Travel Arabia Mar 08

Online Version: www.travel-arabia.com

March 2008, Volume 4, Issue 3

A Truly

Malaysian Hospitality Inside Malaysia’s Key Cities

Of Hats & Horses The Hats at DWC and the Horses of Arabia Al Ain

The Garden City of the Gulf

Racing For Fame And Glory

The Dubai World Cup 2008

TION C A R ATT Al Aqah ar Miram h Resort Beac

editor’s note

O

f all the animals in the world, I think horses, next to dogs and cats, are a favourite of many. People love horses for many reasons. They are strong, graceful, swift and glorious creatures. They have this inner beauty and mysterious character. Movies are made about them, they are used in company logos, print and TV advertisements and there are many paintings, photographs, figurines and sculptures of them.

I am not very fond of horses but I like them because there are so many things that are perfect about them. The way they are put together, the way they move, their fluid bodies and shining coats, the way they stand, the way they swing their manes, their ears and their velvet noses.

Men and women alike treat them very well. They talk to them as if they are their friends, husbands or children.

Horses are fascinating but each of them is different. Some are just simply magnificent.

They are beautifully bred, handsome creatures with lots of attitude and character. I think for the most part, women feel different about horses than men do. I know some women who have this great attraction for horses. They would kiss their horses, trim their whiskers, brush them and paint their hooves with shiny oil. They bathe them, rub them and some even buy matching accessories for them. Some who could not afford to buy or raise one would be content buying horse miniatures and paintings of horses while others would decorate their homes with horses of every colour, shape and size.

In my view, men love horses but treat them as living beings with a job to do. Men hunt horses and use them in their pursuits for fame and glory. They look after them, yes, but they don’t worry about them the way women do.

Most men raise horses, breed them and prepare them for competition and races. Around the world, horse racing has become a very popular game and large sums of money are always at stake for the winners. Dubai is no exception.

This month, Dubai will again host the Dubai World Cup that will showcase the fastest and strongest horse to win the much-coveted million dollars prize. The Dubai World Cup is the climax of the racing season here and we will see horses flown in from around the world to compete in the race.

At this year’s race, not only we will see the most beautiful and strongest horses but many horse lovers and enthusiasts, both men and women, who would cheer and applaud for their favourites. Here, you will observe how riders show their affinity for their horses that the creatures themselves would put all his might and strength to take the lead and beat others.

The thundering hooves, cracking of whips and riders’ yells of encouragement will live with you forever.

If the men and women come with their best attire, the horses will be in their best form with their shining coats, well-brushed mane, flowing tails and gorgeous stand. It would be a good day to watch so I hope most of you have chosen your best suit and your stunning dress and hat. If not, there’s still time to visit shops that specialize in designing clothes that would definitely make you stand out amongst the crowds. See you at the race!

Flor B. Pamintuan

Tourism Authority of Thailand Al Attar Tower, Suite 2102, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. (U. A. E.), Tel: 04 3250 184/185, Fax: 04 3250 187 Email: tatdubai@tat.or.th / shaikh@thaismile.ae Website: www.tourismthailand.org

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

your letters

The beauty of the Philippines

General Manager Hekmat el Zein Editor Flor B. Pamintuan editor@travel-arabia.com Staff Writers Anjana Das Habeeb Salloum Contributors Gordon Torbet Eugene Correia Angela T Chuck Wightman Ty Treadwell Photographers Mahesh Kumar Duvvuru Maher El Zein Samir Ahmed Designer Mohammed Usman Siraj Assistant Designer Mohd Noufal Althaf Hussain Sales & Marketing Manager Syed Muhammad Arif arif@kalimatgroup.com

Keep up the good work I always look forward to reading a new issue of Travel Arabia. In fact, during the past year after showing a number of my colleagues your site, they became regular readers of your fine magazine. I must say, the format, vivid colours of the pictures and the variety of topics covered makes for an appealing publication. Also, the interesting way in which the advertisements are distributed throughout the magazine seemingly fit into the stories. I especially liked your story in January issue ‘Travel Trends in 2008’. The many varied articles about the UAE in all your issues I am sure makes readers yearn to visit that booming country. You project the UAE in an attractive way. Keep up the good work.

Habeeb Salloum, Toronto, Canada

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Congratulations!

I wish to thank you for such an informative publication as Travel Arabia. I am learning as each issue appears about the wonders of the UAE. The magazine is superbly illustrated and the articles are fascinating. I wish to thank you and your staff for creating such an exemplary form of media. I live in Canada and found your magazine by accident on the web. It is an extraordinary work of information covering the recent to the past. Congratulations.

Muna Bourzk

Thank you for featuring the Philippines in your February issue. I am a Filipino and I have always been proud to be one. I want to commend your writer who presented the story in a very personal and touching way. I can relate to your writer because I, too, was away from my country for more than 20 years now. I went to different countries to find bigger opportunities.

Though I make it a point to go home every year, I don’t think it’s enough to really discover the places that have been a vital part of our growing up years.

The Philippines has so much to offer to its visitors. We are fun-loving people, hospitable, polite and hard working. I know a lot of your readers will agree to this. Thank you again and I hope you will also feature other attractions in the Visayas and Mindanao region. I’m sure your readers will be amazed to see the beauty of the Philippines.

Arnold del Rosario, Dubai

Love is in the air

I like your cover for the February issue. It really relates to your cover story about celebrating Valentine’s Day around the world. Thank you for this feature because it was very informative. I learned how other countries celebrate the occasion and it was helpful especially for students who might have to research for the topic one day. I just noticed that you did not include countries in the Gulf region. I know Valentine’s Day is becoming one of the popular celebrations here. Anyway, I still think your magazine is very informative, has a lot of interesting topics, superb images and astounding designs.

Marie Lucas Francis, UAE

Travel Arabia would like to receive your comments and suggestions.

Write to editor@travel-arabia.com

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The Dubai World Cup

Of Hats . . .

. . . and Horses

The day to impress has arrived.

Ladies in their most striking, fabulous and sometimes, dramatic dresses and matching hats and men with their elegant suits parade the grounds armed with racing guide and binoculars. It is a day of socializing, networking and interacting with guests, customers and fellow horse lovers.

The Dubai World Cup has been an occasion on which race goers wear their best clothes and women wear hats of all shapes, colours and sizes.

Hats can be fun, big, and silly and you will see lots of these at this year’s race.

Among the many horses competing in frequent horse races, the most popular is the Arabian horse. The Arabians’ incredible energy, intelligence and gentle disposition allow riders to excel in most equine sports and activities.

7 Amazing Wonders of Thailand Thailand welcomes visitors from all over the world. Its international arrival target for 2008 is 15.7 million tourist arrivals that is up 6% over the projection of 2007.

About the Cover: Horse racing is one of humankind’s most ancient sports. This year, Dubai plays host to the 13th edition of the Dubai World Cup, the climax of the racing season in the UAE.

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The Garden City of the Gulf

A Truly Malaysian Hospitality

Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort

Famous for its lush green landscapes and spacious urban design, Al Ain city is considered the “Garden City of the Gulf ”. It has 75 parks and gardens, the first of which was built in 1969. These offer a variety of outdoor attractions to the city’s residents and visitors.

Malaysia offers a truly Asian experience. Warm, friendly, polite, sincere and gracious - this is the Malaysian way of life. Everyone is treated like a guest, a brother or a sister, regardless of your race, colour or religion.

The new Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort is a multifacility property with hotels, a souk and amphitheatre catering to the region’s desire for high quality weekend getaways and the MICE market’s needs for exceptional conference facilities.

GALLERY SCAN Mosque in Dubai Minarets

58 March-ing Delights A line-up of celebrations awaits food enthusiasts this March. There’s the Easter celebration where the whole family can indulge in an “eggciting” Easter brunch, St. Patrick’s Day and of course, Mother’s Day. Set the date and make your reservations now.

M A REventsC H Dubai International Boat Show

March 11-15, 2008 Dubai International Marine Club – Mina Seyahi

Collected Visions March 10 – May 1, 2008 Dubai International Financial Centre JPMorgan will be exhibiting master artworks from the JPMorgan Chase Art Collection at a special exhibition in partnership with the Dubai International Financial Centre (“DIFC”). The exhibition, entitled Collected Visions, will feature 70 modern and contemporary works by leading artists of the twentieth century and will be on display at the Emperor’s Hall at the DIFC from March 10 through May 1, 2008.

Started nearly 50 years ago by David Rockefeller when he was head of Chase Manhattan Bank, the JPMorgan Chase Art Collection is one of the oldest and most extensive corporate art collections in the world.

The Collected Visions exhibit will feature painting, sculpture, photography and works on paper that date from 1959, the year that the firm’s art program began, by leading artists such as Milton Avery, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Zaha Hadid, Jenny Holzer, Roy Lichtenstein, Cindy Sherman and Andy Warhol. Several pieces are included because of their association with American pop culture, including Andy Warhol’s silkscreened images of Marilyn Monroe, Richard Prince’s appropriated cowboy photographs, Jeff Koons’s iconic basketball sculpture, and Saul Steinberg’s whimsical model of downtown New York. Of special interest is Christo’s 1980 mixed-media work, The Mastaba of Abu Dhabi, Project for the United Arab Emirates, a drawing for a monumental project recently undertaken in the Emirate nearly 28 years after its first proposal.

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The 16th Edition of the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) is the largest edition in its history and one of the most internationally-significant marine leisure industry events of the year.

Up to 400 boats will be on display at this year’s event, the highest number since the show was launched in 1992.

Companies from every part of the industry, from boat-builders through to marine equipment, suppliers and service providers, are set to exhibit.

To reflect the increasing sophistication of the marine leisure industry, as well as the evolving opportunities in niche and specialist areas, this year’s show has both expanded its overall size and increased the number of dedicated sector areas.

DIBS 2008 will see the launch of a new section for Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs), Inflatables and Tenders, one of the fastest-growing sectors in the marine leisure industry. Leading companies such

New Generation Ibero-American Art Feb. 20th –March 22, 2008 Emirates Palace Hotel West Wing Gallery CONTEMPO Corporate Art has organized one of the largest exhibits of Spanish and Latin America contemporary art to ever have been presented in the Middle East.

The exhibition, which will feature over 200 works for sale from over 30 well-established artists, highlights the huge two-way artistic movement that runs between Spain and Latin America.

Under the patronage of The Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, this program is sponsored by The Embassy of Spain, The Embassy of Argentina, The Embassy of Brazil, The Embassy of Venezuela and The General Consulate of Uruguay.

as Capelli, Emirates Inflatable Boats, Joker Boats, Kimera, North West Marine, Royal Tender, Sealegs, and Yamaha will all be taking part in this dedicated area. In addition, new for this year is the inaugural DIBS Fashion Show with companies presenting the latest marine clothing and accessories.

The Dubai International Boat Show 2008 will take at Dubai International Marine Club - Mina Seyahi from 11-15 March 2008. DIBS is open to trade visitors and general public, from 3pm - 9.30pm daily. Visitors without an invitation must pay an entrance fee of AED 40 per person. Children under 12 will be admitted free and must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Access to the Marine Display Area may be restricted at certain times. For more information visit www.boatshowdubai. com

The Genius of Joe Longthorne Madinat Theater March 6-7, 2008 Joe Longthorne is traveling to Dubai for a two night run at the beautiful Madinat Theatre with his band prior to commencing his 46 date National UK Tour under the musical direction of Stephen Price.

Joe was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Variety Club of Great Britain in July last year. His voice has helped him to 21 Platinum records along with his incredible impressions of the superstars. His injection of comedy and his rapport with his audience makes Joe’s shows a special experience.

For more information, please contact Madinat Theatre Box Office, Telephone: +971 4 366 6549 or log on to www.madinattheatre.com

COVER STORY

The

Dubai World Cup Dubai Racing Club

The social event of the season

Horse lovers and enthusiasts head to Nad Al-Sheba racecourse on March 29 as the yearly Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest race, is staged to around 55,000 spectators from around the world.

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Dubai Racing Club

The day to impress has arrived.

Ladies in their most striking, fabulous and sometimes, dramatic dresses and matching hats and men with their elegant suits parade the grounds armed with racing guide and binoculars. It is a day of socializing, networking and interacting with guests, customers and fellow horse lovers.

It is the Dubai World Cup race, the climax of the racing season in the UAE, the world’s richest race and one of the MUST see events in Dubai’s sporting calendar.

Started as a brainchild of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al

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Dubai Racing Club

Dubai Racing Club

“The Dubai World Cup is a challenge for horses, for people and for all of us here in Dubai.

It is a challenge of testing the best with the best.”

– HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai World Cup is a fitting tribute to the man’s love of horses and horseracing.

“The Dubai World Cup is a challenge for horses, for people and for all of us here in Dubai. It is the challenge of testing the best with the best. We think that Dubai’s position on the map makes it the ideal place to hold a contest involving different hemispheres, different continents,” said Sheikh Mohammed.

With the establishment of the Dubai World Cup in 1996, the United Arab Emirates became the home of one of the world’s top racing challenges, and drew the attention of millions of enthusiasts around the globe. Among the horses entered in the inaugural race

was a 13-time winner from Australia, a seven-race winner from Great Britain, the ‘dirt horse’ champion from Japan, and Cigar, North America’s ‘Horse of the Year’ for 1995.

In little over a decade, the event has established itself as the pièce de resistance on the international horseracing calendar.

Reflective of the overwhelming generosity of the UAE and embodying the warmth of traditional Arabian hospitality, contenders for the purses are flown in from all corners of the world, such as North and South America, South Africa, South East Asia, Australasia and Europe, and horsemen enjoy generous travel subsidies for their support of racing in the UAE. With a purse of US$6 million to the

12 I Travel Arabia I March Dubai Racing Club

Dubai Racing Club

winner, this year sees the 13th running of the richest horse race in the world.

Classified as a ‘Group 1 Flat Race’ on dirt for four-year-old thoroughbreds and above, the Dubai World Cup spans a distance of two kilometres (one mile, two furlongs).

Staged on March 29, 2008, the Dubai World Cup meeting comprises of seven races of varying purses, totalling a staggering $21.25 million. The meeting is not just about the world’s richest race, as the rest of the seven-race card is also stacked with quality.

The highlight is, of course, the $6 million Dubai World Cup, sponsored

by Emirates Airline, won in 2007 by the brilliant American-trained Invasor.

The chief supporting races are the Dubai Sheema Classic, sponsored by Nakheel, and the Dubai Duty Free, sponsored by Dubai Duty Free, with both contests worth $5 million.

Vengeance Of Rain made history by becoming Hong Kong’s first winner in the UAE, when taking the former, and Admire Moon continued Japan’s growing dominance of global racing by landing the Dubai Duty Free.

The other thoroughbred Group 1

Dubai Racing Club

Dubai Racing Club

race on the card is the $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen, sponsored by Gulf News, which was won by the American speedball Kelly’s Landing.

Asiatic Boy thumped the opposition in the $2 million UAE Derby, sponsored

by Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group, while America landed another prize thanks to Spring At Last’s win in the $1million Godolphin Mile, sponsored by Etisalat.

The card opens with the $250,000 Kahayla Classic, for Purebred Arabians and sponsored by Emaar, won for the third time in succession last season by Madjani.

Perhaps part of the Dubai World Cup’s success is not only due to the state-of-the-art race track, but the burgeoning status of Dubai as an international crossroads and global transport hub, and of course a first-class tourist destination, evidenced by more than 50,000 racegoers attending the Dubai World Cup meeting each year.

Today, the Dubai World Cup meeting enjoys a formidable reputation.

Thanks to the foresight and benevolence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this enthralling event is not only a gift to the people of Dubai but to the rest of the world too.

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Broke after you’ve spent your last dirham on that fabulous Dubai World Cup Outfit? Then have a crack at winning some cash prizes by entering the Pick Seven competition.

Have a glass of bubbly or simply experience the heady atmosphere at the Bubble Lounge.

The best place to watch the horses and study the form is from the Paddock lawns.

Get hold of a race card and watch the thoroughbreds in the parade ring prior to the running of a race.

Things to do at

The stakes have never been higher in the fashion field, as the fashionistas line up for the Burjuman Style Stakes.

Make sure you register before racing.

Fancy 25 round-trips from Europe to Dubai? Then you must enter the Skywards Thanks A Million raffle, which offers 1,000,000 Skywards Miles. Racegoers will also have the opportunity to win a Rolls Royce by entering the Dubai Duty Free Finest Surprise Draw.

Dubai World Cup Day

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Photos provided by Dubai Racing Club

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If you want to take home a wonderful memory or souvenir of the day, then get your photo taken at the Ahlan Glamour Studio – preceded of course by a visit to the Nstyle Nail Lounge and Frank Provost Grooming Salon for a quick touch-up.

Global quality is not just reflected in the racing, but in the food too. Visit the International Village for cuisine from all over the world, including, Mexican, Japanese, Indian and Italian.

If there’s one thing you must do on Dubai World Cup day, it’s taking your seat for the awe-inspiring Ceremony, staged after the running of the Dubai Golden Shaheen.

Get close and personal- watch the Dubai World Cup from the rails. The thundering hooves, cracking of whips and riders’ yells of encouragement will live with you forever.

Party hard. The Partizone, in the International Village, is the place where only Dubai’s liveliest and strongest revelers are welcome.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Of hats . . .

The Dubai World Cup has been an occasion on which race goers wear their best clothes and women wear hats of all shapes, colours and sizes. Hats can be fun, big, and silly and you will see lots of these at this year’s race.

18 I Travel Arabia I March Oasis Fahion

Dubai Racing Club

Dubai Racing Club

Along with great racing, hats are probably the biggest tradition for the Dubai World Cup. The event is known as an enormous catwalk for fashion, especially hats, and in here you can see most of the women wearing hats of all shapes, colours and sizes.

Months prior to the event, ladies who are attending the race begin to think about their hats. After all, the Dubai World Cup is an occasion on which all race goers wear their best clothes and this is the day when women can flaunt their best dresses as well as their hats.

So it is a must for ladies to shop for a dress with a matching hat. Others, on the other hand, make a trip to a fashion house to show the dress that they have purchased and a matching hat will be designed for them.

But for Jane Carter, marketing manager of Oasis Fashion, “buying the hat first is better. We make hats to match the client’s own dress although we usually find that when they see our gorgeous range of World Cup outfits, they often buy something new from our store, which is good as we give a very nice discount to customers who buy the hat and dress from us.”

Oasis Fashion has been designing, making and selling hats to a lot of women attending the Dubai World Cup and the other races leading to the final event. Carter said the original creations from Oasis Fashion are also worn by women in events like the BurJuman Style Stakes Competition and the Fillies & Fashion.

Women attending international races like the Melbourne Cup and the Royal Ascot are also customers of Oasis Fashion. Carter is proud to say that three of their creations are featured in the Royal Ascot website. She added that they have designed hats for famous celebrities and personalities too.

“We are receiving orders all year round, for racing around the world as well as Dubai and there’s too many to count them. A lot of people have really started wearing hats so we are busy all year round,” said Carter.

Dubai Racing Club The above hats are creation of Oasis Fashion

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Dubai Racing Club

At this time of the year, Oasis Fashion’s showroom is filled with ladies trying on the hats and checking the season’s designs plus others who are booking for appointments. These are quite a challenge for Oasis Fashion and their team of hat designers. “Sometimes we make 20 hats in one day which is quite a bit of tiring but it is fun and we always manage to do it.” So far, most of their customers are satisfied with their choices and purchases and always return for additional item(s).

What is good about making hats, Carter added, is the feeling of seeing someone wearing their creation. “I’m delighted especially when they win prizes which they often do.”

As for the design and trends for hats, Carter said that it does not change very often. This year is feather and fascinators which is the same as last year. “The trend on hats is being set

by Paris, London and Rome, mainly Europe, because these places are where the horses and the races are from,” said Carter.

Although very popular and fashionable, the hats must go well with the wearer. “Small ladies should not wear large brimmed hats, which create a mushroom effect. Larger or taller ladies on the other hand look good in large brimmed hats,” advised Carter.

But the golden rule in wearing hat is dictated by the Royal Ascot Enclosure where ladies must wear hats which cover the crown or back of the head.

The hats at Oasis Fashion range from 75 dirhams to 2000 dirhams. They also offer “What to Wear” advice as well as complete makeovers. Visit Oasis Fashion at the second floor of Wafi or call them at 971 4 3249074.

Dubai Racing Club

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. . . and Horses Among the many horses competing in frequent horse races, the most popular is the Arabian horse. The Arabians’ incredible energy, intelligence and gentle disposition allow riders to excel in most equine sports and activities.

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Historically the Arabian horse has maintained a reputation as the horse of beauty, intelligence, courage, endurance, and romance.

The Arabian horse has been regarded for centuries as one of the most beautiful creatures on earth.

Arabians look different from other horses as they hold their tails high and arch their neck in swanlike curves.

They have large, lustrous, wide-set eyes on a broad forehead; small, curved ears; and large, efficient nostrils. The head is finely shaped with widely spaced cheekbones and a muzzle that is delicate enough to drink tea from a teacup.

The features of the Arabian horse are not merely points of distinction for its beauty but these are features that help him excel in most sports and activities. The arched throat and wide cheekbones make room for a large, loosely slung windpipe. The “proud” hold of the head and neck creates the best angle for easy air exchange.

The origin of the Arabian horse remains a great zoological mystery. No one knows where the horse was first domesticated or whether he was first used for work or riding. All that was written was for thousand of years the Arabian horses lived among the desert tribes of the Arabian peninsula.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is honored to be the homeland of the Arabian horse and these splendid animals remain a cherished symbol of the country’s culture and heritage.

Bedouin tribes of Arabia, who forged this breed in the midst of a harsh desert environment, embraced their horses with a passion unrivaled in human history.

In his book about the culture of the Arabs from the earliest known times, Al-Alusi writes: Horses, to the Arabs,

Dubai Racing Club

were the most significant thing in life: they were the symbol of their erected fortresses, their everlasting treasures, their finest glory, and their securest way of defense. As such, the Arabs took great interest in horses, and excelled in their knowledge about these animals more than all other nations.

The ruling family of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Al Sauds, also has a long and distinguished association with the Arabian horse, and there is no better symbol of this relationship than the historic city of Dir’iyyah. Located in the heart of the Arabian peninsula, known as the Najd, it was here, in the early 1800’s, that the Sauds gathered the greatest collection of Arabian horses ever said to exist.

In 1862, the Englishman, W.G. Palgrave wrote of the fabled horses of Najd, “Never had I seen nor imagined so lovely a collection...Their appearance justified all reputation, all value, all poetry.”

Other writings mentioned that the prophet Mohammed, in the seventh century AD, was instrumental in spreading the Arabian’s influence around the world. He instructed his followers to look after Arabians and treat them with kindness. He instructed that special attention should be paid

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to the mares because they insure the continuity of the breed. He also proclaimed that Allah had created the Arabian, and that those who treated the horse well would be rewarded in the afterlife.

The Bedouin tribes zealously maintained the purity of the breed.

Because of their limited resources, breeding practices were extremely selective. Such practices, which eventually helped the Arabian become a prized possession throughout the world, have led to the beautiful athletic breed we know today.

The severe climate during the early days also required the nomads to share food and water, and sometimes even their tents with their horses. As a result, Arabians developed a close affinity to man and a high intelligence. Because he was bred and reared in close contact with man from the earliest records, and existing in mutual inter-dependence, he developed an unequaled ability to bond with humans. Indeed, his intelligence has been celebrated in thousands of anecdotes. He is gentle, affectionate, and familiar, almost to the point of being troublesome.

Historical figures like Genghis Khan, Napoleon Bonaparte, Alexander the Great and George Washington have reportedly rode Arabians. Today, a man’s wealth was measured in his holdings of these fine animals. Given that the Arabian was the original source of quality and speed, and remains

foremost in the fields of endurance and soundness, he still either directly or indirectly contributed to the formation of virtually all the modern breeds of horses.

Even today the purebred Arabian is virtually the same as that ridden in ancient Arabia. Arabians now display their athletic talents in a variety of disciplines from English to Western, with the Arabian positioned as the undisputed champion of endurance events.

Over the past 10 years Purebred Arabian racing has been significantly promoted in the UAE. Events such as the Maktoum Challenge races, the Arabian Triple Crown series, and the world’s richest Purebred Arabian horse race, the Dubai Kahayla Classic (prize-money of US$ 250,000), which kicks off the Dubai World Cup have acknowledged the importance of Purebred Arabian horses both in breeding and racing in the UAE. The history of pure Arabian horses is quite different from that of the thoroughbreds. Thoroughbreds have many bloodlines, including some Arabians. They have a pedigree that can be traced back to one of three founding stallions i.e. Godolphin Arabian, Darley Arabian & Byerley Turk. These three stallions formed the foundation upon which a new breed, the Thoroughbred, was to be built.

Thoroughbreds are generally bigger in size, and have more speed over

shorter distances. They have one rib less than the Arabians and one less vertebra in the tail. They are very hardy, excelling for instance in the endurance races that have become so popular at late.

Arabians while smaller are better suited to steadier speeds over longer distances.

The two breeds are registered separately with parentage and blood typing carefully monitored and controlled, in order to maintain purity and traits of the breed.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai is a major figure internationally in thoroughbred horse racing and breeding.

In late 1981, he purchased Gainsborough Stud at Woolton Hill, near Newbury, Berkshire, England.

In Ireland, he also owns Ballysheehan Stud, in County Tipperary plus he has Gainsborough Farms Inc. in Versailles, Kentucky. His racing operations include the ownership of Darley Stables and he is the leading partner in his family’s Godolphin Stables.

In England, his horses have won numerous important Group One races including several of the British Classic Races. His horses have also won the Irish Derby Stakes and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and in the United States the 2006 Preakness Stakes with Bernardini.

Sheikh Mohammed hosts the yearly Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest series of horse races. The Dubai World Cup is a brainchild of Sheikh Mohammed and a fitting tribute to his love of horses and of horseracing.

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BUSINESS FEATURE

TDIM 08 concludes on a successful note Strong emphasis on highprofile seminar programme and networking opportunities will continue at next edition.

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The inaugural edition of the Tourism Development Projects and Investment Market (TDIM 08) concluded successfully in Dubai with positive feedback from participants and a pledge from the organizers to continue to lay strong emphasis on providing knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities at every further edition of the annual show.

TDIM 2008 which took place at Zabeel Hall and Hall 1 of the Dubai International Exhibition & Convention Centre, combined an exhibition showcasing tourism projects valued at over 700 billion, with a strong seminar programme addressed by topnotch speakers, as well as networking opportunities including a unique HICE (Hosted Investor and Corporate EndUser) program designed to provide global investors with opportunities to evaluate potential investment prospects in the region’s tourism projects sector.

“We are proud to have had the opportunity to present the very first edition of TDIM here in Dubai. The niche in which TDIM is positioned

and the business objectives of the show are quite unique. The three-day show received 4,168 visitors and had over 50 exhibitors taking part. We are pleased to have met our expectations on the number and quality of visitors and exhibitors, the high quality of speakers that we addressed the TDIM seminars, and the excellent networking opportunities that were presented at the show”, said Frederic Theux, President, Reed Exhibitions Middle East.

Dedicated to developments and investments in the tourism sector, TDIM 08 was organized by Reed Exhibitions Middle East with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and DTCM (the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai) supporting the show.

Saleh Al Geziry, Director, Overseas Promotions, DTCM (the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai) said: “Our support to TDIM emphasizes our role as a catalyst in tourism development.

The show is expected to grow from strength to strength in the coming years

as it caters to a market need for a strong investment and networking platform in the tourism projects development sector and we would be happy to continue our association with TDIM in the comng years as well”.

Elaborating on Nakheel’s participation at TDIM, Manal Shaheen, Director, Sales, Marketing and Customer Service at the company said: “Nakheel is excited by the opportunity to support a new tradeshow in Dubai which has brought together stakeholders involved in tourism development. Our participation has been a great success. We showcased three of our new projects here; Dubai Promenade, Port Rashid and The Universe, besides our new Blue Communities sustainability initiative, and existing portfolio of waterfront projects”.

Ousama Ghannoum, Marketing and Media Director at Aldar Properties said his company had chosen to showcase their Yas Island project at TDIM 08. “We had an excellent show and are very pleased at the discussions we have had at TDIM with potential investors and other stakeholders in the region’s tourism market”.

Victor E J Orth, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Al Qudra Real Estate stated that the company was pleased with their participation at the show. “Our team has had interesting discussions with potential investors here and we are hopeful that the initial contacts we have made at TDIM will develop into longer-term business relationships in the future”.

Other participants at TDIM included DWC (Dubai World Central), DUBAILAND™ Destination, Global Village, BAWADI™, Plantation, Universal Studios DUBAILAND, Falcon City of Wonders, Aldar, Sorouh, Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort, Tamouh, Egyptian Tourism Authority, the Syrian Ministry of Tourism, B&G Hotels & Resorts from Egypt, Travellers, Group

- CEO of Ripley Entertainment and Chairman of International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), Darrell Metzger - CEO Ruwaad, and Vice Chairman IAAPA, Charlie Bray - CEO, IAAPA, Nick Turner - Regional Managing Director, Group RCI, Keith James - President and Partner, Jack Rouse Associates and Alistair Gosling - CEO of Extreme Group, UK, among others.

Said Ara Fernezian, Show Manager for TDIM 08, “We will continue to focus on refining the content of the show to make it an even better opportunity to preview major, upcoming tourism developments, build knowledge around key industry issues and to promote networking and cross-border investment in the sector”, The next edition of TDIM will be held January 18 to 20, 2009 at the Dubai International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

“The show caters to a market need and is expected to grow from strength to strength in the coming years,” says a DTCM official RCI, Marina D’or from Spain and Jack Rouse & Associate from the US. TDIM visitors included top tourism officials, investors, tourism facility operators, representatives of global destination brands and world tourism bodies and specialists with an interest in participating in the development of the MENA region’s tourism sector that has received AED 1.2 trillion in investment commitments so far.

Specialist seminars at TDIM 08 were addressed by Jean Claude Baumgarten - President, World Travel & Tourism Council and Saleh Al Geziry - Director of Overseas Promotion at Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing; Government of Dubai, both of whom delivered keynote sessions. Other speakers at the specialist seminars were Bob Masterson

March I Travel Arabia I 27

Thailand

7 Amazing Wonders of Thailand welcomes visitors from all over the world. Its international arrival target for 2008 is 15.7 million tourist arrivals that is up 6% over the projection of 2007.

Middle Eastern travellers look for excellent shopping offers, enjoy the traditional hospitality of Thai people and enjoy shopping for Thai arts and crafts. In addition, medical tourism, health and well-being are also attracting many tourists. Hospitals in Thailand not only have modern up-to-date equipments and facilities but also have qualified medical professionals of all kinds. In addition, Thailand is also attracting and appealing to Middle Eastern travellers for its spas and other alternate forms of well-being.

Thailand wishes to focus on attracting quality tourists with high

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yields. Develop quality attractions, presenting Thailand’s identity and while conserving the nature and the environment, to contribute to sustainable development and competitiveness of Thailand’s tourism industry.

Thailand draws attention to the popular “Amazing Thailand” slogan that proved so successful in the past.

It underscores the image of Thailand as a peaceful, hospitable country, a year-round tourism destination offering quality products and services and valuefor-money.

Tourism Authority of Thailand has segmented and regrouped its core national tourism products into a seven-point package that is marketed worldwide under the banner of “Seven Amazing Wonders” of Thailand.

The “Seven Amazing Wonders” theme products are as follows: Thainess Experience the Art of Thai Living — which refers to traditional Thai hospitality, lifestyle and friendliness of the people.

Treasure products Land of Heritage and History — covering the World Heritage sites and historical places, temples, and Thai museums.

Beaches Fun, Sun, Surf and Serenity of Thai Beaches — the long-standing popularity of Thai beach resorts for international and domestic tourism.

Nature Encounter the Sheer Beauty of Thai Nature — focus on conservation and environment, and market Thai products within the framework of the worldwide attention being paid to global warming.

Health and Wellness Land of Healthy Smile — a rapidly growing market, highlighting Thailand’s preventive and curative therapies.

Trendy Excite Yourself with a Myriad of Thai Trends — targeted at the new generation of young travellers, and covering the new boutique hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment.

Festivities Enchant Yourself with International Festivities in Thailand — the ‘sanuk’ (fun) factor, featuring popular Thai events and festivals such as the Phuket Regatta, Elephant Polo, etc.

The Amazing Thailand theme is a key component in the branding strategy which also includes strong efforts to maintain a market share, boost tourism revenue earnings, and enhance Thailand’s competitive edge.

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ARABIAN GALLERY

Mosques in Dubai

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March I Travel Arabia I 31

LIVING ARABIA

The Garden City of the Gulf Famous for its lush green landscapes and spacious urban design, Al Ain city is considered the “Garden City of the Gulf ”.

It has 75 parks and gardens, the first of which was built in 1969. These offer a variety of outdoor attractions to the city’s residents and visitors.

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Al Ain is the capital of the eastern region and the emirate of Abu Dhabi’s second city. Its greenery and the fact that it is the birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the former president of the United Arab Emirates, gives the city a special status in the hearts and the minds of its people.

In terms of land area, Al Ain is the largest city in the UAE. Located 160 km from Abu Dhabi, it covers 12,955 sq. km., bordered by the Hajar Mountains range in Oman to the east and the Empty Quarter Desert to the south.

In the early days, desert caravans visited Al Ain regularly to get provisions and a journey to this city takes five days.

But with the introduction of the modern transportation, the journey takes an hour and a half drive from Abu Dhabi.

The history of the city goes to the third millennium BC. The evidence of early human settlement reflects the abundance of fresh water and date palms in the area to sustain life. The oasis on which the city was built supported seven date palm plantations and water was channeled using an irrigation system called falaj, which taps into underground water.

Throughout his life, Sheikh Zayed pursued his vision of creating an oasis of greenery in the desert by initiating a series of greening projects. As a result, Al Ain’s seven natural oases are now surrounded by tree-lined streets and beautiful urban parks. The main Al Ain Oasis is home to palm plantations, many of which are working farms. The palms provide welcome shade and a haven from the noise and bustle of the city.

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Among Al Ain’s tourism attractions are the UAE’s highest mountain, Jebel Hafeet, easily accessible via a 13-kilomete highway. The view from the summit offers a 360-panorama over the low-lying city and surrounding desert. Aside from the nice coloured sand dunes, Al Ain is renowned for its forts, gardens, museums, parks, the camel market, the old souks and the historical buildings.

A large number of castle and forts, ancient houses and mosques and towers of various shapes are found in Al Ain. There are a total of 66 historical structures in the city; some were built as homes during times of peace and others for defensive purposes during wars or to protect against raids. Other historical sites were built to serve religious and education purposes such as mosques. Most of the forts and landmarks have been restored in recent years in recognition of their historical importance.

The historical structures which mostly date back to the early 20th century can be found in Al Qattara Oasis which has 20 of them, Al Jimi Oasis with 16 structures, Hili Oasis with eight structures, Al Motarad three and Al Ain Oasis two. There are also 11 such structures in Al Ain city (outside the oases) and six in neighbouring villages.

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The materials used in building these structures were quite varied, depending on the location and what was available. In the oases and Al Ain city, forts were built entirely from sun-dried mud, clay and straw. But the Saa Tower, a watch tower located in the mountains overlooking the valley was built from stone. Tower roofs were made from palm tree trunks, which were used as beams, together with imported wood such as Jandal to provide additional strength to support the roof.

Being the Garden City to its visitors, Al Ain has more than 70 parks equipped with leisure and entertainment facilities.

Lush trees and landscape on the roadsides add to the beauty of the city. Every roundabout in Al Ain is a green garden with artifacts and objects that reflects traditions and culture such as Arabic coffee dallah, camels, birds, forts and falcons.

Another well visited attraction in Al Ain is the zoo, established in 1969 by instruction of Sheikh Zayed and opened to the public in 1972. The zoo is the largest in the Middle East and goes in line with the environmental policy adopted by the UAE which focus on protecting

Al Ain, with its modern and historical tourist attractions, is a prominent example of marrying modernity with traditions.

This distinctive identity has developed into deep trait of social life in the city.

animals, plants and wild life.

Stretching over 400 hectares, the Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium is one of the best zoos in the Gulf region. Its main attractions include the aquarium building, the reptiles, upper monkey, crocodiles and wild cats, birds, African new zone and a large number of cages and pools for a lot of rare animals. It has a children’s playground, trains, cafes, water cooling machines and a mosque.

Here is where you can see some rare and local species like the Arabian Oryx and gazelles.

The camel market is not only a place where live camels are bought and sold; it is also a market where the animal’s meat and milk are traded. The market is the great place to get close with the longlegged animal, regarded as the “ship of the desert”. Experts buy camels for racing purposes and fast racing camels are sold for a premium as breeders use them to improve their stock and develop better breeds of the animal. The camel market is one of the main attractions of Al Ain city and is visited by many tourists each year. It is located in Hili area, just eight kilometres from the city centre.

The city also offers outdoor enthusiasts the chance to enjoy lush green wadis, camping and offroad driving along mountain tracks, as well as top class hotels with a full range of sporting and recreational facilities.

Although the discovery of oil in the mid 60s led to considerable changes in the lifestyle of its people, Al Ain still preserves its own distinctive culture that combines unique elements with the cultures of the other Emirates to form the special heritage in evidence today.

Among the factors that distinguish an Al Ain citizen from other UAE nationals are the different dialect and the special folklore clothes. Marriage and wedding traditions are also quite different.

It is true that the people of Al Ain have embraced the latest aspects of modern life, but they still yearn for their traditional heritage and uphold it. Many still own palm plantations irrigated by falaj and barns to keep cattle, goats, sheep and camels, in addition to some farm birds. Many still enjoy spending a day in the Barr (the open country side) especially after rain, so as to enjoy nature and moderate weather.

Thousands still are very interested in traditional sports such as camel races, falconry, horse and dog racing and they travel long distances to watch them. Many still savour their traditional coffee and foods.

Tourism in Al Ain started to develop from the middle of the 20th century, thanks in large part to official efforts to safeguard and protect the area’s traditions and culture. The directives and guidelines of the Abu Dhabi government, and recently established Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), have ensured great strides in developing and promoting Al Ain’s tourism, infrastructure, facilities and services.

“This work is continuing with further efforts being directed at publicizing the city’s attractions on the international level. Al Ain is seen as offering a major enhancement to the overall tourism offering of Abu Dhabi emirate, thanks to its unique combination of mountain and oasis landscape, greenery, archaeological treasures and specialized tourism events and activities,” said Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority.

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IF YOU GO • A ll visitors with the exception of nationals of GCC and require a visa to visit Al Ain. • T axis are plentiful in Ai Ain and are metered and cheap by international standard.

• A rabic is the official language but English is widely spoken as are dozens of other languages.

• Islam is the official religion of the UAE. • A l Ain has a sub-tropical arid climate.

Sunny, blue skies can be expected most of the year. Rainfall is infrequent and irregular, falling mainly in winter.

• L ightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but sweaters of jackets may be needed for the winter months, especially in the evening. Care should be taken not to give offence by wearing clothes which may be considered revealing.

• T he weekend in the UAE is Thursday and Friday when all government offices close.

Friday is a religious holiday. Shops operate normally on Thursday and Friday evenings.

Many shops close daily between 1 pm to 4 pm although larger stores are open throughout the day.

• T he Dirhams is divided into 100 fils and US$1 equals approximately Dh 3.65.

For more information about Al Ain, visit the official website on http://www.alain.ae/portal/Services/SiteMap.aspx

AMBIENCE

Minarets

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OUTSIDE ARABIA

A truly

Malaysian hospitality

Malaysia offers a truly Asian experience. Warm, friendly, polite, sincere and gracious - this is the Malaysian way of life. Everyone is treated like a guest, a brother or a sister, regardless of your race, colour or religion.

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“Selamat Detang” says a smiling Adnan, our tour guide, who greeted us as we emerged out of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Still feeling groggy after a long flight I can’t help but marvel at the beautiful surroundings before me.

We arrived in Malaysia on a Wednesday afternoon so the warm weather and the clear blue sky create a serene and perfect welcome.

I was in a group of journalists and travel agents from the United Arab Emirates, who along with 11 other countries were invited to discover new attractions in Malaysia, a country known for its hospitality, diverse culture, warm and friendly people, alluring wonders and world-class facilities.

The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsula Malaysia made

to some of Malaysia’s most splendid cultural legacies.

Kelantan has a laid-back atmosphere and it is one of the three states ruled by pro-Islamic leaders. Many of the locals here are skilled craftsmen, carrying on a tradition that has been passed down by their forefathers. Adnan explained that in earlier years, the main source of living for the state is fishing but during high tide season, the locals needed to find a way to support their families so the cottage industries and crafts were discovered.

Among the exquisite crafts that are produced here include ornate silverware, colourful giant kites, textiles, beautiful woodcarvings and brass work. Kelantan is also famed for its batik and songket fabrics. Word has it that the batik and

an unmistakable local dialect where a lead singer belts out the lyrics while the group members repeat the chorus lines with rhythmic clapping and hand movements) and top spinning (a traditional game that requires physical dexterity, precision and strength).

Aside from the local cultures, Kelantan still holds many relics from the Japanese Occupation during World War II as this was where the Japanese troops

The people of Kelantan are talented and artistic in different ways, from various arts to hand made crafts. The art performed by these professionals will definitely mesmerize the people from around the globe. up of 13 states, three federal territories and the states of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo. Its capital is Kuala Lumpur.

The country is formed in 1963 after Singapore, Sarawak, British North Borneo and the Federation of Malaya federated to form Malaysia.

The population of Malaysia is more than 27 million, majority are Malays, followed by Chinese and the Indian communities. Though diverse, the citizens work closely together. Adnan explained that in Malaysia, the Malays are the most active in politics, the Chinese in the economy and the Indians are the people who bridge or connect both so there is always a balance in the society.

As soon as we hit the road, I immediately sensed a clean and peaceful country. There were no graffiti, no uncollected trash, no beggars and no shanties. I asked Adnan why the roads are not that busy. It was a holiday, he said, and people are preparing for the celebration of the Chinese New Year.

Kelantan – Cradle of Malay Culture Our first major stop on this seven-day tour is Kelantan, a charming destination steeped in culture and heritage. Situated in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, the land is home

songket fabrics produced by the cottage industries here are among the best in the country.

In Kelantan, the shops are dominated by the Malay people, unlike those in Kuala Lumpur and other states where most of the shops are owned by Chinese nationals.

Kota Bharu is the capital of Kelantan and is a bustling town exuding an oldworld charm. The friendly locals speak Bahasa Malaysia, the national language with a local dialect and lilt. However, English is widely spoken.

This year, Kelantan is among the three state governments that embark on a campaign to promote their states.

On the night we were there, the Visit Kelantan Year 2008 was officially launched and focused on highlighting the state’s unique culture.

The highlight of the evening was a parade of the folk-based activities that can only be found or experienced in Kelantan such as wayang kulit (a shadow play theater performed by casting animated puppet shadows on a white cloth screen), dikir barat (a lively group performance sung in

made their first landing in Malaysia.

Amidst the very strong Islamic influence, the state is home to the longest statue of Reclining Buddha as well as one of the largest statues of Sitting Buddha in Southeast Asia. Visitors to the state can catch traditional performances such as Malay martial arts, folk games and musical performance which we all had a glimpse during the launch.

If you were into adventure, the Nenggiri River offers river rating or hiking up Gunung Stong. Shopping in Kelantan will be a delightful experience as visitors can choose from a wide variety of craft items.

Kelantan targets to receive 5.7 million visitors this year. For more information on Kelantan, contact the Kelantan Tourist Information Centre at +609 748 5534 or email tic@kelantan. gov.my or log on to www.tic.kelantan. gov.my

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Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia’s Dazzling City One of the most vibrant cities in Asia, Kuala Lumpur’s main attraction is the stunning Petronas Twin Towers, a worldrenowned icon of the country which looks like a huge cake with white icing at night. The world’s tallest twin towers, completed in 1998 towering at a height of 452 meters above ground, represents the country’s dominant culture.

Our group didn’t get a chance to climb up the 41st floor of the tower where one can see the magnificent view of the city of Kuala Lumpur, better known as KL to the locals. It was closed for the public the day we visited but the tower is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 7 pm and one has to queue in the morning to get a ticket for a guided tour of the building. An average of 1,700 guests visits the tower on a daily basis.

The city itself though filled with stunning skyscrapers boasts of it lush greenery and well-manicured parks which add to the refreshing appeal of the city.

Merdeka (Independence) Square is a good starting point to explore KL. Here the national flag lies atop a 100m flagpole, the tallest in the world.

Within the square is a field fronting the Royal Selangor Club where Malaysians converge every year to celebrate their independence. Opposite is the ornate Sultan Abdul Samal Building, built in 1897 with Moorish features, clock tower and copper domes. Beautifully illuminated at night, this landmark now houses the Malaysian Supreme and High Courts.

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sidewalk cafes and delicatessen until late In the city centre, Menara Kuala night or sip your favourite drink while Lumpur or KL Tower at 421m is another you listen to live bands at the clubs. The location for a 360 degrees aerial view city’s al fresco outlets are the places to be of the city. The tower doubles as KL’s for a stunning view of KL by night. best known ambassador. It is the fourth If you want to explore the city at tallest telecommunication tower in the night, you can take a stroll along Bintang world and built to improve the quality Walk where you can witness street of telecommunication and broadcasting performances from dancers, stage shows, transmission in the city. musicians and a whole lot more. There Dine amidst the clouds at the Seri are foot massage or reflexology centers, Angkasa Revolving Restaurant while souvenir stalls, footwear, sports goods, taking in the sights of the city. If you opt night clubs, budget hotels and dining not to dine, the tower has an observation places. Close to Bintang Walk is Ain deck with a multi language audio video Arabia where you can buy locally sold guide of KL’s city skyline. Surrounding fruits and dine at the sidewalk eateries. the tower is the Bukit Nanas Reserve, an For avid shoppers, Kuala Lumpur area of 9.37 hectares, which poses as the is a veritable shopping paradise in the oldest forest reserve in the county. region. There’s a wide range of shopping In close proximity to the Petronas establishments catering to every taste Twin Towers is the Aquaria, located and budget. These include one-stop at the basement of the Kuala Lumpur shopping malls, fashionable department Convention Center. Lovers of aquatic life stores, well-stocked duty free outlets, will enjoy a visit to this gigantic aquarium trendy boutiques and handicraft centres that takes you to an exciting journey from misty mountains, through the mysterious rainforest, the ever changing coast, reaching beyond reefs and into the With its colourful potpourri mysterious deep blue sea. Spanning over of races and cultures, Kuala 60,000 square feet, the aquarium offers 33,000 captivating and colourful aquatic Lumpur is a kaleidoscope of and land-bound animals around the fascinating sights and sounds. world representing 283 different species.

Immerse yourself in its Experience close encounters with the abundance of attractions – Sand Tiger Sharks, the gigantic Grouper, exciting theme parks, worldthe over two metre long Arapaima Giga, the world’s largest freshwater fish, class sporting events, dazzling prehistoric fishes, stingray, lion fish, cultural performances and seahorses and an open pond full of turtles entertaining nightlife. and typical fishes found in Malaysia.

Open daily from 11 am to 8 pm, you and your family can witness fish feeding and shark feedings at the Aquatheater, a : ODATIONS 90-metre long tunnel for visitors to ACCOMM l te o H arriott walk through.

Putrajaya M esort IR Not to forget is the Eye on Lot 3991, IO jaya a tr Pu 2 0 Malaysia, located on Titiwangsa 625 8888 9 Lake Gardens. A replica of the Eye on Tel. 03-894 8999 9 4 9 -8 London, this 12-minute ferris wheel ya.com Fax: 03 arriotputraja .m w w w : te ride reaches a height of 60 meters and Websi Hotel offers a breathtaking view of the city.

Kota Bahru Petra Renaissance ultan Yahya Eye on Malaysia is the largest portable S n la Ja , ra ia ut Kota Sri M wheel in the world and the first to be ntan Bahru, Kela 15150 Kota 33 situated over a lake.

622 Tel: 609-74 After the sun goes down, the city r 461122 ls.com/kbrb Fax: 609-7 comes alive with a wide variety of issancehote a n e .r w w w Website: exciting nightspots. Karaoke lounges, ter onvention Cen clubs with love bands and discotheque re Hotel & C ua Sq es m Ti Berjaya are among the happening places that Level 12 n Imbi West Wing -B 2 1 , No. 1 Jala make their mark on the city’s vibrant re ua q S s e Berjaya Tim night scene. Unwind at the trendy la Lumpur 55000 Kua 17 8000 Tel. 603-21 148 0813 rts.com Fax: 603-2 yahotels-reso a rj e .b w w Website: w

Putrajaya is a thoroughly modern and vibrant city, a model township that has been constructed with detailed planning, innovative urban design and utmost concern for the preservation of the environment. For all Malaysians, Putrajaya is the realization of a vision and a heritage of Malaysia’s future generations offering products of finest qualities. The city’s more than 30 malls provide endless shopping opportunities for locals and foreigners alike.

Most of the major malls are conveniently situated near hotels, conventions centres and public transportation facilities. For the adventurous, don’t miss the excitement of bargaining at the open-air markets and the casual street shops.

Enjoy a profusion of mouthwatering delicacies while dining out in KL. The culinary traditions of the Malays, Chinese and Indians as well as other communities make the city a paradise for food lovers. Restaurants offering Vietnamese, Lebanese, Iranian, Indonesian, Arabic, Italian, Vegetarian,

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Australian, and Taiwanese cuisine abound in the city. Halal food is widely available and eating out is convenient as many restaurants are open 24 hours.

If you want to witness cultural performance while having dinner, one should go to Seri Melayu Restaurant where traditional cultural show performances are held daily from 8:30 pm to 9:15 pm.

KL offers a wide range of accommodation to suit any preference and budget, from international-standard hotels and resorts to budget hotels. In addition, there are serviced apartments and youth hostels for long-staying guests. Most hotels are situated in the vicinity of shopping malls, theme parks or convention centres.

Getting around the city is also convenient and affordable. KL’s Sentral, the city’s modern transportation hub, provides a comprehensive network of train, buses and taxi services.

For more information on Kuala Lumpur, contact the Kuala Lumpur Tourism Action Council at 603-26176272 or log on to www. kualalumpur.gov.my

Chinese New Year Open House 2008 In Malaysia, the Chinese New Year is one of the most elaborate and important celebrations for Chinese people, regardless of the origin of their ancestors.

The celebration is declared a national holiday in the country and the streets are adorned with red lanterns, most of the street and establishments bear the “Gong Xi Fa Cai” sign and the Chinese New Year songs can be heard everywhere, mostly in shopping complexes.

During Chinese New Year’s day and several days that follow, the Chinese hold open houses. This year, the National Chinese New Year Open House was held at Bukit Kintang and was officially launched by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB dato’ Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi and other dignitaries.

Open house is the time when relatives and friends, regardless of their races and religions will visit one another, exchanging good wishes and gifts like tangerines and other traditional New Year’s delicacies.

As festivities in Malaysia are celebrated by all communities, the open house concept bears the testimony to the fact that tolerance and mutual

respect are evidently observed in this multi-racial country. In fact, this is a very unique practice in Malaysia that symbolizes the unique diversity of culture and religion here.

Like other major celebrations in the country, Chinese New Year is also celebrated at national level where open house will be held. Malaysians, as well as tourists around the world, are welcome to join in the celebration of this auspicious event. There is an array of local delicacies for all the guests, cultural show and other performance.

Putrajaya – Intelligent Garden City Putrajaya is Malaysia’s new federal administrative capital. Just half an hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, it is famed for its innovative design harmonizing nature and development. It is a modern city which embraces the concept of an intelligent garden city and showcases the best of Malaysian architectural design in an environmentally-friendly setting of beautifully landscaped lakes and park.

Our new tour guide, Ramli explained that Putrajaya is developed by the country’s fourth Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, called the Father of Modernisation, who is also behind the country’s other landmarks such as the Kuala Lumpur Tower, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Petronas Twin Towers, Cyberjaya and the Formula 1 circuit.

But it was renamed Putrajaya in honour of Malaysia’s first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Alhaj for his invaluable contributions to the nation. He is Malaysia’s “Father of Independence”.

Putrajaya sits on 5,000 acres of land, of which 38 percent is being developed into parks, lakes and wetlands while the remaining is reserved for government offices, commercial and residential areas as well as public utilities and amenities.

The centerpiece of the city is the 650-hectare man-made Putrajaya Lake, which serves as a climate moderator.

Visitors to Putrajaya will surely notice the unique designs of the street lights lining its wide roads. There are 56 designs of street lights similar to designs of street lights from 56 different countries, such as the obor (torch) and wau (giant kite). There are eight unique and distinctive bridges that are similar to bridges found in several states in

America, England and other countries.

According to Ramli, the former PM had the designs of the original bridges modified by the country’s architect and was then constructed in Putrajaya.

The best view of Putrajaya can be seen at the Putrajaya International Convention Center, the design of which was inspired by the traditional pending perak (silver royal belt buckle) and wau bulan (moon kite). PICC covers a total area of about 135,000 square meter over nine levels and its Plenary Hall can accommodate approximately 3,000 delegates. With all its modern facilities, PICC can host international and regional conventions, exhibitions and private functions.

The largest botanical garden in the country, Taman Botani is found in Putrajaya. It extends over 92 hectares and is divided into three sections – flowers, ornamental plants and preservation/ research. Taman Botani has over 700 species of local plants as well as those from the African and Asia Pacific regions.

On your way to the garden, you will not miss the design of the floor bearing names of different plants. The logo of the garden is also a local umbrella shaped palm. Families can visit the garden where children can enjoy the surroundings and its beautiful landscape. After a tour of the garden, your family can enjoy local cuisine at the seafood restaurant situated in a lake inside the garden.

The official residence of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Seri Perdana, is here in Putrajaya and is also used for official receptions and banquets. Seri Perdana comprises three blocks – main reception/protocol block, banquet block and residence block.

Another attraction in Putrajaya is the pink-domed Putra Mosque, constructed of rose-tinted granite and can accommodate 15,000 worshippers at any one time. The basement wall of the mosque resembles that of the King Hassan Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco.

Its impressive minaret is influenced by the design of Sheikh Omar Mosque in Baghdad. At 116 metres, it is the tallest minaret in the region and has five tiers representing the Five Pillars of Islam.

For more information on Putrajaya, contact the Putrajaya Information Center at 603-8888 7272 or log on to www.ppj.gov.my.

IF YOU GO • T he main gateway to Malaysia is through the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Over 40 international airlines fly into the country such as Etihad Airways but the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines can cover the local destinations.

• Besides public buses and taxis, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) services, KL Monorail and KTM Komuter inter-city rail services offer hasslefree accessibility to well-known landmarks in KL as well as outlying districts and nearby towns.

• T he Malaysian currency is referred to as Ringgit or RM. US$1 is equivalent to 3.25 RM and 100 dirhams is equivalent to 85 RM.

• A ll states (with the exception of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu) observe Saturday as half-day and Sundays as public holiday.

The three states observe Fridays as half-day and Saturdays as a public holiday.

• Most nationalities do not require visas for social or business visits. Other nationals can get visas on arrival. Visitors must be in possession of a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the period of stay.

• Islam is the official religion but other religions are practised freely.

• Malaysia has a tropical climate with warm weather all year round with temperatures ranging from 21 to 32 degrees Celsius.

• Before visiting a home, it is polite to call and inform of one’s arrival. Shoes must always be removed when entering a Malaysian home.

Drinks are generally offered and it would be polite to accept.

For more of Malaysia, visit the official website at www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my or contact the local office at Suite No.009, Mezzanine Floor, Al Safeena Bldg., Near Lamcy Plaza, P.O. Box 4598, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel. (+971 4 3377578/ 9) Fax (+971 4 3353318)

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PROPERTY

Escape promises

country living experience

There will be over 500 three and four-bedroom villas, including ten luxury villas, and a total of six additional floor plan options.

The villas at Escape will maintain open space, without property walls, and architecture inspiration follows the traditional Arabic, Ottoman, and Mediterranean influences.

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A comprehensive equestrianthemed residential community set to be developed in Ajman promises a unique living experience, not found elsewhere in the region.

Escape, a 200-acre exclusive gated community offering villas and low rise apartments, a boutique hotel, and full range of equestrian facilities in addition to several multi-purpose sports arenas.

The development is located on the Emirates Road, on the Ajman – Sharjah border.

“Escape will offer a new and healthier kind of lifestyle. Conveniently located to urban centers, yet removed from traffic and other urban stress, the community has been carefully designed to provide residents with an abundance of nature, peaceful views, and privacy not seen in other developments,” said Anwer Sher, General Manager of Escape LLC. Named after H.H .Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman’s World Champion Arabian Stallion, Escape Ibn Navarrone – D, the 8.2 square million foot development

is currently offering luxurious villas in three and four bedroom styles, with more villas and the apartments set for phased release over the coming months.

“Each villa is being planned so that it has a view onto planned bridle paths, or public park space areas. We have worked with the natural topography of the site, and enhanced existing land rises and using the lay of the land to promote a feeling of space and privacy,” he explained.

There will be over 500 three and four-bedroom villas, including ten luxury villas, and a total of six additional floor plan options. The villas at Escape will maintain open space, without property walls, and architecture inspiration follows the traditional Arabic, Ottoman, and Mediterranean influences. Low rise apartments border the residential area of the development and are only between eight and thirteen levels so as to further enhance the relaxed, country atmosphere of the community.

“We have placed a huge emphasis on architecture and design in an effort

Escape offers an unparalleled healthy, outdoor and naturally-inspired lifestyle not found elsewhere in the region. Its appeal is cross-cultural, and its relative affordability creates inclusiveness targeted to all segments of society.

to differentiate Escape from other residential offerings. Our design philosophy is based on a desire to link this vibrant modern community to the important traditional foundations of Islamic art and architecture,” said Donald Green, Concept Architect for Escape.

In addition to the villas, there will be 16 apartment buildings which will offer one, two, and three bedroom styles in buildings of varying height. The apartment buildings will vary from G + 8 to 13, allowing for topographical variation in this section of the development.

Not only an ideal home for people, Escape will feature some of the most carefully designed and beautiful barns in the region. The development will offer stabling for 200 horses including a stateof-the-art equestrian spa dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured horses, and a comprehensive mix of in-and-outdoor riding arenas and training facilities.

Catering to horses from all equestrian disciplines and staffed by international equine care specialists, the facility will diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate troubled or injured horses from a variety of holistic treatment approaches.

Escape offers a total of 223 stalls, 24 of which are in purpose built quarantine stable blocks, thus giving the entire community the capacity to host horses from abroad for major international competitions.

Located at the heart of the community is the HoofbeatZTM Center, a two-level activities clubhouse which introduces a unique mix of equestrian-themed activities and entertainment in addition to traditional sports facilities ideal for the entire family.

This component is the heart of the entire Escape equestrian community.

The HoofbeatZTM Activities Centre is attached to the Resort at Escape, and also offers a gym, changing rooms, a restaurant, and a sports-themed bar. It is the ideal place for friends and families to meet and become acquainted with the world of the horse and each other.

“Escape is not only for the horse lover. We have included facilities for indoor sport such as basketball, volleyball, and squash to name a few, plus a multi-purpose outdoor sports arena ideal for football and

rugby matches as well as equestrian competitions or shows. We are also offering the first polo cross field in the region,” said Eileen Verdieck, Partner of Escape LLC. “Our HoofbeatZTM Program introduces non - traditional equestrian games, workshops, and experiences that are all designed to broaden the base of those interested in horses, and to allow for people to learn about the horse as never before. These are brand new ideas and activities that are ideal for the entire family; our ultimate goal is foster a new generation of equine enthusiasts and professionals from the UAE,” added Verdieck.

Set on a natural rise, and adjacent to the HoofbeatZTM Center is the Resort at Escape, a 150 room equestrian – themed boutique hotel, where each room will be dedicated to a different breed of horse and will feature stunning original artwork and murals. “This will be the only equestrian-themed hotel in the world,” said Verdieck.

The Resort at Escape will house several restaurants, conferencing facilities, a Middle Eastern and Asian – inspired spa, tennis courts, two swimming pools, and full gym and fitness facilities. Rooms within the hotel are all uniquely positioned with views that either look down into a central courtyard which doubles as an equestrian show ring, or out across the surrounding pastures and stabling blocks.

Conceptualized and developed

by Equine Management Services, one of the world’s leading equine solutions company, Escape is expected to be fully operational by 2010. For more information, log on to www. escapeajman.com

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ATTRACTIONS

Beach Resort

Miramar Al Aqah The new Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort is a multi-facility property with hotels, a souk and amphitheatre catering to the region’s desire for high quality weekend getaways and the MICE market’s needs for exceptional conference facilities.

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Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, managed by Iberotel is located on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates, approximately 15 km from Dibba Village, 45 km from Fujairah city and 90 minutes from cosmopolitan Dubai, with many rooms facing the sea and a private beach in the charming Emirate of Fujairah.

Fujairah is characterized by the jagged Hajaar Mountains, which border the fertile coastal plain where most settlement has taken place. Blessed with dramatic scenery, Fujairah attractions include some excellent diving sites, the natural beauty of the mountains and coastline, cultural and historic attractions and of course, reliable winter sunshine.

The 5-star beach resort has an ideal location for a relaxing holiday with Moroccan architecture and facades, the main building with a spread out clusters of three floors and 200 m. of a private sandy beach.

The resort features three floors consisting of 321 rooms and suites, with many rooms facing the ocean. There are 191 superior rooms, 90 deluxe rooms with two additional sofa beds separated by wooden partition equipped with a sliding door which is ideal for families visiting the resort. The 20 executive rooms have one bed area and a living area separated by a light partition.

The 18 suites are categorized into four namely Al Qasr Suites with a private pool, Al Bawadi, Al Rawda and Al Dhow Suites.

Each guest room is equipped with a mini bar, an in-room tea and coffee making facilities, a satellite TV with hotel interactive and entertainment system, a laundry service, 24 hour room service, high speed internet access and a

balcony or terrace with two chairs and low table and steam and sauna rooms.

There are extra facilities provided for executive rooms like a private check-in and use of the Miramar Executive Lounge, a fruit basket which is replenished daily, light refreshments throughout the day in the lounge, complimentary use of wireless internet in the Miramar Executive Lounge, a late check out, among others.

Guests will be treated to a variety of dining experience with Al Majlis which is the resort’s main buffet and all-dining restaurant and terrace, the Al Moltaqa which is a lobby bar and terrace and the Sensasia which is an Asian Fusion restaurant. Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort has an Italian Restaurant called Mammone, a pool restaurant and bar, a beach bar and a fun pub or discotheque.

There is also a traditional Arabic café where you can enjoy your shisha.

Children will enjoy their stay at Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort where a Kid’s Club called Jay Jay’s The Funky Camel Kids Club will entertain them with fun and educational programs, daily animation activities and indoor and outdoor play courts. There is a shaded pool to enjoy the waters of the swimming pool. And don’t forget that parents can always enjoy and relax

because the resort has baby sitting services.

Those who are thinking of holding conferences away from Dubai can have it at Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort.

The place is an ideal location for small conferences, seminars, or cocktails. Al Diwan meeting room can accommodate up to 150 persons theater style.

Whether you are organizing a silver service banquet or a more informal event, Al Diwan is the right choice.

A haven of peace and tranquility set against the ambience of natural beauty, for those who wish to relax, restore and rejuvenate, body mind and spirit.

A paradise filled with exotic aromas, essential oils, spice and floral fragrances, designed to enhance and optimize the total “mind - body experience” Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort Wellness & Spa Center is a sanctuary designed to peel away the layers of daily stress with our very special services. Pamper yourself while your body melts into relaxation and your mind drifts gently.

The spectacular Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort is now open, with 321 rooms and suites amid of breathtaking oceanic view of the east coast of the United Arab Emirates. For reservations contact reservations@iberotel.ae, for more details info@iberotel.ae, phone +971 9 2449994, Fax +971 9 2449995 or visit www.iberotel-eg.com

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FASHION & STYLE

The Wafi World Cup

Collection 50 I Travel Arabia I March

Wafi offers ‘All the Right Looks for a Photo Finish’ from their unique and eclectic brands to give Wafi customers the chance to look their very best for this year’s Dubai World Cup on March 29th.

A series of fashion events were held last March 3 and 4 to give a preview of the latest spring collections from leading design houses and emerging new designers.

The selection of clothes presented at the fashion shows showcased the premiere of the some of the world’s most original, and influential fashion brands, many of which are exclusive to WAFI. The classic luxury of Gerard Darel and The Designer Club, to the unconventional and edgy creations of 109 and Bugatti B More, or the raw originality of Ginger & Lace, Tiger Lily

and Desert Rose, to the glamour of Unrath & Strano, Roberto Cavalli and Etoile La Boutique, accompanied with bags from Crystal Temptations and hats from Oasis Fashion were just a brief sample of some of the many brands that are available at Wafi.

“Wafi has always attracted stores that can provide something more special and eclectic and is ideal for people who want to express their own sense of racing style and be a part of the thrilling and ever-changing fashion fest for the Dubai World Cup,” explained Victoria Smith Marketing Director for Wafi.

“Dubai World Cup brings people together for a grand day out with family, friends, or clients, with all eyes firmly fixed on Dubai as one of the global hotspots for glamour and

sophistication and it is little wonder that many regular race-goers choose Wafi, which is regarded as one of the most elegant shopping complexes in Dubai, to find unique pieces to wear, with exceptional hats, to stand out from the crowd”.

The make up and artists were provided by FACE Stockholm the Swedish cosmetics company that provides makeup and skin care true to the Swedish beauty ideal - natural, simple, gorgeous and fun. FACE Stockholm offers more than 200 lip shades, over 150 eye shadows, foundations, powders, professional makeup tools, and a natural skin care line, they are eco-conscious, using minimal packaging and never test on animals.

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World class golf facility at

Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club 52 I Travel Arabia I March

March 1st 2008 sees the unveiling of Sharjah’s first fully grassed golf facility at the Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club.

Complete with a 9 hole fully grassed and floodlit (from Sept. 08) golf course designed by world renowned designer Peter Harradine this golfers paradise is complimented by a 300 meter, all grass, driving range with a 6425 square meter short game area and a 1095 square meter putting green.

Martin Duff, a British Advanced PGA Professional since 1995, is at the helm of the operation bringing with him over 8 years of experience in the UAE golf industry. The facility offers a unique combination of pay and play and membership packages which will prove appealing to tourists, beginners, experienced golfers and families from Sharjah, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman and beyond.

When asked about the facility Martin commented “In my time here in the UAE I have become very familiar with the 5 star facilities available here at all the clubs in the UAE. Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club is no exception in terms of standards. The facility is designed by Harradine Golf who are extremely well respected golf course designers with their reputation stretching across the Middle East and into Europe.”

“Also our facility will be maintained

by Orient Irrigation who also has a proven and acclaimed track record in the UAE. The combination of their efforts and ours here at the club will provide our members and the public with an outstanding golfing experience.

The grass bay driving range is truly a delight to practice on. It is beautifully shaped and with 10 clearly defined practice greens offering inviting shots of all lengths to all users.”

“The short game area I can say with confidence is one of the best in the UAE. Shots of up to 70 yards can be played from flat and sloping lies. Also

the strategically shaped rough is not only pleasing to the eye but also offers further shot variation. The putting green also is extremely appealing in design with various undulations as well as flat areas allowing golfers to learn or practice every type of putt they can expect to face on the course,” added Martin.

The course itself is wall to wall grass and fully floodlit allowing play well into the evening. At 7,357 yards, and a par of 72 (if played twice from the championship tees) golfers can opt for the stiffest of challenges or play from the day tees and play a more forgiving layout measuring 6747 yards. The course features unique landscaping, numerous water and sand hazards as well challenging pin and tee placements.

Martin commented “The Harradine name virtually guarantees quality in design, but this I am sure will be one of his proudest creations. The course will only be 9 holes but with so many tee options and pin positions it will feel like 2 totally different loops of 9. Also to our advantage is our location. We

are 90 seconds of Emirates road and 4 minutes from Sharjah Airport. We are located immediately after the Airport/ Al Dhaid road junction (if coming from Dubai).”

“Another unique asset is the Club’s other activities. We boast a gym, an indoor shooting range, tennis and basket ball courts, hair salon and 2 paintball parks. By the end of 2008 a purpose built Academy will be added to the clubs already impressive portfolio. Other additions include a spa, conference facilities and theme restaurants. All this means the entire family can be entertained from dawn to dusk,” said Martin.

The published rates for the Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club (green fees and memberships) are available on the clubs website www.golfandshootingshj.com as is a virtual tour giving interested parties a realistic feel of what visitors can expect from Sharjah’s first fully grassed golf course. Enquiries can also be made at golfadmin@golfandshootingshj.com or call +971 6 5487777.

March I Travel Arabia I 53

Norooz comes to Millennium Hotel Sharjah Norooz which means New Day or New Year as the Iranians call it is a celebration of the beginning of the spring. It has been celebrated by all the major cultures of ancient Mesopotamia. Norooz with its uniquely Iranian characteristics has been celebrated for at least 3000 years and is deeply rooted in the rituals and traditions of the Zoroastrian (the religion of ancient Persia before the advent of Islam in the 7th century A.D.).

Iranians considered Norooz as their biggest celebration of the year. The ceremonies are symbolic representations of two ancient concepts – the End and the Rebirth, or Good and Evil. Before the New Year, Iranians clean and rearrange their homes; they buy or make new clothes, bake pastries and germinate seeds as sign of renewal.

But a major part of the New Year ritual is setting the “Haft Seen” (cloth of seven dishes), where a special cover is spread on to the Persian carpet or on a table in every Persian household, containing seven specific items.

The number seven has been sacred in Iran since the ancient times and the seven dishes stand for the seven angelic heralds of life - rebirth, health, happiness, prosperity, joy, patience and beauty.

All the seven items you will find on the table start with the letter “S” and usually are Sabzeh (sprouts, usually wheat or lentil representing

54 I Travel Arabia I March

birth); Samanoo (a pudding made out of wheat representing the ultimate sophistication of Persian cooking); Seeb (apple representing health and beauty); Senjed (a sweet, dry fruit of the lotus tree representing love); Seer (garlic representing medicine); Somaq (an Iranian spice which color represents sunrise); and Serke (vinegar representing age and patience).

Other elements and symbol of Norooz will be displayed at Shiraz restaurant like a few coins placed on a sofreh (cloth), a basket of painted eggs, a Seville orange floating in a bowl of water, a goldfish in a bowl, a flask of rose water, a mirror and a pot of flowering hyacinth.

This March, the Haft Seen will be displayed at Shiraz, the Iranian restaurant in Millennium Hotel Sharjah as part of the celebration of the Iranian New Year beginning March 21.

Aside from the food display, you will also see troubadours, referred to as Haji Firuz, who disguised themselves with make up and wear brightly coloured silk cloth with a red cap. The Haji Firuz, singing and dancing will parade with tambourines, kettle drums, and trumpets to spread good cheer and the news of the coming new year.

“Norooz is an important occasion for the Iranians and we want them to know that we’re creating a big celebration for them. There’s no place to do it than at our own Iranian restaurant where guests can join in the merry

making and enjoy the sumptuous Iranian meals and delicacies prepared by our Iranian chefs,” said Najid Bensouda, General Manager of Millennium Hotel Sharjah.

The restaurant will prepare the Iranian traditional foods like Salad-E-Shirazi, Masto Khiar, Bourani Bademjan, Salad, Mahi and Soup_E-Jo, Ash_E_Reshteh from the Charcoal Grill Chelo Kabab-E-Koubideeh, Chello Kebab Sishlik, Chelo Kebab_E_Meygu.

The all time favourite Iranian sweets like Meivaeiy, Makloud, Baklawa, Cholezar, Shirniy, Samano will be prepared especially for the occasion.

“This is also the perfect time to learn about the symbols and elements of the Iranian New Year. Our staff will be ready to answer your questions about the food and other decorations at Shiraz. So we want to encourage the Iranians to invite their friends to experience the Norooz celebration here at Millennium Hotel Sharjah,” added Bensouda.

You don’t need to travel to Iran to experience how Iranians celebrate their new year. You just need to take a trip to Millennium Hotel Sharjah and experience it yourself. For reservations and enquiries, call +971 6 5566666 or email sales.sharjah@mill-cop.com From Millennium Hotel Sharjah, Norooz Mobarak.

March I Travel Arabia I 55

A hidden gem at Le Méridien Village Abu Dhabi

Le Bistrot, a dining space whereby comforts of the interior, menu and service are enjoyed by all who step upon its terraces or within its charming dining room.

The menu is inspired by Chef Nicola Beau, a talented young French chef with aspirations to set a mark in Abu Dhabi on French cuisine, he delivers a refreshing approach to innovative French cuisine utilizing a combination of local products with French culinary delights. Chef Nicola and restaurant manager Fadi are cooking up some new ideas and introducing a new menu for Le Bistrot.

The atmosphere is relaxed suitable for family gatherings, business lunches and intimate dinners.

Our chef will overwhelm you with his selection of delightful authentic French dishes and you can also savour our exquisite selection of reds and whites.

Monthly promotions and daily specials are always a special surprise to regulars and new comers.

Whether you are in search of the right place for a romantic dinner or a quick business lunch on the terrace, you will be delighted with what you will find in this French corner; no wonder it earned the What’s On Award for Best European Restaurant category in 2007.

Opening Hours Lunch - 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.

Dinner - 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.

Closed for lunch on Saturdays Tel 02- 644 6666

DINING PROMOTIONS

March-ing delights A line-up of celebrations awaits food enthusiasts this March.

There’s the Easter celebration where the whole family can indulge in an “egg-citing” Easter brunch, St. Patrick’s Day and of course, Mother’s Day. Set the date and make your reservations now.

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Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

Al Bustan Rotana

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Choices, the newly opened restaurant at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel brings lunch dining experience to a new level as it offers its flavourful International Lunch Buffet everyday.

From Saturday to Thursday, indulge in an extensive variety of culinary treats from all over the world at Choices. From Arabic to Italian to Indian to Japanese to Continental, name it and you will find it in the buffet.

Six live cooking stations including Tandoori, Noodles, Pasta, Grilled (BBQ), Falafel and even the extraordinary Teppan Ice Cream station are available to ensure that only the freshest and most delectable dishes are prepared. This excellent lunch adventure is only AED 140 net per person from 12 noon till 03:00 pm.

Every Friday, enjoy a relaxing weekend with the Choices Family Lunch.

The weekend lunch buffet features a lavish spread of rich signature dishes from all over the world. Kids and

adults alike will have fun exploring all the exciting flavours of the countless dishes to choose from for only Dhs.150, inclusive of soft drinks and net per person, every Friday from 12:30 till 03:00 pm.

This March, you are cordially invited to feast on the finest and authentic flavours of Australia right here in Dubai! Rodeo Grill Restaurant and Bar, the award-winning steakhouse at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel is proud to host Jennice and Raymond Kersh, Australia’s renowned culinary siblings in an exclusive five day promotion of the country’s local cuisine and native menus from March 16th to 20th, 2008.

Looking for a new and exciting place to celebrate the joyful Easter festivities? The all-new Choices restaurant at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel is Al Murooj Rotana

your perfect choice!

Bring your family and friends to an extravagant and enchanting Easter feast served in the contemporary surroundings of Choices for only AED 250 net per person inclusive of selected beverages or AED 330 net per person inclusive champagne.

Kids aged 6 to 11 enjoy a special price of only AED 100 and children below 5 years old are free of charge.

For further information, call Al Bustan Rotana Hotel at 4 2820000.

Al Diar Siji Hotel, Fujairah Al Diar Siji Hotel, Fujairah is all set for a big celebration in honor of St. Patrick of Ireland. Although this tradition is generally Irish in tradition, you need not be an Irish to enjoy this day. Come to Zorba Bar & Cocktail Lounge on

March 17 and take pleasure in songs, wines, beers and a sumptuous selection of ala carte.

After a late night out, you tend to be a bit lazy the following day and there’s no better way to start the day but with a relaxing brunch.

This March, Al Diar Siji Hotel, Fujairah launches a special festive Friday Brunch at Al Diwan Restaurant just for you. All set to provide a pleasant and memorable dining experience this month is a wide spread of international cuisines, appetizers, and desserts at the buffet counter.

In addition to the beautifully set up buffet with international menu selections, the ‘Friday Brunch’ also features a variety of food stations at the Terrace and a fine selection of starters and specialty breakfast and lunch dishes followed by desserts from around the world.

Relax and dine at Zorba Bar and Lounge with exceptional and flavorful Spanish and Mexican dishes prepared Texas-style while listening to the equally superb Viva Duo from Bulgaria as they render a wide range of music repertoire.

For enquiries, call (09) 223 2000.

Al Murooj Rotana

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Passionate about seafood? Then make Pergolas restaurant at Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites your harbour to indulge into blue waters’ delicacies with addition of their new seafood night. It is the night to savour the treasures of the ocean. Luxuriate a wealth of sumptuous seafood recipes put together by our master chef in an exclusive seafood buffet along with enticing

March I Travel Arabia I 59

Burjuman Rotana live cooking stations. Step in, indulge and feel enriched.

The seafood theme night is available from 7:00 pm till 11:30 pm. There are two packages available: AED 185* net per person including soft drinks, chilled juices and mineral water or AED 225* net per person including selected beers & wines.

Children between 5 and 12 years get 50% discount.

The bright Easter Sunday and the beautiful season of spring is a perfect time for an eggciting celebration! There’s something for everyone this Easter at Pergolas restaurant.

Sink your teeth in delightful traditional recipes presented by our expert chefs in a Mega Easter Brunch. It will bring an unforgettable experience for entire family with rich gastronomical spreads and plenty of entertainment. The offers are priced at AED 179* net per person inclusive of soft drinks and juices and AED 199* net per person with unlimited selected beverages.

Kids can look forward to lots of fun, including exciting Egg Hunt, visit of Easter Bunny, face painting and other activities. Children between 5 & 12 years get 50% discount.

When it comes to discussion about where the good food comes from, all three of the best gastronomic guides in France, GaultMillau, le Bottin Gourmand and Michelin, are in

60 I Travel Arabia I March

agreement on one point - the Pays Basque is one of the best regions in France to look for it.

Following already well-established tradition of bringing the finest food to its guests on a plate, Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites will host a popular Michelin Star Chef, Jean Batiste Daguerre from St. Pee-sur-Nivelle (Pays Basque) in its Waterside Seafood Restaurant & Terrace from the 2nd till the 8th of March 2008.

Chef Daguerre will demonstrate his unique culinary creations in a special menu, unveiling delicacies of traditional Basque cuisine combined with his signature cooking style. The seafood lovers will be delighted to savour the freshest Atlantic fishes and seafood which form the base of Basque cuisine. It’s another unforgettable epicurean experience not to be missed!

For reservations and more information, please call 04-3211111 or e-mail on fb.almurooj@rotana.com.

Waterside Seafood Restaurant & Terrace is open daily from 7:00 pm till 11:30 pm.

Burj Al Arab Junsui, Burj Al Arab’s new authentic Asian restaurant, will be open to external guests for breakfast reservations as of 11th February 2008. The ‘Around the World’ breakfast

comprises a wide selection of authentic Asian as well as International dishes, prepared and served at the restaurant’s 12 live cooking stations from 7:00 to 10:30 am for the price of AED 250.

The Ultimate Afternoon Tea will consist of an indulgent seven course menu, with a selection of 50 loose leaf teas to choose from. The lavish menu includes a glass of bubbly, delicate finger sandwiches, succulent cuts of meat or fish from the carvery, sorbet, scones and clotted cream, a mixed berry basket, an exquisite selection of French pastries, and a variety of hand-crafted petit fours for the price of AED 395.

From March onwards at Majlis Al Bahar, the Chef will be preparing a succulent piece of meat or fresh seafood on a tabletop BBQ on Burj Al Arab’s private beach. Mouthwatering starters and salads accompany this personalized BBQ with waiters at hand to serve the guest’s every need and guests can also savour the aromas of Majlis Al Bahar’s special mix of shisha.

The BBQ is served a la carte and priced accordingly.

For more information, please contact Burj Al Arab Restaurant Reservations at Telephone: +971 4 3017600 or email: BAARestaurants@ jumeirah.com

Burjuman Rotana Suites There’s something for everyone this Easter at Burjuman Rotana Suites. Enjoy the eggciting experience in a Mega Easter Brunch at The Gallery Restaurant for only AED 119* net with unlimited fresh juices and soft drinks.

There’s more for kids as well, a 50% discount for children between 6 and 10 years and a complimentary brunch for children below 6 years.

We will take care of the kids this Easter. A funny character will take them to play one hour in Fun World in Burjuman Centre. That’s not it! They will also take home yummy, chocolate and Easter giveaways.

For reservation or more information, please call (971) 4 5087833.

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi

Grand Hyatt

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa Waves Restaurant is offering a delicious a la carte lunch and dinner menu, combined with its renowned freshly prepared seafood dishes, using top quality ingredients. After the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, Waves transforms into the perfect setting for a romantic candle-light dinner.

Choose your fresh fish from Waves’ special display, the local catch of the day is selected by our Executive Chef Mauro. Whether you like your fish grilled, fried or boiled, the choice is yours.

This special offer is available daily for lunch and dinner.

Welcome to the ideal exotic venue with an abundance of legendary “Tabu” cocktails, shooters and specialty drinks. Enjoy a large selection of Cuban cigars, relaxing with cool tunes and a hint of tropical vibes.

Tabu offers Happy Hour every day from 6pm – 8pm (50% off on selected beverages) ad step in and boogie to the tunes of our new resident band “Creole Stars” at the most happening bar on the East Coast from 6pm – 1am.

For further information please contact 971 9 2449888.

Grand Hyatt Take your family on a special journey to Italy at Andiamo! to enjoy the taste of our Easter buffet, especially prepared for the occasion. The celebrations commence with a fantastic selection of antipasti, followed by fresh, handmade pastas. Enjoy live gelato and tiramisu stations, while your children play at the special Kidz club Easter party with the Easter Bunny. Prices at AED 150 per person or AED 240 per person with free flowing sparkling wine, beers and wines from Italy and AED 75 for children (6-12) incl. soft drinks.

Manhattan Grill will play host to a truly luxurious Easter lunch and dinner with a five course set menu featuring succulent Spring lamb dishes created for those who like to experience the finer things in life, followed by deluxe chocolates and a complimentary glass of champagne especially selected by our head sommelier. Starting Friday 21st of March to Sunday 23rd of March for AED 400 including one glass of champagne.

Get yourself and your children excited for the Easter Bunny with Grand Hyatt Dubai’s very own patisserie,

Panini. Stocking a selection of handmade goodies such as luscious chocolates in all shapes and sizes and many other sweet treats for you all to enjoy! Whether you give these goodies as gifts or simply want to pamper yourself with some tasty delights, call into Panini and you will be sure to find the perfect delicacy.

Daily 8:00am – 1:00am. For reservations, please call 04 317 2222.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel Enjoy Easter festivities with a real family feast at Beachcombers restaurant.

Guests can enjoy a sumptuous Asian-Malay style brunch and dinner, whilst soaking up the panoramic views of the beach and the stunning Burj Al Arab from 21st - 22nd March 2008 for AED 200 per person.

Guests who come for brunch on Easter Sunday can enjoy the sounds of traditional Cuban band, Banda Nueva, and will receive access to the special Events Arena which will host a range of exciting entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Price at AED 400 per person and AED 200 per child.

Latitude will be getting

in the festive spirit with a selection of chocolate themed cocktails for their Easter brunch to accompany the electric variety of cooking stations. Children will be kept entertained by the range of activities on offer including a magician, face painting and balloon shaping. From 21st to 23rd of March from 12:30 to 4:00 pm for AED 325 per person (with selected alcoholic beverages); AED 245 per person (with selected fruit juices) and AED 65 per child.

Celebrate Easter at Dhow and Sheraton Deira Anchor with a celebration for the whole family to enjoy. On Good Friday, feast on roast beef followed by a unique desert, and on Easter Sunday enjoy a traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings and a special range of luxurious chocolate Al Bustan Rotana deserts.

For more information, please contact Jumeirah Beach Hotel at Tel: +9714 406 8999 or Email: JBHboxoffice@ jumeirah.com

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi On Sunday March 23rd, 2008, Le Méridien Abu Dhabi will host a family day filled with entertainment to celebrate the Easter festivities.

So bring the children and tell

March I Travel Arabia I 61

Renaissance Dubai Hotel

the globe. A glass of bubbly awaits the grown ups and special give always for the mums! The brunch costs AED 149 per person with children aged seven to twelve half price and under six years for free.

For bookings please call 04 336 6000.

Moevenpick Resort & Residence Aqaba

your friends to join a family day of Easter theme in the Village Gardens.

Children will enjoy bunny characters, face painting, bouncing castle and amusing prizes for egg hunting and drawing competitions. Brothers Three at the center garden will play your tunes from 1:00 till 4:00 pm. Easter lunch buffet at La Brasserie and at the Village.

Lunch begins from 1:00 to 3:30pm.

Prices for adults AED 165 net, children (6-12 yrs) AED 85 net including soft beverages.

Easter goodies takeaways, chocolate eggs & bunnies will be available at Al Finjan.

Book your tickets from 15th of March between 7:00 and 11:00pm at the Village booth or call 02-644 6666.

To all meat lovers, March is the month of Beef at our infamous Italian restaurant Pappagallo, whether you prefer it grilled, braised, pan-fried or together with our fresh pastas and fresh vegetables, our expert chef

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will happily make your beef to your preference. Outdoor seating always available.

Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai This Easter make your chocolate gifts a little more special with a personalised message or name. At the Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai you can order handmade Easter Eggs with a specific message which will be carefully written in icing onto the Eggs by our skilled pastry chefs. These Eggs will make the ideal treat and are available from Café Espresso through the month of March.

The Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai will host an eggtastic Easter Brunch on Sunday 23rd March in the Fountain restaurant and Liwan Garden. The Liwan Garden will be transformed into a rabbit’s paradise with an Easter Egg hunt for all the children. Face painting, bouncy castle and crafts will keep the youngsters busy with video games and DVDs for the older children. This

leaves the adults to enjoy an afternoon of pure indulgence and relaxation. The brunch is priced at AED 169 per person with seven to twelve year olds half price and six years and under for free.

On 17th March join the Irish of Dubai in celebrating all things Irish at the Somerset’s pub in the Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai!

The pub grub in Somerset’s will take a Celtic twist with an Irish menu to include favourites such as Irish stew.

Of course the Guinness and uisce beatha will be flowing and it is only AED 60 for one main course and one Irish Drink.

Friday 21st March will be dedicated to Mothers across the UAE as we celebrate the national Mother’s Day. Our weekly Friday brunch will have a maternal focus with Mums being number one!

From 12 noon until 3pm let our chefs create your favourite dishes at our live cooking stations or choose from the international buffet boasting dishes from across

As of March 13th 2008, the Bridge Café is again open from 9am until midnight.

Enjoy the warm Aqaba nights with magnificent views over the city and Ayla archeological site during a game of Backgammon and the company of our Oud Player.

An exciting Pasta Promotion is being organized at Al Sufra Restaurant & Terrace, our Mediterranean Fine Dining Restaurant & Te5race as of March 15th, 2008. A selection of local and imported wines is available.

The famous BBQ candle light dinners every Thursday at Palm Court Restaurant & Terrace will be re-organized as of March 13th, 2008. Enjoy the delicacies from several exciting live cooking stations and live entertainment by hotel’s music due and the belly dancer. For JD 18++ per person.

The Red Sea Grill is located right at the hotel’s Movenpick Resort & Residence Aqaba

Raffles Dubai private beach with a magnificent view of the Red Sea. Serving some of Aqaba’s best fresh seafood specialties with an Afro Arab twist, including the famous fish Sayadieh, the Red Seal Grill will re-open of March 13th, 2008 for dinner only and remain open throughout the year until the end of November.

Moevenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea On 21st March, mums of all ages will love our special Mother’s Day lunch and dinner specials at Al Saraya.

One mother per table will eat for free at Al Saraya. As an option, you can treat your mother to the special set menu dinner at The Grill, the hotel’s gourmet eatery.

From 16th to 23rd March, Swiss master fine chocolate maker Udo Gastel travels especially from Switzerland to demonstrate the production of fine Swiss chocolate. Enjoy the taste of Switzerland. Combine the Swiss style with Arabian ambience every Friday throughout March. Our Swiss Bumper Lunch Buffet features a wealth of imported delicacies such as original Swiss cheese, meat or Lindt chocolate. In the evenings,

try a taste of Arabian Nights with our dinner buffet offering mezzas, mixed grill and Arabic sweets.

For more information, call +962 53561111.

Radisson SAS Hotel Dubai Deira Creek From March 3rd-12th, the Radisson SAS Hotel Dubai Deira Creek hosts its very own Scandinavian Food Festival! With guest Chefs Thorbjørn Thorsen of the Radisson SAS Royal Hotel and Fredrik Lindholm of the Radisson SAS Hotel, Alesund flying in all the way from Norway, the event promises to complement Dubai’s growing culinary scene and is set to provide an authentic taste of Scandinavia.

Thorsen and Lindholm put forth their insider knowledge to present diners with an array of traditional Scandinavian specialties in three of the hotels’ venues.

Boulvar, our 24-hour bustling International restaurant, features Scandinavian specialties including the famous Salmon preparation, Herring and Smorre Bròd alongside its regular buffet for lunch and dinner.

At our contemporary steakhouse Palm Grill, savour

a four-course dinner menu of Scandinavian specialties for only Dhs. 250 per person.

Fish Market, our awardwinning seafood restaurant, presents a fresh Scandinavian seafood selection including crab, salmon and cod fish alongside the regular picks for lunch and dinner.

Dine at any of the participating restaurants throughout the event and you will automatically be entered in a raffle for a chance to discover Sweden!

The lucky winner will walk away with two round trip tickets to Sweden- courtesy of SAS Airlines - and a complimentary 4- night stay for two including breakfast at the Radisson SAS Hotel in Stockholm.

For bookings and information, please call 04- 205 7333/ 7444.

Raffles Dubai Set within the glass capstone at the pinnacle of Raffles Dubai, Asiana Restaurant offers traditional and authentic dishes from the Far East, such as dim sum, noodles and satay.

Beautifully located on the 17th floor, the restaurant enjoys striking panoramic city views, and offers the ideal setting for informal and relaxed dinners. Asiana restaurant will open for lunch starting March 2008 onwards, from 12:00 hrs – 15:00 hrs. Daily a la carte menu.

Celebrate Easter with your family and friends at Azur All Day Dining restaurant and feast on an array of mouth-watering dishes from live cooking stations and a choice of dessert treats from our special Easter buffet. Azur All Day Dining is overlooking the Raffles Botanical Garden, which offers the perfect backdrop to enjoy a relaxed

afternoon soaking up the sun. Take on our Easter Buffet on Friday, March 21 and Good Sunday Brunch on March 23 from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm for 350 AED net per person, excluding beverage Join us at Raffles Dubai to celebrate the arrival of summer and enjoy a barbecue by the pool every weekends, with live cooking and grilled stations for 450.00 AED net per person, excluding beverages from 19:00 pm to 23: 30 pm.

For enquiries, call 971 4 314 9828.

Renaissance Dubai Hotel Throughout the month of March at Sails Mediterranean restaurant, in addition to our regular theme night buffets, savour mouth watering fresh oysters cooked in front of you by our chefs every Wednesday and Thursday for dinner only.

Theme nights are priced at: From 5th March to 19th March, 2008, Spice Island brings home the vibrant tastes from Vietnam at a special tribute paid to the cuisine this month. Get ready to enjoy a magical experience that features the choicest sumptuous meats and vegetables accompanied by unique fusion sauces and reductions.

Bud and a Shot go together like bread and butter. Harry’s Place offers an ice cold Bud to chase your favourite shooter, all for a special price, throughout the month of March. So what are you waiting for, get in on the action, knock back your favourite shooter and wash it down with an ice-cold Bud. We have a healthy lunch at Aquarium Lounge for those on the run! Enjoy a fresh home-made sandwich, choice of pastry and coffee to go at

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Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai 49/- Dhs per lunch box from March 1st to 25th, 2008.

Please call 04 2625555 for more information.

Shangri-la Hotel Dubai Enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours of Vietnam as Hoi An offers traditional hawker-style dishes which are simple in preparation yet profound in flavour. For the month of March, sample Coconut crusted prawns served with tamarind sauce, Crispy beer-battered calamari coated with panko crumbs with sweet citrus dipping sauce as well as Chicken sate served with warm peanut dipping sauce. Available daily for dinner from 19h00 to 23h00.

Delight in the delicious and the divine at Shang Palace. Resident Chinese Chef Ken revisits the kitchen of his childhood to bring you delectable dishes reminiscent of home cooking. Memories of his mother’s warm kitchen is the inspiration behind his special offerings for March which includes Steamed abalone with “unicorn” chicken, Deep-fried crispy banana and shrimp balls, Steamed “Qiong Shan” bean curd with seafood and a lot more. Available daily for lunch from 13h00 to 15h00 and dinner from 20h00 to 23h30.

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Indulgence is all sweet talk. A homage to a temptress. Wicked yet gratifying, scrumptious cheesecakes take centrestage during teatime at the Lobby Lounge. Sample these velvety delectations such as New York style – plain with a golden brown patina fresh from the oven or blanketed in a warm glaze of apricot or apple. Available daily from 15h00 to 18h00. The Lobby Lounge is open 24 hours.

Celebrate Easter Sunday at Dunes Cafe, where hearty appetites will be delighted in its mouth-watering cuisine.

For AED 155 ++, indulge in an array of scrumptious international dishes from tempting appetizers to heavenly desserts.

For enquiries on the room promotion, please call 04 343 8888 and for restaurant promotion please call 04 405 2703.

Sheraton Deira Hotel You are running out of time and want to appease your hunger quickly. Visit The Terrace Restaurantlocated in the Sheraton Deira Hotel –which features the Express Combo Business lunch being part of our daily lunch buffet in March 2008 from 12 noon till 3pm for Dhs. 40 net per person.

Feel the ‘Mediterranean’

while you enjoy the Friday Brunch at the 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.

Furthermore you can eat as much as you like – no limit. Another option is to go for Dhs. 89 net, which accompanies soft beverages.

For reservation or more information, please call 042078615.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers The lobsters found at the Creekside Japanese Restaurant this March are there for a more delicious reason than as an exhibit.

Check out how Chef Narit cooks up a mouth-watering spread of lobster delicacies using fresh ingredients and traditional Japanese recipes.

Sample lobster dishes like Lobster Salad (Lobster and mixed salad with spicy lemon dressing) or Lobster Tempura (Deep fried lobster with tempura batter), to The Ritz Carlton, Dubai

name a few. Prices start from AED108 per dish. For reservations, please call 04 207 1750.

In March, Chef Andrea features the best of shellfish delicacies cooked in special recipes at Vivaldi. Look forward to Canadian lobsters, clams, mussels, sea scallops, King crab legs, grey shrimps and more. On offer will be 3 set of seafood platters – the Seafood Towers Deluxe , the Royal Menu or the Seafood Platter Menu. There is also a la carte option for those who prefer to individual portions.

Price from AED68 net per dish on the a la carte menu.

For reservations, please call Vivaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar at (04) 207 1717.

A mystical aura of Indian cuisine and the essence of Chef Gaurav’s creations beckon at the award-winning Ashiana restaurant. With a touch of wizardry, Chef Gaurav combines aromatic herbs, pungent spices, a variety of lamb chop dishes and a dash of Indian culture, to offer an authentic Indian culinary experience from 5th – 14th March. Price from AED75 net per dish.

For reservations, please call Ashiana Indian Restaurant at (04) 207 1733.

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Hop on over to Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers for an ‘eggshilarating’ day out with the family on Sunday, 23rd March 2008.

Celebrate Easter Sunday at The Palm Garden Restaurant.

Chef Engelbert has prepared a wide variety of food in our extravaganza buffet featuring live cooking stations and tempting selection of desserts.

And for the little ones we have a special menu especially designed to tease their appetite.

While you are enjoying our sumptuous buffet, our trained staff will entertain your children with a wide range of stimulating activities designed to unleash your child’s imaginations. They are assured of an enjoyable time by joining our bunny on the Easter Egg Hunt and some other fun activities indoor and outdoor such as Volleyball, Soccer and PlayStation Contests. It’s a great family day out for just AED 195 and if you want to enjoy the sun in our beach after your Lunch it’s only AED 330. Not to forget children between 6 o 12 years old get 50% discount.

For reservation please call 04315 34 00 or 04-399 55 33

The Fairmont Dubai From 26 to 28 March 2008, The Fairmont Dubai welcomes Michelin star Chef Christoph Rueffer of Haerlin Restaurant at the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Germany to the award winning Exchange Grill. The culinary mastermind behind the internationally renowned restaurant will present an exquisite menu lineup for this limited engagement.

Guests will be introduced to a uniquely designed five course degustation menu

reflective of Chef Rueffer’s ‘haute cuisine’ culinary style.

Highlights include quail breast and leg served in the ‘à la francaise’ style; tarragon crusted rack of lamb with aubergine puree and salsa verde; and spiced coffee mousse with mango papaya tartar and raspberries. This limited engagement is priced at Dhs 650 per person.

Dinner reservations can be made by calling 04 311 8316.

The Palace Asado, The Palace’s Argentinean concept restaurant is now open for lunch. Through out the week, Asado will offer a delicious three course lunch menu along with a house beverage from 12 noon to 3 pm for AED150 per person.

The lunch menu served during lunch includes an appetizer, main dish, and dessert. All three courses are served within the perfect hour, giving customers the complete experience of Asado and taking into consideration the value of their time.

During the weekends, along with its lunch offer, Asado will offer a limited menu which will have a variety of traditional dishes.

The restaurant resumes its full menu dinner in the evening which offers mouth-watering food, a wide selection of Argentinean and new country wines from the Bodega (Wine Cellar) and tango music and dancers ensuring that all guests feel like they are dining in a typical Argentinean country farmhouse.

The Palace’s fine dining restaurant Ewaan is now giving people the chance to kick off their Fridays on a special note with family and friends. Ewaan is offering a brunch that proves to be an exclusive gastronomic journey that serves a perfect blend of

old and new influences and simply taking the best from the east and west, creating the perfect dining experience.

The brunch ranks second to none by offering live cooking stations serving up waffles, crepes, fajitas, pancakes and a variety of other delicacies. Ewaan’s brunch also succeeds in quenching thirst by offering free flowing bubbly, tea, coffee, and soft drinks.

Throughout the week, the restaurant offers guests the option of sampling the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean live buffet or the à la carte.

Friday Brunch is from 12noon – 4pm (Free bubbly offered until 3pm) for AED 390/ per person.

For further information please call (04)428-7888

The Ritz Carlton, Dubai Splendido is the setting for a delightful brunch-time buffet this March 23 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai. Easter classics feature, together with a fresh seafood bar, innovative mezze and starters, and numerous live cooking stations to tempt the taste buds. From the live cooking stations, choose from a classic

eggs, bacon and sausage brunch with the freshest crusty home-baked bread, or help yourself to something a little more exotic at seafood station which serves the finest oysters, stuffed mussels and shrimps, together with sushi and a DIY Caesar salad station.

But don’t forget to leave room for something sweet. If freshly cooked pancakes and waffles drizzled in honey and fruit compote seem a little too much by now then pick out the lightest French pastry – perhaps a tiny chocolate mousse or a perfectly formed little cheesecake of forest fruits.

Little ones can enjoy an exhilarating Easter egg hunt and will be well taken care of as they look under bushes and behind trees for a chocolate reward.

If you prefer an evening celebration, then why not feast on steaks, sizzling kebabs and fresh seafood that are flamed to perfection at the poolside venue of Gulf Pavilion Easter evening. Mingle with friends and family while a guitarist provides a lively accompaniment to the scene.

Advance bookings are highly recommended, as places are

Millennium Towers Hotel

The Palace

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

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limited. Brunch is available from 12.30 to 3.30 p.m. and the price is AED 235 net per person, or AED 373 net including a half bottle of champagne per person. The barbeque starts at 7 p.m. and is prices at AED 265 net per person.

Call 04 399 4000 to reserve your table.

Millennium Towers Hotel Dubai Plan your family gathering this Easter at the Millennium Towers Hotel Dubai with an EGG-citing Easter lunch buffet at the Atrium Restaurant.

From EGG hunting to face painting, chocolate bunnies to Easter EGGS – we will ensure you are in the Easter mood.

With a special treat for the little ones as they munch for FREE (up to 5 years) and the bigger kids (up to 10 years) as they eat for half of the price.

EGG – treme Easter at the Millennium inclusive of soft drinks and water for just Dhs 150/- per person.

For details, contact 971 4 4299999.

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Tradition is invited. This Easter, Flavours Restaurant is transforming into an Easter paradise. Easter Brunch in

Flavours gives you time for the people that matter most.

A special visit by a clown and a magician lights up young faces, and creations by Executive Chef Peter, make the day memorable. Our resident pianist Margarita will for sure puts a spell on you with her repertoire. Buffet Opens at 12.30 hrs. Price is AED 125 per person – Adults .AED 60 per child – 6 to 11 years. Children below 6 years eat free.

Napoli is the capital of Campania, the most densely populated region of Italy. It is the nation’s third largest city after Rome and Milan and has a culinary tradition that is second to none.

Because Napoli is right on the Mediterranean Sea, it has always been favoured with spectacular seafood, everything is at the peak of freshness and full of flavour, so that very little complicated cooking is required.

Apart from this Napoli also contributed spaghetti, pizza and macaroni to the world, which are legendary.

Come to La Mamma and let Chef Rakesh show you the beauty and freshness of this wonderful regions cuisine. For reservations or take away Pizza orders, please call 02 697 0258 Mussel Mania prepared the Spanish way taste

Sheraton Abu Dhabi

Courtyard by Marriott Green Community

fantastically good. The Il Paradiso kitchen team has come up with some traditional specialties dishes just for you.

So do not wait, hop over to Il Paradiso for some delicious mussels. For reservations, please call 020 697 0279 If you fancy a healthy life style with a meal to remember, during the month of March Bravo is offering fantastically healthy salads in accordance to Dr. Atkins diet but with Spanish touch. To enhance your salads a selection of meat, poultry and seafood items will be made available all seasoned according to Chef Mostafa’s Spanish recipes.

For reservations, please call 02 697 0235.

Courtyard by Marriott Green Community Awaken your senses and pamper your taste buds with a myriad of flavours at the Courtyard by Marriott Green

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Community. The rich aroma of delicious cuisine is simply irresistible as the restaurants have so much to offer in terms of variety.

The Express Lunch at Cucina is perfect when you are on the go. The lunch is fast, easy and healthy. With different soups, selection of breads and salads, pastas and pizzas, changing everyday, each showing their calories count and health benefits, lunch at Cucina will be the boost you were looking for to get back into shape this year.

The Express Lunch is only Dhs 49 per person including a small bottle of house water.

Express SSS Lunch at Rendezvous Lounge is interesting to try. Indulge in freshly made Soups, Salads and Sandwiches. There is no need to skip lunch anymore as Cucina and Rendezvous Lounge has tasty options to offer. Express SSS Lunch is Dhs 39 per person for soup,

salad and sandwich and a small bottle of house water.

The Express Lunches are available daily from 12 noon to 3.00pm daily.

It is a flavour explosion at the Pine Grill every night as you can go on a culinary tour to experience a multitude of dishes. It is British on Sunday and Mediterranean takes place on Mondays. Go hot and spicy on Indian Night on Tuesdays and enjoy a sumptuous spread of Far Eastern dishes on Wednesdays. We all love BBQ’s and that is why Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays have been reserved for BBQ nights.

All these and more for Dhs 125 per person including unlimited soft drinks, water, chilled juices, coffee and tea.

Dhs 189 per person including unlimited house beverages.

Don’t miss out on the Friday Brunch with a side order of Free Wheels at Cucina from 12 noon to 4.00pm. The regular adult package is Dhs 140 per person including unlimited soft drinks, tea, coffee, water and chilled juices. It is Dhs 65 for kids aged 6 to 12 years old and free for children below 6 years old. It is play time at the Friday Brunch with face painting, balloon bending, movies and the resident clowns will make you laugh with your hilarious acts and jokes.

The Free Wheels is actually to and from the hotel when you pay Dhs 250 for the Friday Brunch with unlimited house beverages.

For reservations or more information, please call 04 – 885 2222 or log onto www.

Marriottdiningatcy.ae

JW Marriott Hotel Dubai On Easter Day which is on Sunday, 23 March 2008, our Easter activities come nicely wrapped in an egg shell.

Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Bring the entire family for a fun-filled afternoon where the parents can enjoy a vast spread of delicious food and Easter goodies at the Market Place, Bamboo Lagoon and Hofbräuhaus and Piano Lounge while the kids are kept busy at the Town Square searching for Easter eggs and taking photos with funny bunny.

You will be spoilt for choice as Market Place offers a wide variety of international fare. The appetizer and the fresh seafood counter is a must try. If you are looking for something hot and spicy, head on to the Indian station and the aroma coming from the mixed grill station is simply irresistible. You can’t get enough of grilled lobsters, chicken, fish, prawns, beef and lamb. For more, tuck into the different types of pastas cooked a la minute or the delicious fried rice made on the spot. There is so much of food to go around but make sure you save room for desserts.

After you have tried the dishes at the Market Place, then venture into traditional Bavarian cuisine at the Hofbräuhaus. Drink, eat and be merry. Relax and head over later to the Bamboo Lagoon where an array of Far Eastern delights awaits you. Treat yourself to the inviting Korean barbeque and at the tempting sushi corner. You will also

like the Thai Tom Yam soup and the Indonesian curries and vegetables. The best is of course is the seafood section, fried to your liking. You can’t leave without having a go at the desserts which consists of a medley of Indonesian, Thailand, Japanese and Korean sweet homemade delicacies.

To enjoy all three extensive buffet spreads at the three restaurants, the price is only Dhs 205 per person, food only and Dhs 295 per person inclusive of regular spirits, beers, house wines, cocktails, fresh juices, soft drinks, water, coffee and tea. For Dhs 395

per person, you will have free flowing bubbly till 4.00pm and one bottle at night, regular spirits, beers, house wines, cocktails, fresh juices, soft drinks, water, coffee and tea. Children from four to fourteen years old will be charged at Dhs 125 inclusive of food and soft drinks.

Check out an array of mouth-melting Easter chocolate eggs and chocolate bunnies, freshly baked buns and multi-coloured boiled eggs at the dessert counter at the Market Place.

For reservations, please call 04 6077977/7009/7588 or log onto www.marriottdiningatjw.ae

JW Marriott Dubai

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GREAT FLAVOURS

Ultra marine

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Illuminated only by burning torches and candles, our table was set out beneath the stars with a mild breeze and the sound of the sea as our soundtrack. It beats any luxury restaurant.

There are two sides to the Il Paradiso restaurant at the Sheraton Abu Dhabi. If you choose to be seated inside, the atmosphere is one of clean functionality. The lighting is subtle: pleasant without being either too bright or dim. The interior décor has an almost Scandinavian simplicity which suits it well and incorporates an open kitchen area and the Seafood Market from which diners can select the very fish or shellfish they wish for their main course, as well as the method used to prepare it. Or they can request the knowledgeable staff to suggest an ideal preparation.

The other side of Il Paradiso is the terrace seating outdoors. Here the atmosphere is much more romantic with subtle lighting to complement the moonlight, a beach view and plenty of space between tables for privacy. To add to the air of romance are the calming strains of the harp being played live inside.

But while atmosphere is important, the mark of a quality restaurant is obviously in its menu.

Il Paradiso was last year voted Abu Dhabi’s best restaurant by the cities hoteliers, so it has a reputation to live up to. Scanning the Seafood Market display you can see at least some of the reasons for Il Paradiso’s attraction. On display on the evening we dined were eight different types of fresh fish ranging from local hammour and sole to Norwegian halibut, and Australian pink snapper, as well as a selection of shellfish which included French oysters and clams, and a pick from your own lobster tank.

Alternatively, there is also an a la carte menu with starters, soups, surf & turf and vegetarian mains, and of course desserts. So we plumped for a selection of the two. Our starters were seafood risotto with scallops tempura and the arugula salad with Japanese nashi pear, sesame pecan nut and lemongrass dressing. Of the two, the salad was the most stimulating with a delicious balance of sweet and sour flavours, and while the risotto was perfectly textured and flavoursome as well, the scallop wrapped in seaweed and then tempura’d lacked a little ‘kick’ in the taste.

What did not lack taste and was a surprising hit with our party was the aubergine cappuccino soup.

As a segueway into the mains it was smooth, light and flavoursome with a frothy topping which added to the texture and lightness.

The mains consisted of the a-la-carte Roasted Chilean sea bass with braised veal chick and a recommendation from the maitre d’ to try the grilled hammour. The sea bass was prepared perfectly, remaining moist and tender, but it really benefited from the full flavour of the veal and smoky sauce accompaniment, while the grilled hammour again was delicious with roasted potatoes, sautéed seasonal vegetables and a rich buttery hollandaise sauce.

If ‘surf’ is not your favourite dish, then you may prefer the roasted organic chicken, grilled Angus beef or roasted lamb on the ‘turf’ menu.

Desserts were refreshing combinations of, for example, vanilla and citrus crunch cake, strawberry basil smoothie and mandarin sorbet, which are varied in flavour, texture and style, but which complement each other delightfully.

But if you are expecting to see all of these dishes on the menu six or twelve months from now, then you might be disappointed – or pleasantly surprised, because Il Paradiso regularly changes its signature dishes in an attempt to always offer their guests something original and interesting to the palate.

With an extensive wines and spirits list to round off the evening’s enjoyment, Il Paradiso will leave you pleasantly satiated and looking forward to a return visit to sample the new additions to its already eclectic menu.

For more information or bookings, call 026970279.

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Eating comes with entertainment at

Sakura

Executive Chef Bernhard Koenig

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Virnee Espiritu pours oil and coca-cola sauce onto raw onion rings, asparagus, broccoli and carrots carefully stacked on a grill, which he sets afire. Later, like a fighter armed with a sword, he tosses and catches his spatula creating a clicking and powerful sound enough to attract your attention.

Espiritu, sous chef at Sakura Restaurant in Taj Palace Hotel, typically entertains guests with his cooking show while they enjoy good, fresh and healthy food. He performs this at one of the two tables called “teppan” in the Japanese-theme restaurant.

But Sakura’s approach to teppanyaki is more on entertainment and art. Executive Chef Bernhard Koenig explains that Sakura Restaurant is not about sushi or raw food, which Japanese restaurants are known for.

“Here we would like our guests to be entertained. Everything that the chef does while cooking or grilling the food is about art and entertainment. Even the plate arrangements are done in a way that the guests will be satisfied and at the same time have a wonderful time eating their food,” he said.

The idea of entertaining guests is all part of Koenig’s innovativeness and creativeness. His philosophy is that good food should be simple, exactly prepared with the freshest ingredient and beneficial to the health of the Eater.

“We all know that everybody is busy and most of the time tired after a day’s work so the chef at the teppan table is there to entertain the guests. He might for example give some trivia or tricks to entertain them. Other nights, he

Sous Chef Virnee Espiritu

“Teppan” is a Japanese word for “iron pan” and “yaki” means grilling. Therefore, the word “teppan-yaki” refers to the Japanese way of cooking where dining and preparation happen in the same place. It is a culinary experience from the mystical oriental way of life, an art that transforms the casual dining Japanese fare into a dynamic display of tossing and catching.

could flick a broccoli toward the open mouth of a guest. It could hit the chin because the chef can make mistakes and he could do it again but the fun that it creates is what we want our guests to have. We want them to have a good time and that’s what it’s all about,” he added.

“A meal means sitting with friends, family or colleagues. The tradition is to be sitting right at the counter and see how your raw food is displayed, prepared and cooked in a healthy way right before your eyes. And the order is served and presented in small portion over a span of time,” he noted.

Like a typical Japanese teppanyaki tradition, the grill and chef are on one side while the customers sit on the other. In between is an artistic display of vegetables and meats.

Guests select their dishes from the offerings of chicken, salmon, prawn, beef, lamb and lobster all served with vegetable.

A guest can also select from the set meal of vegetarian, meat and seafood. The set meal is complete with soup, appetizer, salad, fried or steam rice and fresh fruits.

“With teppanyaki cooking, the chef monitors your food consumption so you will notice that the waiter only comes to gather your plate or refill your drinks but the chef is the one who gauge whether the guest is ready to take the next course so with this atmosphere, you feel

like you’re a king because the chef becomes your personal chef,” added Koenig.

Aside from teppanyaki, guests at Sakura can savor a wide selection of sushi, sashimi, shabu, sukiyaki, traditional noodle dishes, tempura and teriyaki while being inspired by the authentic ambience.

Sakura Restaurant is a Pan Asian restaurant so expect to see other Asian food selection like Chinese, Korean and Thai cuisine.

Complementing its comforting setting, dishes are served in the typical attractive Japanese art of presentation, not just delightful to the senses, but as well delicious and appetizing.

Lovers of Japanese cuisine will truly take delight with the extensive selection of authentic and delicious delicacies and the homey, fun and personalized cooking atmosphere available at Sakura, the Japanese Restaurant located at the Taj Palace Hotel Dubai. You have to check it yourself to savour the experience. For reservations, call 9714 2113050.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Gates visits Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District Expo Microsoft founder Bill Gates has been given a glimpse of the future of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, when he visited an exhibition at Emirates Palace devoted to the Cultural District of Saadiyat Island, the 27 square kilometre natural island lying 500 metres offshore Abu Dhabi city.

Touring the exhibition with His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) and Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the name behind the transformation of Saadiyat into signature leisure, cultural and residential destination, Gates saw the pioneering design concepts for the museums planned for the district.

Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District will be home to the largest single cluster of world-class cultural assets including the Sheikh Zayed National Museum, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi museum, a maritime museum, performing arts centre and arts pavilions.

Al Osaimi Investments & Real Estate launches inaugural projects in UAE Al Osaimi Investments and Real Estate, a leading Kuwait-based developer, launched ‘Dusit Emirates Saray - Palm Jumeirah Hotel Resorts & Residence’, an AED 1.5 billion luxury resort, spa and residence project located on the Crescent of The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai.

The prestigious project, which is targeted for completion in 2010, comprises ‘Dusit Devarana’, ‘Dusit Thani’ and ‘The Residence’. Naser Abdul Rahman Al Osaimi, Vice Chairman, Al Osaimi Investments and Real estate; Saleh Ahmed, General Manager, Oriental Constructions; Octavio Gamarra, Senior Vice President, Dusit International; Safwat Ghali, Head of Concept Design, Khatib &

72 I Travel Arabia I March

Alami; and Nader Kamal, Project Manager, PROJACS International made the announcement during a press conference last month. The launch follows an earlier agreement between Al Osaimi and Dusit International for the management of the project.

Spanning one million square feet, the mega project is highlighted by ‘The Residence’, a 178-unit Arabian themed residence, which lies amidst the luxurious backdrop of the Arabian Gulf and the astounding architectural marvels within ‘Dusit Emirates Saray – Palm Jumeirah Hotel Resorts & Residences’.

Encompassing two-storied townhouses, three-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom penthouses, each

Emirates begins

Fresh off the heels of announcing its non-stop service from Dubai to Houston, Emirates has increased its thrice weekly service to a daily frequency. In its first two months of service out of Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) the airline has experienced a high percentage of occupied seats.

“As predicted, the Emirates non-stop service between Dubai and Houston has been popular among business and leisure travellers alike,” said Ghaith Al Ghaith, Emirates Executive Vice President, Commercial Operations Worldwide.

The new service has also proved to be popular for shippers, particularly those from the oil and gas industry which account for over 70% of the service’s cargo. The operation is currently handling about 16 tonnes of cargo out of Houston and about 10 tonnes into the American gateway.

“Emirates SkyCargo is pleased with the success of our Houston

service and our confidence in the operation is demonstrated through the introduction of daily flights starting next month. For shippers, this has meant a more efficient and costeffective option,” said Peter Sedgley, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Cargo Commercial Operations.

Outstanding inflight services have distinguished the Emirates experience which stands out among passengers looking for the highest levels of comfort, particularly on long haul flights.

The airline’s award-winning ice Digital Widescreen product (information, communication, entertainment) now boasts over 1000 channels of entertainment in all classes and nearly 1,700 hours of video and audio entertainment.

Emirates’ guests enjoy the latest technology in widescreen personal televisions (23” in First Class, 17” in Business, and 10.6” in Economy) offering unparalleled clarity of images and sound quality, delivered on the airline world’s most comprehensive entertainment system.

To further enhance the inflight experience, Emirates recently introduced My USB for viewing holiday photos onscreen during the flight home and My Playlist for creating personalised compilations

unit will boast of a spacious terrace, pool, garden and parking so as to offer maximum exclusivity for residential investors. Within close proximity to the high-class community will be a water sports facility and four freestanding restaurants, which will provide a wide array of culinary experience to residents such as the oriental-inspired ‘Majilis’.

“The launch of ‘Dusit Emirates Saray – Palm Jumeirah Hotel Resorts & Residences’ marks the dawn of a new age in luxurious property developments, as we set a new level of standard in terms of luxury, uniqueness and quality, which future projects will try to equal,” said Naser Abdul Rahman Osaimi, Vice Chairman, Al Osaimi Investments and Real Estate.

“It brings us tremendous pride to finally introduce the fruit of our hard work and dedication to the region, through the launch of ‘The Residence’,

and with this comes our confidence that our first residential development in Dubai will highlight all our previous accomplishments. As the newest landmark in Dubai’s highly dynamic real estate landscape, ‘Dusit Emirates Saray – Palm Jumeirah Hotel Resorts & Residences’ will stand proud and true to its core inspiration of excellence, beauty, luxury and relaxation.”

Capturing the grandeur of traditional Indian architecture and design, the seven-star ‘Dusit Devarana’ hotel will offer 116 guestrooms and suites with breathtaking views of the ocean, two restaurants, a large ballroom, a seven-storied light filled atrium surrounded by a tiered colonnade and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Indian domed follies among other lavish and state-of-the-art amenities. In addition, the hotel will also host the worldrenowned Dusit Devarana Spa, which

daily service to Houston

from the nearly 10,000 tracks of music available. Passengers can even get a glimpse at the world around them during take-off and landing through one of the aircraft’s two external cameras.

For communications inflight, passengers can keep in touch with the world below by seatback phone, email or sms as well as being able to catch live text news from the BBC, updated throughout the flight.

Houston is Emirate’s second U.S. gateway, offering business and leisure travellers the fastest link between the UAE and Texas with a 17 hour flight from Dubai to Houston and a return of approximately 15 hours. The route follows on the success of Emirates’ first destination in the United States, New York, which has been operating since 2004 and has since grown to become a three-flights-a-day service. is located on the second floor and will provide guests with authentic Thai relaxation through age-old therapies combined with modern knowledge.

‘Dusit Thani’ is a five-star Moroccan-themed family resort, which will boast of 292 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, fine dining restaurants and a business centre with state-of-the-art meeting rooms. The development will feature three pools situated around the ‘Palm Lagoon’, which will comprise 10 free standing chalets offering magnificent views of the ocean, and business centres with a roof terrace that will provide a 300-degree view of the beach. The five-storied resort will also house retail spaces and separate children’s play area, in addition to a courtyard, which will be surrounded by the lobby bar and lounge.

March I Travel Arabia I 73

Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi recognized for its performance

Nando’s expands menu

The Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi was honoured for its performance by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan in The Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award ceremony held in the capital in its 8th.cycle.

In the tourism sector, the Hotel won the Quality Appreciation Certificate and Mr. Moine Kandil the General Manager of the Hotel received the award on behalf

In a significant initiative aimed at catering to diverse tastes, Nando’s, a pioneering name in fast casual dining with a chain of Peri-Peri chicken restaurants in the UAE and abroad, has expanded its Afro-Portuguese flavour to include other meat varieties like lamb and beef. Additionally, Nando’s will also add more inspiring options for vegetarians to its menu.

Giving his comments about the expanded new menu and the inspiration for it, Suhail Gidwani CEO of Nando’s, said: “As the virtuoso of Peri-Peri recipes, Nando’s chain of 600 restaurants across 32 countries, including four in the UAE, have been serving the world with our lip-licking chicken dishes for approximately two decades. Now with our expanded menu we want to broaden our reach to include all meat-lovers across the globe.

“Nando’s new menu includes appetizing meat and vegetarian dishes like Lamb Espetada, Beef Trinchado, Gourmet Veggie Pita besides other all-time favorites. Other titillating delights on our new menu will include ‘Appeteasers’ like Peri-Peri Hommous and Chilled Cucumber Sticks with Yoghurt Dip. Significantly we also plan to open more restaurants in the UAE.” Reflecting the immense popularity of the tantalizing flavour of Nando’s cuisine and the wide recognition gained by the restaurant chain in the UAE as a casual dining destination, the group boasts of outlets in Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Ghurair Centre and The Greens in Dubai and Qanat Al Qasba in Sharjah.

74 I Travel Arabia I March

of the Hotel’s management and staff.

“The certificate was our roadmap in our journey towards quality and excellence where we will use this model as a practical tool for areas of improvement and enhance our points of strength and will act as a guide in our day to day operation to blend harmoniously in the expansion and growing fame of Abu Dhabi’s hospitality sector which is witnessing a rapid growth on the world’s tourism arena “, elaborated Kandil.

Respecting local customs and traditions, Nando’s uses only fresh, A-grade halal chicken, which is then butterfly cut and marinated for 24 hours using a top-secret age-old recipe that ensures that the flavor penetrates right to the bone. This chicken is then flame-grilled and thoroughly basted with Nando’s ravingly famous flavours - lemon and herb, mild, hot and extra hot peri-peri, a native African chilli-flavoured sauce.

This meal is considered healthy because the fat is trimmed and the chicken is not fried.

Nando’s offers the health-conscious consumer the convenience of getting healthy and tasty food fast.

Nando’s has been positioned as a fast casual restaurant, a fact which is reflected in its menu that includes a selection of starters, desserts and beverages besides the main course, as well as its impressively individualistic design and decor.

The Peri-Peri recipes with which diners identify Nando’s restaurants, has been passed down from generation to generation in a combination of old-world mystery and fiercely guarded secrets. It traces it origins to the tiny Johannesburg suburb of Rosettenville in South Africa in 1987, where a 27-year-old Robert Brozin visited his friend Fernando to sample the unique Portuguese style chicken.

That “love at first taste” inspired the friends to launch Nando’s, which has over a period of time become one of the world’s most talked about food brand.

Etihad launches holidays

shop in Abu Dhabi

Etihad Holidays, a division of Etihad Airways, has opened its first Holiday Shop in Abu Dhabi’s Al Wahda Mall.

The new Holiday Shop aims to provide customers with a complete travel sales experience offering holidays to key Etihad destinations as well as the full range of Etihad Airways products and services.

Customers will be able to experience the convenience and comfort in the true retail environment of the Al Wahda Mall Shopping Centre, as well as the innovative high-tech holiday displays throughout the shop.

Tony Gauci, Etihad Holidays’ general manager said: “The launch of our first Holiday Shop is a momentous occasion for Etihad Holidays because it brings us much closer to our customers, beginning a new and exciting chapter for the company”.

“Holidays are such an important time for everyone and we hope that the innovative visual displays and the enthusiasm and expertise of our sales staff, will provide our customers with a real taste of what their holiday will be like.”

The Etihad Holidays shop in Al Wahda Mall will shortly be followed by the opening of a second Holidays Shop at the new Khalidiyah Mall in Abu Dhabi.

Mr Gauci continued: “Opening two Holiday shops in Abu Dhabi will not only help us communicate with our customers in a more convenient and comfortable environment, it will also enable us increase the brand-awareness of Etihad Holidays especially with the ever increasing range of holiday destinations now serviced by Etihad.”

Gold Coast Airport welcomes daily Canberra services Gold Coast Airport is set to continue its domestic passenger boom as Virgin Blue announced it would commence daily direct flights between Canberra and the Gold Coast from March 4.

The service will add more than 1,000 extra seats a week directly into and out of the Gold Coast with Canberra becoming the airport’s 10th direct destination in addition to Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Newcastle plus Hamilton, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch in New Zealand and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.

“This is tremendous news for the Gold Coast and Northern New South Wales and we

congratulate Virgin Blue for taking up this sound initiative,” said an ecstatic Gold Coast Airport Chief Operating Officer Paul Donovan.

“From a Gold Coast tourism perspective, it opens direct access to a population of more than 500,000 people within the Canberra capital region.

“For our outbound passengers, this is a win for both business travelers heading to our capital city and holiday makers wanting to hit the ski slopes or enjoy the many attractions of the Canberra region.”

More than 3.9 million passengers passed through Gold Coast Airport in 2007, making it the sixth busiest airport in Australia.

Silverjet to Grow In Step with Dubai Silverjet – the all-business class British airline – has said that it fully expects its number of passengers to grow in step with Dubai’s own expected tourism growth, as detailed in a recently released independent travel and tourism report.

The new report from Fast Future, entitled The Future of Travel and Tourism in the Middle East: a Vision to 2020, details the growth of the Middle East tourism and travel market from now until 2020 in all travel and hospitality sectors.

The report compiles information on the major projects and acquisitions of the region’s leading airlines and airports to give a detailed and realistic picture of the next decade of industry expansion.

Fast Future’s research program draws on a range of methods to explore potential scenarios, challenges and opportunities for travel and tourism and to provide practical advice on how decision makers can factor these insights into their planning.

Silverjet expects the increased growth in tourism and travel throughout the Middle East to bolster the growth of its servicefocused, all-business class airline, flying daily from London to Dubai via private terminals in both cities.

“This Fast Future report highlights how rapidly the travel and tourism market in the region is developing and emphasises the importance of the business class travel segment, which is where we operate so successfully. More growth in high-end traffic in and out of Dubai should mean more traffic for Silverjet into the future,” said Silverjet CEO, Lawrence Hunt.

Silverjet plans to capitalize on the investments in airport development worth an estimated USD 39 billion according to the GFF report, which expects the major Middle East airports to expand capacity to handle an overwhelming 320 million passengers regionally.

“The region is experiencing dramatic growth in both demand and capacity for aviation. The UK is a key target market – particularly for Dubai. New and existing customers in the region have demonstrated themselves to be highly demanding in terms of end to end service, efficiency and value for money.

Silverjet has clearly positioned its offering to address all three requirements and has built a loyal and growing fan base – as evidenced through positive customer testimonials and the regular international awards it is receiving,” said Rohit Talwar the report’s author and CEO of Fast Future.

March I Travel Arabia I 75

The new ‘Zen

the spa at Rotana’ in Fujairah

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa has announced the opening of ‘Zen the spa at Rotana’ in April 2008. The jewel of the property is the largest, most modern and best equipped spa on the Eastern Coast of the UAE, combining treatments derived from holistic Asian philosophies surrounded by décor which is dedicated to relaxation and wellbeing.

‘Zen the spa at Rotana’ is 1400sqm and comprises of 17 treatment rooms and one VIP suite equipped with a luxurious built in hydro-therapy jet bath and relaxation areas.

All of the treatment rooms and relaxation areas are designed to enhance the spirit of tranquility and calm. The extensive menu includes an array of treatments to promote relaxation, cure ailments, relieve tension and encourage wellbeing and harmony.

The team of dedicated professionals will provide the perfect therapy to recover from a stressed week at work or hustle bustle of the city.

Zen the spa at Rotana has designed special 3, 4 and 5 day packages for health conscious guests ranging from complete detox to relaxation programs. Guests will emerge feeling pampered, rejuvenated

Sri Lanka at the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi

76 I Travel Arabia I March

As usual - the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi - came up with a new and most different festival to start the series of events planned for 2008 - a Sri Lankan week for food, dance, ayurveda in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Embassy where the event came as part of the nation’s 60th Independence Day celebrations.

Mr. Moine Kandil, the General Manager of the Hotel and H.E. Mohamed Nabavi Junaid, the Sri Lankan Ambassador, welcomed all the guests where they were offered Thambili, the coconut welcome drink, and Mr. Kandil elaborated that he is always keen to host such kind of events which strengthen the relations between countries and introduces the

and revitalized. To complement the Spa treatments and special packages, the Executive Chef has created a light, vitality Spa menu, which is available throughout the resort.

Jean-Francois Laurent, the General Manager of Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa, brings extensive knowledge of the Spa industry. He commented: “Zen is a holistic philosophy portrayed as a retreat and a complete heaven for the mind, body and spirit. Our goal is to provide each guest with ‘me time’ to rebalance and rejuvenate.

Our highly skilled therapists will serve a wide range of treatments, including body relaxation techniques, facials and hand & foot massages, various hammam and rasul program and last but not least the first ‘Ice cave’ in Al Aqah.”

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa is beautifully sheltered between the Hajar Mountains and the majestic Indian Ocean.

This captivating beachfront resort is a secluded retreat in a magnificent setting.

The lush tropical landscape of Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa is the perfect coastal getaway with genuine Arabic hospitality, award-winning cuisine and impeccable 5 star service. The waterfront includes a water sports center and two luxury massage cabanas, a perfect way of indulging yourself.

In addition there is an extensive recreation facility, whether it is playing tennis/squash to snorkeling or diving in the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean. This fantastic resort will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and revitalized.

locals and the expatriates to other cultures and traditions.

The setting of Citrus was set with all Sri Lankan decorations and special chefs were invited to present a range of traditional dishes with a tantalizing buffet from all the regions of Sri Lanka.

The famous Channa dance group performed traditional dances that reflected the history and traditions of the country as the peacock dance, the tea dance, Cleopatra dance and others. Stalls were set up at the hotel displaying the authentic Sri Lankan ayurveda medicines where visitors can try the treatments with natural herbs.

In addition, the famous Sri Lankan tea was also available for tasting.

Miss Lebanon at the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers

TAMANI Hotel Marina is now open for business TAMANI Hotels and Resorts, a member of KM Holding, in association with Al Rostamani Group has opened the Group’s first managed hotel; the TAMANI Hotel Marina, at the Group’s iconic 55-storeys Marina Tower.

H.E. Khalid A. bin Sulayem, Director General, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) inaugurated the hotel. VIPs and leading personalities from the hospitality and tourism sectors along with media representatives from Dubai and UAE were given a tour of the all-suites hotel. Mr.bin Sulayem was accompanied on his tour of the tower, by Mr. Marwan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Chairman of Al Rostamani Group, and Mr. Hassan Al Rostamani, ViceChairman of Al Rostamani Group.

“This is truly another beautiful landmark hotel to rise in Dubai Marina. I am happy to note that TAMANI is the first branded UAE Islamic hotel operator promoting Arabic hospitality and Islamic values. From what I have seen during the tour there is no doubt that this is a new brand of hospitality which will be recognised in the market,” commented Mr. bin Sulayem.

The first and tallest all-suites hotel in the upscale Dubai Marina area features 209 luxurious rooms designed by the TAMANI Art and Design Team. Each room is decorated with impressive Arabic art masterpieces designed by local and international artists in the region and the world exclusively for the TAMANI Hotel Marina.

“The Al Rostamani Group in opting for an Islamic hotel product for this property and as such has selected TAMANI Hotels and Resorts, to manage and operate it on our behalf. We look forward to establishing TAMANI Marina as a destination

for business and leisure travellers,” said Marwan Abdulla Al Rostamani.

“TAMANI Hotels and Resorts brand is committed to offering owners and developers unique hotel product offerings in terms of business operation as well as product design. We are proud to say that TAMANI Hotels and Resorts is equipped to take on board hotel projects from inception in terms of market feasibility and financial study, to design conception, construction and delivery. We stand by our brand proposition of adding value without necessary opting to sell alcohol”, stated Khulood Abdulla Al Rostamani, Chairman of TAMANI Hotels and Resorts and Co-Founder and Executive Director of KM Holding, the parent company of TAMANI Hotels and Resorts.

“Part of our brand value revolves around our vision to promote Islamic and Middle Eastern Arts, the TAMANI Hotel Marina will exemplify this brand promise in showcasing exclusive and unique artworks”, she added.

“TAMANI was launched in May 2007 during the Arabian Travel Market and announcing to open 15 hotels in the next 5 years. We are currently working on many developments and will announce more of it at the upcoming Arabian Travel Market in May of this year, where we will participate for the second time. Outside of Dubai, we are looking at Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Saudi Arabia, and are exploring opportunities to develop a three- to four-star star chain of modern style hotels in other cities under study,” said Mr. Alain Guernier, CEO of TAMANI Hotels and Resorts.

Reservations at the TAMANI Hotel Marina can be booked by visiting the hotel website, www.tamani.com .

Mr. Freddy Farid, Area Vice President - Emirate of Abu Dhabi/ Al Ain & General Manager of the hotel, welcomes Miss Lebanon 2007, Ms.Nadine Njeim during her stay at the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers Abu Dhabi.

A taste of India at the

Millennium Hotel Sharjah The Millennium Hotel Sharjah held an Indian Food Festival at Citrus Restaurant from February 24th to 28th.

Dressed in the native Indian clothes, the staff headed by Food & Beverage Manager Oukba Nafai and Senior Executive Chef Wassim B. Fakhreden treated the guests with an array of delicious Indian dishes prepared by renowned chefs from North and South India. Live Indian music is played while guests enjoy their dinner, a true Indian dining experience.

March I Travel Arabia I 77

Rotana Hotels honors the media corps Rotana Hotels hosted the UAE media corps, as part of its group-wide Rotana Rewards Exclusive Press Club Membership, during a prestigious event, which took place at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Dubai.

The evening started with a speech from Mr. Imad Elias Executive Vice President and COO for Rotana thanking the press members for their support and enthusiasm towards the company in celebration of the 3rd year anniversary of the Rotana Press Club.

Elias also shared with the media the expansion plans of Rotana and the properties openings which will take place during 2008 in Dubai and Northern Emirates.

The press members gathered for a cocktail reception, which was followed by dinner and an evening filled with entertainment, an interactive quiz and a grand raffle draw.

Rotana Rewards Exclusive Press Club Membership offers up to 50% discount in all Rotana’s Food & Beverage venues, a dining certificate of Dhs. 250, a discount of 15% on beverage when dining, a preferred room rate for up to 60% on room rates, late check out until 6 pm, VIP treatment and 2 points for every for every AED 1 spent in Food & Beverage venues and when staying in rooms.

In addition, the programme offers ‘Double Earnings’ with the members earning miles and points when staying at Rotana properties from our partner airline’s Frequent Flyers Programmes (FFP) with over 650 reward gifts that members can choose from.

Members will also have access to dedicated press and media pages on the new-look Rotana Hotels website - rotana.com - where they will be able to interview top Rotana executives on line, find information about the company and individual properties and download images from the digital photo library.

With the re-launch of the Rotana Rewards Exclusive Press Club Membership, Rotana acknowledges and rewards the contributions of members of the Media throughout the Middle East.

78 I Travel Arabia I March

Dubai’s best kept secret revealed

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) opens its doors to the public, with the first phase of DIFC Lifestyle. Inaugurated by Sheikh Mayed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and and attended by His Excellency Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the DIFC, DIFC Lifestyle offers a unique environment comprising high-end retailers, world-class restaurants and the best in international contemporary art and entertainment.

Beyond the landmark Gate building lies ‘The Gate District’, an eclectic mix of art, culture and stunning architecture, alongside chic eateries and fashionable shops. This unique integration of iconic buildings and contemporary living is fast becoming the epicenter of Dubai and a lifestyle people aspire to. Within a welcoming and relaxing environment, DIFC Lifestyle will provide an experience to fulfil every aspect of weekday and weekend life.

His Excellency Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the DIFC, said: “DIFC Lifestyle signals the beginning of a new era at the DIFC, which promises an avant-garde experience for Dubai’s residents and visitors alike. Originally created as a financial district, through DIFC Lifestyle, the DIFC will ensure the centre is accessible for all to enjoy and will act as an exciting retail and cultural magnet for the city. In line with the Dubai Strategic Plan, social development through creating a world-class environment, provides a better quality of life and an

enriched cultural environment. As such, the DIFC is committed to contributing to the development of Dubai as a lifestyle choice as well as a professional hub.”

Considered “Dubai’s best-kept secret”, the exclusive, self-contained precinct currently includes high-end retailers, as well as artistic exhibitions and performances.

The public are invited to enjoy the unique environment at the DIFC which is open on weekdays from 10am to 10pm and on weekends from 10am to midnight. Parking will be provided and will be free after 5pm and on weekends.

Mr Abdulla Bin Sugat, Executive Director of Retail for the DIFC added: “DIFC Lifestyle is more than just a concept; it is a way of life. As the fastest emerging financial centre in the world, the DIFC has established itself as a leading international destination for those wanting to do business in the region. However, there is more to the DIFC than just business.”

“DIFC Lifestyle offers 360˚ living, with high end fashion, fine dining, rich culture and entertainment; there is something for everyone at the centre. With over 175 nationalities working in a variety of sectors within the DIFC community, this diversity will be reflected in the assortment of activities and experiences on offer. As such, we are confident that DIFC Lifestyle will no longer remain Dubai’s best kept secret but will be appreciated by everyone living in and visiting the city.”

TRAVEL DIRECTORY

ALGERIA ALGERIA General Information Area

Embassies & Consulates Argentina 7 Rue Hamani 718683 643843 Australia 7 Rue Jean Rey, 75724 Paris cedex, France

40593300 592081 Austria Les Vergers,Rue No.2 DZ-16330 Bir Mourad Rais

562699 567352 Bangladesh 14 Ave.des Frères Oughlis 594805 603629 Belgium 22 Chemin Youssef Tayebi,El-Biar 922446 925036 Brazil 48 Boulevard Mohammad V 749575 749687 Bulgaria 13 Boulevard Bougara,El Biar 691514 691787 Canada 18 Mustafa Khaled St.,P.O.Box 48 914951 693920 China 34 Boulevawrd Des Martyrs 692724 693056 Colombia 7 Avenue Malika Gaid,El-Biar 922090 923817 Cote D’ivoire Parc Paradeaux P.O.Box 710,Hydra 692828 693683 Czech Republic P.O.Box 999,Villa Malika 692274 693031 Denmark 12 Ave.Emile Marquis,Hydra 692234 692846 Egypt P.O.Box 297,Hydra 691807 692952 Finland P.O.Box 256 Hydra 691212 691637 France 25 Chemin Gaddouche,Hydra 692488 691369 Germany P.O.Box 664,165 Chemin Sfindja

741956 740521 Greece 60 Blvd.Col.Bougara 600855 691655 Holy See 1 Rue Noureddine Mekiri 16090 Bologhine 623430 572375 Hungary P.O.Box 68 ,El-Mouradia 691709 694431 India 14 Rue Des Ambassades 923444 924011 Iraq 4 Rue Arezki Abri,Hydra 603125 601097 Italy

80 I Travel Arabia I March

18 Rue Mohammad Ouidir,Amellal Al-Biar Japan 1 Chemin Al Bakri,El-Biar Jordan 6 Rue Chenoua,Hydra Korea Repub 21 Rue Stambuli El-Mouradia Kuwait Chemin Abdel Kader Gaddouche Lebanon Rue Du Hoggar,Hydra Libya 15 Chemin Sheikh Bashir Ibrahimi Mauritania 107 Lot Baranes,Air de France, Bouzareah Mexico P.O.Box 329,El –Biar Netherlands P.O.Box 72 El-Biar Nigeria P.O.Box F629,Hydra Oman 126 Rue Didouche Mourad Pakistan P.O.Box 621,Djeann El-Malik,Hydra Poland 37 Ave.Mustafa Ali Khodja,El-Biar Portugal 12 Lot El-Feth El-Biar Qatar P.O.Box 118,Bin Aknoun Romania 24 Rue Arezki Abri, Hydra Russia Chemin Prince D’Amman El-Biar Saudi Arabia 4 Rue Arezki Abri,Hydra Spain 10 Rue Azil Ali Sweden Rue Olof Palme Nouveau Paradou,Hydra Switzerland P.O.Box 482,27 Boulevard Zirout Youssef Syria 11 Chemin A.Gaddouche Hydra Tunisia 11 Rue Du Bois De Bologne Hydra Turkey

292330

793766

912004

912046

08.00 to 12.00 Thu

2,381,741 sq.Kms

Electricity

Population

220 volts (110 volts in some

31,19 million (2000 est.)

areas).

Capital

A continental adapter is

El-Djazair (Algiers)

necessary 127 volts or 3-phase

Main Cities

127/220/380 AC 50 cycles.

Algiers, Wahran/Oran,

Hotels may have a mixture of 127

Qacentina, Annaba Al-Boulaida,

and 220 volts.

Si di Bel-Abbes, Setif, Tizi Ousou.

Visas

Temperature/climate

Visas are required by all except

Summer: 27 to 32C

nationals of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan,

Coast temperature,13 to 24C

Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya,

Winter:Temperature variations

Mauritania, Morocco, Sudan,Syria,

inland,dropping to as little as 10C

Tunisia, Yemen, Andorra Denmark,

in the Sahara at night

Finland, Guinea, Iceland, Ireland,

Languages

Italy, Leichenstein, Mali, Monaco,

Arabic (official)

Norway, San Marino, Sweden,

French (commercial)

Switzerland

692031

691554

692076

693014

Berber (in rural areas)

693408

693037

Airports

Customs Regulations

Algiers (920 Km from city centre)

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or

594977

692397

Annaba (12 Km from city centre)

400 gr of tobacco and 1 bottle of

924687

Constantine (9 Km from city

wine are admitted free of Duty

921502 792139 924023 922828 691849

centre)

Currency regulations

784274

Wahran 910 Km from city centre)

Any amount of foreign currency

923451

Tlemcen (20 Km form city centre)

may be taken into Algeria but is

No airport tax on departure

prohibited to take any Algerian

Ports

currency into or out of the country.

Algiers (principal), Annaba, Oran,

Proof of all foreign exchange

Skikda, Mostaganem, Bejaia

transactions must be presented

Business Hours

on departure.All foreign visitors

Government offices and state

must change a minimum of AD

Enterprises

1000.

923770 691175

941310

941375

693781

692212

922553

08.00 to 17.00 Sat to Wed

Currency

92541

0800 to 12.00 Thu

1 Algerian dinar (AD) =100

922856

922415

Banks

Centimes

690871

693642

783134

782882

925313

603518 922713

922719

692300

691917

737310

738158

912026

912030

691388

692316

09.00 to 16.00 Sat to Wed Chemin De La Rochelle, Blv Col.Bourgara UAE P.O.Box 454 El Mouradia UK P.O.Box 8,7 Chemin DES Glycines USA 4,CHEMIN Sheikh Bashir El-Ibrahimi Yemen Villa 41,Ave.Les Verges Venezuela Chemin du Kadous Hydra Zaire 5 Rue Saint Georges,Kouba

691257

693161

692574

593770

230068

230067

691255

693979

693085

691758

693846

607555

591227

Embassies & Consulates

BAHRAIN

KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

General Information Area

on depature BHD 3.

Tourist visas available at Bahraini embassies or on

707 sq.Km

Ports

arrival at entry points-Bahrain Airport or the King

Population

Mina Sulman

Fahd Causeway from Saudi Arabia.Visas cost BD

(200 estimate) 642.000

Business Hours

10 for 72 hours or BD 15 for 7 days.

Capital

Government Offices

Customs regulations

Manama

07.00 to 13.00 Sat. to Wed.

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or _ 1

Main Cities

Commercial Offices

bs.tobacco,some perfume,2 bottles of wine or

Manama, Muharraq Town, Isa Town, Jidhafs, Rifaa. 07.00 to 13.00 and 15:30 to 18:00 Sat To Thu. spirits.

Temperature/climate

Banks

Currency regulations

Summer: 40 to 45 C,hot, humid.

8.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 18.00 Sat. to Thu.

There are no restrictions on the amount of

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

Electricity

currency bring in/take out of Bahrain.

Languages

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

Currency

Arabic (official), and English (commercial).

three-phase AC.

1 Bahraini dinar (BHD)=1.000 FILS

Airport

Visas

Qatari riyal and UAE dirham are exchangeable at

Muharraq (505 Km from Manama)

Visas required for all except GCC and UK

rate of DH 10 or QR 10=BHD 1.

Taxis, hotel reservations, duty free shop Airport tax

nationals.

Algeria P.O.Box 26402,Manama Bangladesh P.O.Box 26718,Manama Belgium P.O.Box 5820,Manama China P.O.Box 3150,Manama Denmark P.O.Box 997,Manama Egypt P.O.Box 818,Manama France P.O.Box 11134,Manama Germany P.O.Box 10306,Manama Greece P.O.Box 5790,Manama India P.O.Box 26106,Adiliya Iran P.O.Box 26365,Manama Iraq P.O.Box 26477,Manama Japan P.O.Box 23720,Manama Jordan P.O.Box 5242,Manama Korea Rep P.O.Box 11700,Manama Kuwait P.O.Box 786,Manama Lebanon P.O.Box 2102,Manama Libya P.O.Box 26062,Adliya Morocco P.O.Box 26229,Manama Netherlands P.O.Box 350,Manama New Zealand P.O.Box 5881,Mnama Norway P.O.Box 10580,Manama Oman P.O.Box 26414,Manama Pakistan P.O.Box 563,Manama Palestine P.O.Box 1102 Philippines P.O.Box 26681,Manama Portugal P.O.Box11030,Manama Russia P.O.Box 26612,Manama Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1085,Manama Sudan P.O.Box 5438,Manama Sweden P.O.Box 412,Mnama Switzerland P.O.Box 795,Manama Tunisia P.O.Box 26911,Manama Turkey P.O.Box 10821, Manama UAE P.o.Box 26505, Manama UK P.O.Box 114, Manama USA P.O.Box 26431, Manama Yemen P.O.Box 26193,Manama

713669

713662

714717

710031

224631

229994

723800

727304

725119

826582

720005

721518

291734

293655

530210

536282

259211 712785

715527

722400

722101

786929

786220

716565

715059

291109

291980

291629

291628

534040

536475

786994

784998

714162 740566

740178

224320

212295

210284

210271

531480

530158

293663

293540

244113

255960

276099

276054

710200

710300

531533

530445

725222

725921

537722

533261

252546

252578

531085

530063

227811

224623

714149

715702

533448

536557

723737

727343

534404

531273

273300

272594

277072

262358

March I Travel Arabia I 81

General Information Area

centre)

997.738 sq.Km

Local airports at Aswan,

Population

Customs regulations

Hurghada, Luxor, Sharm El

Currency,jewellery and other

(2000 est.) 68.5 million

–Seikh.

valuables must be declared

Capital

Ports

Cairo

Alexandria (principal), Port Said,

Goods valued up to £E100 may

Main Cities

Suez, Damietta, Safaga.

be exported.200 cigarettes or

EGYPT

EGYPT

on entry.

Cairo,Alexandria,Ismalia,Port

Business Hours

Said.

Government: 08.00 to 14.00

litre wine or spirits.

Temperature/ climate

Sat.to Wed,08.00 to 13.00 Thu,10.00 to 12.00 Sun.

Currency regulations

Summer 22 to 35 C in Cairo,

Businesses: Variable (some

The import or export of Egyptian

Winter: 9 to 22 C in Cairo.

closed on Fri, others on Sun.)

currency is prohibited.All receipts

25 cigars or 200 gms tobacco,1

More temperature along

Banks

Mediterranean coasts “Khamsin”

09.00 TO 13.30 Mon.to

currency into Egyptian pounds

(hot,dry wind in Spring)

Thu.,10.00 to 12.00 Sun.

should be kept to be presented

for the exchange of foreign

Languages

Electricity

Arabic, ( official),English and

220/240 volts 50 cycles AC in

Currency

French ( commercial).

Maadi and Heliopolis some 110

1 Egyptian pound(£E)=100

Airports

volts, 50 cycles AC.

piastres=1.000 millimes.

on departure.

Cairo (22.5 Km from city centre).

Visas

Coaches/taxis,duty-free

Visas are required by all foreign

shop,airport tax on departure.

visitors except most Arab

Alexandria (8 Km from city

nationals.

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan 59 El Ourouba St. Heliopolis 4177236 Algeria 14 Al-Brazil Street, P.O.Box 39, Zamalek 3407671 Argentina 8 Al-Saleh Ayoub street,Zamalek 3401501 Australia 1191 Corniche El-Nile, Boulaq 5750444 Austria 5 Wissa Wassef St.Giza 5702974 Bahrain 15 Brazil Street,Zamalek 3407996 Bangladesh 47 Ahmed Heshmat Str.Zamalek 3402642 Belgium 20 Kamel El-Shinnawi St.Garden City 1125 3547494 Brazil Corniche El-Nile Maspero 5756938 Bulgaria 6 El-Malek El-Afdal Street, Zamalek 3543110 Canada 5 El-Saraya El-Kobra Square,Garden City 3543110 China 22 Bahgat Ali Street,Zamalek 3411219 Cyprus 23 A Ismail Mohammad Street,Zamalek 3411288 Czech Republic 4 Dokki St.,Giza 3485469 Denmark 12 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek 3402505 Finland 3 Abdul Feda Sreet,Zamalek 3411487 France 29 El-Giza Street, Giza 5703920 Germany 8 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek 3410015 Greece 18 Aisha El-Taimouria St.Garden City 3547200

82 I Travel Arabia I March

4177230 3414158 3414355 5781638 5702979 3416609 3412631 3543147 761040 3563548 3563548 3409459 3415299 3608089 3411780 3421376 5710276 3410530 3563903

Holy See Apostolic Nunciature 5 Mohammad Mazhar Street

3402250 Hungary 29 Mohammad Mazhar Street, Zamalek 3408634 India 5 Aziz Abaza Street,Zamalek 3413051 Iraq 9 Mohammad Mazhar St.,Zamalek 3408087 Italy 15 Abdel Rahman Fahmi St. Garden City 3543194 Japan 2 Abdel Qader St.,Garden City 3553963 Jordan 6 El Guhaini Street,Dokki,Giza 3485566 Kenya 7 El-Mohandis Galal St.Mohandisin 3453628 Kuwait 12 Nabil Al-Wakad Street,Dokki 3602661 Lebanon 5 Ahmad Nesim Street,Giza 3610623 Libya 7 El-Saleh Ayoub,Zamalek 3402487 Mauritania 14 Mohu El-din Abou El-Ezz St.,Dokki 3490671 Mexico 6 Ahmed Shawki Street,Giza 5716156 Morocco 10 Salaheddine Street,Zamalek 3409849 Netherlands 18 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek 3401936 Norway 8 El-Gezira St.Zamalek 3413955 Oman 52 El-Hegaz Street, Mohandiseen 3031708 Pakistan 8 Al-Salouli St. Dokki 3487504 Portugal

3406152 3408648 3414038 3415075 3540657 3563540 3601027 3443400 3602657 3610463

3489060 5783040 3400937 3415249 3420709 3036464 3480310

57 El- Giza St.,Giza Qatar 10 El-Themar St.,Dokki , Giza Romania 4 Aziz Abaza Street, Zamalek Russia 95 Giza St,Giza Saudi Arabia 2 Ahmad Nessim St., Singapore 40 Babel Street, Dokki Slovakia 4 Dokki St. Dokki Spain 44 Ismail Mohammed St.Zamalek Sudan 3 El Ibrahimi Street, Garden City Sweden 13 Mohammad Mazhar St.Zamalek Switzerland 10 Abed Al Khalek Sarwat St. Syria 18 Abdel Rahim Sabri St. Dokki Thailand 2 Malik El-Afdal St.Zamalek Tunisia 26 El-Gezira street,Zamalek Turkey 25 El-Falaki Street,Bab el-Louq UAE 4 Ibn Sina St.,Giza UK 7 Ahmed Ragheb St.,Garden City USA 5 Latin America Str.,Garden City Yemen 28 Amin El-Rifaii Street,Dokki

3363950

3363952

3604693

3603618

3410107

3410151

3489354

3609074

3490797

3494590

3490468

3481682

3486550 3406397

3547359

3545658

3542693

3411484

3404357

3402250

5745236

3358320

3358232

3408356

3400340

3408962

3412479

3563318

3558110

3609722

5700844

3540850

3543065

3557371

3573200

3614225

3604815

IRAQ IRAQ

General Information Area 438.317 sq.Km

Population 21.7 million(2000 est.)

Capital Baghdad

Main Cities Baghdad, Basra, Mosul, Kirkuk

Temperature/climate Summer 24 to 42C in Baghdad,humid,hotter and more humid in Basra More temperature in north.Winter:4 to 16 C in Baghdad.

Languages Arabic (official and commercial).

Airport Baghdad (17 Km from City Centre) Coaches/taxis,duty free shop-airport tax on departure

Ports Basra (principal),Fao (oil) Government Offices: Summer 08.00 to 14.00 Sat.to Wed & 08.00 to 13.00 Thu. Winter: 08.30 to 14.30 Sat To Wed. and 08.30 to 13.30 Thu. Shops and Firms: Summer 08.30 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 20.00 Sat.To Wed.& 08.30 to 13.00 Thu. Winter:08.30 to 14.30 and 17.00 to 19.00 Sat To Wed and 08.30 to 13.30 Thu.

Banks Summer 08.30 to 12.30 Sat to Wed. and 08.30 to 11.30 Thu. Winter: 09.00 to 13.00 Sat To Wed. and 09.00 to 12.00 Thu.

Electricity 220 volts,50 cycles AC.

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

Visa applications should be made well in advance and supported by a written invitation from a government organization.No admission granted to visitors holding passports showing evidence of travel to Israel.

Visitors must register for stays exceeding 14 days and exit visas are required for visits exceeding 30 days.Apply to Directorate of Residence,52nd street Baghdad, Tel:92377 Test for HIV (The Aids Virus) is required.

Customs Regulations Country under UN embargo,The import of most goods is prohibited.

Currency

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan P.O.Box 674 Algeria P.O.Box 444, Lane 35 Argentina P.O.Box 2443,Lane 24 Australia P.O.Box 661, Al Masbah Austria P.O.Box 294,Lane 2 Bahrain P.O.Box 27117, Lane 7 Bangladesh 75/17/929 Hay Babe Belgium Hay Babel,Mahallat 929 Brazil P.O.Box 2088, Lane 16 Bulgaria Amireyah Embassies Quarter Canada P.O.Box 323,Lane 1 China P.O.Box 225 Czech Republic Mansour St., Lane 37 Denmark P.O.Box 2001, Alwiyah Egypt P.O.Box 6315,Lane 11 Finland P.O.Box 2041, Alwiyah France P.O.Box 118 Germany P.O.Box 2036, Lane 2 Greece 63/3/913 Hay Al-Jamia AL-Jadiriya Holy See P.O.Box 2090,Lane 2 Hungary P.O.Box 2065 India P.O.Box 4114, Adhaiyah Indonesia St. 2, Houre 77, P.O.Box 420 Italy P.O.Box 2043,Lane 73 Japan P.O.Box 2369, Lane 17 Jordan Kindi Quarter 1 sec.213 Korea Rep.

5560562 5372181 7768140 7193434 7199033 5428945 7196367 7198297 5411365 5568197 5421459 5562741 7767367

5430275

7717052

7170635

5430572 7766271

7760488

7196061 7192037

7180340

7766572 7195183

7196520

7765000 4222014

4229549

7198677

7198680

7765058 7195157 5412892

7196186

915/222/8278, Hay al -Jamia Malaysia 6/14/929 Hay Babel Mauritania Al Mansour, Baghdad Mexico 601/11/45 Al- Mansour Morocco P.O.Box 6039,Lane 11 Netherlands P.O.Box 2064, Lane 35 New Zealand P.O.Box 2350 Norway 20/3/609 Hay-Al Mansour Oman P.O.Box 6180, Lane 13 Pakistan Al-Mansour 14/7/609 Palestine P.O.Box 3122 Philippines P.O.Box 3236,Lane 3 Poland P.O.Box 2051, Lane 13 Portugal P.O.Box 2123,Lane 25 Qatar P.O.Box 2445,Lane 46 Romania P.O.Box 2571 Russia 4/5/605 Al-Moutanabi Somalia P.O.Box 2078, Lane 1 Spain P.O.Box 2072, Lane 1 Sudan P.O.Box 213, Lane 15 Sweden P.O.Box 720, Lane 41 Switzerland P.O.Box 2107, Lane 5 Thailand P.O.Box 6062, Al-Mansour Tunisia P.O.Box 6057,Al Mansour Turkey P.O.Box 14001,Waziriya UAE P.O.Box 6192, Lane 13 Yemen P.O.Box 13037,Lane 28

7765496 7762622 5518261 7198039 5421779 7767616 7768176 5410097 5518198 5415120 7183146 7193228 7190297 7764953 5412186 7762860 5414749 5410088 7192852 5424889 7195361 7193091 5418795 5517786 2220021

2228353

5417026 7760647

1 Iraqi dinar (ID)= 1.000 FILS

March I Travel Arabia I 83

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 1223,3rd Circle,Jabal Amman Australia Bet.4th & 5th Circles,Zahran St. Austria Jabal Amman Bahrain Jabal Amman Belgium Hawari Boumedienne St.,Near 4th Circle Brazil Jabal Amman,3rd Circle Bulgaria Amman Canada P.O.Box 815403,PC 11180 China P.O.Box 2023,PC 11181 Egypt Jabal Amman,3rd Circle France P.O.Box 5348,Mutanabi St. Germany Jabal Amman Greece P.O.Box 35069 Holy See Amman Hungary Amman India P.O.Box 2168,1st Circle Italy 5/7 Hafez Ibrahim St.,Jabal El Webdeh Japan Al-Aqsa Street,Jabal Amman Kuwait Jabal Amman Lebanon 2nd Circle, Amman Libya Amman Morocco Jabal Amman Oman Jabal Amman Pakistan Jabal Weibdeh Philippines Amman Qatar Jabal Amman Romania Jabal Amman, P.O.Box 2869 Russia Jabal Amman Saudi Arabia Jabal Amman, 5th Circle Spain Jabal Amman Sudan Jabal Amman Sweden 12 Embassy St. Jabal Amman Jabal Amman Syria Jabal Amman, 4th Circle Tunisia Jabal Amman Turkey P.O.Box 2062,PC 11181 UAE Jabal Amman UK P.O.Box 87, Abdoun, Amman USA P.O.Box 354,PC 11181 Yemen Jabal Amman

84 I Travel Arabia I March

4641271

4616552

5930246

4616552

4644635

4612725

5664148

5664190

5931859

5930487

5925416

4612964

5529391

5539393

5666124

5689227

5931530

5932607

Area

shop,airport tax on departure.

220 volts,50 cycles AC.

5605175

5604082

92.000 sq.Km

Port

Visas

Aqaba

Visas required by all and can be obtained from

4641273

4659606

Population (2000 est.) 5 million

Business Hours

any Jordanian consulate.

Capital

Government Offices:

Some visitors may acquire visas on arrival at

Amman

08.30 to 15.30 Sat to Thu

International airports.

Main Cities

Ramadan: 09.30 to 13.30 Sat to Thu.

Customs regulations

Amman, Aqaba, Irbid, Zarka

Commercial Offices:

200 cigarettes,25 cigars or 200 g tobacco,1

Temperature/climate

Summer:08.00 to 13.30 and 15.30 to 19.30

bottle of spirits.

Summer 18 C to 22 C in Amman,Dry,

Sat to Thu.

Currency regulations

5930351

5932887

5672331

5696591

5929934

5694059

JORDAN JORDAN

General Information

5925614

5930836

4623175

4619172

Winter 4C to 12 C in Amman,dry.

Winter: 08.30 to 13.30 and 15.00 to 18.30

Export of currency equal to the amount declared

4638185

4659730

Languages

Sat to Thu.

on entry is permitted.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Banks

Currency

5930486

5931006

Airport

08.30 to 15.30 Sat. to Thu.

1 Jordanian dinar(JOD)=1.000 fils.

5675135

5681971

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

Electricity

5929111

5929113

5693102

5693404

5921771

5925185

5686155

5680404

4624680

4611633

5518134

5518441

5607311

5607350

5667738

5684018

4641158

4647448

5924154

5921154

4614167

4614173

4644251

4644187

5931177 5931416

5930179 5930685

4641935

4651945

5674307

5605790

4641251

4612353

5934780

5932666

5923100

5923759

5920101

5920121

4642381

4654717

General Information General Information

Wed.08.00 to 12.30 Thu.

Area

Ramadan 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

17.8182 sq.Km

Banks

Population

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Thu.

(2000 estimate) 2 million

Ramadan 8.30 to 12.30 Sat to Thu.

Capital

Electricity

Kuwait City

240 Volts single-phase

Main Cities

50 cycles AC

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

Temperature/climate

KUWAIT KUWAIT

Visas Visas or entry permits are required in advance by all

Summer 40 to 45 C, dry, dust, storms.

visitors except for nationals of the GCC states.

Winter cool, some rainfall in November to January.

Transit visas are not required by passengers

Languages

continiuing their journey to a third country bt the same

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

aircraft,or by passengers transiting within 24 hours.

Airport

However,passengers must have tickets with reserved

Kuwait (16 Km or 30 mn from city center).

seats and valid documents for their onward journey.With

Taxis, duty-free shop, no airport tax.

visas for a visit sponsored by a kuwaiti resident a form in

Ports

duplicate must be validated by the Ministery of Interior.

Mina Abdulla (oil)

For a visit without a sponsor, form in duplicate can be

Mina Al Ahmadi (principally oil)

obtained from a Kuwaiti consulate.Some Nationals

Shuwaikh (container,ro-ro, slipway) Shuaiba

require a No Objection Certificate issued by Minister

Business Hours

of Interior.

Government Offices:

Customs regulations

Winter 07.30 to 13.00 Sat to Wed.,

No alcohol,500 cigarettes,2lb tobacco.

07.30 to 11.30 Thu.

Currency regulations

Summer 07.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Wed.

There are no restrictions on the import or export of

Ramadan 08.30 or 09.00 to 13.00 Sat to Thu.

currency

Commercial Offices:

Currency

08.00 to 12.00 and 15.00 to 18.00 Sat.to

1Kuwaiti dinar(KD)=1.000 fils

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan P.O.Box 22944 Safat,13015 Algeria P.O.Box 578,Safat Austria P.O.Box 44180,Hawali 32056 Bahrain P.O.Box 196,Safat 13002 Bangladesh P.O.Box 22344,Safat 13084 Belgium P.O.Box 3280,Safat Brazil P.O.Box 39761,Safat Bulgaria P.O.Box 12090,Kuwait City Canada P.O.Box 25281,Safat 13113 China P.O.Box 2346,Safat 13024 Cuba P.O.Box 23685,Safat 13124 Czech Republic P.O.Box 1151,Safat Egypt P.O.Box 11252,Safat Finland P.O.Box 26699,Safat France P.O.Box 1037,Safat 13011 Gabon P.O.Box 1230,Hawali 32013 Germany P.O.Box 5930,Safat 13060

2433075

5326274

2427185

2519497

2467421

2449993

5318530

5330882

2542688

5722018

2561029

2562153

2561029

2562153

5314458

5321453

2563025

2560173

5330165

5333341

5382024

2402971

2529015

2529021

2519955

2563877

5312890

5324198

5319850

2571058

4830975 4817055

2520763

Hungary P.O.Box 5671,Safat 13057 India P.O.Box 1450,Safat 13015 Indonesia P.O.Box 21560, Safat 13076 Iran P.O.Box 4686,Safat Italy P.O.Box 4453,Safat 13045 Japan P.O.Box 2304,Safat 13024 Jordan P.O.Box 5242,Safat 13053 Korea Rep. P.O.Box 20771,Safat 13068 Lebanon P.O.Box 253,Safat Libya P.O.Box 21460,Safat 13075 Morocco P.O.Box 784,Safat 13008 Netherlands P.O.Box 21822,Safat Niger P.O.Box 44451, Hawali 32059 Nigeria P.O.Box 6432,Hawali 32039 Oman P.O.Box 21975,Safat 13080 Pakistan P.O.Box 988,Safat 1310 Philippines P.O.Box 26288,Safat 13123

5312600

5313782

2530600

2525811

2514588

4819250

2560694

2529868

2445120

2445124

2518155

5326168

2533500

2570894

4814004

2526874

2562103

2571682

3529172

2575182

4813700

5317423

5312650

5326334

5316802

5652943

5320794

5320834

2561962

2961963

5327649

5327648

5329315

5329319

Poland P.O.Box 5066,Safat 13051 Qatar P.O.Box 1825,Safat 13019 Romania P.O.Box 11149, Dasmah 35152

Russia P.O.Box 1765,Safat 13018 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 20498,Safat 13065 Spain P.O.Box 22207,Safat 13083 Sweden P.O.Box 21448,Safat Switzerland P.O.Box 23954, Safat 13100 Syria P.O.Box 25600,Safat 13112 Thailand P.O.Box 66647,Bayan 43757 Tunisia P.O.Box 5976,Safat Turkey P.O.Box 20627,Safat 13067

UAE P.O.Box 1828,Safat 13019 UK P.O.Box 2,Safat 13001 USA P.O.Box 77,Safat 13001 Yugoslavia P.O.Box 20511,Safat 13066

2510355

2534760

2513599

2563428

4843419

4848929

5646277

5659044

2400250

2420654

5325827

5325826

2523588

2564224

2551872

5340176

2531164

5396509

5317530

5317532

2522416

2528995

2531785

2560653

2518569

2526382

2403335

2426799

2424151

2407368

4818872

5327568

March I Travel Arabia I 85

LEBANON

LEBANON

General Information

Area

08.00 to 14.00 Monday to Thursday.

08.00 to 11.00 Friday, 08 to 13 Saturday.

10.452 sq.Km

Population

Commercial offices

(2000 estimate) 3.6 million

08.30 to 18.00 Mon.to Fri.

Capital

Banks

Beirut

08.30 to 12.30 Monday to Friday.

Main Cities

08.30 to 12.00 Saturday.

Beirut, Tripoli, Jounieh, Zahle, Sidon, Tyre

Electricity

Temperature/Climate

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

Summer 23 C to 32 C in Beirut, humid.

Visas

Winter 11 C to 17 C in Beirut,moist, rainfall, especially in January.

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Syria.Telex/Fax

Highlands are cooler, with winter snowfalls.

invitation required from sponsor to be sent to Embassy.

Languages

Westerners wishing to visit Lebanon can get instant visas at Beirut airport

Arabic (official), French and English (commercial)

,seaport or at Lebanese border checkpoints.

Airport

Customs regulations

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

Visitors should check with airport duty-free shops on current regulations.

on departure.

Currency regulations

Ports

No Restrictions.

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

Currency

for South)

1500 Lebanese pound(ÂŁLeb)= 1 US dollars.

Business Hours Government offices

Embassies & Consulates

Algeria P.O.Box 4794,Jnah Argentina P.O.Box 11-5245,Starco Area Armenia Rabieh Australia Bliss Street,Ras Beirut Austria Tabaris ,Ashrafieh

86 I Travel Arabia I March

01/826711

826712

01/987900

987903

04/418860 01/374701

374709

01/217412

217772

Bahrain Bliss Street,Itani Bldg 03/611936 367952 Belgium Hebu Building,Baabda Beirut 05/920551 923987 Brazil P.O.Box 166175,Rue Des Antonins,Baabda 05/921138 923001 Bulgaria Raoucheh 01/861352 Canada Sheraton Hotel,Damascus 0211/6116851

611803 Jal el Dib Highway 04/713900 710595 Chile Naccache 04/418670 418672 China Ramlet Al-Baida 01/850315 822492 Denmark Ain Mreiseh 01/364264 372970 Egypt Ramlet El-Baida 01/867917 863751 France Hazmieh,Beirut 01/420000 420013 Germany P.O.Box 2820,Rabieh 04/914444 914450 Greece P.O.Box 309,Naccache 04/521700 418774 Hungary Fanar 01/898857 India P.O.Box 113-5240,Kantari St. 01/372811 373538 Iran Bir Hassan 01/821230 821224 Italy Centre Ville,Beirut 01/985200 985305 Japan P.O.Box 3360,Baabda 01/989751 989754 Jordan

Baabda Kuwait Bir Hassan,Jnah Libya Verdun,Beirut Mexico New Naccache Morocco Ain-el-Tineh Pakistan Shell Bldg,Raoucheh Philippines Raoucheh,Beirut Poland Baabda Qatar P.O.Box 6717,Chouran Romania Baabda Russia Mar Elias,Beirut Saudi Arabia Koreitem, Beirut Spain Palace Chehab, Hadath Antounieh Sudan Mme Curie St. Sweden Achrafieh Switzerland Ave.Fouad Chehab, Achrafieh Tunisia Hazmieh,Mar Takla Turkey Rabieh,Area 2,Str.3 UAE Wafic Tabbara Bldg,Jnah UK Zkak El-Blat USA Aoukar,Beirut Venezuela Zalka,P.O.Box 603 Yemen Bir Hassan,P.O.Box 114-5097 Yugoslavia P.O.Box 742, Sanayeh

05/922500

922502

01/822515

842220

01/806314

805349

04/418870 01/862966

865194

01/863041

864583

01/791093

791095

05/468152

746620

01/865271

810460

05/924484

924747

01/300042

303837

01/860351

861524

05/464120

464030

01/353270 01/339505

339394

01/324129

324167

05/457431

950434

04/412080

407557

01/857000

857009

01/990400

990420

04/542600

544136

01/888701

403670

01/852682

821610

01/739633

739638

LIBYA LIBYA

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan Sharia Al-Aftas 4771183,4775192

4775192 Algeria Sharia El-Kairouan 4440052 4447042 Argentina Sharia Ibn Mufarrej 4770588 TX20190 Austria Dahra 4443393,444

4440838 Bangladesh Hadbe El-Khadra 903807

900856

901866 TX 20970 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 TX 20341 China Andalous 4775131 4775689 China-Taiwan Gergaresh 4775052/478

4774980 Cuba Andalous 4771346 4776294 Cyprus Ben Ashour 609728/6015

609547 Czech Rep. Ben Ashour 361543/37 600839 Denmark Andalous 606848 TX 20978 Egypt Sharia-El-Shatt 4444945

4448909 4449262 Finland Ghot Eshaal 830559 830559 France Andalous 4778267

4773807 4778266 Germany S.Hassan El-Mashai 4448552

4448333 4448968 Ghana Al-Suwae Khetumi 4444256 TX 20879 India S.Mahloud Shaltut 4447899

4441835 3337560 Iraq Gourgi 4770487

4770780 Iran El-Jamahiriya 606871

6069 602687 Italia S.Uahran 3334131/2/3

3333447 3331673 Japan Tower No.4 Hall 13/14 607462/3 607462 Korea Gergaresh 833484/

8331 833503 Kuwait Ben Ashour 4440282/

444 607053 Lebanon Ben Ashour 3333733/

334 TX 20609 Malaysia Andalous 833693/

8337 833692 Mali Rue Dahanal 33313304/

44 3331304 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 Slovak Rep Jallal Bayar St.

Somalia Gurji

Sudan

3338081/ 334

4448401

4443223/444 611101 3330800

TX 20346

608269 333600411

607619/ 6076

TX 20049

4772864/ 4772865

4770317

607904/ 6079

TX 20482

3330485/333 3332568/ 3332805 4773124/ 477

3332568

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

4772728

4774781

3337955/ 333

TX 20218

607365/ 607366

607487

4449565

3332423

33.310.613.

331.052 TX 20217 4773146/ 47

TX 20189

4448006

TX 20219

3330852/ 3/4/5/7

3330856

4770251

TX 20733

3600407/ 36

3600408

833704/ 8307

830994

TX 2205

General Information Area

Business Hours

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

1,757,000 sq.Km

Government offices

of all Arab countries.Passport may need Arabic

Population

Winter:(1 Nov.to 31 March)

Translation.Invitation from Libyan company

(2000 estimate)5.1 million

08.00 to 15.00 Sat.to Thu.

required.

Capital

Summer:07.00 to 14.00

Customs regulations

Tripoli

Sat.To Thu.

No alcohol.200 cigarettes,250 grams

Main Cities

Commercial offices

tobacco,0.25 litre perfume.

Tripoli,Benghazi,Misurata,Surt,Sabha

07.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu

Currency regulations

Temperature/Climate

16.00 to 17.30 Sat.To Wed.

A maximum of 20 Libyan dinar on entry and

In Tripoli:Summer:22 to 38 C,dry.

Banks

departure.No restrictions on other currencies

Winter:8 to 20C,most rainfall in January.

Winter:08.00 to 13.00 Sat. to Thu.

though the amount taken out must not exceed

Languages

Summer:08.00 to 12.30

that taken in.

Arabic(official),English and Italian(commercial)

Sat.to Thu.and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat.to Wed.

Currency

Airports

Electricity

1 Lybian dinar(LD) =1.000 dirhams.

Tripoli(25 Km from City Centre)

220 volts 50 cycles AC.

Benghazi(main port for East)

Visas

March I Travel Arabia I 87

MOROCCO MOROCCO

General Information

Area 710,850 sq.Km

Population 30.20 million(2000 estimate)

Capital Rabat

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 Arabic, French (commercial), Berber

Airports Tangier (15 Km from City Centre)

Embassies & Consulates Algeria 46 Boulevard Tarek Ibn Ziad Argentina 12 Mekki Bitaouri str.,Souissi Austria 2 Tiddas,Rabat Belgium 6 Marrakesh Ave., Rabat Brazil Cadi Benjalloun St.,Rabat Bulgaria 4 Ave.de Meknes Canada 13 Bisr Jaffar Assadik China 16 Ahmad Balagies Ave Czech Republic Ate.Zaers,Km 4,Souissi Denmark P.O.Box 203, 4 Khemisset St. Egypt 31 Alger Avenue Finland 16 Khemisset Street,Rabat France 3 Sahnoun Street,Rabat Germany 7 Maduine St. Greece Rte. Zaers,Souissi Holy See P.O.Box 1303, Souissi Hungary 21 Bisoulad Jerrar,Soussi India 10 Michlifen Street,Agdal Indonesia 122 Ambassador Quarter Rte.Zaers Iran Route des Zaers,Bin Kasem Quarter Iraq 2 Oukaimdem St.Agdal Italy 2 Idriss Al Azhar St. Japan 39 Ahmed Balafrej Ave., Souissi

88 I Travel Arabia I March

765474

762237

755120

755410

764003

765425

764746

767003

755291

755291

765477

763201

672880

672187

754056

757519

755421

755420

769293

769709

731833

706821

762312

463925

689700

689750

709662

706851

638975

702270

772277

756213

750757

754123

671339

671269

757861

757859

659121

659118

754466

754572

706598

706882

631782

750078

Rabat (10 Km from City Centre) Casablanca (30 Km from Town Centre) Agadir (20 Km from Town Centre) Jordan Villa Al-Wafae, Soussi Korea Rep 41 Mehdi Benbaraka Blvd Kuwait 300 Iman Malik Street, Km 4 Lebanon 19 Fes Avenue, Rabat Libya 1 Chouaib Doukkali Street Oman 21 Hamza Street, Agdal, Rabat Pakistan 11 Azrou Street, Rabat Portugal 5 Thami Lamdouar Street Qatar 4 Tarik Ibn Ziad Blvd.

Russia Km 4, Route des Zaers Saudi Arabia 43 Place de L’unite Africaine Spain 3 El Fath St. Sudan 5 Ghomara Ave, Souissi Sweden P.O.Box 428 Switzerland P.O.Box 169,Berkame Sq. Syria 5 Rte., Zaers, Km 1, Souissi Tunisia 6 Fez Avenue Turkey 7 Fez Avenue UAE 11 Alaouines Avenue UK 17 Tour Hassan Boulevard USA 2 Marrakech Street Yemen 11 Abou-Hanifa Street, Agdal

Ports 751125

758722

Casablanca (main sea port)

751767

750189

Tangier (sea port for the North)

751775

753591

Government

760728

766667

707400

705200

673788

674567

661611

766742

756446

756445

Winter 08.030 to 12.00,14.30 to 18.00 Mon 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 Banks Winter 08.15 to 11.30 and 14.15 to 16.30 Mon to Fri.

765681 753509

Business Hours

Summer 09.00 to 15.00 Mon to Fri 753590

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

730171

Casablanca and Tangier.

268000

707387

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

752863

752865

Visas

759303

758048

Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Congo, Côte D’ivoire, Denmark,

706974

705749

Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guinea, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland,

757521

757522

Visas required except by nationals of Andorra, Argentine, Australia, Austria,

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,

730636

Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, UK, US, Venezuela.

762605

704980

707070

742145

720905

704531

762265

765661

No Moroccan currency may be imported or exported.

674363

674769

Currency

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

Currency regulations 1 Moroccan Dirham (MD or DH)=100 centimes

OMAN OMAN

Embassies & Consulates

Mina Qaboos, Muscat (principal), Mina Raysut,

of the GCC.

(2000 estimate) 2053 million

Salalah (main port for Dhofar)

Capital

Business Hours

Customs regulations

Muscat

Government Offices

Main Cities

Currency regulations

Winter:7.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu.

No restrictions on the amount of currency taken

Muscat-Muttrah-Ruwi-Seeb,Salalah

Summer:7.30 to 14.30 Sat Top Wed.

into or out of Oman.

Temperature/Climate

Businesses

Currency

Summer: 35 C - 47 C, Very humid

08.30 to 13.30 and 16.00 to 18.00 Sat.to

1 Omani Riyal(RO)=1,000 Baizas

Winter: 20.7 C men minimum

Wed. 08.00 to 11.30 Thu.

Languages

Banks

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Wed.08.00 to 11.30

Algeria P.O.Box 216, Madinat Sultan Qabous

601698 Austria P.O.Box 2070, Ruwi 112 793135 Bahrain P.O.Box 66, P.C., 115 605912 Bangladesh P.O.Box 3959, Ruwi 112 707462 Canada P.O.Box 1275,Ruwi 112 China P.O.Box 315, Muscat 112 696782 Egypt P.O.Box 2252,Ruwi 112 600411 Finland P.O.Box 84, Muscat 113 702133 France P.O.Box 208, Muscat 115 604222 Germany P.O.Box 128, Ruwi 112 702482 India P.O.Box 1727, Ruwi 112 702960 Iran P.O.Box 3155, Ruwi 112 696944 Iraq P.O.Box 1848, Ruwi 112 604178 Italy P.O.Box 3727, Muscat 112 560968 Japan P.O.Box 3511, Ruwi 112 601028 Jordan P.O.Box 2281, Ruwi 112 786350 Korea Rep.of P.O.Box 2220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 691490 Kuwait P.O.Box 1798, Ruwi 112 699626 Lebanon P.O.Box 67, Ruwi 118 595844 Morocco P.O.Box 3125, Ruwi 112 696152 Netherland P.O.Box 3302, Rruwi 112 705410 Norway P.O.Box 89, Ruwi 112 703289 Pakistan P.O.Box 1302, Ruwi 112 603343 Qatar P.O.Box 802, Muscat 113 701802 Russia P.O.Box 80, Muscat 112 602893 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1411, Ruwi 112 601744 Sudan P.O.Box 3971, Ruwi 112 697875 Syria P.O.Box 85, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 697904 Tunisia P.O.Box 220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 603486 Turkey P.O.Box 417, Muttrah,115 697050 UAE P.O.Box 551, Seeb 115 600302 UK P.O.Box 300, Muscat 113 693077 USA P.O.Box 202, Muscat 698989 Yemen

Airports

Thu.

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

General Information General Information

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

220/240 volts 50 cycles AC

Area

Salalah (domestic)

Visas

309.500 sq.Km

Population

Seeb (40 Km from City Centre).

Ports

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

No alcohol.No Limit for Tobacco products.

694419 793669 605072

602322 603626 703826 604300 705690 797547 696888 605112

698720 619495

600972 695633 601114 799020 793892

794588 604189 603540 699065 603895 697778 697053 604182 693087 699189 605008

Electricity March I Travel Arabia I 89

QATAR

QATAR

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 2494 Bahrain Bangladesh P.O.Box 2080 Brunei China P.O.Box 17200 Egypt P.O.Box 2899 France P.O.Box 2669 Germany P.O.Box 3064 India P.O.Box 2788 Iran P.O.Box 1633 Iraq P.O.Box 1526 Italy P.O.Box 4188 Japan P.O.Box 2208 Jordan P.O.Box 2366 Korea Republic P.O.Box 3727 Kuwait P.O.Box 1177 Lebanon P.O.Box 2411 Libya P.O.Box 547 Mauritania P.O.Box 3132 Morocco P.O.Box 3242 Oman P.O.Box 3766 Pakistan P.O.Box 334 Russia P.O.Box 1540 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1255 Sudan P.O.Box 2999 Syria P.O.Box 1257 Tunisia P.O.Box 2707 Turkey P.O.Box 1977 UAE P.O.Box 3099 Uk P.O.Box 3 USA P.O.Box 2399 Yemen P.O.Box 3318

4831186 4839360

4836452 4831018

4671927 4884202

4671190 4873959

4884202

4873959

4832555

4832196

4832283

4832254

4876959

4876949

4672025

4670448

4835300

4831665

4672237

4673347

4667842

4664644

4831224

4832178

4832202

4832173

4832238

4838264

4832111

4832042

4477773

4478817

4667546

4660548

4836003

4836015

4831885

4833416

4670744

4670747

4832525

4832227

Area

Airport

4329117

4329118

11.437 sq.Km

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

Visas

Population

Duty- Free shop, no airport tax.

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

Ports

of Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.

General Information

4832030

4832720

4423007

4329118

Capital

Ras Laffan (Gaz and ind.)

No objection certificate required from Qatari

4832409

4832139

Doha

Doha, Umm Said (oil and petrochemicals)

Minsitery of Foreign Affairs. Other businessmen,

4832649

Business Hours

if their visit is sponsored by a reputable Qatari,

4832645

Main Cities Doha, Rayan, Umm Said,

Government

may obtain a 72- hour visa at Doha Airport.

4835204

4835206

Al-Khor, Al-Wakrah, Ras Laffan

07.30 to 13.00 Sat To Thu.

Customs regulations

Temperature/Climate

Businesses

Alcohol is prohibited.No limit for Tobacco

Summer 36 to 40 C, in Doha very humid

07.30 to 12.00 and 15.30 to 18.00 Sat to

products.

especially mornings

Thu.

Currency Regulations

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

Banks

None

diurnal range

07.30 to 11.30 Sat to Wed.

Currency

Languages

07.30 to 11.00 Thu.

1 Qatari Riyal (QR)= 100 dirhams

4885111 4421991

4438692

4884101

4884298

4432555

4429400

(2000 estimate) 700.000

Arabic (official), English ( commercial).

90 I Travel Arabia I March

220/240 Volts 50 cycles AC.

Electricity

SAUDI ARABIA

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

General Information

General Information

Jeddah (24 Km from City Centre)

Ramadan 10.00 to 13.30

Area

Medina (12 Km from City Centre)

Electricity

2.240.000 sq.Km (approx)

Riyadh (35 Km from City Centre)

220 Volts and 110 Volts,60

Population

Taxis-no duty-free shops except at

cycles AC.

(2000 est.) 20 million

Jeddah-No airport taxes.

Capital

Ports

Visas

Riyadh

Jeddah(main port for Western

except GCC nationals.

Main Cities

province and the Kingdom’s

Applications have to be applies for

Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran,

principal port)

by sponsor in Saudi Arabia

Dammam, Al-Khobar, Qatif, Makkah,

King Abdel-Aziz, Dammam (main

To the Ministery of Foreign Affairs

Medina, Abha, Khamis Mushayat,

port for Eastern province)

who will inform Saudi Embassy

Taif

Jubail(industrial port for Eastern

On approval.Assistance from trade

Temperature/Climate

province)

associations and chambers of

Summer 38 to 45 C in Riyadh dry

Yanbu(industrial port for Western

commerce is advised.

diurnal range up to 20 C.

province)

Marriage certificate for travelers

35 to 42 C in Jeddha, very

Business Hours

accompanied by spouse required.

humid.35 to 45 C in Dammam,

Government

Customs regulations

very humid.

07.30 to 14.30 Sat to Wed.

No alcohol,600 cigarettes,100

Winter 8 to 30 C in Riyadh, night

Ramadan 09.30 tom 14.30

cigars or 500g tobacco.

frosts rain in March.19 to 33 C

Businesses

Currency regulations

in Jedah,humid 15 to 30 C in

Variable from business to business

No restrictions

Dammam, very humid

But generally,07.30 to 13.00 and

Languages

Currency

14.30 to 20.00 Sat to Thu.

1 Saudi Riyal(SR)=100 halala

Arabic (official), English

Banks

(commercial).

08.30 to 12.00 and 16.30 to

Airports

18.30 Sat to Wed.08.30to 12.00

Dammam (28 Km from City Centre)

Thu.

Visas are required for all visitors

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 94388, Riyadh 11693 Argentina P.O.Box 94369, Riyadh 11693 Australia P.O.Box 94400, Riyadh 11693 Austria P.O.Box 94373, Riyadh 11693 Bahrain P.O.Box 94371, Riyadh 11693 Bangladesh P.O.Box 94395, Riyadh 11693 Belgium P.O.Box 94396, Riyadh 11693 Brazil P.O.Box 94348, Riyadh 11693 Canada P.O.Box 94321, Riyadh 11693 Denmark P.O.Box 94398, Riyadh 11693 Egypt P.O.Box 94333, Riyadh 11693 Eritrea P.O.Box 94002, Riyadh 11693 France P.O.Box 94367, Riyadh 11693 Germany P.O.Box 9941, Riyadh 11693 Greece P.O.Box 94375, Riyadh 11693 India P.O.Box 94387, Riyadh 11693

4887171

4887616

4652600

4653057

4887788

4887973

4801217

4801526

4880044

4880208

4195300

4193555

4882888

4882033

4880018

4881075

4882288

4880137

4880101

4881366

4658425

4652800

4801726

4827537

4881255

4882882

4880700

4880660

801974

4801969

4884144

4884750

Iran P.O.Box 943394, Riyadh 11693 Ireland P.O.Box 94349, Riyadh 11693 Italy P.O.Box 94389, Riyadh 11693 Japan P.O.Box 4095, Riyadh 11491 Jordan P.O.Box 7455, Riyadh 11693 Kenya P.O.Box 94358, Riyadh 11693 Korea(Rep of) P.O.Box 94399, Riyadh 11693 Kuwait P.O.Box 2166, Riyadh 11451 Lebanon P.O.Box 94350, Riyadh 11693 Libya P.O.Box 94365, Riyadh 11693 Mexico P.O.Box 94391, Riyadh 11693 Morocco P.O.Box 94392, Riyadh 11693 Norway P.O.Box 94380, Riyadh 11693 Oman P.O.Box 94381, Riyadh 11693 Pakistan P.O.Box 6891, Riyadh 11452 Philippines P.O.Box 94315, Riyadh 11693

4881916

4888890

4882300

4880927

4881212

4886590

4881100

4880189

4880039

4880072

4882484

4882629

4882211

4881317

4883500

488368

4197000

4192767

4544511

4567513

4828218

4828379

4826382

4827016

4881904

4880854

4823120

4823738

4887272

4887953

4880835

4883945

Portugal P.O.Box 94328, Riyadh 11693 Qatar P.O.Box 94353, Riyadh 11461 Singapore P.O.Box 94378, Riyadh 11693 Spain P.O.Box 94347, Riyadh 11693 Sudan P.O.Box 94337, Riyadh 11693 Sweden P.O.Box 94382, Riyadh 11693 Switzerland P.O.Box 9265, Riyadh 11413 Syria P.O.Box 94323, Riyadh 11693 Thailand P.O.Box 94359, Riyadh 11693 Tunisia P.O.Box 94368, Riyadh 11693 Turkey P.O.Box 94390, Riyadh 11693 UAE P.O.Box 94385, Riyadh 11693 UK P.O.Box 94351, Riyadh 11693 USA P.O.Box 94309, Riyadh 11693 Yemen P.O.Box 94356, Riyadh 11693

4644688

4044419

4825544

4825694

4657007

4652224

4880606

4880400

4887728

4887729

4883100

4880604

4881291

4880632

4887481

4826196

4880300

4881179

4887900

4887641

4887721

4887823

4826803

4827504

4880077

4882373

4883800

4883278

4826764

4881757

March I Travel Arabia I 91

SUDAN

SUDAN

General Information

Area

Languages

to Thu

2,505,813 sq.Km

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Banks

Population

Airport

08.30 to 12.00 Sat to Thu.

(2000 estimate) 35.5 million

Khartoum (4Km from city centre).

Electricity

Capital

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

240 volts,single phase AC

Khartoum

departure.

Visas

Main Cities

Port

Visas are reqiured for all visitors

Khartoum, Oumdurman, Khartoum North, Port

Port Sudan

Customs Regulations

Sudan, Wadi Medani

Business Hours

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 1 lb tobacco

Government Offices

Currency Regulations

Summer : 26 to 45 C, in Khartoum,sandstor

Khartoum :08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

Import or export of Sudanese currency is illegal

ms,humid,

Other centres :08.30 to 14.00(with Breakfast

Currency

Rain in August and September,hotter and more

interval)

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

humid in South.

Sat to Thu.

millimes

Winter : 15 to 32 C in Khartoum, dry, wide

Businesses

diurnal range, Chilly nights.

08.30 to 13.30 and 17.00 to 20.00 Sat.

Temperature/Climate

92 I Travel Arabia I March

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 80 Austria P.O.Box 1860 Belgium P.O.Box 969,St.33,House 15 China P.O.Box 1425 Czech Republic P.O.Box 1047 Denmark P.O.Box 2758 Egypt P.O.Box 1126 France P.O.Box 377, St.3, Plot 29 Germany P.O.Box 970 Holy See P.O.Box 623 India P.O.Box 707, 61 Africa Rd. Iran House No.8, square 2, Mogran Iraq Burri, Garden City Italy P.O.Box St.39 Khartoum 2 Japan P.O.Box 1649, St.43, House 67 Jordan 25 Sreet Number 7 Kenya P.O.Box 8242 Korea(Rep of) P.O.Box 322 Kuwait P.O.Box 1457 Lebanon P.O.Box 1407 Libya P.O.Box 2091 Morocco P.O.Box 2042 Netherlands St.47 House 76 Oman P.O.Box 2839 Pakistan P.O.Box 1178 Qatar P.O.Box 223 Romania P.O.Box 1494 Russia P.O.Box 1161 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 258 Spain P.O.Box 2621 Sweden (Consulate)P.O.Box 2206 Switzerland P.O.Box 1707 Syria P.O.Box 1139 Tunisia P.O.Box 3533 Turkey St.2, House 31 UAE P.O.Box 1225 UK P.O.Box 801 USA P.O.Box 699 Yemen P.O.Box 1010 Yugoslavia P.O.Box 1180

451084 77170 489229

4899230

272730

271138

43448 80489 72836 471082

465928

77990 74692 451031

452266

81490

78668

271863 451614

451217

75875

77668

451164

451038

440386

452264

451136 81525

81142

45008 2235358 451603

451053

471012

471204

451605

451027

222000 451620

451036

338114

761113

451042 452583

451069

45072 71913 451010

452804

451152

451066

75906 471197

472542

451100 777105

776457

74700 451623 41252

451020

General Information General Information

Area 185,180 sq.Km

Population (2000 estimate)17.76 million

Capital Damascus

Main Cities Damascus, Aleppo, Homos, 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)

Airport Damascus (32 Km from citycentre).

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

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

Business Hours Government 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu. Ramadan :08.00 to 13.oo Businesses Winter :09.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat to Thu, Summer (May to October) :08.30 to 13.30 and 17.00 to 20.00 Sat to Thu. Banks 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

Electricity 220 volts 50 cycles AC in Damascus.

115/220 volts in Aleppo

Visas Visas are required by all except nationals of Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, PLO Gvt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Tinisia, United Arab Emirates And Yemen.

Appilications should be accompanied by supporting letter from employers.

Transit (for Visits up to 3 days), entry (for visits up to 2 weeks)and visit(for re-entry from neighbouring countries) visas are available.

Customs Regulations 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco and 1 bottle of wine and one bottle of spirits.

Currency regulations Up to £Syr 100 in local currency may be brought into or out of the country.Currency declarations are necessary for more than US$5000 in local or foreign curency.Visitors are advised to keep adequate amounts of Bank notes on hand since it is sometimes difficult to cash travelers checques

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

SYRIA

SYRIA

Embassies & Consulates Algeria Rawdah Street, Nass Bldg Argentina P.O.Box 116 Armenia Malekie-Ibrahim Hanano St. Austria P.O.Box 5634 Belgium 76 Ata Ayoubi Street Brazil P.O.Box 2219 Canada P.O.Box 3384 Cyprus P.O.Box 9269 Denmark P.O.Box 2244 France P.O.Box 769, Ata Al Ayoubi St. Germany P.O.Box 2237 Greece P.O.Box 30319, Mezzeh Holy See P.O.Box 2271, 82 Masr Street Hungary P.O.Box 2271, 102 al Fursani St. India P.O.Box 685 Indonesia 17 Assalam St., Bldg 10 Iran P.O.Box 2691 Italy 82 Al Mansour Ave Japan Al Mindi Bin Baraka St. Jordan

3334167

332732

3732992

3711757

3327691

3329232

3338098

330426

6116851

6114000

6130812

6130814

3331008

3337928

3327992 3323800

332812

2233009

2233035

3337966

3327550

3337966

6667917

3719580

3713294

6119630

6119632

6117675

6110997

3332621

3320325

3339181

3339920

Abu Roummaneh Street Kuwait Ibrahim Hanano Street Netherland P.O.Box 702 Pakistan P.O.Box 9284, Al Farabi St. Poland P.O.Box 501, M.Ben Baraka St. Qatar P.O.Box 4188 Romania 8 Ibrahim Hanano St. Russia Omar Ben Khattab St Saudi Arabia Al-Jala’ Avenue Slovakia P.O.Box 33115 Spain 81 Al-Jala’ Avenue Sudan Al-Jala’ Street Sweden P.O.Box 4266 Switzerland Al-Mahdi Ben Baraka St. Tunisia P.O.Box 4114 Turkey P.O.Box 3738 UAE 62 Rawda Street/Abu Rummana St. UK P.O.Box 37, Malki USA P.O.Box 29, No.2 Al Mansour St.

3334642

3336871

3339369

6662391

3339369

3330101 3336717 3327570

3327572

4423155

6669043

6616714

3332126 3327261

3327749

3715474

3321137

6660356 3331411

3339243

3333038 3739241

3731600

3332184

3319678

March I Travel Arabia I 93

Embassies & Consulates Algeria 18 Niger Street Argentina 10 H.Hassan Street Austria 16 Ibn Hamdis St., Menzah Bahrain 72 Bin Abi Soufiane, Menzah Belgium 47 1st January St. Belvedere Brazil 37 Africa Avenue, Menzah Canada 3 Senegal Street, Belevedere China 22 Dr. Burnett St., Mutuelleville Czech Republic P.O.Box 53, 1002 Tunis Denmark 5 Mauritania Street, Belevedere Egypt Ave.Med V, Mont Plaisir, Belvedere Finland 61 H.Bourghiba Ave., Carthage France Independence square Germany 1 al Hamra st., Mutuelleville Greece 9 Imp.Atlas, Belvedere Hungary 12 Achtart St., Al-Menzah India 4 Didon Square, Notre Dame Iraq 10 Ben Ashour Ave. Menzah Iran 10 Doctor Burnett St., Mutuelleville Italy 37 Jamal Abdel Nassr St. Japan 9 Apollo St. Mahrajenne Jordan 10 Chankatti st., Mahrajene Korea Rep

783166

788804

231222

750058

751091

767824

231811

766549

781655

792797

232538

750367

796577

792371

792107

792631

280486

793228

792600

790797

792233

794389

TUNISIA TUNISIA

General Information

Area

Government Offices

Kuwait, Liberia, Leichtenstein, Malaysia, Mali,

164,418 sq.Km

Winter :08.00 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 17.45

Malta, Mauritania, Mauritus, Monaco, Montserrat,

Population

Mon.to Thu.08.30 to 13.00 Fri.and Sat.

Morocco, Nevis, Niger, Norway, Pitcairn Is.,

(2000 estimate) 9.65 million

Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon.to Sat.

Porugal, Romania, St.Helens, St.Kittis, San

Capital

Businesses

Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Spain, Sweden,

Tunis

Winter:08.300 to 12.30 and 14.00 to 16.00

Switzerland, Turkey, Turks,& Caicos Is., UAE, UK,

Main Cities

Mon to Fri.

USA, Venuatu, Virgin Is,(Britsih) and Yugoslavia.

Tunis, Sfax, Ariana, Bizerte, Djerba, Sousse

Summer:07.30 to 13.00 Mon to Sat.

Customs Regulations 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco

721700

721670

Temperature/Climate

Banks

358000

358001

Winter:13∞ with frequent rain.

Winter:08.00 to 11.00 and 14.00 to 16.00

and 1 litre of alcohol are admitted free of duty.

786455

788242

Summer: 35∞C,hot and dry

Mon to Fri.

Currency regulations

Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon. to Sat.

The import or export of Tunisian currency is

288411

789518

Languages Arabic (official), French (commercial),

Electricity

prohibited.O departure all Tunisian currency must

Berber (in rural areas).

Domestic 220V and 110V.

be converted into foreign currency on production

Airports

Industrial 220V 50 cycles AC

of exchange slips from Tunisian banks. This can

Tunis (8 Km from Tunis)

Visas

be done at the Airport .The amount of excess

Skanes (8 Km west of Monasrtir)

Visas are required by all except nationals of

currency exchanged back must not exceed 30

Melita (6 Km west of Djerba)

Angiulla, Antigua, Austria, Bahrain, Barbados,

per cent of foreign currency originally exchanged

Tozeur (south oasis area)

Belize, Bermuda, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada,

or 100 dinars, whichever is the greater.

Ports

Cayman Is, Chile, Cuba, Denmark, Egypt, Eire,

Currency

Tunis (main port), Zarzis, Sfax,

Falkand Is, Fuji, Finland, France, Germany,

1 Tunisian Dinar(TD)=1,000 millimes(m)

Sousse, Bizerta

Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Giunea, Hong Kong,

Business Hours

Iceland, Italy, Ivory coast, Japan, Korea(South),

780544

781264

787819

783394

890347

799949

791015

783177

321811

324155

791251

786625

780875

784661

16 Caracalla St., Notre Dame Kuwait 32 Mansoura St., Ariana Libya 48 Bis., Rue du 1er Jiun, Belvedere Morocco 39 Rue du 1er Jiun, Belvedere Netherlands 6/7/8/ Mercen St.Mahrajene Pakistan 7 Ali Bin Abi Talib Street, Al-Menzah Portugal 2 Sufetula St., Belvedere Romania 18 Africa Avenue, Al- Menzah Russia Bergamate St., ManarII Saudi Arabia 16 Jugurtha Ave., Belvedere Spain 22 Conseil Avenue, Cite jardin Sudan 30 Afrique Avenue Sweden Berges Lac, Mhiri Switzerland 10 Echenkiti st., Mutuelleville Syria 119 A. Rebai St., Manar II Turkey 30 Ave. Africa UAE 9 Ashtart St., Belvedere UK 141 Liberty Ave., Belvedere USA 144 Liberty Avenue, Belvedere Yemen 9 A.Ibn Abi Taleb St., Menzah

94 I Travel Arabia I March

893060

791923

754811

767669

781913

795338

782775

795338

799442

785557

234366

752477

893981

791008

766926

767695

882446

882478

781722

783235

782217

786267

860580

860810

783997

788796

888018

887989

750668

767045

783522

783507

793322

792644

782566

789719

237933

UAE

UAE

Embassies & Consulates

Algeria P.O.Box 3070, Abu Dhabi Argentina P.O.Box 3325, Abu Dhabi Australia P.O.Box 58010, Dubai Austria P.O.Box 35539, Abu Dhabi Bahrain P.O.Box 3367, Abu Dhabi Bangladesh P.O.Box 2504, Abu Dhabi Belgium P.O.Box 3686, Abu Dhabi Brazil P.O.Box 3027, Abu Dhabi Britain P.O.Box 248, Abu Dhabi Canada P.O.Box 6970, Abu Dhabi China P.O.Box 2741, Abu Dhabi Czech Republic P.O.Box 27009, Abu Dhabi Egypt P.O.Box 4026, Abu Dhabi Finland P.O.Box 3634, Abu Dhabi France P.O.Box 4014, Abu Dhabi Germany P.O.Box 2591, Abu Dhabi Greece P.O.Box 5483, Abu Dhabi Hungary P.O.Box 44450, Abu Dhabi India P.O.Box 409, Abu Dhabi Iran P.O.Box 4080 Italy P.O.Box 46752, Abu Dhabi Japan P.O.Box 2430, Abu Dhabi Jordan P.O.Box 4024, Abu Dhabi Kenya P.O.Box 3854, Abu Dhabi Korea Rep P.O.Box 3270, Abu Dhabi Kuwait P.O.Box 926, Abu Dhabi 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

4448949

4447068

4436838

4431392

3217444

3212677

4766611

6715551

6657500

6674141

Area

Dubai International (4 Km east of city),

to Thu

4465100

4464733

90,559 sq.Kms

duty-free shop

Electricity

(including Offshore islands)

Fujairah Int’l, Duty-free shop

Abu Dhabi 220/240 volts, 50 cycles AC,

6319449

6319353

Population

Ras Al Khaimah International (20 Km south of

Northern Emirates

(2006 est.)4.10 m

Town), duty-free shop

220/380 volts, 50 cycles AC.

Capital

Sharjah International (10 Km southeast of

Visas

Abu Dhabi

Sharjah town and 25 Km north of Dubai Town),

Visas are required by all except GCC nationals.

Main Cities

duty-free shop

UK Citizens will be granted 30-day visa at

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah,Ras Al-Khaimah

Ports

International Aiports.Other Will be required to

Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al-Qaiwan

Jebel Dhanna/Ruwais Abu Dhabi

obtain visas through sponsorship.

Temperature/Climate

Mina Zayed ( Abu Dhabi town, 20% UAE

Customs Regulations

Summer:35to 40C peaks up to 48C along Gulf

tonnage)

200 cigarettes or one half pound of

Coast,very humid in Dubai, more temperate

Mina Jebel Ali (Dubai)

Tobacco(Abu Dhabi), 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars

along eastern(Gulf of Oman)coast. Winter : 20C,

Port Rashid(Dubai Town), 50% UAE tonnage

or 500 gm tobacco(Dubai) are allowed duty-

very dry in Abu Dhabi, Wet in Ras El Khaimah

Ajman, Fujeirah

free.However locally retailed tobacco products are as cheap as duty-free goods.

6320606

6327727

6101100

6101518

6940300

6946399

4434276

4436835

6782800

6795716

4445566

4449878

6328927

6325063

General Information

4435100

4434158

Languages

Mina Saqr (Ras Al Khaima) Khorfakan (Sharjah/

6446693

6444942

Arabic (official), English ( widely spoken in

East coast), container terminal.

Alcohol, drugs, pearls and firearms are

4492550

4493119

Business and government)

Mina Khalid (Sharjah Town), 20% UAE tonnage

prohibited

Business Hours

Currency regulations

4470100

6667877

Airports Abu Dhabi International (19 Km southeast of

Government Offices

None

City), duty-free shop

08.00 to 15.00 Sat. To Wed. And 08.00 to

Currency

Abu Dhabi New International Airport (Nadia, 35

12.00 Thu.

1 UAE Dirham(Dh)=100 fils

Km form city centre), duty-free shop

Businesses

Al Ain International,Duty-free shop

08.00 to 15.00 and 16.00 to 20.00 Sat.

4492700

4444685

4447618

4448714

4435622

4434337

4435696

4434219

4447100

4449157

6666300

6652827

4435337

4435348

4477146

4477675

4492100

4493500

4450030

4450033

4482775

4482779

4462724

4465772

4433963

4433917

6321920

6313158

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 Russia P.O.Box 8211 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 4057 Spain P.O.Box 46474

6211221

6213313

4463333

4464633

4447800

4447172

4434048

4434363

6415922

6412559

4493300

4493311

4459919

4461143

6721797

6788731

4445700

4448491

6269544

6274978

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

4446699

4490530

6274636

6269627

4448768

4449387

6421772

6421773

6811331

6812707

4453330

4452522

6326600

6318138

4142200

4142469

4448457

4443691

March I Travel Arabia I 95

YEMEN

YEMEN

Embassies & Consulates

General Information Area

Ports

527.970 sq.Km

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

Population

Business Hours

(2000 estimate)17.5 million

Government

Capital

08.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Thu.

Sanaa(political), Aden(economic)

Businesses

Main Cities

08.00 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat.to Thu.

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

Banks

Temperature/Climate

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Wed. and 08.00 to 11.30 Thu.

Summer:35 to 40 C,peaks up to 47 C in Hodeida,Very humid, rainfall

Electricity

cooler and drier in Sanaa.

220 volts, 50 cycles AC

Winter: 26 C in Hodeidah,Humid, much cooler , with occasional frosts,in

Visas

Sanaa.

Visas are required for all visitors.One application form and 2 photographs

Summer:average 35 C in Aden, very humid,hotter but wideDiurnal range

must be presented with employer’s supporting letter.

and drier inland.

Processing of applications takes 3 to 6 days.

Winter: average 28 C in Aden, humid, much cooler inland.

Visitors must register within 5 days to obtain an exit visa which can

Languages

sometimes also be arranged by hotels.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Airports

Customs regulations 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or _ lb tobacco and 1 qt wine are admitted

Al-Rahaba(10 Km north of Sanaa).

duty-free.

Hodeida

Currency regulations

(6 Km Southeast of city)

Because the exchange of riyals is difficult abroad, visitors exchange all local

Al-Janad

currency before departure.

(4 Km northeast of Taiz)

Currency

Khormasakar International

1 Yemeni Riyal(YR)=100 fils

(10 Km from Aden).

No duty-free shop.Sanaa

96 I Travel Arabia I March

Algeria P.O.Box 509, 67 Amman ST. Belgium P.O.Box 2616 Canada P.O.Box 340 China Al Zubeiri St Czech Republic P.O.Box 2501, Safia Janubia Denmark P.OBox 5302,Taiz Egypt Jamal Abdul Naser St. France P.O.Box 1286, Al Bounia Germany P.O.Box 41 India 12 Jiboti Street Indonesia Hadda Area, house 16 Iran P.O.Box 1437, Hadda Street Iraq P.O.Box 498 Italy P.O.Box 1152 Japan P.O.Box 817, street 38 house2

Jordan P.O.Box 2152 Korea(PDR) P.O.Box 1209, Al Hasaba Kuwait P.O.Box 17036 Lebanon P.O.Box 2283 Morocco P.O.Box 10236,Westy Safia Oman P.O.Box 105 Pakistan P.O.Box 2848 Poland P.O.Box 16168 Romania P.O.Box 2169 Russia P.O.Box 1087,26 sep.street Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1184 Sudan P.O.Box 2561 Syria P.O.Box 494, Hadda Road Tunisia P.O.Box 2561,Diplomatic Area Turkey P.O.Box 18371, Al Safia UAE P.O.Box2250 UK P.O.Box 1287 USA P.O.Box 22347

* Whilst every effort is made to provide totally accurate information, no responsibility is taken for inaccuracies and omissions contained herein.

209689

209688

285865

289568

208814

209523

275337 247946 215170

244418 212334

275948

274196

268888

269160

413179

413179

508084

508105

414633

412956

412690

414139

244153 269164

266137

207356

209531

413279 232340 216317 203459 247964 208933 248812 413523

413647

205515

214100

278719

283142

240429 265231

265234

413153 240458 241395

241395

248777 264081

263059

238843

251563