimes(m) Sudan 30 Afrique Avenue Sweden Berges Lac, Mhiri

860580

860810

Switzerland 783997 10 Echenkiti st., Mutuelleville

788796

789518

795338 785557

Syria 119 A. Rebai St., Manar II 888018

887989

781264

Netherlands 799442 6/7/8/ Mercen St.Mahrajene Pakistan 234366 7 Ali Bin Abi Talib Street, Al-Menzah

752477

Turkey 30 Ave. Africa

750668

767045

UAE 9 Ashtart St., Belvedere

783522

783507

783177

Iran 791015 10 Doctor Burnett St., Mutuelleville

Korea Rep 893060 16 Caracalla St., Notre Dame

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco and 1 litre of alcohol are admitted free of duty.

Morocco 782775 39 Rue du 1er Jiun, Belvedere

799949

792631

Domestic 220V and 110V. Industrial 220V 50 cycles AC

Customs Regulations

795338

Iraq 890347 10 Ben Ashour Ave. Menzah

China 792107 22 Dr. Burnett St., Mutuelleville

Electricity

Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Giunea, Hong Kong, Iceland, Italy, Ivory coast, Japan, Korea(South), Kuwait, Liberia, Leichtenstein, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Mauritania, Mauritus, Monaco, Montserrat, Morocco, Nevis, Niger, Norway, Pitcairn Is., Porugal, Romania, St.Helens, St.Kittis, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Turks,& Caicos Is., UAE, UK, USA, Venuatu, Virgin Is,(Britsih) and Yugoslavia.

Libya 781913 48 Bis., Rue du 1er Jiun, Belvedere

783394

792371

94 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

721670

India 787819 4 Didon Square, Notre Dame

Canada 796577 3 Senegal Street, Belevedere

Government Offices Winter :08.00 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 17.45 Mon.to Thu.08.30 to 13.00 Fri.and Sat. Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon.to Sat. Businesses Winter:08.300 to 12.30 and 14.00 to 16.00 Mon to Fri. Summer:07.30 to 13.00 Mon to Sat. Banks Winter:08.00 to 11.00 and 14.00 to 16.00 Mon to Fri. Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon. to Sat.

Visas are required by all except nationals of Angiulla, Antigua, Austria, Bahrain, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Cayman Is, Chile, Cuba, Denmark, Egypt, Eire, Falkand Is, Fuji, Finland, France, Germany,

Algeria 18 Niger Street

Austria 16 Ibn Hamdis St., Menzah 751091

Business Hours

Visas

Ports

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

Sousse, Bizerta

Portugal 2 Sufetula St., Belvedere 893981 Romania 766926 18 Africa Avenue, Al- Menzah

791008 767695

324155

Russia Bergamate St., ManarII

882446

882478

786625

Saudi Arabia 781722 16 Jugurtha Ave., Belvedere

783235

Spain 782217 22 Conseil Avenue, Cite jardin

786267

784661

UK 141 Liberty Ave., Belvedere 792644

793322

USA 144 Liberty Avenue, Belvedere 789719

782566

Yemen 9 A.Ibn Abi Taleb St., Menzah

237933

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

90,559 sq.Kms (including Offshore islands)

Population

(2007 est.)4.4 m

Capital Abu Dhabi

Main Cities Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah,Ras Al-Khaimah Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al-Qaiwan

Temperature/Climate

Km form city centre), duty-free shop Al Ain International,Duty-free shop Dubai International (4 Km east of city), duty-free shop Fujairah Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l, Duty-free shop Ras Al Khaimah International (20 Km south of Town), duty-free shop Sharjah International (10 Km southeast of Sharjah town and 25 Km north of Dubai Town), duty-free shop

Ports

Airports

Jebel Dhanna/Ruwais Abu Dhabi Mina Zayed ( Abu Dhabi town, 20% UAE tonnage) Mina Jebel Ali (Dubai) Port Rashid(Dubai Town), 50% UAE tonnage Ajman, Fujeirah Mina Saqr (Ras Al Khaima) Khorfakan (Sharjah/ East coast), container terminal. Mina Khalid (Sharjah Town), 20% UAE tonnage

Abu Dhabi International (19 Km southeast of City), duty-free shop Abu Dhabi New International Airport (Nadia, 35

Government Offices 08.00 to 15.00 Sat. To Wed. And 08.00 to

Summer:35to 40C peaks up to 48C along Gulf Coast,very humid in Dubai, more temperate along eastern(Gulf of Oman)coast. Winter : 20C, very dry in Abu Dhabi, Wet in Ras El Khaimah

Languages

Arabic (official), English ( widely spoken in Business and government)

Algeria 4448949 P.O.Box 3070, Abu Dhabi Argentina 4436838 P.O.Box 3325, Abu Dhabi Australia 3217444 P.O.Box 58010, Dubai Austria 4766611 P.O.Box 35539, Abu Dhabi Bahrain 6657500 P.O.Box 3367, Abu Dhabi Bangladesh 4465100 P.O.Box 2504, Abu Dhabi Belgium 6319449 P.O.Box 3686, Abu Dhabi Brazil 6320606 P.O.Box 3027, Abu Dhabi Britain 6101100 P.O.Box 248, Abu Dhabi Canada 6940300 P.O.Box 6970, Abu Dhabi China 4434276 P.O.Box 2741, Abu Dhabi Czech Republic 6782800 P.O.Box 27009, Abu Dhabi Egypt 4445566 P.O.Box 4026, Abu Dhabi

4447068 4431392 3212677 6715551 6674141 4464733 6319353 6327727 6101518 6946399 4436835 6795716 4449878

Business Hours

Finland 6328927 P.O.Box 3634, Abu Dhabi France 4435100 P.O.Box 4014, Abu Dhabi Germany 6446693 P.O.Box 2591, Abu Dhabi Greece 4492550 P.O.Box 5483, Abu Dhabi Hungary 4470100 P.O.Box 44450, Abu Dhabi India 4492700 P.O.Box 409, Abu Dhabi Iran 4447618 P.O.Box 4080 Italy 4435622 P.O.Box 46752, Abu Dhabi Japan 4435696 P.O.Box 2430, Abu Dhabi Jordan 4447100 P.O.Box 4024, Abu Dhabi Kenya 6666300 P.O.Box 3854, Abu Dhabi Korea Rep 4435337 P.O.Box 3270, Abu Dhabi Kuwait 4477146 P.O.Box 926, Abu Dhabi

12.00 Thu. Businesses 08.00 to 15.00 and 16.00 to 20.00 Sat.to Thu

Electricity

Abu Dhabi 220/240 volts, 50 cycles AC, Northern Emirates 220/380 volts, 50 cycles AC.

Visas

Visas are required by all except GCC nationals. UK Citizens will be granted 30-day visa at International Aiports.Other Will be required to obtain visas through sponsorship.

Customs Regulations

200 cigarettes or one half pound of Tobacco(Abu Dhabi), 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 500 gm tobacco(Dubai) are allowed duty-free. However locally retailed tobacco products are as cheap as duty-free goods. Alcohol, drugs, pearls and firearms are prohibited

Currency regulations None

Currency

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

1 UAE Dirham(Dh)=100 fils 6325063 4434158 6444942 4493119 6667877 4444685 4448714 4434337 4434219 4449157 6652827 4435348 4477675

Lebanon P.O.Box 4023, Abu Dhabi Libya P.O.Box 5739, Abu Dhabi Malaysia P.O.Box 3887, Abu Dhabi Mauritania P.O.Box 2714, Abu Dhabi Morocco P.O.Box 4066 Netherlands P.O.Box 46560 Norway P.O.Box 47270 Oman P.O.Box 2517 Pakistan P.O.Box 846 Palestine P.O.Box 841 Philippines P.O.Box 3215 Qatar P.O.Box 3503 Romania P.O.Box 70416

4492100

4493500

4450030

4450033

4482775

4482779

4462724

4465772

4433963

4433917

6321920

6313158

6211221

6213313

4463333

4464633

4447800

4447172

4434048

4434363

6415922

6412559

4493300

4493311

4459919

4461143

Russia P.O.Box 8211 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 4057 Spain P.O.Box 46474 Sudan P.O.Box4027 Switzerland P.O.Box 46116 Syria P.O.Box 4011 Thai P.O.Box 47466 Tunisia P.O.Box 4166 Turkey P.O.Box 3204 UK P.O.Box 248 USA P.O.Box 4009 Yemen P.O.Box 2095

6721797

6788731

4445700

4448491

6269544

6274978

4446699

4490530

6274636

6269627

4448768

4449387

6421772

6421773

6811331

6812707

4453330

4452522

6326600

6318138

4142200

4142469

4448457

4443691

January 2009 I Travel Arabia I 95

YEMEN

GENERAL INFORMATION Area

209688

Airports

Population

Al-Rahaba(10 Km north of Sanaa).

(2007 estimate)22.211 million

Hodeida

Visas

Capital

(6 Km Southeast of city)

Visas are required for all visitors.One application

Sanaa(political), Aden(economic)

Al-Janad

form and 2 photographs must be presented with

Main Cities

(4 Km northeast of Taiz)

employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supporting letter.

Sanaa, Aden, Hoddeida, Taiz, Ibb, Dhamar, Hajjah

Khormasakar International

Processing of applications takes 3 to 6 days.

Temperature/Climate

(10 Km from Aden).

Visitors must register within 5 days to obtain an

Summer:35 to 40 C,peaks up to 47 C in

No duty-free shop.Sanaa

exit visa which can sometimes also be arranged

Hodeida,Very humid, rainfall cooler and drier

Ports

by hotels.

in Sanaa.

Hodeida(principal), Aden, Mokha, Saleef(relief

Customs regulations

Winter: 26 C in Hodeidah,Humid, much cooler ,

port for Hodeida)

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or _ lb tobacco and

with occasional frosts,in Sanaa.

Business Hours

1 qt wine are admitted duty-free.

Summer:average 35 C in Aden, very

Government

Currency regulations

humid,hotter but wideDiurnal range and drier

08.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Thu.

Because the exchange of riyals is difficult

inland.

Businesses

abroad, visitors exchange all local currency

Winter: average 28 C in Aden, humid, much

08.00 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat.

before departure.

cooler inland.

to Thu.

Currency

Banks

1 Yemeni Riyal(YR)=100 fils

508084

508105

Lebanon P.O.Box 2283

203459

Syria P.O.Box 494, Hadda Road 413153

Morocco 247964 P.O.Box 10236,Westy Safia

Tunisia 240458 P.O.Box 2561,Diplomatic Area

Oman P.O.Box 105

208933

Turkey P.O.Box 18371, Al Safia 241395

Pakistan P.O.Box 2848

248812

UAE P.O.Box2250

248777

Poland P.O.Box 16168

413523

413647

UK P.O.Box 1287

264081

263059

Romania P.O.Box 2169

205515

214100

USA P.O.Box 22347

238843

251563

Russia 278719 P.O.Box 1087,26 sep.street

283142

289568

Indonesia Hadda Area, house 16

414633

412956

Canada P.O.Box 340

208814

209523

Iran 412690 P.O.Box 1437, Hadda Street

414139

Czech Republic 247946 P.O.Box 2501, Safia Janubia Denmark P.OBox 5302,Taiz

215170

244418

212334

Iraq P.O.Box 498

244153

Italy P.O.Box 1152

269164

266137

Japan 207356 P.O.Box 817, street 38 house2

209531

274196

Jordan P.O.Box 2152

France P.O.Box 1286, Al Bounia 268888

269160

Korea(PDR) P.O.Box 1209, Al Hasaba 232340

Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1184

240429

Germany P.O.Box 41

413179

Kuwait P.O.Box 17036

Sudan P.O.Box 2561

265231

Egypt Jamal Abdul Naser St.

275948

413179

96 I Travel Arabia I January 2009

220 volts, 50 cycles AC

India 12 Jiboti Street

285865

275337

Electricity

527.970 sq.Km

Belgium P.O.Box 2616

China Al Zubeiri St

11.30 Thu.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES Algeria 209689 P.O.Box 509, 67 Amman ST.

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Wed. and 08.00 to

Languages

413279

216317

265234

241395