Travel Arabia May 07 by Kalimat Group International

May 2007, Volume 3, Issue 5

INSIDE MOROCCO Get to know the World of Craftsmen One event, unlimited destinations

All Roads Lead to ATM On the Right Track

Travel & Tourism in the UAE

OASIS

OF THE

EMIRATES An extensive report on RAK

IAL SPEC ION CT ATTRA illage V Sharq pa &S

editor’s note

The

industry’s most awaited travel show is here. The Arabian Travel Market (ATM), now on its 14th year of continued success. One Event, Unlimited Destinations. These are the words running on ATM’s official website that best describe the show, to be held from the 1st of May to the 4th at the Dubai International Exhibit and Convention Center. This year’s edition is expected to gather 2,600 exhibitors from over 60 countries to promote and introduce new services, destinations and products. And the categories are endless – accommodation, travel (air, land, water and even space), attractions, media, entertainment, golf related services and so on and so forth. Attending the four day event will enable you to discover new destinations, accommodation options or tourism services, some of which you wouldn’t think exist nor is available to travellers. ATM is the place where you can hear about new industry announcement, what company is building here and there, what hotels are opening and with a booming destination like the Emirates, who knows what tallest or biggest or longest project is next. ATM is your chance to explore the region’s upcoming tourism development projects and check the available activities for your next trip. It could be a spa, golf, water sports, or any form of entertainment and relaxation. And finally, the ATM is a good place to chat and network with friends, colleagues and business associates. Chances are you will finally

meet the person you have been communicating all this time through emails or the phone. There’s so much to do at ATM so this issue, we are dedicating several pages to feature some of the new players as well as other crowd drawers. Included in the section is our own assessment of the state of travel and tourism in the Emirates as well as updates on current and upcoming tourism projects within the UAE. We are also featuring the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, known for its timeless cultural legacies, unique resources, coastal sites and the splendid Hajar Mountains. We talk about Ras Al Khaimah as a tourist destination and feature current and upcoming tourism and development projects. Living Arabia is about the handicrafts of Morocco. In Morocco, there still exists a medieval world of craftsmen who are creating, with their hands, masterpieces of art. These are families handing down the trades from their fathers and forefathers to theirs sons to keep their artistic traditions alive and produce some of the finest handmade products in the world. Outside Arabia gives you travel to the Europe countryside. Driving through the quaint little towns of Strasbourg, Luxembourg and Belgium revealed a life that was curiously distinctive. There’s more to read in this May issue. Just flip through and you will find other interesting and fascinating topics. I hope you will find time to visit our stand at the ATM. Travel Arabia will be within the UAE region at Hall #1 (new Zabeel Hall) at Stand No. 87. See you there and let’s chat!

Flor B. Pamintuan

www.travel-arabia.com Publisher KALIMAT GROUP INTERNATIONAL FZ-LLC Travel Arabia Head Office Office G4, Building No.1 Phase One, P.O.Box 502408 Dubai Media City, UAE Tel +971 4 391 0410/1/2/3 Fax +971 4 391 6619 E-mail editor@travel-arabia.com General Manager Hekmat el Zein Editor Flor B. Pamintuan editor@travel-arabia.com Staff Writers 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

your letters

Reader’s view of Travel Arabia.

A destination to discover Your article about Cuba in your April issue was an excellent introduction to that country as a tourist destination. The colourful and attractive pictures along with the fine panoramic overall view of Havana and Trinidad made the story very appealing. I am sure that people searching for places to spend their vacations will be tempted to travel to that appealing Island. More importantly, most people do not know much about Cuba and this colourful story will help to fill in the blank spaces. The details of the piece allowed me to feel that ‘I was there’ and would love to return. The blue beaches and the white sands are more than an incentive for those of us bundled in three layers of clothing in the North American cold. Thank you Travel Arabia for including this destination of historical and contemporary beauty. I have been reading your magazine for sometime now and find it informative and interesting to read. It is a learning experience. Keep up the good work! Leila Elias 3768 Pheasant Hill Drive Allentown, Pa. 18104

Assistant Designer Mohd Noufal Althaf Hussain

I love your cover

Distributor Jashanmal National Co. LLC

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

I just want to say that I really like your April issue especially the cover. It’s something different and presents more human touch. Your issue keeps improving. I am getting more information about destinations outside the Emirates as well as information on the Emirates itself. Your images are also attractive. I wonder what’s next.

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I recently returned from a trip to my hometown and I arrived in Dubai at about 5:30 in the morning. Since it’s quite early, I thought that I could get out of the airport faster but to my surprise, there was a long queue of people trying to pass the Immigration. The place was full, as in full. People from all places are there, British, Chinese, Koreans, Indians, Lebanese, the others I couldn’t tell. Some are on visit visas, others on 96 hour visa, returning residents, business people. It took me an hour to reach the Immigration desk and get my passport stamped considering there were more than 20 booths open that morning to take visitors in. Dubai is really something. I can tell from these numbers that the government’s marketing and promotion efforts are really working. Dubai is indeed, a place to see. I wonder how the airport looks during normal business hours.

Ashwani Suresh, Kerala

Sales & Marketing Manager Syed Muhammad Arif arif@kalimatgroup.com

Travel Arabia Lebanon Office Riad el solh 11072070 P.O.Box 11-1197 Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961 3 435 780 Fax +961 7 762 104

Dubai is reaping fruits of its labour

Maricel, Dubai

Dear Editor, First of all I would like to commend you on the very high quality of your magazine design, layout and photographs. Also the subjects selected for your articles are very interesting. I would appreciate more articles on business destinations, and incentive travel. Also, it would be great if you could have a section where travellers could write in with their experiences/complaints about airlines/ hotels, and you could publish it with the replies from the concerned airline/ hotel. I would also look forward to seeing a regular section on promotions and cheap airline/ hotel packages. Regards and keep up the good work. A. Jaychandran, Dubai

BUILD IT AND THEY WILL COME

ALL ROADS LEAD TO ATM 2007

TRAVEL, SHOP AND SPEND

The Government of RAK, under the able guidance of Crown Prince H. H Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi is serious in its efforts to attract investors to this land of opportunity. The Government is responsive to investors’ needs and will do everything possible to accommodate serious entrepreneurs who could contribute effectively to the development of the region.

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the Middle East’s premier travel and tourism trade show will mark its 14th annual edition in Dubai beginning May 1st to 4th at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Since its inception in 1994, every year is always a “Record Year”, not only in terms of visitors, exhibitors and delegates but more so in terms of major announcement.

WORLD CLASS TOURIST DESTINATION Tourism is always a key component of growth and with the government of the United Arab Emirates embarking on several ambitious but achievable plans, the future of the tourism and travel industry in this country looks promising.

MasterCard Consumer Lifestyles Survey reveals that consumers in the UAE will continue to travel, spend and shop in the next 12 months. The latest survey shows UAE consumers favour India (43%), Egypt (19%), and Thailand (10%) as travel destinations.

About the Cover: The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the fourth largest in terms of area and population of the seven emirates that comprise the United Arab Emirates, (UAE). This most northerly Emirate is a versatile tourism destination, presenting the splendid Hajjar Mountains, 64 kilometres of pristine beaches and coastline, plus beautiful and unexplored desert all at close proximity to each other.

LIVING ARABIA – Morocco

OUTSIDE ARABIA – Europe countryside

In this rushed 21st century there are not many of us who know that in Morocco there still exists a medieval world of craftsmen who are creating, with their hands, masterpieces of art. Incorporating a synthesis of the LibycoBerber, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, African and Andalusian artistic traditions, these artisans kept Morocco’s artistic traditions alive.

GALLERY SCAN DOORS OF ARABIA DESERT SKY

t 76 DINING Whether you’re here for a business trip or for relaxation with your friends, family or loved ones, a trip to the restaurant or any local dining place will always be part of your agenda. Check the dining deals from the UAE’s top hotels.

S 88 TRANQUIL MOMENTS Natural Elements spa in Le Meridien Hotel is an ideal location, not only for the weary traveller who could do with a refreshing jet-lag easing massage, or the pre-flight visitor who just wants to pamper themselves on their last day with an all-over detox, or the numerous flight crew wanting a relaxing facial after another long-haul.

May 8-10, 2007 Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Cityscape Abu Dhabi will be the region’s leading real estate finance and investment event helping all investors and investment specialists to look at real estate as a lucrative asset class. The conference brings together 50+ industry experts who will help you understand and explore the key investment strategies for Middle East investments in the light of global competition. The conference will also address Islamic real estate investment highlighting the growth of the Shari’ah compliant real estate sector and share with you exciting case studies on Sukuks in real estate and the associated risks in real estate financing.

Harlem Globetrotters Hoop it up Again The world famous Harlem Globetrotters basketball team will visit the

region once again from 6-12 May 2007. The phenomenal tour will kick off in Abu Dhabi on 7 May 2007 at the Al Jazeerah Sports Club for a two-day show, and will be followed by four games in Dubai from 9 -12 May 2007 at the Al Nasr Sports Club. The Globetrotters will

I Travel Arabia I May

continue their tradition of introducing new amazing ballhandling and comedy routines whilst incorporating timeless classics from throughout their history as a team. Highlights of the show will include “the magic circle” and the figure 8-weave offense along with pre-game and half-time promotions, honorary coach competitions, handouts and giveaways. The team mascot, Globie, will be out in full force at all the games, providing endless entertainment throughout the tour. An autograph session will also feature at the end of every game, giving fans an opportunity to meet their favorite Globetrotter. The Harlem Globetrotters team was founded in 1926 and has been named the most popular and exciting professional entertainment team in the world.

Since their inception, they have traveled to 118 nations, played before 124 million fans, won numerous championships and built bridges between people and communities around the world.

For corporate, family and school packages, please contact Delwood Sports Marketing on 04-3681548 or visit www. harlemglobetrottersdubai.com.

Power Rangers Live in Abu Dhabi Lucky boys and girls of all ages will be in for a real treat when the Power Rangers come to Abu Dhabi. The superheroes will be making a special guest appearance at the Mother, Baby and Child Show, which takes place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre on 2426- May 2007. Since their television debut in the early eighties, the Power Rangers have been fighting the dark forces on land, underwater and even in the jungle. Whether it’s traveling through time or space, these superheroes will fight evil wherever it lurks. However, they have a hard core element of evil to deal with, including the appropriately-named, Rita Repulsa as well as Divatox, Master Org, Dark Spector, Toxica and Jindrax. Elsewhere at the family event, as an added convenience for mums with small children, dedicated baby changing and feeding areas have been designed. Nutrogena will be providing busy mums with demonstrations and beauty tips for that all important pampering session. Play areas

Tango Workshop

Cityscape Abu Dhabi

May

Events

are in abundance, including the Progress Zone for babies and toddlers as well as games for older kids. The Ministry of Education and Youth, will address the role of health and sport in child development, whilst Progress will impart sound advice on nutrition plus many other important parenting issues. For more information on the show, exhibitors, activity schedules and competitions, log on to www. motherbabyandchild.com.

The Tango Dubai Club in collaboration with the Embassy of Argentina has invited Adrian Veredice & Alejandra Hobert who will be performing live at The Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites on the 19th May, 2007, and have a Tango Workshop prior to the event from the 17th - 19th May, 2007 for all dance enthusiasts. Adrian & Alejandra are surely one of the most charismatic dancing couples from the new generation of Argentinean dancers. The diversity of their artistic education has led to the development of their very personal style, the simplicity and unique elegance of which has rapidly built their reputation and made them a highlight in the tanguero’s world. For further details please contact Maya Saliba on 050 622-3679, Paul Bradley on 050 645-4004, Davy Spriet on 050 812-0034 or Eleanor Brodie on 050 451-6281 or click on www.tangodubai.com.

May I Travel Arabia I

COVER STORY

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May I Travel Arabia I 11

We had decided to explore Ras Al Khaimah (meaning the top of the tent), the most northerly Emirate. Past the Emirates of Ajman then Umm Al Quwain on the way to Ras Al Khaimah, we drove through a countryside bursting with sprouting structures. It appeared that here also the United Arab Emirates’ building boom was catching on. The desert that a few years back had been filled with blowing plastic bags was now prime real estate. It had rained on and off for several days and one had a feeling that the still wet desert was about to burst with greenery. The blossoming countryside kept us company until we stopped to admire the newly built small town, sparkling in the sunlight. Like the hundreds of modern small urban centres built by the government, its bright white and blue colours and oriental style, made it architecturally pleasing to the eye. From this village, it was only short distance to Ras Al Khaimah, once known as Julfar, famous as the birthplace of the 15th century Ahmad ibn Majid, one of the greatest and most illustrious Arab navigators of all times. It is the capital of the Emirate with the same name - the fourth largest Emirate in the UAE in terms of area and population and one

12 I Travel Arabia I May

of the region’s major agricultural areas. We entered the city via an avenue edged by shrubs and brightly coloured flowers that were dominated by sparkling new structures. This led to the old town, once the capital of an important naval power in the Arabian Gulf. Ras Al Khaimah is a city with an area of 1,680 sq km and a population of some 250,000 - 70% of which are expatriates. Although much of its area is bare mountains and desert, it is the UAE’s leading indigenous producer of agricultural and dairy products. The Emirate has a major seaport and international airport and is connected to the other emirates by modern highways, and has created an efficient infrastructure, including world- class hotels, hospitals, modern shopping centers and fine restaurants. H.H. Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has been the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah since 1948. His son, H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi was appointed Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler in June 2003.

The city of Ras Al Khaimah, the capital of the Emirate, is divided into two parts by a creek. The western

The name Ras Al Khaimah means “Head of the Tent”. According to one local tradition the name originated from the golden top of the tent of the leader of a Persian force who camped in Ras Al Khaimah, after landing on the southern shore of the gulf on his way to overthrow the Ya’ariba dynasty in Oman. part, known as “old Ras Al Khaimah”, comprises government departments, educational institutions, shopping malls, hotels as well as residential areas and new construction projects. The eastern part, known as Al Nakheel, houses the Emiri Court, some government departments, markets, Ras Al Khaimah Exhibition Center, hospitals and residential areas housing the majority of the city’s population. The two parts of the city are linked by a bridge and a network of modern roads. Today, it is a dynamically developing emirate and a growing investment hub in the UAE, racing ahead in developing

ACTIVITIES: WATER SKIING The Ras Al-Khaimah Water Ski Club The club rents out all necessary modern water skiing equipment and provides expert supervision and training. It is a not-for-profit body aiming to nurture and encourage the sport in the Emirate. RAK Water Skiing Club P.O Box: 1881 Ras Al Khaimah Tel: 00971 7 2364444 Fax: 00971 7 2364545 DIVING Emirates Maritime Sports & Diving Centre The Centre specializes in diving tours, rents all necessary modern diving equipment, and offers full training courses in Scuba diving. It is a regular haunt of hundreds keen to discover RAK’s underwater magic. Emirates Centre for Diving and Water Sports P.O Box 273 Ras Al Khaimah Tel: 00971 7 2333166 / 2330422

commerce, industry and especially tourism. With the Hajar Mountains, overlooking lush green farms to the east, the Arabian Gulf to the west and the picturesque Musandam peninsula to the north, it is a land of natural beauty. This along with its cultural inheritance and excellent beaches, give Ras Al Khaimah an ideal base on which to build a thriving tourism industry. The government has devised a tourist master plan that includes a number of large-scale projects, including luxury hotels, residential complexes and an offshore island. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Office is planning that by 2010, at least two million visitors are expected to use the 20 to 25 hotels that will be built by that time. All this tourism activities are expected to attract tourists and expatriates, including different nationalities, families, business owners and investors from all over the world. Ras Al Khaimah has a history that goes back to the age of Egypt’s Giza Pyramids. In 1997, a 5,000-year old tomb of finely cut stone was found in this Emirate, full of artefacts and 100 bodies. Recently, an enormous defensive wall, erected from gravel with a mud brickwall on top, has been discovered. The 7

GOLF The Emirate’s tourism sector got a major boost in 2003 with the completion of the first Phase of the Tower Links Golf Project, a magnificent 18-hole golf course, and Ras Al Khaimah’s first golf course and second of its kind in the UAE. The clubhouse, with its unique architecture, provides a charming contrast between the traditional Middle East architecture on one side, and the slick sophistication of its modern glass-based functional design on the other. The 18-hole, par 72, fully floodlit grass golf course and academy complete with driving range and short game facilities, is the first golf course in Ras Al Khaimah- and the second of its kind in the UAE. The full course will be 6,800 yards long with four tees (professional, men, seniors and ladies) with tee-off opportunities for all standards of play. Though primarily intended to be a tourist golf facility, it can easily be a championship course when played from the back tees. Tower Links also has a very unique ambience. It is located in and around a lush mangrove reserve. Unusually for the Gulf, Bermuda grass has not been used on the fairways. Instead, a new species of grass, Paspallum, has been sown. Paspallum is saline tolerant and as a result, reduces the costs associated with golf course construction in the Gulf. This is the first time this type of water saving technology has been outside the US and, as a consequence, will save the project millions of dollars based on commercially priced water rates. Hydroturf International is working with a soil expert from the University of Georgia, Professor Ronny Duncan, to provide a tailor-made solution that will maximise cost savings and minimise environmental damage. Paspalum grass can tolerate high stress

environments and as a consequence can use wastewater which until now has been run off into the neighboring wadis. This saves the cost of providing fully treated water. The usage of Paspalum falls in line with the UAE’s aim to adopt the latest cost-effective methods whilst conserving the environment. The saline water used for the irrigation acts as a natural pesticide, thereby providing both cost and environmental savings. Another saving made by using Paspalum grass, is that it reduces the level of fertilizer usage, as it requires 50% less fertilizer than other grass varieties. These savings in chemical usage alone will diminish the adverse impact on the environment. CAMEL RACING For UAE, camel racing is not just a sport. It is a celebration, a throw back to the enduring partnership that scripted tales of success and survival in one of the most rugged desert terrains of the world. Carrying with it the spirit of ancient Arabia, it continues to be one of the most popular public sports in the Emirate. It occupies a top slot in the sports calendar _ with generous financial and morale support from the ruling families, corporates and people of the Emirates. UAE has a host of well designed camel race tracks which are present even in small villages and desert areas inhabited by Bedouins. The annual closing festivals are held in Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai where people from all the seven Emirates turn up, in the ancient spirit of the sport. Winners are bestowed expensive prizes. RAK has one of UAE’s finest camel race tracks, at its Al Sawan area. This circular, 10 km track becomes a confluence point for thousands of UAE’s eager race aficionados, each time a race is held. The races in RAK follow the annual events calendar of the UAE Camel Race Union, usually from mid- September to end- April.

May I Travel Arabia I 13

Hotel and Resorts: Al Hamra Fort Hotel & Beach Resort, designed as a victorious Arabian Fort reviving the “1001 Arabian Nights” theme. This five-star property consists of 83 guest rooms with spacious balconies in the main palace and 168 Arabesque villa rooms built in the style of a traditional village. The wind towers, sand-inspired colors and the tasteful Oriental interior designs create a genuinely exotic atmosphere. P O Box 1468 Tel: 00971 7 2446666 Fax: 00971 7 2446677 www.alhamrafort.com ,E-mail: info@alhamrafort.com Hilton Hotel Hilton Ras Al Khaimah offers 214 rooms and suites furnished with a distinctly Arabian feel. The five-star hotel also has a wide range of restaurants and bars and is located within walking distance of the shopping malls, the local souk and the golf course. P O Box 11133 Tel: 00971 7 2288888 Fax: 00971 7 2288889 www.hilton.com, E-mail: info@hilton.com

For Further Information, Contact Government of Ras Al Khaimah, Tourism Division, P.O Box 11940 Ras Al Khaimah. Tel: +971 7 244 51 25. Fax: +971 7 228 80 22. www.raktourism.com

Ras Al Khaimah Hotel RAK Hotel has been designed to cater to the needs of every business and leisure traveller. It is only within walking distance to the Tower Links Golf Course and is just a short drive to the beach, mountains and the desert. It has 92 elegantly decorated Creek and Mountain View rooms with fabulous restaurants as well as the extensive leisure facilities. P O Box 56 Tel: 00971 7 2362999 Fax: 00971 7 236 2990 www.rak-hotel.co.ae, E-mail: Rakhotel@eim.ae Bin Majid Beach Hotel The Bin Majid Hotel stands looking down at a beautiful, unspoilt beach. Every care is taken to create a relaxing and stress free stay in the hotel which blends the finest traditional hospitality with modern day comfort. It offers excellent service and fair price. P O Box 1946 Tel: 00971 7 2352233 Fax: 00971 7 2353225 www.binmajid.com, E-mail: hotel@binmajid.com Bin Majid Beach Resort Every care is taken to create a relaxing and stress free stay in the Bin Majid Beach Resort. Experience the courtesy and warmth of family hospitality in the resort which has a 2000 meter private sandy beach. P O Box 3133 Tel: 00971 7 2446644 Fax: 00971 7 2446633 www.binmajid.com, E-mail: resort@binmajid.com

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km long and 2 m high dam was built to secure the fertile palm gardens that served as the main hinterland. There are 170 archaeological sites from which have been uncovered stone tools and prehistoric tombs surrounding the much-sought-after Khatt Springs consisting of three sulphuric springs of hot mineral water. It is a beautiful resort that lies hugged by the Hajar Mountains and surrounded by towering palm trees. The Islamic design of the buildings, healthy waters and attractive surroundings draw visitors from inside the United Arab Emirates and from abroad. The magnificent landscape surrounding the springs and the curative properties of the natural springs of hot water flowing from a depth of 350 m (1,148 ft) at a temperature of 40 degree centigrade can match the best mineral waters in the world. The waters of Khatt Springs is said to have medicinal benefits for skin ailments such as rheumatic diseases and muscular problems. The best time to travel to Ras Al Khaimah is in January when the annual Awafi Festival takes place. Fast developing into an international event and drawing some 150,000 annual visitors, it features chess tournament, horse races, puppet shows, traditional Arabic song and dance shows, colourful display of fire works and performances by band troupes. The festival venue also has various sections, including a Heritage Village, a Bazaar and a children’s play zone. A family special focus has been given to attract

families by offering a host of cultural and entertainment options and public amenities such as food outlets, internetcafes, coffee shops and games area. After exploring the town galloping into the future, we made our way on a road hugging the foot of the Hajar Mountains. The small coastal plain we were traversing is one of the few places in the UAE where vegetation grows without irrigation. Before the discovery of oil, this was the country’s breadbasket and it continues today to produce a good portion of the UAE’s vegetables. At Al Sha’am, the northernmost village on the Omani border, we turned back on our return journey. Opening the windows to let in the countryside breezes, fresh from the recent rains, I felt invigorated as we drove on a fine fourlane highway, experiencing not only body contentment, but also accomplishment. We had explored the still easy going Ras Al Khaimah Emirates where a genie is fast transporting the land into a modern world of affluence.

SPECIAL FEATURE I ITB BERLIN

IMPORTANT SITES TO SEE The National Museum of Ra’s alKhaimah, a splendid two-storey fort, has foundations dating back to the 18th century. It was used as a residence of the Sheikh of Ras Al Khaimah, and later as police headquarters and prison. Inside the exhibits consist of a variety of relics and fossils, which date back to different historical periods.

scent of the past, there are modern trade centers where shoppers can find all their needs under one roof. These modern centers provide a relaxed shopping atmosphere where shoppers can enjoy many amenities. Some of the prominent shopping centers in Ras Al Khaimah are Al Manar Shopping Center, Al Waha Centre and Lulu Centre.

Ras Al Khaimah Exhibition Center, an eye-catching structure built in Arabian style architecture. With facilities of international standard, it plays a vital role in Ras Al Khaimah’s business activities through a yearly series of exhibitions.

Manar Mall, a shopping and leisure destination Located on the Al Nakheel side and having a gross area of 45’000 square metres, the mall offers a wide range of products and services. The Manar Mall combines the region’s best shopping experience with entertainment facilities, great dining and leisure options, and much more. The Mall has a formidable line up of international brands, food courts, super markets and cinemas.

Dhayah Fort , built of mud-brick in the 16th century as a strategic military tower, it was virtually destroyed by a British raid in 1819. Today, it is an important tourist destination because from it one can have a beautiful view of the palm gardens of Dhayah and the overlooking Hajar Mountains. Saqr Public Park is located in the Suheelah area. It has a vast expanse of greenery and houses gaming facilities for the whole family. Located in Khuzam, the Khuzam Park also has games and entertainment facilities for children with electronic games, a snooker table as well as a cafeteria. Markets and Shopping Centre The markets of Ras Al Khaimah date back to the distant past when Julfar was the nerve centre of trade in the whole region. The promising lively trade continues now as well. Besides the old Souks and Bazaars with their

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French hypermarket chain, Carrefour is one of the anchor tenants, providing a wide choice of merchandise for all classes of customers. Manar Mall also offers excellent avenues for entertainment and leisure. The seven screen state-of-the-art Grand Manar Cineplex and Foton Edutainment provides hours of fun for the whole family. Another attraction is the amphitheatre, located in the heart of the mall. This ultramodern facility features an atrium where art and other exhibitions, cultural programmes and variety entertainment shows are held every week-end.

RAK Properties is a Public Joint Stock Company with a capital of AED2 billion that was formed with the support of the RAK Government, to transform RAK into one of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading destinations for tourism and real estate investment. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s founders, including the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, hold 45 per cent of its share capital, while the remaining 55 per cent was distributed in a public offering that was significantly oversubscribed by 57 times. In its mission to be the prime property company of Ras Al Khaimah, RAK Properties has been inviting experienced foreign investors to launch state of the art projects including building and developing luxurious hotels, resorts, malls, towers and compounds. These projects will be designed in such a way that they blend with the overall city development plan, while supporting community development in the emirate. In February 2006, the company launched its first project, Julfar Towers, a 43-storey twin office and residential project estimated to cost AED500 million and set for completion in the mid of 2008, followed by Mina Al Arab, spread over 30 million sq. feet and with an estimated cost of AED10 Billion, in May 2006. The Julfar Towers consist of two 43-storey towers - one residential, with 349 apartments, and the other an

office tower with 468 units - built over a three-level podium that provides retail as well as food outlets and central facilities. Perfect for an enjoyable lifestyle and convenient business, Julfar Towers will provide an ultramodern lifestyle of luxury and convenience and much more. Nature lovers can enjoy strolls along the mangroves, the creek and the beaches, just minutes away from the towers, while Golf enthusiasts can tee off from the nearby Golf Club. Furthermore, investors in the Julfar business tower will enjoy the benefits of mainly 100% foreign ownership. As for Mina Al Arab, it would be a new waterfront community in Ras Al Khaimah where lush landscaping, protected coastal wetlands and natural pristine beaches come together with homes, hotels and world-class amenities. A number of themed resort hotels and two eco-hotels will be featured along the beautiful natural beaches of the islands; these hotels will provide an estimated 3,500 rooms for tourists and visitors to the emirate. Underlining the opportunities and potentials of the real estate sector in Ras Al Khaimah, RAK Properties recently announced good profits for its very first financial year ended Dec 31st 2007. This year will also mark the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foray into international and emerging markets and establish itself as a global real estate player.

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SPECIAL FEATURE I ITB BERLIN

Build it and they will come

…goes the famous line in the movie “Field of Dreams”. It’s a story of optimism and how determination succeeds. The character in the movie can be likened to the Government of Ras Al Khaimah which is serious in its efforts to attract investors to this land of opportunity. Travel Arabia lists some of the upcoming projects in this growing emirate.

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Ras Al Khaimah is emerging as one of the fastest growing tourism destinations in the Arabian Gulf region. The majestic Hajar mountains, the lovely Musandam peninsula, 64 kilometers of pristine beach and coastline, beautiful and unexplored desert, timeless cultural legacies and the special warmth of Arab hospitality. All these fuse seamlessly at RAK, driving its remarkable growth in the tourism sector. The Government of RAK, under the able guidance of Crown Prince H. H Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi is serious in its efforts to attract investors to this land of opportunity. The Government is responsive to investors’ needs and will do everything possible to accommodate serious entrepreneurs who could contribute effectively to the development of the region. “My vision is to make Ras Al Khaimah realize its tremendous latent potential. I want to build a diverse economy that enjoys strong, sustainable growth through attracting investments to create wealth and raise the standards of living for all the people of Ras Al Khaimah,”

quoted Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi in the Government’s official tourism website. To realize this vision, the RAK Tourism Authority was set up, constituted as per Emiri Decree No. (2) in 2005 issued by H.H. Sheikh Saqr Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. The mandate for the Authority is to work towards reinforcing the investment climate in the Emirate and to promote its various economic sectors. The Authority will be a semi-governmental body with a legal character and would enjoy financial and managerial independence. The Authority will have the task of proposing investment polices, supervising their implementation, assessing economic feasibility studies pertaining to investment, and promoting developmental projects and investment opportunities, across economic sectors within Ras Al Khaimah. The RAK Investment Authority would also facilitate easy processing of applications for setting up new projects. It has also been assigned the duty of supervising the setting up and licensing of companies wishing to establish investment projects in RAK. The Authority has been given the powers to setup, establish and run the 4th Free Zone in Ras Al Khaimah. Nearly 2.12 million sqm of land has been set aside for this purpose. Though a Free Zone, licenses for companies and

establishments that have local partners will also be issued here. There is also an Industrial Zone with nearly 1.4 million sqm where investments are possible with a local partner. The RAK Investment Authority may also partner investors with the right profile and projects. The CEO of RAK Investment Authority, Dr. Khater Massaad, is also the Advisor to His Highness the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. There will be team of qualified professionals drawn from various countries and disciplines to help the Investors assess the feasibility and viability of their project. This is to ensure that the promise of richer returns is a reality for all investors in Ras Al Khaimah. More than Dh50 billion worth of projects are in various stages of planning and development in Ras Al Khaimah, all phased and due to be completed by 2010 to 2015. Some of the new tourism projects include Al Hamra Palace, Banyan Tree Resort, and the exciting Al Marjan Island and Mina Al Arab projects. Many new luxury hotel projects will be launched in RAK in 2008.

The RAK Tourism Authority was set up to work towards reinforcing the investment climate in the Emirates and to promote its various economic sector.

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SPECIAL FEATURE I ITB BERLIN

Al Hamra Village

The landmark resort of Al Hamra Village is the most complete resort in the whole of the UAE, approximately 5 million sqm in size. It is truly a one-of-a-kind lifestyle experience, surrounded by nature on all sides and a perfect place to leave the world behind and focus on your self and your family. The first lifestyle resort of its kind in the UAE, it is boosting the economy and enhancing tourism appeal of RAK. It enjoys an exclusive location facing the beautiful azure of the Arabian Gulf, while offering a charming and luxurious lifestyle to its residents and visitors. The Marina is situated at the entrance to the Arabian Gulf, to

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the north of the natural salt water lagoons and is equipped with 200 berths, allowing boat owners, quick and easy access to the sailing and fishing opportunities along the coast. Al Hamra Village has a clear aim to offer the finest quality luxury residential properties which are surrounded by beautiful natural areas combined with modern amenities at very affordable prices. Al Hamra Village comprises of three phases, Phase I and II include spacious studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, charming 3 bedroom townhouses, great 4 bedroom duplexes, and for the deluxe end of the market 5 and 6 bedroom luxury villas which will be home to many happy families who have chosen to relocate to the emirate or use the resort as their weekend home. In Phase III, there are offers for everyone, ranging from remarkable studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, fantastically luxurious penthouses or elegant penthouse villas which offer panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf at more than 80 meters above sea level.

Al Hamra Palace Hotel A major beachfront resort, Al Hamra Palace Hotel, billed as Ras Al Khaimah’s seven-star property, is scheduled to open its door early next year. The Al Hamra Palace Hotel is a deluxe beach front property and when completed it will be the jewel of the Al Hamra Hotels Management Group portfolio. It is complete with a beautiful landscaped golf course on one side and 1.5 kms of private beach access on the other. The 366 hotel rooms are a luxurious 72 sq m in size, plus there are an additional 225 hotel apartments, which are available for sale. Some of the other features include Junior, Royal and Imperial Suites, an exclusive spa, 8 uniquely themed restaurants, coffee shops, 16 boutique shops, seminar and meeting rooms facilities for 400 people, plus the Cigar Bar and Piano lounges which will be located on the 13th floor offering magnificent views of the Arabian Gulf coastline.

In terms of luxury, Al Hamra Palace is equal to the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi and the clear arabesque style of the hotel is very much in keeping with the unique style of the emirate. “It will be a spectacular project and an architectural landmark, something like the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi,” said Tawfiq Al Hajj, sales manager of Al Hamra Palace Hotel. “Al Hamra Palace Hotel will attract much more affluent visitors to Ras Al Khaimah,” said Hillary McCormack, manager of RAK Tourism. “It’s a very luxurious property and provides a wonderful option to travellers who are looking for alternative destinations in the UAE.” The Peter Harradinedesigned Golf Club is a championship 18-hole course shaped around a large open salt water lagoon. The 7,267 yard, Par 72 Championship Golf Course is designed to ensure guests have the finest golfing

experience in the Arabian Gulf. The Club also features a nine-hole Par 3 Academy course with holes ranging from 60 yards to 110 yards; a 350 yard driving range and purpose built Swing Rooms. This is the second golf club for Ras Al Khaimah, following the Tower Links Gold Club which is currently operational. There is also a wide selection of water sports and desert adventures available on site, which includes sailing activities, boat trips, jet and water skiing, open water diving trips, and deep sea fishing trips. Desert Safariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with or without dinner, dune bashing and quad biking are also organised by the hotels. The resort also offers visitors who want to stay longer to simply purchase their own luxurious villa or apartment which overlooks the lagoons and marina of the resort. All properties present 100% freehold ownership, this also applies to overseas buyers, offering unique long and shortterm investment opportunities.

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS Saraya Islands The development is expected to have 200 villas and commercial venues on a one million sqm area encompassing three islands. The AED 1.83 billion project, expected to be completed in 2010, is being developed in a joint venture between the government of Ras Al Khaimah, Saraya Emirates and Arab Bank. Emirates Flag A AED 7 billion project being developed by High Rise Real Estate. The development will spread over 2.1 million sqm and will contain seven hotels. Banyan Tree Resort The Banyan Tree Resort is an outstanding serene encounter with the cultural and heritage roots in a breath taking location in the desert. The eco-tourism resort will extend over 10 million square feet with limited disturbance to the beauty of the surrounding environment. The Cove A mixed-used development, will offer 50 acres of beach front property, including furnished residences. The project is being developed by Orascon Hotels and Development. Film and Media City Free Zone

A free zone initiative developed by Mirage Holdings FZCO. The project will also include a shopping centre, villas, apartments, office space, a golf course and a polo field. Airport Business Park A US$272 million project spread over 480,000 sqm being developed by Taâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sees development and Al Aqariza Media Group. The Development will consist of commercial towers, residential towers, plus a hotel and cargo villas. George Mason University A reputable educational institution that opened its RAK Division in September 2005. The campus area is being built with a direct excess to the Emirates Road. This project is expected to be completed by 2009. Spaceport Space Adventures together with a Government of Ras Al Khaimah have announced plans to develop a commercial spaceport in Ras Al Khaimah. The project includes suborbital flights, a training centre and a museum with a total estimated cost of US$30 million. Jebal Al Jais Mountain Resort The project includes a development of outdoor ski slopes and supporting services.

The project will develop an 18-hole golf course in the city and a marina, which will feature residential and commercial towers, villas and a hotel. The development is scheduled to be completed by 2012. RAK Airways The new airline of Ras Al Khaimah will open the country to greater economic development and will specifically support all the growth initiatives in tourism and industry. RAK Airways which started operations in April 2007 with its Boeing 757200- will be a full service airline, offering affordable fares with generous baggage allowance for passengers to all its destinations. Negotiations are in progress for acquiring more aircrafts to be added to the fleet later this year. RAK Airways propose to undertake scheduled flights to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, CIS countries and charters to Europe. RAK International Airport, the home base for RAK Airways, will witness substantial upgrading of facilities in line with the development of the new airline. RAK Financial City A AED3 billion modern complex consisting of 12 towers, including office, residential and hotel towers.

More than Dh50 billion worth of projects are in various stages of planning and development in Ras Al Khaimah, all phased and due to be completed between 2010 to 2015.

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SPECIAL FEATURE I ITB BERLIN

Marjan Island Located 27 kilometres southwest of the town centre, Al Marjan Islands is the first man-made islands project to be developed in Ras Al Khaimah. The cluster of five islands extends over 27 million square feet and is worth over $1.8 billion. Land reclamation is expected to finish by end of 2007. La Hoya Bay, a sub-project within Marjan Island,

is expected to complete its first phase by December 2007. The complete project is expected to be ready by mid 2009. Al Majan Islands will be distributed over 60 plots and which shall be home to highest standard lifestyle extending from five state hotels and resorts to residential, retail and commercial facilities.

Real Estate Development Several large-scale projects are currently under development in Ras Al Khaimah. The projects are all phased and due to be completed by 2010 to 2015. Rakeen, the master planner for Ras Al Khaimah commenced operations in April 2006. Its name drives from the Arabic word for investment and built on the framework of sustainability, responsibility and prosperity. Rakeen as destination master planner will form the back bone of property development in Ras Al Khaimah. With plans to build 14 realty projects, Ras al Khaimah is spreading its wings and rapidly leading a bold drive to become a tourism and business destination par excellence with an attractive

Gateway City An integrated commercial and residential development due to be completed by 2012. The development is expected to include 50,000 residential units and a 50,000 sq. m. Exhibition and Convention Centre, supported by a hotel component.

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investment environment and a proactive government keen on attracting investment. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ras Al Khaimah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler, who headed the launch of Rakeen, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The launch of Rakeen is a great chance for us all to build a brilliant future for the UAE in general and for RAK in particular. Rakeen will be the new front for the new RAK which receives the visitor and tourist, and becomes the ideal environment for residents and investors to enjoy life and business.â&#x20AC;? Rakeen plans to develop an integrated world class infrastructure and is currently working on 14 real-estate developments including: Al Hamra Village - an extension of the existing Al Hamra Fort Hotel. The village is inspired by traditional Arabic building style and is expected to be completed in 2008. The development will offer 1,300 villas, town houses and apartments, a lagoon, 150-berth marina, 18-hole championship golf course and two luxury hotels.

FEATURE

Navigator Ahmad Ibn Majid

Shihab al-Din Ahmad ibn Majid al-Najdi, commonly known as Ibn Majid, was born in Ras Al Khaimah in the early 1430s and became renowned during the last half of that century. However, he spent most of his life in Muscat, which he described as the most well known port in the world of his era.

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One of the greatest and most illustrious Arab navigators of all times, Ibn Majid gained fame in the West as the one who guided Vasco da Gama, one of the most celebrated of medieval Portuguese explorers, to find his way from the east coast of Africa to India. His wide knowledge of the seas greatly impressed the Portuguese and, in their writings, they referred to him as the ‘Master of Astrological Navigation’. However, in the Arab and Muslim worlds his fame was much greater. He is still remembered as the most famous compiler of seafaring manuals. These were written in detailed technical terms and provided an accurate knowledge of the sea currents and winds, such as the monsoons, which for centuries, helped to carry vessels from the Arabian Peninsula and Africa to India. Called by the Arabs ‘The Lion of the Seas’, he has remained, for hundreds of years, the patron saint of Muslim mariners. Arab navigational skill has a long history. The world’s earliest navigational and geographical charts were developed by Canaanites who, probably simultaneously with the Egyptians, discovered the Atlantic Ocean. In the fields of the armillary sphere, they perfected the calendar, making it more accurate than the Gregorian, and invented or evolved older instruments to facilitate sailing the seas and trading with other countries in the known world of that time. During these centuries, the Arabs wrote many books about navigation and the sea. The last of these great

seafaring authors, called ‘the last great Arab captain of the sea’, was Ibn Majid who had an illustrious ancestry. Descended from a long line of navigators and scholars, he became interested in the sea at an early age. The son and grandson of professional navigators, he was educated by his father as to the ways of the sea. Along with his navigation skills, he also studied geography, astronomy, and Arabic literature. He memorized the Holy Koran and became a well-read man, familiar with ancient Arabic poetry, history, literature and other subjects. Ibn Majid authored many authoritative navigational studies, including some 40 works of poetry and prose, many of these relating to the seas. A good number incorporated earlier works of other seafarers such as the celebrated three 9th century captains, Layth ibn Kahlan, Muhammad ibn Shadhan and Sahl ibn Aban’, as well as those written by his own ancestors. However, these were improved on by the many years of his own experiences at sea. From among these works were his Hawiyat, a poem of some 1,082 verses, which is a genuine treasury of navigational theory. It deals with the signs of the proximity of land, the lunar mansions and rhumbs, the Polar and other stars, and the Indian Ocean and the latitudes of its harbors. No less important were his series of books named al-Urdjuza covering the same subjects. Perhaps, his most important work was his Kitab al-Fawa’id fi Usal ilm al-Bahar wa’l Qawa id (The Book of Profitable Things Concerning the First Principles and Rules of Navigation), which is written in a prose form and divided into 12 sections. Described as a ‘compendium of the known knowledge of theoretical and practical navigation’, the book covers such subjects as the origins and history of Arab navigation up to his time, compasses, the monsoons, naval routes and astronomical meteorology. It not only provides incomparable detail on the Indian Ocean, its landmarks, the routes to be used in crossing it, and the region’s chief ports, but in it he includes information on

islands such as Madagascar and the Comoros; and the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea, which he calls, ‘the most dangerous of all the seas in the world’. Except for a few corrections of latitude, the work has never been equaled, even in our own times, by any other sailing boats’ guidelines. He used a compass and maps never before seen by Europeans and became renowned in the West for guiding Vasco da Gama, some writers say by force, to India - opening this important route to Western seafarers and the ‘Age of Discovery’.

realizing the consequences of the Portuguese, repeated a fictitious tale that Ibn Majid must have been drunk when he agreed to show Da Gama the way to India. Ibn Majid’s rich contribution to the affairs of the sea benefited the sciences of geography and oceanography, especially in the Indian Ocean. Many important ocean ventures such as Magellan’s successful journey across the Indian Ocean are attributed to Ibn Majid’s guidance and nautical legacy. So great was Ibn Majid’s renown as an expert on the seas that more than

Ibn Majid authored many authoritative navigational studies, including some 40 works of poetry and prose, many of these relating to the seas. Da Gama, in 1498, sailing up the east coast of Africa in search of a pilot to take him across the Indian Ocean to India, was met with suspicion and hostility from the Arab traders and sailors. However, in the port of Malindi, he found Ibn Majid who was willing to guide him. A master of navigation in the region, his guidance of Da Gama, led to the downfall of Arab sea power in the Indian Ocean. In the ensuing centuries, Arab historians,

350 years after his death, Sir Richard Burton, when sailing in a ship out of Aden in 1854, witnessed sailors praying in his honor. A pioneer in the realm of navigation, his name is, and will remain, the pride of all ocean navigators. When he was gone, Arab navigational skills passed on to the Portuguese, and others, but before this happened, the Arabs had contributed much to world geography, navigation and trade.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

All roads lead to

ATM 2007

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the Middle East’s premier travel and tourism trade show will mark its 14th annual edition in Dubai beginning May 1st to 4th at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Flor B. Pamintuan checks what’s in store at this year’s event. 26 I Travel Arabia I May

The Arabian Travel Market, the region’s leading trade and consumer travel exhibition keeps getting better and bigger each year. Since its inception in 1994, every year is always a “Record Year”, not only in terms of visitors, exhibitors and delegates but more so in terms of major announcement. Be it a new hotel, a new island, a new travel gadget, a ski resort, a new service or a new destination, the ATM is always an ideal venue to showcase these. Most of the key players in the industry don’t miss this event because of the amount of coverage from the local, regional and international media. The four day event is a perfect and excellent platform to study and assess the huge potentials that this

This year, the total number of exhibitors expected is around 2,600 from 60 countries. The show will have over 114 first-time exhibitors, including destination management companies, Asian and European travel technology specialists, African and Asian health resorts and spas as well as travel and tour operators. Destinations making their debut include Croatia, Zimbabwe, Macau, Taiwan, Nigeria, Swaziland and Palestine, while participants from

Events, Reed Travel Exhibitions (RET), organiser of ATM. RET also helps in providing new venues for more deals. A preevent exhibitor workshop was held to introduce exhibitors to various business opportunities and the tools available to capitalise on them. “We want to work even more closely with our exhibitors to ensure their business objectives are fully realised,” said Richard Mortimore, Managing Director, Reed Travel Exhibition (RTE). “Arabian Travel Market has experienced tremendous growth over the years and is today ranked among

“Arabian Travel Market has experienced massive growth over the years and is today ranked among top global travel and tourism events” –Mark Walsh region has. Unlimited opportunities abound at ATM. This is the reason why every year, the number of floor space and buyers keep going up. Last year alone, the event recorded 1,750 exhibitors from 59 countries including 114 first time participants like Japan, Ireland, Russia and Poland. The 13th edition of the show attracted a record number of trade buyers from 99 countries, with total numbers reaching 11,674, a 10 percent increase from 2005. The significant increase is seen from North and South America, Asia and the Middle East which accounted for 83.3 per cent of the total number of buyers attending the exhibition.

China and Peru will participate in the show for the very first time. Most of the exhibitors from last year will be present, on a bigger scale this year, bringing more decision makers from the industry. New exhibitors include Pallazzo Versace, Banyan Tree, The Ascott Group, Mandarin Oriental and Baglioni Hotels. The UAE’s Jumeirah group will be exhibiting independently for the first time. “ATM 2007 is set to become the biggest and most comprehensive in its 14-year history and is on track to grow by 12 per cent over 2006. This year too we anticipate yet another power-packed, headline-making event with important announcements from regional and international hotels chains, airlines and other travel and tourism service providers,” said Mark Walsh, Exhibition Director, Overseas

top global travel and tourism events such as ITB in Berlin and World Travel Market in London. It is vital that new exhibitors in particular understand the opportunities offered by the event and how to maximise their business potential as well as optimise their return-on-investment.” This year’s ATM will continue to hold seminar programme, which will address some of the

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development currently estimated to be worth US$1 trillion,” he said. Other initiatives being introduced for Arabian Travel Market 2007 include an enhanced media centre sponsored by the Dubai Summer Surprises, working closely with the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) on ways of alleviating parking congestion, partnering ATM ground handler Net Tours on improving hotel-venue transfers for international visitors, among others. “The new initiatives reflect RTE’s commitment to ensuring that Arabian Travel Market unlocks the business potential within the Middle East and the Pan Arab region,” said Walsh. “Arabian Travel Market has experienced massive growth over the years and is today ranked among top global travel and tourism events. Since the event began, it has grown tremendously and the most notable aspect of the show is its growth in size, exhibitor and visitor profile and international footprint and comprehensive range of product and services.” “As the only international travel and tourism event in Middle East, ATM aims at partnering the regional industry in its growth. The massive investments being made by nearly all the regional countries and the major

hottest topics currently impacting the local, regional and international travel and tourism industry. The seminar has 12 informative sessions featuring international speakers from leading travel and tourism organisations such as PATA, Costa Cruises, Virgin Galactic, Easy Hotels, Eurosport, and publishers Motivate Publishing and NPI Media, as well as international consultancy FutureBrand. “The ATM Seminar programme is carefully put together and the topics

Destinations making their debut include Croatia, Zimbabwe, Macau, Taiwan, Nigeria, Swaziland and Palestine, while participants from China and Peru will participate in the show for the very first time. that will be addressed at this year’s event reflect some of important issues and trends in the travel industry,” added Walsh. The titles of some of the seminars at ATM 2007 include Country As A Brand - the ultimate marketing challenge; Engaging the National Psyche for Delivery; Service Recovery; The “Budget” Hotel market and the challenges and benefits of doing business in the Middle East; The new trend of cruising and cruises; Sports and Tourism - A winning Team; and 10

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years of Travel E-commerce. Rob Nicholas, Director at Dubai-based Nicholas Publishing International (NPI), which produces nine meetings industry publications will chair a panel discussion dedicated to understanding the Middle East’s meetings industry and breaking down the acronym ‘MICE’ into its distinct components. “The discussion aims to provide a thorough and complete understanding of the MICE acronym - discussing each sector separately - and how it will augment regional tourism

tourism developments coming up guarantee that the Middle East will continue to remain one of the most talked about regions worldwide.” Arabian Travel Market is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and under the auspices of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

New Player

Leading Chinese inbound wholesaler debuts at ATM

The semi-government-owned Top China Travel (TCT), China’s leading B2B inbound travel wholesaler, will make its Middle East exhibition debut at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2007 to seize a share of outbound tourism from the region which it forecasts will rise by 20 per cent this year. “Middle East tourists are highly sought after worldwide due to their higher spending capacity, larger group size as well as average length of stay. We expect tourism from the region to China to really take off as people are increasingly becoming aware of the various attractions the country has to offer,” said Xiaoping Cheng, Sales Director, TCT. TCT is planning to launch luxury travel packages at ATM 2007 and is confident of a positive response. “We believe regional visitors will enjoy China’s rich and diverse experiences,” added Cheng. “China has a 5000-year old culture, historical places, breath-taking natural scenery and of course the internationally renowned cuisine that includes Cantonese, Shanghainese, Peking, Szechuan and Hunan.” Two other Chinese tour operators, Beijing Top View Holiday Travel Service and IslamChina Tours, will also be at ATM 2007. China’s increased ATM presence comes as air links between the Middle East and the People’s Republic grow. Already served by Emirates and Qatar Airways, Middle East-China air links have been given a boost with news that state carrier China Southern Airlines is starting a new service from Dubai to the southern city of Guangzhou to add to its existing thrice-weekly DubaiBeijing service.

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New Hotel The Palace, The Old Town opens in Downtown Burj Dubai Sofitel, the most prestigious of the Accor hotel brands continues its expansion in the Middle East with the opening of The Palace, The Old Town this summer. The opening is Sofitel’s major announcement at this year’s Arabian Travel Market. “We will be participating exclusively and for the first time at the ATM this year,” says Jean-Philippe Bittencourt, General Manager, The Palace. “As we have not yet formally announced the opening of our new luxurious property, the ATM comes at a perfect time and is the ideal

platform for us to make this important announcement. “Perfectly complementing the upand-coming Downtown Burj Dubai development by Emaar Properties, The Palace embodies the exceptional standards set by the Sofitel brand in its design, facilities and service. We anticipate a very successful first ATM and are excited about establishing ourselves as a symbol of the region’s luxury hospitality.” The Palace forms the centrepiece of the Downtown Burj Dubai and offers unobstructed views of Burj Dubai.

Attraction

Palatial in every sense, the property recalls the ‘1001 nights’ tales with its high vaulted ceilings, oriental sculptures and regal setting on The Old Town Island. The 242 guest rooms and suites are spacious and tastefully decorated with balconies and direct views of the Burj Dubai lake and The Old Town Island. The 81 suites have apartments ranging from 700 to over 1,000 square feet while the Imperial Suite is over 5,000 square feet, boasting four apartments on two floors. To enhance guests’ memorable experience, The Palace provides additional services including a Butler assigned to every room, Guest Relation service on each floor, limousine service to the airport or main shopping areas and wireless internet access in all rooms. The hotel’s prime location on The Old Town Island allows for easy access to The Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping and entertainment destinations in the world with an amazing ‘souk de l’or’ and long walkway flanked by an aquarium and Olympic size ice rink. Guests can even enjoy a ride on the traditional abra service to Downtown Burj Dubai, relax on close proximity white sandy beaches and tee-off at a nearby golf course. The Polo Club and Ski Dubai also remain favourable nearby attractions. The Palace, The Old Town will be exhibiting at stand number GV249.

Etihad to bring Formula 1 Visitors to the Etihad Airways stand at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will be thrilled by the display of a life-size replica of the Spyker team Formula 1 car. In conjunction with its lead sponsorship of the Spyker F1 team, Etihad will have the car on its stand throughout the ATM. Etihad will also have live demonstrations for its innovative and award-winning diamond zone (first class) and pearl zone (business class) seats as well as showcasing its forthcoming destinations to Dublin and Milan.

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Geert Boven, Etihad Airways’ EVP sales and services, said, “The past year has seen the tremendous growth and development of Etihad continue, and we are looking forward to sharing that with the thousands of visitors to the ATM. The Formula 1 car will also add to the excitement on the Etihad stand as will our interactive displays and state-of-the-art product.” Etihad continues to expand its international network of destinations, and this year has already launched flights to the Malaysian capital Kuala

Lumpur and Australia’s commercial capital Sydney. In addition to the forthcoming launches to Dublin and Milan, Etihad will also soon start flying to the enormously popular southern Indian cities of Kochi (Cochin) and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). Senior members of Etihad management will attend the ATM, including H.H. Dr. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saif Al Nahyan, chairman of Etihad Airways and Etihad’s chief executive James Hogan. Etihad Airways will be exhibiting at stand UAE 137, in Hall 1.

Media

Centre “Additionally, the ‘Visit Japan’ campaign launched in 2003 aims to attract 10 million foreign tourists to Japan each year. We have already noticed figures for visitors to Japan from this region have doubled in the last four years, and our aim for ATM 2007 is to continue our successful new focus of promoting Japan as a luxury destination for high-spending individuals.” The JTB Asia Tourist Corp. will present a number of high-end resort and holiday packages at ATM 2007 available for the traveller looking for a unique personal experience of the heritage of Japan. Superior accommodation in castles and traditional Japanese hotels called ‘Ryokans’ will be highlighted. In particular, the impeccable Ryokan “Yoshida Sanso” in Kyoto will be a focus, introducing regional travellers to the gracious luxury of traditional Japanese hospitality. Yoshida Sanso is the former villa of the uncle of the current Emperor Akihito, and is a fusion of dignity and simplicity in the Japanese style. “We have increased our presence at ATM after a successful result in 2006, bringing with us more industry partners to showcase the support network we have in place for Middle East tour operators, airlines and holiday makers to ensure their visit to Japan is one of unmatched excellence and quality.” Also presenting at ATM 2007, as part of the Japanese pavilion, is Kinki International (KNT) - one of the leading travel companies in Japan. KNT specialises in destination management and provides a wide range of capabilities from incentive tours, international conferences, sporting and cultural events and special interest tours.

DSS sponsors ATM media centre

Dubai Summer Surprises, the region’s leading family entertainment and shopping summer-event, is the sponsor of the media centre at the Arabian Travel Market 2007 for the second successive year. The sponsorship of the media centre at Arabian Travel Market 2007 is one among the many initiatives undertaken by the DSS Office to promote Dubai Summer Surprises regionally and globally. Earlier this year, DSS participated in two renowned international tourism fairs - the International Tourism Exchange (ITB-2007) in Berlin, Germany, and the Moscow International Travel and Tourism (MITT

Visit Japan

2007) exhibition.

The Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East (JCCME) celebrates its second year of participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2007 with an increased partnership presence, highlighting the strategic importance of the region to both inbound and Japan to increase outbound Japanese industry operators. JAL Hotels, a member of Nikko investmentt in Middle East hospitality industry Hotels International, will announce the launch of three new major hotel developments across the Middle East, while the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) and Nippon Travel Agency (NTA) will underline the increasing number of Middle Eastern leisure travellers to Japan as a preferred luxury and cultural holiday destination. “Over 16 million Japanese travel overseas annually, representing a key growth market for the Middle Eastbased hospitality industry,” said Kenichi Sawaguchi, Senior Director, Planning & Project, JCCME.

Shopping Festival and Dubai Summer Surprises to

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Commenting on the sponsorship, Saeed Al Nabouda, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Summer Surprises said, “The DSS/DSF Office actively participates in major travel and tourism exhibitions like the Arabian Travel Market to promote Dubai a global audience. Sponsoring the media centre at ATM 2007 gives us the opportunity to interact with regional and international media and enables us to attract potential visitors by providing information on the grand celebrations, raffle draws, and family entertainment activities that will be held during this year’s Dubai Summer Surprises.” “The communication facilities provided in the media centre allow journalists to send stories internationally, ensuring daily coverage for the event across the world. The ATM media centre provides a unique opportunity for any brand to reach out to global audiences ensuring unrivalled exposure and maximum returns on this investment, which would otherwise need much more time and effort to get the same results,” said Mark Walsh, Group Exhibition Director of Reed Travel Exhibition, the event organiser.

On the

right track

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The travel and tourism sector in the UAE grew by 5 per cent which is better than the overall 4.5 per cent growth internationally. The increase is attributed to the strong and intensive promotional campaigns focusing on the country’s rich heritage, natural resources and high-class hospitality. FLOR B. PAMINTUAN looks into the current state of this industry.

The United Arab Emirates has become an increasingly favorite destination to many tourists from around the world who want to experience both old and new – traditions combined with the latest technology, crimefree environment and top-quality hospitality. International arrivals to the UAE continue to grow and hotels recorded an unprecedented increase in occupancy. Data released by the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) revealed that Dubai reportedly scored a world record when its hotel occupancy and revenues hit its highest at 85 per cent in January this year, surpassing the world’s most visited cities like Hong Kong, Sydney, Tokyo and London. The increase was brought about by the UAE’s strong promotional campaigns focusing on the country’s extensive coastline, sandy beaches, cultural heritage, Bedouin markets, the legendary duty-free shopping, safety and security, attractions and a wide variety of activities that tourists can indulged in. The UAE has also become a much-sought after venue for conferences, major sports events, as well as regional and international exhibitions because of its location, serving a link between Europe and the Indian subcontinent as well as the Far East and Africa. Thus, the UAE has been recognized as one of the world’s leading destinations for both business and leisure travellers.

attractions, frequently attending international travel fairs as well as organizing travel and tour agents visit to the UAE to experience the famous Arabian hospitality. By the year 2010, the emirate of Dubai is expected to receive 15 million visitors a year. Abu Dhabi is planning to increase tourism from almost a million in 2004 to more than three million by 2015. While Dubai is promoting its shopping facilities, Abu Dhabi, on the other hand, is thriving on the cultural aspect to attract its visitors. In addition to the Guggenheim Museum, Abu Dhabi is set to build its own version of the famous Louvre in Paris. The project will be built on the island of Saadiyat, the largest single mixed-use natural island development in the Arabian Gulf. Ras Al Khaimah is promoting the destination for those who want to try something different. Some of the new tourism projects in Ras Al Khaimah include the Al Hamra Palace, Banyan Tree Resort, Rotana and Marriott Hotels, and the Al Marjan Island and Mina Al Arab projects. The emirates of Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain have all laid out their strategic plans in a further move to boost the tourism economy.

Development Projects

At present, countless and diverse development projects are underway throughout the emirates. Reportedly, about 20 per cent of the world’s construction cranes are in Dubai because of the continuing construction activities. Large property developers are behind several multi-billion dirham projects that are expected to give a greater boosts to the UAE’s tourism industry. Such projects include the Palm, hailed to be the 8th Wonder of the World, located on a man-made island off the coast of Dubai; the Burj Dubai, which when completed will be the world’s tallest building; and Dubailand, a theme park project, which is Dubai’s answer to Disneyland and is created to encourage visitors to spend more time and money here. Tourism organizations in all the emirates are actively marketing their own special

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Marina Hotel and Residence, the Emirates Green Lakes and other facilities abroad. More hotels are expected to open during the next few years to meet the strong demand.

Ongoing Airport Expansion

Booming Hotel Industry

The hotel industry is also experiencing real growth. Dubai hotels, totaling 414 last year, offering 40,862 rooms, reportedly attracted 6.5 million guests against 6.1 million in 2005. Report from the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) showed that hotel guests reached an 11 per cent growth totaling 3.9 million last year compared to 3.5 million in 2005.The number of hotel guests in Sharjah reached 1.31 million last year compared to 1.29 million in 2005, according to the Sharjah Commerce and

Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA). This year, Dubai expects to have 11,000 new rooms while Abu Dhabi is planning to add additional 17,000 hotel rooms, mostly to cater to the increasing number of travellers. Sharjah’s hotel rooms also increased to 3,237 in 2006 from 2,797 in 2005. Large international chains are establishing luxurious hotels in the UAE. The innovative and chic ‘W’ brand makes its first entry into the Middle East as part of the Marsa Al Khor precinct in the Dubai Festival City. The Four Seasons, the world’s most exclusive and luxurious global

Dubai International Airport last year handled a total of 28.789 million passengers, of whom 14.108 million were arrivals and 13.817 million were departures. There were 864,000 transit passengers, according to the Dubai Statistics Centre. With the ongoing expansion at the Dubai International Airport, it is expected that it will cater for nearly 70 million passengers a year. The new facility will be 10 times the size of the current airport and Dubai Cargo Village combined. The airport will have six parallel runways all of 4.5 kilometres in length and separated by a minimum of 800 metres and a 92 metre high control tower – the highest in the Middle East – the ’flower concept’

This year, Dubai expects to have 11,000 new rooms while Abu Dhabi is planning to add additional 17,000 hotel rooms, mostly to cater to the increasing number of travellers. luxury hotel brand, has found its first home in the UAE. Marriott, the US hotel chain also manages several hotels in the UAE including JW Marriott Hotel, the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Renaissance Dubai Hotel, The Courtyard and Marriott Executive Apartments in Dubai. Emirates Airlines, the second biggest Arab carrier, is reportedly investing Dh2.7 billion in developing its hotel portfolio which will be managed by its newly-established Emirates Hotels and Resorts division. The hotel projects include a DH1.8 billion Emirates Park Towers, a DH518 million Emirates

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icon design of which will create an aviation landmark for the region. The control tower will be fully equipped with the latest in avionics and navigational aids. There will be two terminals the first dedicated to the services of airlines within the Emirates Group, the second catering to other regional and international carriers. A third, highly functional terminal is earmarked for low cost charter airlines. Dedicated facilities are earmarked for executive jet operators. The airport will also boast hotels and shopping malls, support facilities and state-ofthe-art maintenance facilities which will create a regional

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Emirates Airlines, the international airline of the UAE has evolved into a globally influential travel and tourism conglomerate since its launch in October 1985.

maintenance hub capable of A, B and C checks on all aircraft, including the A380. The Abu Dhabi International Airport is the focus of a US$6.8 billion redevelopment programme that will increase passenger capacity from 7 to 20 million by 2010. The Airport expansion programme is one aspect of a full-fledged Government strategy that will see the capital emirate emerge as a major business and tourist centre. The programme will cater to the rapid growth of Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE. By April 2008, a new 4,100metre runway will become operational, which will be

able to accommodate the new generation of wide-bodied aircraft, including the Airbus A380. The same period will also see the inauguration of a third terminal, with an annual capacity of five million passengers which will enable the airport to meet Etihad’s growth until the new Midfield terminal complex (MTC) is completed. MTC, the centre piece of the redevelopment programme, will increase the airport’s overall capacity to up to 20 million by 2010. The capacity of the new terminal can be increased to a maximum of 40 million passengers to cope with the demand.

Airlines See Continued Growth

With the current status of travel and tourism in the UAE, the emirates national air carriers have devised their own promotional campaigns to attract and receive a fair share of the traveling market. Air Arabia, the first and only low-fares airlines in the Middle East and North Africa is based

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in Sharjah International Airport. Established in 2003, customers of Air Arabia enjoy the benefits of quick access to Dubai, fast checkin processes, low congestion, friendly airport staff and access to many other commercial carriers served at the airport. Its main focus is to make air travel more convenient and frequent through internet booking and offers the lowest fares in the market without sacrificing on service and safety standards. Through their value proposition, “Pay less. Fly more.” Air Arabia enables customers to

make the smart travel choice; those who have been unable to afford air travel in the past to start travelling throughout the region and those who do travel to do so more frequently, benefiting both business and leisure travellers. Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the UAE, is changing the way people see the world. Passengers of the airline are treated as guests, thus, cabins are called Guest Zones with Diamond Zone (First Class), Pearl Zone (Business Class) and the Coral Zone (Economy Class), each offering exclusive service and designed to make guests feel welcome and completely at home. Currently, Etihad offers flights to 38 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia, the latest being Sydney, Australia. Since Etihad took to the skies in November 2003, all their efforts have been concentrated on achieving what they set out to achieve — building a truly 21st century airline that redefines airline hospitality and offers unparalleled levels of hospitality in the skies. According to the airline’s website, Emirates’ current order book stands at more than 100

The United Arab Emirates target of attracting millions of visitors is definitely achievable. There may be delays in some ongoing projects but the government is keen on implementing its plans. Statistics provided by the different tourism agencies and bureaus clearly shows that the UAE is set to conquer the world’s travel and tourism industry.

aircraft, with a total value of approximately US$30 billion. The airline’s extensive expansion plans include additions to the fleet, non-stop flights, new double daily services and destinations, and increase in the number of flights. In the first quarter of 2007, Emirates will receive the first of its 45 A380s on order. Currently responsible for more than 50 per cent of all flight movements in and out of Dubai International Airport, Emirates’ aim is to increase this tally to 70 per cent by 2010, without compromising quality. The airline currently flies to 87 destinations in 59 countries around the world and the network is expanding constantly. Nearly 550 flights fly out of Dubai per week covering five continents. RAK Airways, the fourth national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in Ras Al Khaimah, is set to launch its operation this year. RAK Airways will support the economic development of the Emirate of Ras al Khaimah as it embarks upon an ambitious expansion programme including the development of economic free zones to attract businesses as well as residential, leisure and tourism projects. RAK Airways will operate both charter and scheduled services to meet the demand of the various markets that the airline will serve. The airline will provide a high level of service to passengers whether scheduled or charter, aligned with the best service standards in the industry. This will open up the possibility of co-operation with other world class airlines in the future to widen the passenger’s choice, the website said.

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World class tourist destination

Tourism is always a key component of growth and with the government of the United Arab Emirates embarking on several ambitious but achievable plans, the future of the tourism and travel industry in this country looks promising. Travel Arabia reviews ongoing and upcoming tourism projects that will continue to generate income for the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy.

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Dubai The World

An all-year round sun shine, historical and archaeological sites, warm waters, a safe environment, top class hotels, high standard shopping facilities, duty-free shopping, and excellent sport activities for visiting tourists. These are some of the ingredients that make the United Arab Emirates one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world. The demand to satisfy both business and leisure travellers here resulted to a massive construction activities – shopping malls, luxury hotels, residential buildings, restaurants, sports facilities, themed park and cultural venues - all in large scales, often described as “cities within a city” and most are being built simultaneously.

Tourism contributes around 18 per cent of Dubai’s direct gross domestic product and 29 per cent of its indirect GDP. This comes as a result of the tremendous efforts exerted by the government to promote tourism. The Palm islands in Dubai are the three largest artificial islands in the world. The islands, The Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Jebel Ali and The Palm Deira, were commissioned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in order to increase Dubai’s tourism. Often described as the Eight Wonder of the World, the islands are in the shape of date palms, topped with a crescent and will have a large number of residential, leisure and entertainment. Some of the upcoming properties that will be built on the island are Moevenpick, Fairmont, Radisson SAS, Hilton, Metropolitan, Shangri La, One & Only, Trump International Hotel & Tower and Atlantis hotels. The World, another Nakheel Properties project (an investment of more than Dh3 billion) is a cluster of 300 man-made islands shaped like a map of the world. Located off the coast of Dubai, The World offers investors an unprecedented investment opportunity in the form of leisure, residential or tourist developments and due for completion in 2010. Further along from the Burj Dubai Downtown complex is the Business Bay developments. Being developed by Dubai

Intercontinental Dubai Festival City

BusinessBay Properties, the project aims to meet the growing demand for commercial space and will house commercial towers beside an artificial waterway. Launched in 2005 the project is expected to be completed in 2010. Dubai’s Business Bay will be similar in nature to Manhattan or Ginza, which are the business centres for the cities of New York and Tokyo. The Business Bay projects include The Executive Towers comprise of 11 towers: nine residential towers, one commercial tower known as Aspect Tower; and one hotel called the Business Bay Hotel. The Bawadi, a Dh100 billion hospitality and tourism development project will see the construction of the world’s largest hotel and will also feature the largest concentration of leading hotels anywhere in the world. The project is to be developed and managed by Tatweer, a member of Dubai Holding. Bawadi will add an additional 31 hotels to the Emirate over the next eight years, nearly doubling the current number of hotel rooms in Dubai. Centerpiece of the development will be the world’s largest hotel, Asia-Asia, which alone will provide 6,500 rooms, combining 5,100 four star and an additional 1,400 five star rooms. Tatweer will develop a series of luxurious theme-based hotels such as the Desert Gate Hotels & Resorts, the Wahat Alkuttab Hotels, the Desert Beach Hotel & Resort, the Land of Arabia Hotels & Resorts, the Wild Wild West Hotels, the Africa World Hotels, the Europa Hotels & Resorts and the Pirate’s Cove Hotels & Resorts. The hotel projects will be developed in five distinct phases to scale with the growth of the

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The Burj Dubai, whose final height remains a secret, will be the tallest building in the world when it is completed in 2008. Currently set at 123 floors at 436.1 meters high, it is Emaar Properties’ most ambitious project within the UAE. Burj Dubai is part of the Downtown Burj Dubai development which comprises The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest entertainment and shopping mall; The Old Town, a low-rise traditional residences community inspired by Arabian architecture; The Old Town Island; Burj Dubai Square; The Lofts; Burj Dubai Lake Hotel and Serviced Apartments; and Burj Dubai Boulevard. Burj Dubai will house an exclusive Armani Hotel, hundreds of exclusive apartments and prestigious offices, high class restaurants and gyms inside the building.

The Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai will also open in mid 2007 in the Golden Sands area of Dubai. The Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai will offer 252 oversized rooms, designed with the Middle Eastern traveller in mind.

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tourism in-flow to Dubai. Initially five luxury hotels will open by 2010 with a further six to open by 2011. Seven hotels will be completed by 2012, seven in 2013 and the final fifth phase will see six further hotels opened in 2014. Dubai Festival City, a multi-billion dirham development is expected to be completed in 2015. The landmark 2.1 million square foot urban retail resort combining Festival Waterfront Centre and Festival Power Centre forms the epicentre of Dubai Festival City and is one of the UAE’s most exciting retail, dining and leisure destinations. Comprising some of the world’s leading hotel management brands, Dubai Festival City will have over 2,500 rooms, catering to every taste. This includes the InterContinental Dubai Festival City. At 36-floors high, the InterContinental Dubai Festival City property will boast 501 exquisitely designed rooms, including 120 suites, three Presidential Suites and one Royal Suite. The Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City has been designed directly above the stateof-the-art conference centre, reinforcing the Crowne Plaza brand as the ‘Place to Meet’. The 316-room property, including 16 suites and 2 Presidential suites, presents an ideal location for business travellers.

The innovative W boutique hotel brand makes its first entry into the Middle East as part of the Marsa Al Khor district of Dubai Festival City. ‘W’ Dubai Festival City is due to open in the last quarter of 2008. Four Seasons, the world’s most exclusive luxury hotel brand, has found its first home in the UAE within Dubai Festival City. The stunning 375 room waterside hotel is due to open in the 2nd quarter of 2009. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc is set to re-launch the Four Points brand with the upcoming opening of two new Four Points hotels. The Four Points by Sheraton, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai will be housed in a multi-story glass and steel building with 43 floors. Opening in mid 2007, the hotel will offer 406 guest rooms, consisting of 288 guest rooms and suites plus 118 one, two and threebedroom units for long staying guests. The Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai will also open in mid 2007 in the Golden Sands area of Dubai. The Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai will offer 252 oversized rooms, designed with the Middle Eastern traveller in mind. The hotels are owned by Golden Sands Hotels LLC, a subsidiary of the Arenco Group, a Dubaibased company with diverse interests in real estate, including hotels. Marriott International will manage a new Renaissance-branded hotel at Dubai Marina under an agreement reached with Bay Central Developments Phase 2 Ltd. The 300-room hotel is scheduled to open in 2010. The Renaissance Dubai Marina Hotel will be part of a 1 million-square foot, mixed use development known as Bay Central that also includes two residential towers and about 3,000-square meters of retail space. The project is located in the Jurmeirah section of Dubai along a 3.5 kilometer man-made lagoon between the Jumeirah Beach Residences development to the west and Sheikh Zayed Road to the east. Phase 1 of Dubai Marina has opened with luxury apartments, a 400-berth marina and several restaurants. The Marriott International portfolio in Dubai currently consists of the JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, the Renaissance Dubai Hotel, the Courtyard by Marriott Green Community, the Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai, the Marriott Executive Apartments Green Community and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Dubai.

Yas Island

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the largest and the richest of the emirates is now emerging as a must-see destination in the region. The tourism industry in Abu Dhabi last year generated Dh8.68 billion in revenue from 1.35 million hotel guests, representing a per capita average spend of Dh6, 429.62 per visit, according to government statistics. The UAE’s capital has 10,000 guest rooms - a capacity expected to grow by 60 per cent in two years and 150 per cent by 2015.

A Special Island Perhaps the biggest and one of the most development opportunities in Abu Dhabi is the Saadiyat Island, being developed by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC). The Dh100 billion (US$27 billion) project which is expected to be completed in 2018 will be developed in three phases. The project is the largest single mixed-use island development in the Arabian Gulf. The master plan includes six individual districts and includes 29 hotels,

Today, more and more visitors are discovering this unique destination and multi-billion dirham projects are underway to attract both business and leisure travellers. The inauguration in 2005 of the Emirates Palace, a gigantic luxurious hotel built in the shape of a royal palace, has revealed the standards set by Abu Dhabi when it comes to service provided to its visitors. One huge project that the world should keep an eye in Abu Dhabi is the YAS Island, one of the largest natural islands in the area, and will be a prestigious world-class leisure destination, with mixed-use tourist attractions including beaches, entertainment, shopping, hotels, residences, golfing, equestrian facilities and motor racing. The US$40 billion project with a projected completion date for the first part of 2008 and total completion by 2014 will combine the many natural attractions of an island with the world’s most popular leisure activities. Ferrari World will be a major highlight, through ALDAR’s rights to a Ferrari-themed park, museum and theatre. These attractions are linked to a top quality motor race track on which visitors can experience the thrill of the exclusive Ferrari Driving School (Pilota Ferrari), kart track and dune buggies. Qasr Al Sarab, a luxurious five-star Arabian tourism resort to be built in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert in the Empty Quarter is another project which will help enhance the UAE’s economic and tourism

including an iconic 7-star property, three marinas with combined berths for around 1,000 boats, two golf courses, civic and leisure facilities and elite villas. Saadiyat Island will be home to the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi - at 30,000 square feet, the world’s largest Guggenheim contemporary art museum. It will also house the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The 24,000 square metre Louvre Abu Dhabi, which will have 6,000 square metres of galleries devoted to permanent displays and

TDIC Grand Corniche position. Qasr Al Sarab, built seven kilometres from the main Hamim Highway crossing the Empty Quarter, Rub Al Khali, the famous desert region, will be developed by the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC), the development arm of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA). The retreat, will be located 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and will boast a five-star hotel with 150 rooms and 50 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom villas, a luxury health spa, conference centre, adjoining excursion and

2,000 square metres for temporary exhibitions, is expected to open in 2012. The galleries will open to the public in successive phases. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of several iconic museums, including a performing arts centre, a

Sheikh Zayed National Museum, a Maritime Museum, and a Biennale Park with 19 pavilions, that will be situated in Saadiyat Island, making Abu Dhabi the world’s largest cultural destination. Leading architects, including Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Tado Andao and Jean Nouvel were commissioned for the concept designs for all the Cultural District’s components.

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The Lagoon Club

tented villages, a children’s playground and an observatory. Construction of the resort is due to begin in May and is scheduled for completion within two years. TDIC also partnered with Mazrui Holding Company Limited to build a new landmark beach resort, convention centre and office/residential complex – The Lagoon Club Hotel and Residences - on the city’s signature Corniche. Conceptualized by award-winning Broadway Malyan, one of Europe’s most successful architectural firms, The Lagoon Club, which will be just east of the capital’s existing Hilton Abu Dhabi property, has been designed

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as a striking, contemporary structure aimed at setting innovative standards of architectural excellence. It will be built at a cost of Dh1.4 billion (US $400 million). The Abu Dhabi Lagoon Club will boast a 380-room, five-star hotel to be managed by Conrad Hotels, the luxury brand within the Hilton Family, 80 furnished apartments, a premium office building, 3,500 square metres of retail, parking for 1,800 cars, an expansive convention centre and health club and spa all set around a spectacular central lagoon. Construction work on The Lagoon Club is due for completion in September 2009 A major new waterfront destination with

the redevelopment of the city’s previous Tourist Club site into a world-class tourism, residential and commercial shoreline hub is ‘The Quay’, to be built by Khor Abu Dhabi Property Development LLC. Spanning 1.5 million square feet, ‘The Quay’ has been master planned by Australia’s award-winning The Cox Group – renowned designers who have undertaken major waterfront projects in Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, China and South Africa. A mixed-use development with leisure, residential and commercial facets, The Quay, which will be only minutes from Abu Dhabi’s business centre, will feature a 620-room fivestar Hotel. The destination will also boast a new lifestyle retail centre housing Abu Dhabi’s first aquarium, gated residential community of around 400 leased luxury apartments, and 592,000 square feet of quayside office space housed in two, 20-storey towers. A 60-berth active marina will be central to a public promenade which will be animated by a waterfront entertainment and food precinct with a range of fashionable, harbour-view cafés and restaurants. Construction of The Quay is to commence shortly and is expected to take three years to complete. Abu Dhabi is set to get an iconic downtown landmark with plans for the five-star Grand Corniche Hotel designed to cater to the emirate’s burgeoning business and leisure traveller sectors. The 35-storey property has been designed by Singapore’s Surbana Consultant Pte Ltd to reflect Abu Dhabi’s maritime heritage. It will be built by Bin Salem Group, a UAE company based in Abu Dhabi under a lease for the 4,800 square metre site in the fashionable Khalidiya agreed with the TDIC. To be built at an approximate cost of AED 370 million (US $100 million), the Grand Corniche Hotel is scheduled to open in Dec 2009. To be made entirely of glass, the sleek tower design is reminiscent of a stately racing dhow – the traditional Arab sailing vessel. To be managed by an international operator yet to be appointed, the Grand Corniche Hotel will have 349 rooms and 90 suites, 144 serviced apartments with a mix of one and two bedroom units and 3,600 metres of shopping arcade set on a retail podium. Four basement floors will be given over to car parking.

Nothern Emirates

The northern emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, are all developing and expanding their infrastructures to facilitate residential and tourism development.

Nujoom Islands, also referred to as Stars Islands, is the largest commercial, residential and tourism development project in the city of Sharjah. It will cover 60 million square feet (5.6 million square meters) of coastal land on the northeastern coast of Sharjah, along the shores of the Arabian Gulf, 9.32 miles (15 kilometers) from the center of Sharjah. It will be accessible from the Ettihad Road, which crosses the southern side of the project, and the Emirates Road, which connects to the project through an 8 kilometer strip. The AED 18 billion (US$ 4.9 billion) project will be built in three stages, over a period of 5 years, near the village of Hamriya. Nujoom Islands will increase Hamriya’s coastal area by 18.64 miles (30 kilometers) with its extensive waterway system. 60 per cent of its area will be landscaped with beaches, gardens, parks, and roads, while the remaining 40 per cent will contain structures. It will consist of 13 sectors of land, the first three will represent the outer mainland of the project, and the remaining ten will be 10 islands separated by well-designed water channels. The three mainland sectors will connect to Sharjah and overlook the water channels. The 10 islands will be connected by bridges and will contain 40 high-rise towers for residential and commercial purposes, 145 apartment buildings, four hotels, two resorts, and 1,400 water-front and park-side villas, five marine clubs, a large commercial center including a hypermarket, nine smaller commercial centers, two entertainment centers and six centers for light industries. Nujoom Islands will also include several mosques, schools, banks, stores, coffee shops and restaurants and will accommodate over 40,000 residents. Nujoom Islands is being built by Saudibased real estate company Al Hanoo Holding Company, which is also the company behind Sharjah’s Emirates Industrial City. The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has chosen European hospitality leader, Accor, under its international brand NOVOTEL, as the operator for the Expo Centre Sharjah hotel, that will be built and developed as a centrepiece within the emirate’s planned “Expo City”. Expo Centre Sharjah, the exhibitions wing of the SCCI, will commence construction of the hotel building by end of 2007 and expects to

hand over the property to NOVOTEL for full operation by December 2009. Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre hotel facilities will provide a refreshing alternative to 5-star hotel accommodation in the UAE with a value for money approach and at the same time ensure that every care is taken to make the stay of its guests, both globe trotting business executives and leisure travellers, comfortable, enjoyable, and relaxing. The 15-floor hotel will feature 200 tastefully decorated rooms including 12-15 highly personalised suites. The imposing hotel tower will connect to an adjoining fully functional 12-storey office facility that will offer 11,600 sq. m. of leasable space. Ajman lies just 20 kilometres north of Dubai International Airport, and has the fastest growing population of all the emirates. The government has taken many steps in recent years to implement a solid infrastructure, and has succeeded in developing certain sectors of its economy with a growing free zone industrial area and a strategically located port. Ajman Investment and Development Authority (AIDA), the government body behind the development of Ajman, has unveiled a semi-governmental company charged with developing its burgeoning realestate potential and its first project Ajman 1, a 72,000 square metre mixed-use development that will act as a prime gateway into the emirate for residential, business and tourism sectors. Ajman 1 is expected to be home to 6000 residents who will live in the 12 towers making up the core of the development.

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Fujairah holds a unique position as it is located on the East Coast among the Gulf of Oman. The emirate is blessed by a series of mountains, white sandy beaches, water sports and intriguing culture with many historical sites. Fujairah tourism industry will spend around Dh3 billion in the next five years as it pushes its plans to lure visitors. Several projects are ongoing in this emirate to promote the city as a tourist destination. Recently, the Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa opened to the public. Nestled between the Hajar Mountain and the Indian Ocean with lush tropical landscape, the Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa in Al Aqah Beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy. The colonial design of the 250 guest rooms and suites blends local architecture with a graceful palazzo-style estate, in a setting of spectacular rolling hills, and iridescent sculptured lakes. Hotel JAL Fujairah Resort & Spa is another property that is scheduled to open this year. Located along the scenic coastline of Dibba, all of the 257 guest rooms overlook the ocean and a 540-meter long white sandy beach. The hotel will be equipped with a multi-purpose hall, indoor and outdoor children’s recreation room, indoor diving pool, outdoor swimming pool, fitness facilities and spa. In addition, to

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accommodate guests who seek an active vacation, a diving center will be built on the hotel property where diving packages will be offered ranging from beginner to advanced levels. JAL Hotels Co., Ltd. makes its debut in the Middle Eastern market with the opening of this hotel, and will be the first Japanese hotel operator joining the U.A.E.’s five-star hotel market. Radisson SAS Hotels & Resorts, the first-class full-service brand of The Rezidor Hotel Group, will operate a 320-room resort in the emirate of Fujairah, its fifth property in the United Arab Emirates. The Radisson Al Aqah Beach Resort is scheduled to open in 2009. The property will have three restaurants, extensive meeting facilities, outdoor swimming pools, a private beach, as well as a spa and health club. Infrastructure Capital Group, the owner and developer of the Radisson Al Aqah Beach Resort, is also planning to construct up to 100 exclusive beach-front condominiums adjacent to the resort. In addition to their own exclusive beach and landscaped gardens, these luxury condominiums will be serviced by the resort and includes access to its first-class facilities. Egyptian hotelier Hamid Al Chiaty, who owns Travco and Egyptotel, is setting up two new resorts -

Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort and Iberotel Royal Miramar Resorts - with a total investment of nearly Dh735 million ($200 million) in Fujairah. The complex, once completed, will add nearly 700 rooms to the growing tourism industry in Fujairah. Among these, the $44 million 321-room Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort will open in September this year, while phase II involving the $154 million Iberotel Royal Miramar Resorts will be opened in 2009. The overall project is being developed in three phases, with the third component, a retail facility with boutique-style outlets surrounded by a lagoon, will be operational by 2010. Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, the luxurious five-star hotel features Moroccan-inspired architecture. The main building is surrounded by clusters of rooms on three floors with private beach. There are 313 tastefullyappointed rooms, all of which offer a sea view. It is located on the east coast of the Al Aqah Beach, at a distance of approximately 15 kilometres from Dibba Village and 49 kilometres from Fujairah town. The hotel is about 90 minutes away from cosmopolitan Dubai and its international airport.

Ajman 1 represents one of the most important development opportunities in Ajman. The project has been master planned to demonstrate the emirate’s ability to be a highly accessible investment and tourism destination. The masterplan envisages an affordable boutique living and working environment that will help to support Ajman’s economic diversification plans. There will be over 3,000 apartments, a hotel to be operated by an international operator, one commercial tower, serviced apartments and a tower for leased apartments. Ajman 1 is strategically placed just 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport, and is linked to the other emirates by a new major highway. Ajman 1 is being developed by Aqaar – the real-estate and property development company partnered with Ajman Development and Investment Authority (AIDA) – as the first in a series of projects that will mark the rapid evolution of Ajman. Phase 2 will concentrate on the construction of a world class hotel to be managed by an international operator, one freehold commercial tower, serviced apartments and a tower for leased apartments.

Broadening Tourism Base These new and upcoming developments signal the United Arab Emirates’ intent to broaden its tourism base and make the country a world-class tourist destination. The UAE is relying on its natural assets and constructing man-made attractions that will position the emirates as a unique destination in the global tourism market. More projects are underway and the government’s efforts in improving all the facilities to cater to all the needs of the wide variety of tastes of both business and leisure travellers will further enhance the UAE’s tourism growth over the coming years.

Travel, Shop & Spend Travel more, continue to Shop and Spend more â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Three striking preferences of consumers in the Middle East and the UAE as results of the MasterCard Consumer Lifestyles survey conducted at the end of 2006 were revealed. The Consumer Lifestyles survey seeks to understand perceptions, choices and concerns that people have with regard to a number of lifestyle choices. All consumers surveyed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) plan to travel in the next twelve months, 84% for personal reasons, 2% for business and 14% for both. Across the Middle East & Levant (ME&L), consumers continue to travel, with 74% of consumers surveyed planning to travel out of their country in the course of the year. Escaping the hot summer seems to be one of the main motivations for determining the travel period - residents prefer traveling in June (23%), July (28%) and August (15%). The latest survey shows UAE consumers favour India (43%), Egypt (19%), and Thailand (10%) as travel destinations. Not surprisingly, the majority of ME&L consumers surveyed (79%) said they were going to spend more this year on personal travel than they did last year. In the UAE, 84% of those surveyed were planning to spend more, 1% more than in the previous survey (83%). Half of the UAE surveyed consumers (46% vs. 43% in 1H2006) anticipated they would spend between 11%-25% more on personal travel, while 17% said they would spend 26%-50% more, as opposed to 20% in the first half 2006. Spending on business travel looks to further increase in the next year with 59% (vs 41% in 1H2006) of consumers willing to spend more. When traveling shopping is almost a must do holiday activity, ranking as the main activity enjoyed while on a personal travel trip for 61% (vs. 69% in 1H2006) of ME&L travelers surveyed. This was even higher among UAE consumers surveyed as 82% (88% in 1H2006) nominated shopping as their main holiday activity. This was followed by entertainment

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(74% vs. 59%), visiting family or friends (62% vs. 67%), rest and relaxation (56% vs. 43%) and general sightseeing (47% vs. 38%). The majority of UAE travelers own some sort of payment card whether it is a credit card (65%), a debit card (71%) or a prepaid card (37%). Consumers offer a variety of reasons for carrying a payment card when they travel. Debit cards are becoming more popular as a payment method, experiencing a sharp increase in ME&L compared to the last survey (39% vs. 27%) but travelers still prefer to use their credit cards (53% vs 53% in 1H2006) to pay for their overseas travel expenses. Consumers indicated a number of reasons for increasing their use of debit cards. For consumers, debit cards allow them to spend what is in the bank account (54%) and debit cards offer more control (40%). Consumers also state that debit cards are more secure than cash (36%), widely accepted (40%) and convenient (37%). The most popular reason for using a credit is that it is more secure than cash (73% vs 77% in 1H2006). Other results from the latest survey show that across ME&L, 46% thought credit cards were widely accepted (against 39% in the last survey), 46% said a credit card gave them better control over their spending (against 34% in the last survey) and 43% thought a credit card gives better foreign exchange rates (as opposed to 33% in the last survey).

Baby Doll In childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fairy tales, the stars sometimes leave the sky and fall into the ocean. But the waves turn them into star-shaped gemstones and set them down on the rocks. Poetry is set in motion And in a world in which absolute beauty forever awaits creation, at the wave of a magic wand, the stars are reborn in the firmament o the Zenith Manufacture. On the horizon of the new 2007 collections, the dials are sprinkled with pearls and diamonds, stardust brought back to life in a mother-of-pearl sea.

Millennium..

a genuine commitment to providing a wide spectrum of quality

Moine Kandil, General Manager

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It comes as no surprise that the name Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi is generating plenty of growth in the hotel industry nowadays, a hive with a great foreseeable future and a capacity to have guests create a vision and turn it into an unrivaled reality. The Hotel is witnessing massive proven-results progress with tangible signs of improvements, adjustments and lots of development expansion to further enhance quality. Mix these attributes with an obsession of service fuelled by a renowned passion for international savoir-faire with selected staff that have set of skills that are difficult to find anywhere, focused to satisfy the demands of various guests by approaching each one with a unique perspective based on his particular needs, operating with the determination of helping them realize their business potential. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you have never experienced the true meaning of pampering and are looking to spoil yourself, the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi ranks top of the list and you are welcomed to come and see for yourself what is in store for you,â&#x20AC;? says Moine Kandil, the General Manager of the Hotel. The Millennium has today made its way as a leading top five star Hotel in the region that continues to draw high profile guests and is looking for the future with high hopes for substantial increase with an active presence and stature to become the beacon of the region in line with Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position on the international tourism map as an insignia world hub.

Hard work

Pays

GM Fact File Years in the Industry: 27 years of significant managerial leadership in hospitality industry with numerous pre-opening experiences. Nationality: Lebanese Years with Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites: 2 years Key accomplishment: Pioneered the successful opening of Al Murooj Rotana Hotel and Suites on September 2005. How do you find your job? Very interesting, you meet a lot of people, you travel a lot, there’s no routine.

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Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites may be a new hotel but it definitely is making waves. In its first year of operation, the property bagged seven awards from prestigious organizations for the hotels excellent service and fine restaurants. For two consecutive years, Latino, the hotel’s Latin American restaurant was voted best in the category. At present, hotel occupancy is at its highest, at 90 per cent which was recorded during the first quarter of 2007 (a 10 per cent increase from last year’s 80 per cent occupancy rate). With this current trend, the management looks forward to a higher occupancy rate especially when constructions around the area, particularly the Burj Dubai, the Dubai Mall and the Dubai International Financial Centre, are completed. Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites has 253 luxurious rooms and suites, 27 semi-furnished offices, 140 deluxe furnished apartments, duplexes and penthouses, 10 dining outlets, executive lounge, grand ballroom, conference facilities and meeting rooms. The hotel boasts of its quality restaurants and the hotel’s structure. Aside from its prime location, Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites can attribute its success to a right plan. Along with the right person and a good leadership from its General Manager, Hussein Hachem, the property is now reaping the fruits of its efforts. “During our first year of operation we created awareness for the hotel and established ourselves in the local market. Now our focus is to improve our awareness in the international market through participation in all the travel fairs such as the ITB, the World Trade Market and so on,” begins Hachem. “It also helped that we are part of the Rotana Group because Rotana has been always known for

its excellent service so we carry the image of the property and the group so we are getting good response. We received good responses from the travel fairs and now we’re known to the travel agents and major tour operators.” Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suite’s plans for 2007 include increasing their share in the Food and Beverage business in Dubai and to tap other markets like the Russian and Indian travellers. “At this stage we are now well established in the GCC market,United Kingdom and in Europe so our focus now is the Russian and Indian markets because we believed these markets have high potentials,” Hachem explained. Being a business hotel, Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites is trying to tap the Meeting, Incentives, Conference and Exhibition (MICE) business. The hotel has conference and banqueting areas that express the same friendly, traditionally modern and precious atmosphere. There are daylight meeting rooms, pillar less ballroom and an open air banquet area. The hotel’s Conference Center has been designed for companies looking for an outstanding, modern meeting and conference venue, with brand new state-of-the-art equipment. Elegance, technology, efficiency and courtesy combine to make the Centre a perfect venue for meetings and banquets. A sumptuous ballroom offering daylight overlooking a waterfall, can accommodate up to 1500 people, and is available for social events like weddings, product launch and private or company receptions. As Dubai heads to the right direction, Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites follows the same steps. There’s nothing but forward for this hotel which will be busy even during the summer months.

SPECIAL FEATURE I ITB BERLIN

Experience Arabian Traditions with Luxury at the renowned Al Bustan Rotana Hotel The Al Bustan Rotana Hotel had further reached significant milestones in its enviable history of service, gaining further recognition in its commitment to quality customer care. Acknowledged by the World Travel Awards, a prestigious hospitality award-giving body that generates thousands of votes from over 200 countries across the globe, the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel is nominated in three categories: Middle East’s Leading Conference Hotel, Middle East’s Leading Business Hotel and Dubai’s Leading Hotel. The Al hotel continues to exceed guest expectations and be one of the best hotels in the UAE. The Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, the flagship property of Rotana Hotels, balances a unique blend of traditional Arabian hospitality and international standards of luxury. The award-winning 5 star hotel is conveniently located in downtown Dubai and is five minutes from the Dubai International Airport,

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ten minutes from the World Trade Center and twenty minutes from Jebel Ali. The hotel offers 275 elegant rooms and suites, which provide even the most discerning traveller with the utmost in comfort and luxury. The hotel offers 9 international food and beverage outlets designed to satisfy all tastes as well as an impressive range of entertainment facilities. A selection of international buffets is offered at Fontana restaurant with exciting theme nights held throughout the week. The restaurant is an excellent venue to dine with friends and family as it constantly prepares awesome dining treats for everyone. Rodeo Grill serves the best steaks in town in an elegant, fine dining atmosphere. Famous for its mouthwatering steaks and Caesar’s Salad, the restaurant is the perfect place for a classic and exquisite dining experience. The award-winning Blue Elephant transports diners to paradise with its tropical ambience.

Fresh herbs, spices and other food ingredients are imported regularly from Thailand to guarantee the freshest and most delectable dishes. Come Prima is a trendy Italian Restaurant where guests are taken with its unique setting and atmosphere. The restaurant offers a dining experience like none other with its delectable antipastos, freshly prepared pastas and fine Italian wines. The world-renowned Benihana combines the best of Japanese and American cuisine for superb culinary experience. Wellknown for its live Teppanyaki shows and distinctive dishes, the restaurant offers unforgettable dining experiences. Mawal serves traditional Lebanese cuisine partnered with live entertainment. Oxygen is a contemporary venue that is a stunning combination of striking modernity with renaissance chic. This exclusive venue features modern DJs and music at competitive prices. Oxygen is set to become the place to see and be seen. Gazebo provides a tranquil area for guests to relax and watch the world go by whilst enjoying the finest teas, coffees, pastries and cakes. The hotel also houses the grand Rashidiya Ballroom that can host receptions up to 1200 guests for gala dinners and weddings as well as several meeting rooms with state of the art equipment that can cater to any event or gathering. The Club Rotana floor, which was specially conceptualized to meet the extra demands of the modern business person, offers its guests efficiency partnered with comfort through a dedicated business center, secretarial support services, internet and fax facilities, meeting rooms, video library, complimentary breakfast and evening cocktails in an exclusive lounge, and even complimentary airport transfers by limousine. Bodylines Leisure and Fitness Club offers a fully equipped gymnasium, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, squash and tennis courts, an outdoor Jacuzzi and indoor sauna. Aquarius, the club’s snack bar serves delightful treats and is conveniently located at the poolside. As a member of ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’, the hotel offers its guests unparalleled levels of service and hospitality in luxurious surroundings.

ARABIAN GALLERY

Doors of arabia

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Ajman

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LIVING ARABIA

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The Splendid Handicrafts Of

MOROCCO

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In this rushed 21st century there are not many of us who know that in Morocco there still exists a medieval world of craftsmen who are creating, with their hands, masterpieces of art. Incorporating a synthesis of the Libyco-Berber, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, African and Andalusian artistic traditions, HABEEB SALLOUM writes about these artisansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; long and honoured history.

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Century after century, whole families, handing down the trades from father to sons, have kept Moroccoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistic traditions alive. The familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s know-how, always open to contributions from the outside world, is constantly improved without deviating from tradition. New ideas are assimilated, brewed, melted then re-created to become genuine Moroccan art. These craftsmen who, in our time, compete with modern mechanical technology, are able to survive and, in fact, prosper. Unbelievably, these Moroccan skilled workmen, unlike

work is carried on by man or donkey. The craftsmen like their forefathers in the days when Moorish Spain and Morocco were one, still turn out superb handmade articles that dazzle the onlooker. In the same way as they have been for hundreds of years, these artisans are grouped in numerous streets specializing in different crafts. Fascinating to any visitor, the souks not only in Fez but also in the other cities of Morocco, appear to come straight out of The Arabian Nights. I will never forget the first time I walked down into the heart of the medieval part of Fez and saw artisans working amid shops displaying their colourfully embossed articles of leather. Green, red, violet, white and yellow, marvellously treated by that cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrated tanners and dyers, leather was being gilded and transformed into dozens of products. Book covers, wallets and purses in all shapes and forms, desk sets, belts, hassocks, photo frames and countless other articles were being decorated

The craftsmen like their forefathers in the days when Moorish Spain and Morocco were one, still turn out superb handmade articles that dazzle the onlooker. their brethren in other parts of the world, have fought against the machines of the modern age and have not lost the battle. With skills inherited from their fathers, they produce, today, some of the finest handmade products in the world. If one wishes to be transported to a world of ancient oriental splendour, Fez el-Bali or the old section of Fez is the place to visit. Within its walls no automobile is allowed to enter and, as it was in the medieval ages all

with sumptuous motifs comprising geometric designs, arabesques and stylized flowers or stars. The artistry of these Moroccan craftsmen was dazzling and breathtaking. However, this should not have come as a surprise since the ancestors of these leather artisans have been world-renowned hundreds of years. In the Middle Ages Moroccan

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In all aspects of the handiwork industries, nothing is created hastily. The taste for the superb, along with the passage of time has created perfection

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leather was so famous that the best leather of that time and Moroccan were synonymous terms. Next to leather products, the craftsmen of Fez and Marrakesh are world famous for their brass and copper utensils. In the shops and homes, gleaming brass and copperware entice the tourist and Moroccan alike. Trays in all sizes, ashtrays, braziers, incense burners, door knockers, kettles, sugar boxes, teapots and other articles decorated with interlacing arabesque designs and intricate floral motifs are produced with hands inheriting the skills of centuries. Candelabra and lanterns with green, red and yellow glass inserts are in demand by the many visitors Morocco hosts annually. Numerous restaurants and nightclubs make use of them to create for their clients a relaxed aura. The coloured lights project to the customers a haunting and romantic atmosphere. In Morocco, a room lit with coloured lanterns is always complemented with attractive handmade carpets. The oldest of that countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handicrafts, they come in basically two types: rural and urban. However, these are divided into a wide range of many styles. In the homes of the wealthy in Morocco the handmade rugs are usually associated with inlaid furniture and other wooden knick-knacks usually made from thuya wood (a type of oak). Essaouira, famous for its parquetry, is where many of these charming pieces of furniture, desks, all kinds of tables, chests and jewellery boxes are made. The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skilled artisans polish the hard thuya to a satin finish, then inlay it with cedar, lemon wood, ebony, mother-of-pearl and silver in floral and geometric patterns. By using thin veneers of the same wood in a chequered design, or with chevrons, stars and other forms alternating with mother-of-pearl, ebony and silver they bring out the subtleties of the thuya wood. The saying that the wood

craftsmen of the city combine and harmonize their inlaying to sing a song of beauty has much merit. In Fez, the craftsmen are well known for their skill in decorating all types of structures with cedar wood, which is abundant in the nearby forests. Ceilings, doors and windows are made attractive with zouak, a type of decor dominated by geometric figures. The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artisans, as well as those in neighbouring Meknes, also specialize in masharabiehs (screens made of small pieces of cedar wood turned on a lathe and then assembled in clever designs). Delicate and appealing these screens make the windows of the traditional homes attractive. Alongside the inlaid articles are the ceramics that beautify, besides

the homes, fountains, palaces, mosques and public buildings. The tile-makers whose ancestors made Andalusia an earthly paradise still practice their trade in Fez and Meknes. Throughout Morocco, tiled green roofs harmonizing with the surrounding greenery and breathtaking tiled blue, turquoise, white and yellow patios, rooms and hallways are all the handiwork of these master craftsmen. For the preparation of their food the Moroccans, in the main, employ glazed red or brown pottery. However, enamelled ornamental pottery made in Fez, Meknes, Sale and Safi are produced with the finesse of Italian or Spanish wares. Amphoras, dishes, jars, pots and vases are decorated mainly with cobalt blue on an enamel background. Cross-stitch designs,

Rural carpets, known as Berber carpets, are the oldest type and the most common. Some have very thick woollen piles while others have short goat or camel hair piles. In almost all cases, they reflect the colours of the landscapes where they are made. Hence, they come mostly in beige, brown and tan with a few in black, red and white. Some have designs recalling prehistoric inscriptions while others have geometric compositions made up of lozenges, arrows and saw-tooth lines. Urban carpets are a newer type of rug. They were only introduced from the East into Morocco in the 18th century. interlaced curves, polygonal stars and geometric or floral designs are then applied in black to these colourful utensils. In addition, in Safi, ceramic artisans produce in darker colours the metallic sheen found in Malaga pottery which itself was initiated by the Arabs. In all aspects of the handiwork industries, nothing is created hastily. The taste for the superb, along with the passage of time has created perfection. For export, the production of handicrafts is strictly regulated by the Moroccan government, which allows only the top-notch products to be exported outside the country. In the country itself, the co-operative shops Coopartim sell handmade goods of guaranteed quality at reasonable prices. Hence, a visitor need not

worry about bargaining if he/she is not inclined. Nevertheless, whether sold in these regulated stores, in the traditional shops, or laid out on the sidewalks or on the bare ground in a country souk, the visitor will find everywhere an extraordinary collection of handicrafts, brilliant in colours and magnetic in appeal. These handmade products are one of the most fundamental characteristics of Moroccan life. Varied in range from works of art to simple utilitarian articles, they are a living tradition suited for everyday use even in our modern times. Vivid and alive they are a living testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Morocco.

Rabat and Sale became the production centres of these rich carpets. Traditionally, the urban carpets have a harmony of seven colours and a multitude of designs. Three bands of unequal width frame a rectangular field with a star-shaped motif in the centre. Bands of different colours in geometric or floral designs encompass these and, at each end, there is a kind of mihrab arch. Fine carpet experts indicate that these colourful rugs bring to mind garden paths around a pool surrounded by flowers and pet birds.

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AMBIENCE

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Desert Sky

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OUTSIDE ARABIA

Country the european

side

Nor th east France and Luxembourg is not on many tourists’ map but this enchanting countryside with its undulating fields, small towns and meandering rivers makes you want to wander its backyards forever...Anjana Das takes a trip to give you the experience. Paris is hard to leave. But after a casual conversation with a French chef about the Quiche Lorraine and the Lorraine valley from where comes the quiche, we decided enough of strolling the boulevards of Paris. Finding a cheap car rental was easy and we soon settled on a weathered Reynault deciding that even if it broke down, camping by a river wouldn’t be so bad after all. Confident in the rudimentary French that I remembered from my college days we set off east towards the Champagne region, early Sunday. A series of earthquakes millions of years ago left ripples in the ocean bed so tall

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they became the rolling hills and valleys of Reims today. The chalky white soil nourishes its fruits leaving it with a delicate flavor and this is what makes the champagne from this region one of the most unique and finest in the world. Hoping to see grapevines laden with ripe fruit, I scanned the winding route for grapes ready for the picking. We had heard that during harvest time, some wine producers in these regions hired grape-pickers for the day. They taught you how to select the best grapes, how to snip and tuck away the delicious bunches into carts without squishing them, and then let you pick

till lunch. At the end of the day follows a wine tasting session. Unfortunately, we saw no sign of any picking. On a street side, stalls were being set up with crates of fresh turnips and green vegetables while men unloaded buckets of mussels and clams. A market place was coming to life. The sight and smell of fresh baguettes, no doubt home baked, reminded us of breakfast. We found a café right across that served breakfast, even on a weekend. Most men in this town seemed to prefer sharing their Sunday breakfast in the company of other men while their wives went grocery shopping or selling in the local market.

We resumed our journey through the quiet countryside towards Metz, passing a forest where we halted for a brief trek. I could hear the faint rush of waterfalls somewhere in the distance, but couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t muster enough courage to go exploring by myself deeper into the woods as light began to fade. Cycling is very popular on the route to Metz and many cars that passed us on the highway had cycles latched on to their behinds. We made a brief halt for coffee and patĂŠs in Metz before hitting the road again towards Strasbourg, a jazzy little town with brightly colored timber adorning facades and pretty flower boxes hanging from their balconies. This was a town fringed along canals with overgrown weeping willows that swept down to the flowing water.

Our drive from Paris to Strasbourg took nearly four hours. But this is about to change. A new high speed train (TGV) is to be launched by June 2007 along the same route (and further to Munich and Vienna) that will reduce travel times to half, making it possible for tourists to make day trips from Paris. I imagined the bus loads of tourists that would crowd the cathedrals and champagne houses of the Lorraine valley, posing for pictures and nodding their heads like experienced sommeliers over their flutes. Myself, I was disappointed with my sampling of the quiche Lorraine and instead settled for Mexican food at an open-air restaurant crowded with day tourists who were waiting for a music concert to begin, at the square across. We camped for the night. The next morning we made our way through the drizzle to the

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Thunderclouds chasing us through the green meadows of Lorraine Valley Sunday Market in Reims

One of the best Mexican food ever tasted, in Strasbourg

Wild horses roaming the Vianden forest

The eerie castle perched on top of a hill in Vianden Dark Woods near Metz

The colorful rows of restaurants and houses along the river in Strasbourg, with their distinctive timber work

Photos by ANIL JAYACHANDRAN.

Adventure rides in the Vianden forest

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Grabbing a quick breakfast on the road

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We picked and ate wild berries on the way, found an abandoned log cabin but didn’t dare stop to explore it, continued our way to a clearing and found horses grazing on a carpet of yellow wild flowers right at the summit.

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town center and lined up to visit Strasbourg’s famous cathedral but it was the neighboring Jewish quarter with its narrow streets and endless rows of shops that seemed more intriguing. My travel companions vetoed any shopping detours and so we escaped the wet weather and traced our way towards Belgium. The seriously tiny nation of Luxembourg (it was so small if we drove any faster we would exit it before we knew) lay on our way and guide books talked at length of a picture-perfect castle sitting atop the village of Vianden. Vianden may be Luxembourg’s most touristy town but that didn’t hinder our chances of getting a loft that slept four, for less than 100 Euros with breakfast thrown in. Vianden was a small village nestled in the narrow valley between the Our River and thick green woods of the Ardennes. Late into the night, in our pajamas we crept up the attic window like inquisitive children and stuck our noses on the cold glass, to gaze at the castle perched atop the forest. In the pale light, it had a ghostly look. We felt as though we were being watched by unseen eyes. Early next morning conquering every bit of lethargy and sleep we pulled on our hiking boots, gulped down shots of black coffee, flung our backpacks and headed in the direction of the forests. It was still dark when we started our climb. I have to admit I was more scared of human predators than the wild boar and fox that were known to roam these forests. As day began to break it drew up spectacular vistas of the valley and its hamlets far below. We picked and ate wild berries on the way, found an abandoned log cabin but didn’t dare stop to explore it, continued our way to a clearing and found horses

Cycling is very popular on the route to Metz and many cars that passed us on the highway had cycles latched on to their behinds. grazing on a carpet of yellow wild flowers right at the summit. All the while we saw no indication of human inhabitation except for a barbed wire fence with a padlocked gate. Who on earth would want to be holed up in this cold, dark forest far from human contact, out of choice ? We took a different trail to return, but instead of descending it led us to an adventure park embedded deep in the forest. It was run by a young couple. I endured the endurance test well, till the very end swinging from tree to tree, climbing up barks, walking a tight rope and stepping up rope ladders. Exhausted and trembling from the exertion I asked for directions to the cable car that we had noticed from our hotel earlier. It took

us back to the village in 15 minutes. A hot breakfast welcomed our successful return back to base camp. The cheese and the fresh goat milk were out of the ordinary. So were the cold cuts and the fresh bake. The last memory I have of Vianden is that of an old lady watering her beautiful courtyard of potted pink and yellow flowers while her husband stood watching from the drawn windows. Our next stop, Belgium was not quite as quaint. A visit to the ghoulish museum in Ghent put an end to any illusion of fairytale I had had of Belgian chocolates and gingerbread houses. Our travels continued through the rest of Europe…but that’s another story to tell.

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ATTRACTIONS

Sharq village spa Doha, Qatar

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Sharq Village & Spa, a $450 million luxury resort, operated by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company B.V., opened its doors in Doha, Qatar. The resort, located in the area known as “Sharq” or the Orient, is inspired by traditional Qatari culture and architecture. Designed to reflect the closeknit communities of fishermen, pearl divers and merchants that shaped Qatar’s vibrant history, Sharq Village & Spa is also equipped with modern facilities and amenities to meet the requirements of international leisure and business travellers. Honouring the true sense of a traditional Qatari home, Sharq Hotel & Spa houses 174 beits (rooms). Each beits is decorated with intricately designed furniture, hand-made carpets, vibrant velvets and silk embellishments. The courtyard beits reflect the legacy of Qatar’s old trade routes - Qatari chests, lanterns, and furniture surround a hand made wooden four-poster bed in a room with ornate arches, glowing recesses and wooden ceilings. Rooms are lavishly decorated with authentic copper, inlaid brass, and hand-woven carpets, providing a restive and private Qatari-style sanctuary, whilst still offering the most modern

luxury amenities, such as deep soaking tubs, separate walk-in rainforest showers, private balconies, and stateof-art technology including wall mounted flat-screen LCD televisions and both hi-speed wireless and cabled data connections. The hotel exterior resembles that of an elegantly marbled sheikh’s palace, and the interior is no less regal with crystaldraped chandeliers hanging from the towering arched ceilings. The lobby houses Qatar’s only indoor souq where one can purchase everything from luxury designer wear to traditional Arabic ornaments. Sharq Village & Spa is also home to over 12,150 sq. ft (1,130 sq. m) of conferencing space split among two ballrooms, a board room and one grand reception foyer. All facilities are furnished with the most sophisticated technology to suit all business and conferencing needs and can receive up to a total of 950 reception guests. The resort envelopes cooling pools, fountains, lush gardens and intimate courtyards; wandering through the streets and courtyard homes, guests will encounter a symphony of flavors and aromas of times past. Sharq Village & Spa offers some of the most unique and imaginative dining experiences in Doha. Each venue showcases exquisite culinary creations that blend into the rich ambiance of the ancient Qatari village complimented by impeccable service and comfort. Diners can choose to indulge their passion for food on the ample rooftop or terrace seating amongst lush tropical foliage or indoors,

the village restaurants are comfortably positioned to offer the most breathtaking views and guarantees exceptional dining experiences, while the signature seafood restaurant Al Mahara at the water’s edge offers the very best from the sea. The four spa villages that make up the 6,500 square metre area of the Six Senses Spa are connected by a labyrinth of waving pathways, cascading fountains and lush greenery to tempt the senses into utter escape. The 23 treatment rooms are fashioned on a traditional Qatari environment resembling typical village houses with heated stone massage beds, mud baths, fully equipped gym, private majlis areas and several quiet reflective meditation rooms. With an endless assortment of treatments from traditional Arabian, Thai and Swedish therapies to the more holistic offerings of naturopathy and specialist visiting practitioners – guests could experience a new treatment every day for an entire month. The legendary Qatari hospitality is as alive today as it was in the past, and while Sharq Village & Spa recreates and celebrates Qatar’s long-standing traditions, it still caters for the needs of today’s sophisticated traveller.

Sharq Village and Spa Operated by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. P.O.Box 26662 Doha, Qatar Tel +974 425 6673 Fax +974 425 6678 www.sharqvillage.com

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ART

Soul Purpose Fluttering butterflies and lonely women are hardly the perfect companions. But in Minal Pattni’s works the two tend to be inseparable. Just like the contrasts of the country she comes from. No matter how cursory your look, there is no escaping the melancholy. The deeper the eye travels, the more captivating it gets the details.

Minal Pattni, a well-known artist from Kenya, showcased her works for the first time in the Middle East at Coral Deira, Dubai from April 4. Sponsored by Coral International Hotels, Resorts & Spas, the unique exhibition was inaugurated by the Consul General of Kenya Mr. Prem Prinja. Titled Whispers of the Soul, the exhibition includes over 30 paintings in a range of styles. Minal’s works are irresistibly powerful. Though subtle on surface, the paintings are intense in effect. Some are bright as a furnace, others cool as twilight. Each one tells a different story with some taking you in swirling depths of the mind and soul, and others pushing you to the highest realms of excitement and hope. Equally impressive is her technique of juxtaposing barks of trees with oils and acrylics. It may be the most unlikely combination but it looks marvelous. “I love to experiment with different textures and mediums,” says Minal.

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The artist doesn’t have to look far for inspiration. “Anything that touches my heart translates on to my canvas. My style is somewhere between realism, symbolism and fantasy. Being surrounded by beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna, I often tend to portray nature in one way or another. Ultimately, I put my soul in everything I do,” says Minal. Minal began painting from an early age. Coming from a family of artists, playing with paints was only natural. “As a child all I wanted to do was paint.” However, it took her sometime to follow her childhood fancy. “I could only devote myself completely to my passion after finishing my studies.” On obtaining a degree in pharmacy from the United Kingdom, Minal moved back to Kenya to set up her own studio called ‘Sienna’. Ever since her works have been appreciated and collected by art lovers from across the world. Over the years she also participated in a number of solo and

group exhibitions and art competitions including the Art Festival held at the National Museum of Kenya, International Millennium World Art Competition (Kenya), Spirit of Colours and Nature’s Gifts to name a few. Through her shows, Minal has been supporting many international charities and relief funds like the Asian Earthquake Victims and Nyumbani Home for children orphaned by AIDS. As to what prompted her to exhibit her works in Dubai, Minal says, “Dubai is a multicultural and cosmopolitan city where art, cultures and traditions mix from all around the world and I felt it would be nice to share my work with art lovers here. I believe Dubai provides a friendly environment for fine arts of multicultural origin and I am delighted to be here.”

“Anything that touches my heart translates on to my canvas. My style is somewhere between realism, symbolism and fantasy. Being surrounded by beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna, I often tend to portray nature in one way or another. Ultimately, I put my soul in everything I do,” -Minal Pattn

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DINING

Savoury Meals Sheraton Abu Dhabi

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Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for a business trip or for relaxation with your friends, family or loved ones, a trip to the restaurant or any local dining place will always be part of your agenda. Check the following deals from the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top hotels.

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Discover exotic delights of Far East with “Far Feast” theme night every Wednesday; very popular Italian night “Al Dente” every Thursday and chill out every Friday with your family in spacious settings of Pergolas Restaurant! Just To round off your week-end day indulgence, salsa your way down to Pergolas restaurant every Friday evening for a culinary journey through the very best of South American cuisine & entertainment with “Sabor Latino” night.

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel The Al Bustan Rotana Hotel is proud to offer an array of unusual ways to serve Asparagus and presents some tasty, innovative new ways of cooking with Asparagus in the Rodeo Grill, the best steak house in town along with Come Prima the cosy Italian Restaurant. Experience the magic of the renowned Blue Elephant Restaurant at the Saturday’s Brunch Buffet. Soak up the ambience as you relax in any one of the traditional Thai houses whilst the Restaurant’s Thai chefs keep family, friends and business associates entertained with a tempting selection of live cooking stations and fruit carving displays. The Blue Elephant Brunch Buffet is every Saturday between 12:30 till 3:30 p.m. for just Dhs 139 net per person including unlimited selected beverages.

Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community This month enjoy four different flavours of Risotto,

per person Mother’s Day Lunch or Dinner at Andiamo! – AED 285 per person For further information please contact Restaurant Reservations on 04 317 2222

Intercontinental Hotel Al Ain

Dusit Dubai an Italian specialty at Cucina. Choose from Arborio, Vialone, Nano or Cararoli flavoured with buffalo mozzarella, grilled eggplant and zucchini, pancetta and chicken or seafood. For Dhs 60 per portion, why not try our Italian desserts as well. Cucina is open from 12:00 to 15:00 hrs for lunch and 18:00 to 23:30 hrs for dinner. For reservations call 04 885 2222 or log on to www. marriottdiningatcy.ae. The Bar and Aquamarine gives you a taste of the Caribbean with a promotion of Rum-based cocktails to be enjoyed during the hot Dubai summer months. Exotic flavours and provocative presentation enjoy it for just Dhs 25 per cocktail. The Bar at upper Cucina is open from 18:00 to 02:00 hrs.

Dusit Dubai If you’re looking for the perfect place for lunch, select destination 24th floor of Dusit Dubai providing you with options of authentic Thai at Benjarong, contemporary Italian at Pax or International favorites at The Californian. You may select the set menus at Benjarong and

Pax Romana or buffet style at The Californian, for Dhs 89 net per person including a beverage. From noon to 3 pm, except Fridays. The Friday Brunch at Dusit Dubai is revamped with over 120 dishes offering an array of cuisine from around the world with live cooking stations, healthy fresh salads and tempting desserts. Join the fun with family or friends for only Dhs 169 per person, The Brunch at the Dusit Dubai can’t be missed!

Family Brunch Fun Friday at Arabesque – two children under 12 yrs free of charge per couple, additional kids 50% lots of fun, music, face painting, clown, kids food and ice cream. ‘Cinco de Mayo’ - Mexican fiesta with buffet dinner at AED 99+ on May 5th at Luce and Hawaiian Night, Hawaiian buffet dinner and ambiance at AED85++ on May 15th. ‘Senorita Noche’ Friday is ladies night at Luce with 2 free selected drinks for all the ladies.

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi Hammam Fish Promotion at Talay during lunch and dinner. Hammam Marriott Dubai

Grand Hyatt Whether your Mum is an Arabic Queen in the making, an Italian Mama, or Manhattan chic is more her style, Grand Hyatt Dubai can cater to her every need this Mother’s Day on May 13th. Choose from a fourcourse Arabian feast at Awtar for lunch or dinner, a fourcourse Italian masterpiece in Andiamo! Or a stunning fivecourse dinner at Manhattan Grill, all guaranteed to put a smile on Mum’s face. Mother’s Day Lunch or Dinner at Manhattan Grill - AED 325 per person Mother’s Day Lunch or Dinner at Awtar – AED 300

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Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek Skywalk brings you flavours of Thailand this May with a buffet offering a variety of Thai delights including Chicken in Coconut Milk, Thai Beef Salad, Baked Fish Mousse in Banana Leaves and Mixed Fruits. The buffet is available for lunch at Dhs 60 per person. For reservations call 04 2131221.

Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Moeven pick Hotel Bur Dubai fish is one of the tastiest catch of the region. The Thai Chef at Talay prepares Radisson Deira Creek a variety of cooking styles for Hammam fish such as: Grilled marinated hammam with special Thai herbs for AED 80. Le Bistrot offers Beef Promotion for lunch and dinner. This month Chef David will be preparing Black angus beef from Argentina, Al Bustan Australia and the U.S. with a fine selection of wine to compliment your food. Try the Argentinean black angus beef tenderloin pan fried and served with creamy sauce baked potatoes and green asparagus for AED95. Papagallo features Lamb Promotion for lunch and Radisson SAS dinner. This month Chef Lev introduces Spicy lamb meatballs in Napoli sauce topped with mozzarella cheese and garlic bread guaranteed to make your mouth water for AED 55.

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi Amalfi introduces its new Italian Chef, “Chef Rudy”

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who comes from Italy with his magical dishes. A new Italian Guitarist “Claudio Fiore” will entertain while you enjoy your meal. Shuja Yacht offers daily dinner cruise, except Sundays for AED155++ and Saturday brunch for AED150++. Shuja is also available for private charter for lunch or sunset cruises. Al Fanar has Special Champagne Dinner for AED 350++. Introducing Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, Palme d’Or . Bubbly Friday Brunch at AED 140++.

JW Marriott Dubai Experience true Bavarian hospitality from April 30th to May 31st at Hofbräuhaus accompanied by a programme of events featuring live entertainment from Sonja and Sylvie, the

JW Marriott

only female Bavarian duo in Dubai. Maifest Daily Buffet for Dhs 125 from 7:30 pm to 2 am including a glass of May punch. Fondue and Raclette Night for Dhs 178 every Saturday and Wednesday including unlimited house beverages. The Market Place acknowledges spring by creating an ambiance infused with blooming flowers, hay, soft petals and the air filled with relaxing aromas of fresh herbs and flowers. Walking around the live cooking stations you will find unique ways of cooking using flowers like nasturtium and hibiscus. Other ingredients used during spring are milk lamb, a variety of shellfish, asparagus, and fresh spring fruits including berries to mention but a few. For more information and reservations please call 04 6077977/ 04 60770099.

For all those who are celebrating Mother’s Day on May 13th, the Fountain Restaurant is offering the mum’s to dine free during the renowned Seafood Night on Sunday evening. For reservations and more information please call the Fountain Restaurant at 04 336 6000 ext. 320. From May 19th to 31st treat yourself with amazingly light, tasty and healthy Asparagus combinations. Many other dishes, enriched by this healthy, fresh vegetable, are available at La Veranda Restaurant. Prices start as low as Dhs 75.00. For more information and reservations please call La Veranda at 04 336 6000 ext. 340

Radisson SAS Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek From May 1st to June 10th, La Moda (open for lunch and dinner) embraces the Asparagus season with a selection of Italian Asparagus delicacies on offer. From May 20th to June 10th 2007, Palm Grill (open for dinner only) has prepared a breath-taking 5 course Asparagus-based set menu

festival menu will be available daily for dinner from 19h00 to 01h00 throughout May. For further information, please call (04) 405 2703.

Sheraton Abu Dhabi

Radisson SAS Deira Hotel prepared by Palm Grill’s famous Chef de Cuisine Mounssef for only Dhs 260 per person. From the 1st to 31st May 2007, Palm Grill restaurant and its stylish Manhattanstyle bar, is host to a perfect Oyster celebration with a selection of breath-taking Oyster delicacies. Every night for dinner, all Oyster menu diners will have a chance to enter a raffle for a chance to win a beautiful set of Pearls from Damas Jewellery worth Dhs. 5000! Open for dinner only. For reservation please call 04/ 205 7333.

Lounge from May 4th to May 17th. Take your pick from a choice of toppings that include fresh fruit, chocolateraspberry and mango sauce, maple syrup, fruited yoghurt or just plain dusted with sugar.

Shangri-La Hotel It is salmon season again and the Amwaj team brings you a range of wild salmon delicacies during May. This delicious menu offers a range of dishes such as Veloute of wild salmon with cannelloni,

Pan fried salmon with lentil ragout and tarragon sauce as well as Raspberry tart with vanilla custard and honeyRiesling sorbet. This á la carte menu will be available daily for lunch from 13h00 to 15h00 and for dinner from 19h00 to midnight, except for Friday lunch. Hoi An will bring the experience of Vietnamese street food to Dubai. Chef Phu has created a special menu which brings this essence of this fabulous cuisine to Hoi An. The street

Renaissance Hotel Give your mother the VIP treatment she deserves by treating her to a wonderful meal at Spice Island. Take your pick from any of their special packages. Mum’s pay only Dhs.135/- for the Original Grand Buffet. This Mother’s day all moms eat on the house when dining at Sails for lunch or dinner together with the family. Allow the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked waffles entice you as you watch our chefs conjure up delicious delights before your very eyes at the Aquarium

Go to Bravo where an array of traditional Spanish Tapas and Sangrias are served in a warm and cosy atmosphere, sit inside or outside on the wooden deck balcony and enjoy the view of the Corniche and the Capital’s glittering lights…. If it is the Latin groove you are looking for, this is the place! Bravo is located on the left side of the Resort entrance. Spanish cuisine has influenced many of the countries that the Spaniards visited throughout the centuries absorbing in exchange the local culture and adapting the recipes to the indigenous ingredients with spectacular results… just think about the Caribe, Argentina, Venezuela, Brasil and in general all south America…in the next few months we will tour, in a culinary sense, all of those wonderful countries….let’s start with the Caribe, the islands of southern most part of the Caribbean Sea…. we prepared few specialities from this area for you to sample. For reservations please call 02 697 0235

Sheraton Deira Hotel Sheraton Deira is launching its new theme night ‘Indian Roti and Curry Night’, every Friday from 7.30pm till 11pm for Dhs. 95 net. Your best bet to be on a Friday while you enjoy the sumptuous Indian culinary journey with either ‘Sweet lassi’ or Jeera Pani’ and wheel through the buffet arcade.

Sheraton Deira

Sheraton Dubai

Renaissance

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beverages, you can now enjoy a daily business lunch, exciting theme dinner buffets – Seafood, Italian, Oriental and Mexican – and the fun Friday Family Brunch. As one of the hottest tables in town, La Veranda is perfect for family meals or lunch meetings, and the ideal setting for a corporate lunch or dinner event. For reservations, please call (02) 666-6220 – Ext. 78

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai

Sheraton Deira The Terrace, an airy atrium restaurant flaunts the yummy and succulent ‘Steak Night’, every Tuesday evening from 7:30 till 11.30. Choose your favorite cut from the meat trolley and then choose from a selection of sauces. Accompaniments include grilled tomato, fried onion rings and a choice of vegetables, rice, potato and corn on the cob. For more details contact 2688888 Ext. 8615

Sheraton Dubai Creek At Ashiana, Chef Gaurav has whipped up a delicious chaat buffet, using his very own concoctions. From 10th to 18th May, visit the awardwinning Ashiana Indian restaurant and partake in their traditional snacks. The Chaat buffet is priced at AED42 net per person. For reservations, please call 04 207 1733. For the whole month of May, Chef Andrea and his team has decided to go back to how Grandma used

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to cook it – add in a dash of creativity and finished off with unique styles – to bring to you, a mouth-watering menu. Go down memory lane with Vivaldi as we showcase a special Grandma’s menu. Prices start from AED26 net per dish. For reservations please call 04 207 1717.

Sheraton Jumeirah Enjoy our novel theme nights at the Palm Garden Restaurant. Italian Night is every Saturday from 19:00 hrs till 22:30 hrs; Latin Rodizio Night, an extensive Latin American and Mexican buffet is every Sunday from 19:00 hrs till 22:30 hrs; enjoy a wide selection of Indian delicacies accompanied by the sounds of classic Bollywood hits on Sub-Continental Night every Monday at 19:00 hrs; toast to beautifully prepared and presented dishes from German, Austrian and Swiss cuisine with live cooking in a Raclette from 19:00 hrs till 22:30 hrs every Tuesday.

Flamenco guitarists and exotic Spanish cuisine come together to create a night of unimaginable excitement. Join us for “Paella Night” at the Sea Breeze Bar and bonfire every Friday from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. For bookings call, 04-3153218.

Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel Abu Dhabi Downtown Restaurant’s à la carte menu offers a wide assortment of healthy salads, delightful soups and delicious main courses, complemented by a selection of tasty, ice-cold drinks The restaurant also offers Sushi & Seafood Night every Wednesday; Steak Night every Tuesday; Pizza & Pasta Night every Thursday. For reservations, please call (02) 666-6220 – Ext. 68 La Veranda Restaurant offers an elegant fine dine experience. On top of La Veranda’s extensive à la carte menu of delicacies from across the globe and extensive selection of

Tuscan cuisine is said to go back thousands of years, and even today it sets the standards other areas of Italy strive for to meet. Simply put, the Tuscans’ approach to food is based on a love of wine, fresh pressed olive oil, bread, as well as the freshest produce, seafood and meats of the season. Try a traditional Tuscan recipe, and perhaps you might want to do further reading on the region. When it comes to Italian cuisine, Tuscany is a shining example of some of the best Italy has to offer! A selection of 6 classic preparations will be available in Splendido in addition to the regular a la carte menu. A selection of Tuscan wines, available by the glass, will accompany your food choice. The Tuscan specialities will be available daily from 15May to 15-Aug 2007. The Lobby Lounge would like to put your taste buds to the test. Sample a selection of four teas in a tasting set, and try to figure out the blends you are enjoying. But do not worry, professional help is at hand from Murat, our acclaimed tea sommelier. These tea flights will be available from the beginning of May to end of August.

Dhow Palace DOCKLANDS ALL DAY DINING –With a sumptuous choice of International cuisine with a daily buffet breakfast, lunch & dinner, including an excellent A’ La Carte menu. THEME NIGHTS Every SundaySeafood Dinner @ AED 150 net per person Every Tuesday-Far Eastern Buffet @ AED 140 net per person Every ThursdayMediterranean Night @ AED 140 net per person THE RANCH STEAK HOUSE-A sophisticated & elegant setting that gives the steak house dining experience, tempt your taste buds with the most succulent steaks and the freshest seafood. “Wagyu and Wine”Add a glass of wine with our compliments to your dinner

SOTO-SOTO-A taste of Italian specialties in this family friendly venue, a variety of fresh handmade dishes cooked to order in a lively exhibition kitchen. “Game fair”-special selected menu items are prepared a la Italiano style QUEENS QUAYS-With simple, chic furnishings this is an ideal venue to adjourn for a quiet drink or two after a hard day in the boardroom. Enjoy the company of most exotic cocktails, draught beers, wines, and a wide range of International spirits

1”Far East Asian menu selection” 2.”Cocktail of the month” buy one get the other one free @ AED 35net 3.Relish our special snacks buffet on Wednesday and Thursday @ AED 69 net inclusive 2 bottles of beers . 4.Watch your favorite sports channels on our large screen. 5.Every Tuesday ”Ladies Night” from 6pm till 10pm,order your favorite drinks, unlimited from our standard alcohol list. 6.Tequila shots for AED 15nett only 7.”Fly High” our newly introduced crew night on all Mondays (get a 50% off on drinks for the entire month on presenting your identity card) DHOW KA AANGANAuthentic Indian restaurant that refreshes the sweet memory of India. Special live kitchen creating delicacies. Live Entertainment by our in-house musicians who will enthrall you with their melodious voice. “PUNJABI DHABA”North Indian food served in a true Dhaba Style, Come unfold this robust cuisine from “PUNJAB” a state in India, discover the chili touch, tawa delights, different tandoor delicacies, hot n chilly curries sarson ka saag and lots more in store for you. DHOW CAFÉ-Offers a selection of the best teas, coffee, cakes and pastries. “Coffee n cakes “-order

assorted pastries ,for@AED 22 net and let us buy you a beverage of your choice with our compliments. Special celebration cakes available on request. THE ORIENTAL PALACEFlaunting an elegant décor this restaurant excels in the freshest seafood prepared

with the right mix of the Southeast Asian tradition and culture. “Indonesian Nights”-try the authentic specialties from the far east and make eating an adventure AL SAWAN-The finest in Lebanese cuisine which features a grand A’ La Carte menu. The lavish interiors takes you back to mystical Arabian nights and as traditional as the hospitality of the Emirates. Daily live entertainment of a belly dancer accompanied with a singer and a keyboard. Our charcoal smoked Arabic grills will tickle your taste buds. For reservation : 04-3599992 Ext: 8230/8005

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Defines Iranian Cuisine

Shiraz Restaurant prides itself in having the best Iranian food in the Emirates. Being unfamiliar with Iranian cuisine, this is quite an overstatement. But my experience proved it all true. Shiraz Restaurant best describe Iranian cuisine.

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Located on the first floor of Millennium Hotel in Sharjah, the elegant décor of Shiraz Restaurant adds to the marvelous view of the Khaled Lagoon. The setting is modern and the beige and brown motif is a good compliment to the mosaic floor. The glass windows make the place look even bigger with all tables and chairs neatly arranged. Thomas Inasu, the restaurant manager welcomed us and politely showed us our table. I told him that this is my first time to try Iranian food so I’ve requested him to guide me through the food choices. Iranian food, he said, is similar to Afghanistan and Indian cuisine. The style of cooking is similar but they are more into grilled (kabab) food. The concept of vegetarianism is not common in the main dishes of Iran but the appetizers and the soup have vegetables as main ingredients. For the starter, we were served one cold and one hot appetizer. Salad EShirazi (finely diced cucumber, tomato, onion and lettuce with a taste of lemon) is the cold appetizer and Kashk-E-Badenjan (a delicious puree of aubergine and traditional kashk) is the hot appetizer. The starter comes with cheese (feta) and pickles (cucumber, carrots and other relish). The Kashk-E-Badenjan is deep-fried and mashed eggplant topped with cheese and yogurt, crispy onions, walnuts and herbs. The taste is different but delicious, very rich and this alone will fill your appetite. The cold appetizer is fresh and crunchy and the lemon gives the dish a distinctive taste. Both are best eaten with flat bread which the restaurant bakes. The starters are accompanied with the doug, a traditional Iranian cold drink, made of laban (milk) mixed with mint leaves, salt and pepper. Mr. Inasi explained that doug is an afternoon drink. It tastes sour but will not upset your stomach.

For the main dish, we were given portions of grilled kebabs – Chelo Kabab Joojeh (succulent char grilled cuts of marinated boneless chicken); Chelo Kebab-E-Kubideeh (a traditional kebab of minced lamb) and Chelo Kabab Shishlik (mildly marinated lamb chops grilled on a spit over an open fire). Three rice preparations were served on a platter - Zereshk Polow (Basmati rice scented with saffron and Iranian berberries); Baghali Polow (Basmati rice and Lima beans scented with Dill) and Saffron Polow (Basmati rice infused with saffron). Of all the three rice preparations, I like the Zereshk Polow to go with the grilled meats because it tastes sweet. The minced lamb meat is very tasty. The more you chew on the meat, the more the flavour stands out brought by the seasonings. The lamb chops, cooked medium well, is tender and juicy. I can tell that it is marinated well because the flavour stays on the meat. Mr. Inasu said that most of their meats are cooked medium well to retain its juiciness. “When meat is cooked well done, it tastes dry. The only meat that is cooked well done is the chicken but everything else is cooked medium well,” he explained. For the dessert, we sampled Makhloud (Iranian ice cream served on top of thin Iranian noodles with strawberry sauce). This seems odd for a dessert because of the noodles but it was yummy. Great for an afternoon meal. Overall, my introduction to Iranian cuisine is great. It’s a wonderful experience and I’m glad that Shiraz Restaurant paved the way for another cuisine to be added on my preferred choices. The food is excellent; prices are very affordable, friendly staffs that are helpful and attentive to your needs and a classy atmosphere.

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Simply Thai Mojo, located on the first floor of Millennium Hotel Sharjah, is a perfect place to bring someone who has never savoured Thai cuisine. The fine dining restaurant offers authentic yet innovative Thai food. The quality of the food combined with affordable prices makes it a must for a casual weekday lunch or dinner or simply, an introduction to Thai cuisine. 84 I Travel Arabia I May

The ambience in Mojo is of sheer elegance and style. Granite floors and dark woods create an atmosphere unlike any other, complementing Mojo’s extravagant dishes. The chairs and tables are distanced properly so one can fully enjoy the sumptuous meal. I took a trip to Mojo during lunch so the place is not crowded, well lit and I had a chance of selecting the best seat in the house – overlooking the stunning view of Khaled lagoon – which is a perfect match to the cosy afternoon. With the menu came a bowl of the spicy prawn crackers, served with three different dipping sauces. A platter of bread came as well. While munching on the crackers, I scanned the menu and found a good choice of the Thai fare at very affordable prices. For starters, I had Chicken Sate (Grilled Chicken with Peanut Sauce) and Crispy Fried Prawns (Deep Fried Prawns Coated with Flour). Both are delicious. The chicken sate is tender and juicy and the flavor of the dish stands out as you pour the peanut sauce onto it. The Crispy Fried Prawn comes with light chili sauce that brings out the sweetness of the shrimp. For the soup, I tried my all time favorite – Tom Yam Kung (Shrimp Soup with Thai Herbs). I love the taste and the flavour of this soup, spicy (hot) and sour combined. As you taste the soup, you will feel both flavours racing down your throat. The smell of the soup also adds to its distinct taste. Mojo also offers Pho Tak Seafood (Hot and Sour Soup with Mixed Seafood), Wonton Soup (Shrimp Wonton Soup with Pak Choy), Tom Yam Je (Vegetable Soup with Thai Herbs), among others. For the main course, I chose Kung Yang Nam Jim (Grilled Tiger Prawns with Green Chili Sauce) and Pattaya Batter Fried Fish (Batter Fried Lime Fish) that comes with chili, ketchup and tartar sauces. Both

are mouth-watering, well-presented and the serving is just enough to satisfy your appetite. Steamed and crispy vegetable complement the dish. If you want rice to go with it, you can order Stir Fried Rice with Shrimps or Chicken, Stir Fried Rice with Pineapple or Steamed Rice. For dessert, Mojo takes pride in their Ripe Mango with Sticky Rice and Fried Banana (Dusted with Cinnamon Sugar Served with a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream). These two delicacies bring out the authentic Thai food. Yummy is the only word I can think of to describe the dessert. The mango was ripe and juicy. The sticky rice was sweet and went well with the mangos. You can order a pot of Green Tea while enjoying your dessert along with the stunning view of the lagoon. Mojo also serves a variety of beverage. I would recommend Summertime which is a smooth and refreshing blend of fresh strawberries, pineapple and grapefruit as well as Big Foot with Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon Juice and Grenadine, all Shaken to Make your Day. Mojo is open for lunch and dinner and can seat up to 80 diners. If you want to go for something new and different, the restaurant also served Ostrich meat. Millennium Hotel Sharjah offers a variety of ostrich dishes with prices that are very reasonable and affordable. As always, all the things I love about Thai food, I have experienced in Mojo. The food was excellent, delicious and light, service is superb, the waitstaffs are polite and friendly, the food presentation is elegant and the entrees are affordable. So the next time I am in Sharjah and crave for Thai food, Mojo is the place to eat. Very soon, Mojo will be delighting its guests with a full spread fish market. A variety of sea food and fish will be presented to you to choose from another special attraction from the Millennium Hotel Sharjah.

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Not your ordinary

Tapas Bar

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If there’s one thing that the Spanish enjoy it’s an evening of good food, good wine and good company.

Too often we go to a restaurant just to eat and chit-chat, and then move on. However, if you go to Bravo at the Sheraton Abu Dhabi you’ll find yourself drawn into an atmosphere that is very hard to leave. Located overlooking the sea and part of the city in a circular terraced extension to the corner of the beachfront Sheraton, Bravo immediately has the appeal of not trying to be something it isn’t. Even though its décor is luscious velvet red drapes and the lighting is romantically low, it is a tapas bar serving both traditional tapas dishes as well as modern interpretations. It doesn’t claim to be a restaurant and its manager, Emmanuel Hamza Ubani is keen for guests not to think of it as such. The Spanish guitars hanging from the pillars, and the hams and garlic cloves hanging across the kitchen serving top suggest a more relaxed and homely style of experience in store. And don’t be fooled by the fact that Bravo throws off the restaurant tag: the food is quite excellent. Following the

A sample of Spain:

Calamares a la plancia (Fried calamari) – crisp dry calamari rings served with a homemade tartare sauce and a stream of chilli if you want to spice it up a little. Croquetas de pollo (Chicken croquettes) – herb breadcrumbed chicken on a tangy tartare sauce bed with smoky balsamico and red oil infused with chilli on the side. Gambas al pil-pil (Prawns with garlic and paprika) – individual miniature prawns prepared with a subtle garlic and smoky paprika with hint of wine. And for dessert: Crema catalana – Traditional Spanish custard with crisp caramelised crust served in a clay tureen. Tarta Santiago – delightfully light almond sponge cake topped with icing sugar. tapas tradition, every dish is served in a ‘starter’ sized portion and brought freshcooked and still sizzling to your table, which means you can taste a wide variety of Spanish cuisine while you while away the evening with your friends. If you’re new to tapas then you might want to choose the Menu de Degustacion or tasting menu. For a set price you have around 16 dishes served throughout the evening for you to share over a glass of Spanish Chianti for example, or a carafe of homemade – and rather potent – sangria. Whether you are inside listening to the live Columbian band playing every

Tarta de Queso – Traditional light, sweet cheesecake with a delicate chocolate sauce. evening, or sitting out on the upper terrace enjoying the warm night-time breeze from the sea, or downstairs on the lower terrace smoking shisha or salsa dancing every Friday, your table will never be empty of the vibrant flavours and textures of a menu which is deceptive in its apparent simplicity. The head chef, Mustafa and his small team consistently present you with succulent, aromatic and delightfully presented dishes. If you have an appointment somewhere else, then here is a warning: Bravo tapas bar will serve you quickly if you wish and will satisfy your taste buds, but be prepared to relax and forget the time. An evening at Bravo is not something you want to rush. Sit back, nibble, take in the waft of garlic on the air, drink sangria, dance a bit, talk and enjoy life. And if you need a further incentive: 6.30pm until 8pm is happy hour every night, and Sunday evening is ladies night where the free sangria just keeps on flowing. With plans to expand the bar over the next couple of years to make more room for tables, dancing and entertainment, Bravo is set to enhance its already growing reputation as one of the unique dining experiences in Abu Dhabi.

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TRANQUIL MOMENTS

Naturally You

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Natural Elements spa in Le Meridien Hotel close to Dubai International airport is an ideal location, not only for the weary traveller who could do with a refreshing jet-lag easing massage, or the pre-flight visitor who just wants to pamper themselves on their last day with an all-over detox, or the numerous flight crew wanting a relaxing facial after another long-haul. The spa is also part of the hotel’s extensive leisure facilities available either without or without membership. Naturally, if you’re a guest of the hotel or a member of the health club, the facilities come at a greatly reduced price. Inside the doors of Natural Elements the décor is less overtly calming than some other spas in the region. But what appeals to the visitor is the simplicity of the design: clear pale-coloured walls, smooth ornamental water-feature pots, modern wood and metal benches, plain floor tiles and subtle focussed lighting. As a result, you get the feeling that it is a spa that knows the business of good health, and that gives you confidence and the ease to enjoy your experience. As well as an extensive range of treatments including facials of all types; laser hair removal; skin replenishments; body, eye and lip treatments; massages (both for relaxation and for medical ailments) and waxing; Natural Elements also offers Day Spa Packages, one of which I was to be treated – the Executive Renewal. Lasting two and a half hours – most of which was lost in a state of utopian relaxation – the Executive Renewal consists of a revitalising full body scrub, then a back, neck and shoulder massage,

and finally a European facial. To begin with Ruel, my therapist, recommended a few minutes in the aromatherapy heat room – a triangular tiled cubicle in which you allow the heat permeating the walls to get to work relaxing your muscles, without the discomfort of the steam you get in a sauna. Although, the gradually changing lighting in the cubicle is sensorily pleasant, the total experience is minimised because of the glass door to the well-lit corridor outside. Then in one of the two ‘dry’ treatment rooms in the men’s section (there is also a hydrotherapy room while for the ladies they have 5 dry rooms and a hydrotherapy room). I received the full body scrub using one of a line of Pevonia Botanica natural products endorsed by the spa – an experience often verging on the painful but ultimately extremely revitalising and leaving the skin almost instantly softer, especially after the short rinse shower. Next, the back, neck and shoulder massage. If you carry your everyday stress around with you like a bag of knots like I do, then the release of the tension by a good masseuse is incredible – and Ruel, an experienced therapist from the Philippines, knows how to untie those knots.

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Lasting two and a half hours – most of which was lost in a state of utopian relaxation – the Executive Renewal consists of a revitalising full body scrub, then a back, neck and shoulder massage, and finally a European facial.

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An hour and a quarter into the session and the final phase begins – the European facial. Now being a ‘bloke’, facials aren’t high on my list of personal grooming practices, but maybe they should be. Basically, there are four stages: a deep cleansing and toning using an enzyme exfoliator which responds to a gentle steam spray, a massage with caviar cream, a seaweed mask to detox and purify the skin, and a moisturisation with Pevonia cara cream. My face must have been in bad shape as it seemed to require a lot of time – not unpleasant time, mind you. Each treatment was left to do its thing for – who knows? By this time I was happy dosing between every application and removal, and by the end of the Executive Renewal I did indeed feel renewed, if a little more feminine than I’m used to. The attention to detail and the amount of time given to each guest at the Natural Elements spa is very reassuring. As well as the spa and all its facilities, the three levels of membership (Silver, Gold and Platinum) of the fitness centre include use of the pool and poolside area, reduced rate coaching and fitness program assessment, various discounts in Le Meridien shops and Finishing Touches Beauty Salon, use of the tennis courts and outdoor pools, and a range of complementary classes, among other advantages. And regardless of whether you simply want to wax your eyebrows, have an after-sun soothing session or experience the full laser slimming treatment, Natural Elements staff will treat you like royalty.

TRAVEL & TOURISM NEWS

Air Arabia to build 300-room hotel at Sharjah Airport Air Arabia, the first low-cost carrier Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia, said: “The Arabia, said: “The decision to set up this in the Middle East and North Africa, construction of this new hotel is a key 300-room hotel at Sharjah Airport comes as announced that it will construct a 300-room component in the growth of Sharjah Airport part of Air Arabia’s strategy to grow ancillary hotel at Sharjah Airport. The announcement and will further enhance the range of revenues. In partnership with appointed follows the signing of a management facilities and services offered here, including third parties, we currently provide a agreement between Air Arabia and Rotana a new state-of-the-art terminal and groundportfolio of over 20,000 hotels – from Hotels to manage this property budget to 5-star accommodation under their innovative Centro – in more than 3,300 cities across by Rotana brand, offering the globe.” affordable, superior-class Nasser Al Nowais, Chairman accommodation and hospitality of Rotana Hotels, said: “The Centro by Rotana, essence of Rotana Hotels is the Sharjah Airport, will be highly diversity of its products and distinctive, expressed through genuine Arabian hospitality. its contemporary architecture Signing this management and unique living spaces. While agreement with Air Arabia, one dramatic exteriors will reflect of the strongest brands in the Centro’s modern style, its regional travel sector, makes crisp interiors will provide the this statement even stronger. essentials for today’s traveler, We are extremely pleased to including advanced technologies. partner with Air Arabia and are The property, which will confident that the new hotel will From right to left: Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman further improve the hospitality include both standard rooms of Air Arabia and Nasser Al Nowais, Chairman of Rotana Hotels and suites, will offer comfort experience at Sharjah Airport.” and convenience for travelers Unique features of Centro passing through one of the by Rotana, Sharjah Airport, region’s fastest-growing airports as well as handling services.” include a full casual-style dining area, for visitors to the emirate. Centro by Rotana, He added: “In line with the growth in-room wireless Internet connectivity and Sharjah Airport, will redefine the concept of of Air Arabia, the ongoing infrastructure entertainment, and a range of personal affordable comfort by offering superiorupgrade at Sharjah Airport and the new amenities. This is combined with such class accommodation and genuine Arabian hotel will ensure that customers continue to comforts as gymnasiums and swimming hospitality to both business and individual turn to Sharjah as the preferred international pools, together with on-site business travelers. gateway to the UAE, Gulf and wider region.” facilities such as private meeting rooms and Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Adel Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Air business centres.

Le Meridien Al Aqah raise funds A whopping AED 10,000 was raised at the 1st Le Meridien Al Aqah Fun Day, which was held in January 2007 at the award-winning resort to raise funds for the Sea Farers Angel Appeal and the Fujairah Handicapped Charity. “We were truly overwhelmed by the turnout on the day. It was so heartening to see the people, both young and old, from across the Emirates come out in full force and support this worthy cause – a true testament to their generous spirit,” said Patrick Antaki, general

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manager, Le Meridien Al Aqah. The money will be put towards the operational costs of the “Flying Angel”, the world’s first seafarers’ support boat that will support the estimated 2,000 seafarers anchored off the UAE’s East Coast as well as to enhance services for the region’s handicapped community. The Fun Day brought a ‘village fete’ type atmosphere to the East Coast, with a variety of stalls on the beach, offering everything from food and beverages to handicrafts and games. The fun day

Patrick Antaki, general manager, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort presenting a check for AED 10,000 to Rev Stephen Miller, Head of the Special Mission for Seafarers in the UAE.

Global Hyatt launched Andaz™ Global Hyatt Corporation President and CEO Mark Hoplamazian launched Andaz, the company’s newest addition to its global brand portfolio. The Company plans to launch several hotels under the new brand this year, with properties already slated for New York and London, and others under discussion in other parts of the world including Beijing and Moscow. The word Andaz means ‘personal style’. In addition to a focus on personal style and independence, the new brand will offer a highly functional environment characterized by sophistication, innovative design, local identity, casual elegance and service that is attentive but not pretentious and without ‘attitude’. “Our launch of Andaz is based on demand expressed by both consumers and developers for a product and experience that they have not found within the industry,” Hoplamazian said. “This worldwide customer base is looking for fresh, uncomplicated luxury that is timeless and ‘gimmick’ free.” Representing a part of the next phase of the company’s accelerating worldwide growth, the first Andaz will be in the City of London, where the Great Eastern Hotel will be rebranded and repositioned following completion of a renovation in September. Plans are also well underway in New York for Andaz, beginning with Hyatt’s recently purchased property on Fifth Avenue at 41st street, across from the New York Public Library. Announcements of other Andaz hotels in markets inside and outside of North America are expected in the coming weeks and months. In developing the brand, Global Hyatt Corp. is working with top architects and interior designers around the world to create environments that express the personal style of the customer and the personality of the destination. Andaz hotels will be authentic and culturally correct in service and product delivery. Hoplamazian indicated that the brand will also be as environmentally friendly as possible, through various features that would include serving organic food and beverage, using fully biodegradable products and focusing on energy efficiency. As the brand develops, new hotel structures will incorporate ecologically friendly

British Airways’ Terminal 5 to open in March 2008

British Airways – which operates 49 weekly flights from the Middle East to London Heathrow – has revealed its dedicated Terminal 5 at the UK’s principal airport will open on Thursday 27 March 2008. Airport operator BAA and British Airways announced the opening date for Terminal 5 (T5), which will become an exclusive new home for British Airways, serving around 30 million passengers a year and be a stunning new gateway to the UK. Over 90% of construction-related work is complete and the project remains on time and on budget. An intensive six-month period of proving trials will begin in September this year, when over 16,000 people will be recruited to act as volunteer passengers and thoroughly test every aspect of the building including car parking, check-in, baggage systems, IT systems and security. Willie Walsh, Chief Executive of British Airways, who will be the sole airline occupant of T5, said: “This is a historic breakthrough which will transform the airport experience for our customers. T5 will mean less queuing, faster baggage systems and better punctuality. For comfort and convenience, it will exceed the best you can find at any other airport. T5’s first passengers will step off a British Airways morning arrival from Hong Kong and around 40,000 customers will go through the new terminal on its first day of operation. Tony Douglas, Chief Executive Officer of BAA Heathrow, said: “London is a world city, a global financial centre and needs a

world class airport. “T5 is already a testament to the skill and hard work of the thousands of people, including architects, planners, construction workers, airport and airline staff, who have together made the building happen.” “68 million passengers will fly through Heathrow this year in aging terminal facilities designed to accommodate around 45 million. When T5 opens and 30 million passengers move out of existing terminals, for the first time we will have space to breath in the central terminal area and have a once in a lifetime opportunity to redevelop the rest of the airport and bring it up to a comparable standard to T5. “By 2012, we aim to have either re-built or redeveloped our existing facilities and returned Heathrow to its rightful status as the world’s leading international airport. We will be proud to welcome the world’s Olympians through our gates.” The T5 complex features 60 new aircraft stands, two satellite buildings (the second to be completed by 2010), rail links to London Underground and Heathrow Express, a new multi-storey car park and extensive landscaping. Designed by 2006 Stirling Prize winner the Richard Rogers Partnership, T5 combines functionality with finesse. The building’s design meets the needs of the passenger from the moment they arrive at the airport to boarding their aircraft. It offers space, convenience, comfort and spectacular views across the airfield for virtually every step of the passenger’s journey.

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Airbus A 380 lands in Munich The Airbus A 380 – the world’s largest and most advanced passenger aircraft – touched down in Bavaria for the first time on March 29, landing on Munich Airport’s southern runway to the delight of thousands of fascinated onlookers. The flagship of the Airbus fleet docked smoothly at the southernmost park position of Terminal 2. “This is a great day for Munich Airport. We are proud to be hosting a visit by the world’s most advanced and largest passenger aircraft,” said Munich Airport CEO Dr. Michael Kerkloh in his welcoming address for the “Super Airbus” at a special premiere celebration. Also on hand at the event in honor of the giant bird’s first visit to Bavaria were Michael Glos, the German Federal Minister for Economics and Technology, Dr. Kurt Faltlhauser, the Bavarian Finance Minister and chairman of the Munich Airport Supervisory Board, and Karl-Ulrich Garnadt, a member of the Lufthansa Management Board. Munich Airport, which started operations in 1992, was prepared well in advance for the Airbus A 380. Right from the drawing

board, the airport’s infrastructure plans took into account the potential requirements of future aircraft generations. The airport’s 4000meter-long and 60- meter-wide runways and 30-meter-wide taxiways meet all ICAO

requirements for A 380 operations. Munich Airport also meets the specifications of the A 380 manufacturer, EADS, for the necessary load-bearing capacity of taxiways and bridges to support the new Airbus, with its maximum

weight of 600 tons. The only adaptations for the giant aircraft were adjustments to the curve radii of the taxiways in some areas. In February 2004, Munich Airport became Europe’s first airport to receive official clearance for traffic operations with aircraft from the so-called “new large aircraft generation,” which includes the Airbus A 380. Munich Airport has three park positions designed to handle the enormous Airbus: two at Terminal 2 and one at Terminal 1. Three jetways will dock with the wide body jet, enabling passengers to board and disembark quickly and easily. With a length of nearly 73 meters, the A 380 is more than two meters longer than the Boeing 747-400, the former title holder as the world’s largest passenger aircraft. But the big difference is in the wingspan, where the A 380 comes in at just under 80 meters: a whopping 15 meters wider than the “Jumbo.” Depending on the version, the A 380 can carry up to 853 passengers and has a maximum range of 16,200 kilometers (over 8700 nautical miles).

New player enters Middle East hotel arena

Gavin Faull (left) President, Swiss-Belhotel International congratulates Edgar Solenthaler, Vice President Development & Operations Middle East on the opening of the Dubai office and regional project announcements.

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Swiss-Belhotel International has emerged as a new player in the competitive Middle Eastern hotel market. The Hong Kong based company founded in 1987, spearheads its entry into the region, with the opening of a Dubai operations and development office and the announcement of new hotels in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Jordan and the acquisition of an existing property in Kuwait. A leading name in hotel management and with more than 20 years experience, SwissBelhotel International has strong global brand recognition and is known for quality and service excellence in hospitality. The group has a strong focus on serviced residences as well as city and resort hotels. The new properties include: Swiss-Belhotel Plaza Kuwait owned by

International Trade Holding Company W.L.L. is an existing four star deluxe hotel featuring 164 recently renovated rooms and suites. The hotel is located in the heart of the commercial and banking district, 20 minutes drive from the airport and adjacent to a 3-storey shopping mall. The hotel features an all day dining restaurant serving international cuisine and a Tea/Coffee Lounge. Swiss-Belhotel Sharma Resort, currently under construction is located in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and owned by Tabuk Investment & Tourism Company. The four star deluxe property will feature 153 rooms, suites and luxury villas (ranging from 1 bedroom to 5 bedrooms), 10 food and beverage outlets (serving Asian, Seafood, Middle Eastern and Swiss cuisine), extensive

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts marks its Centennial Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in the hospitality industry will mark its centennial anniversary this year. Fairmont invites its guests to join the celebrations with a series of events and programs, debuting in April and continuing throughout the year. From ‘’Open Door’’ days where guests tour public and private rooms escorted by local doyennes to a special 1907 centennial classic tea, guests can enjoy the company’s rich tradition of hospitality. With the opening of the landmark Fairmont San Francisco and New York’s The Plaza in 1907, Fairmont was born. Over a century, Fairmont properties, located in the most unforgettable locations in the world, have hosted the rich and famous, kings and queens, Presidents and Prime Ministers and stars of the stage and screen. Many of Fairmont’s iconic properties have been integral in the development of cities, had an impact on the course of history or even altered the social fabric. In fact, many are often deemed attractions in and of themselves. Creating an environment that fosters cherished and lasting memories has long been a hallmark of the company. In commemorating a century, The Fairmont Dubai looks back on a rich history and pays tribute with its centennial celebrations. From April 10 to May 31, 2007, guests and patrons will have the chance to experience a host of exciting promotions and offers, touching every part of the hotel, from food and beverage promotions to an exclusive 1907 centennial room package, spa offers and beyond. As well, the hotel has unveiled a website dedicated to this occasion www.silentmovies.ae, showcasing the iconic and youthful The Fairmont Dubai alongside a century old celluloid treatment; namely, the silent movie. meeting and conference facilities, health club and spa facilities, tennis course, mini golf, Kids’ club, swimming pools and much more. The hotel is expected to be completed in 20 months (end 2009). Swiss-Belhotel Amman, to be under construction in Schmeisani, the hub of Amman’s business district and nearby to many high-end restaurants and art galleries. The hotel, a four star deluxe property, owned by Eastern Investment Group Holding, features 221 rooms and suites, accessed by a glass elevator offering panoramic views of the surroundings, food and beverage outlets, conferencing facilities, a movie theatres and retail shopping precinct. With the addition of these properties, Swiss-Belhotel International will manage 21 hotels/resorts/serviced residences throughout Asia, in seven countries - Vietnam, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Kuwait. There are several

other new projects under development. “Swiss-Belhotel International is delighted to have commenced business in the Middle East region in two new five-star hotels and one existing hotel property.” said Mr. Edgar Solenthaler, Vice President, Operations & Development - Middle East, Swiss-Belhotel International. “We are in negotiations for several other properties in the region including one in the United Arab Emirates,” he added. Swiss-Belhotel International formed their Middle East division by establishing a Joint Venture company with Alpha Tours Dubai. The international hotel management know-how (Swiss-Belhotel International) and experience in the inbound travel business (Alpha Tours) make this a winning combination. Established in 1995, Alpha Tours Dubai is the leading Destination Management Company in the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf Region.

Fly More,

Pay Less American Express Middle East and Qatar Airways have ushered in easy summer travel with a special offer. Beginning in April, American Express Cardmembers based in the Kingdom of Bahrain will receive up to 15 per cent discount on Qatar Airways flights departing from Bahrain to any of the 70 destinations the airline flies to on a daily basis (except Doha). The bonus offer, which runs from April until September 2007, means first and business class passengers will receive a 15 per cent discount, and economy class passengers will receive a 10 per cent discount. Summer travel has become an integral part of life in the GCC, with most holidaymakers heading increasingly for new and exciting destinations every year, said Sunita Gomes, Regional Manager, Airline and Travel Industries at American Express. “Our Cardmembers are frequent international travelers and the travel offers through our Selects programme is a benefit that can enhance and add value to their travel experiences. With the addition of Qatar Airways, we are providing our Cardmembers in Bahrain with broader access to destinations all over the world” Gomes said. The pairing of world-leading card brand American Express and the regional airline is a union of like-minded entities, said Abdulla Ghuloom, Area Manager for Qatar Airways in Bahrain. “Qatar Airways and American Express are both premium brands and establishing this joint promotion was a natural move,” Ghuloom said. “We share a similar client base and believe this initiative will deliver a real benefit to our passengers.”

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SPECIAL FEATURE I ITB BERLIN

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi offers exciting summer packages Le Meridien Abu Dhabi invites UAE residents and visitors from the region to pack their bags and spend three relaxing, fun days away from home. From June till the end of August, just an hour away from Dubai and half an hour from Al Ain; Le Meridien Abu Dhabi offers you an exciting, rejuvenating escape. A coice of two exciting summer packages the first consists of a romantic getaway for two; book a deluxe room for 3 nights including breakfast and receive a 45 min spa massage for two and a dinner voucher to be redeemed during your stay just for AED 2,222 net. A family pack is also available which includes 2 interconnecting deluxe rooms, a 45 minute spa massage for two and a lunch voucher to be redeemed during your stay just for AED 3, 999 net.

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Guests are also given access to the hotel facilities which includes 2 outdoor swimming pools, a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pool, a tranquilizing beach stretch, an indoor aqua medic pool, turkish hammam, steam room, gymnasium, volleyball court, Squash and tennis courts. Le Meridienâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eden spa provides a sophisticated and relaxing retreat. Pamper yourself with one of many treatments, such as various massages, aromatherapy, wraps, body scrubs, hand & foot therapies, facial care and mineral baths. A dedicated staff offers an exclusive selection of traditional and holistic services, such as Lithos therapy, the use of its heated and chilled marble rocks or experience the magic of Ayurveda. One of the hotels main attractions lies in its exclusive scenic

gardens with picturesque walkways surrounded by its unique mix of 14 restaurants and beverage outlets, which represent various cuisines from around the world. Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, with 27 years of service excellence, has become a prominent landmark of Abu Dhabi, the capital city of UAE. Located in the heart of the city, with its close proximity to the business district as well as to the many major attractions, and having its own private beach makes it an ideal destination for tourists. Le Meridien Abu Dhabi has undergone a spectacular refurbishment of 236 rooms, bringing together a complete new look with a unique selection of decorations, colours and exquisite furnishings.

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea completes accommodation Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea announced the opening of its main building this month, adding 201 luxurious rooms and suites to the existing facilities, completing the resort’s impressive accommodation offering. Housed in a stylish Arabesque building, the new accommodation is comprised of 137 Superior Rooms, 51 Junior Suites, 11 Executive Suites and 2 Penthouses; ideal for leisure and business travellers alike. The 201 new rooms and suites join the existing 117 at the exclusive Ishtar villas which opened in May 2006, to make up a total 318, all of which face the Dead Sea and each with their own unique style. “After months of preparation and finishing work, we’re delighted to open this eagerly anticipated part of our property, presenting the best of the ancient world in a modern context. We now look forward to welcoming the influx of guests seeking the ultimate in relaxation, luxury and history,” said Duncan O’Rourke, Regional Director & General Manager, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea. By the end of 2007 there will be a total of nine dining and lounge venues,

Fiesta Latina serving an exquisite selection of ethnic and international cuisines and refreshments. Cited as Jordan’s ‘Resort of the Year’ in the 2006 Grumpy Gourmet Awards and nominated for other international awards in it pre-opening stage, the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar is already being recognised as the premier resort destination in the region. Inspired by ancient Babylonian architecture, the hotel is built in carved Jerusalem stone and features gardens dotted with lagoons, waterfalls and private pools, ancient olive trees and bamboo palms provide guests with absolute privacy in a serene and exclusive setting. During 2007 the resort will also open the Grand Ballroom, accommodating up to 800 guests, extensive meeting facilities and an auditorium seating 228 people, a bowling centre, tennis courts and 10,000 square metres of holistic wellness facilities at the Anantara Spa, which will be the largest in the Middle East.

Viceroy goes ‘Down Under’ From 8 to 26 May 2007, Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai has planned for all things ‘Aussie’ as it stages a ‘Down Under’ promotion at the Viceroy Bar & Cocktail Lounge. A selection of delicious Australian treats awaits all diners. Highly recommended are Tasmanian Smoked Salmon Mini Pizza with Australian Mango, Pumpkin & Ginger Soup with Macadamia Nuts, Cutlet Of Victorian Lamb with Rosemary Jus, Grilled Vegetables & Thick Fries and Poached Pear with Caramelized Macadamia Nuts. On hand to accompany these mouth-watering specialities are a wide range of choice beverages such as Australian Foster beer by draft or bottle and wines from the famous and award-winning house ‘Lindemans” - we have special offers on bin 65 and bin 45. The Viceroy will also be dressed up in all things Australian and will have Australian music playing throughout. For those who believe they have a lucky streak, do participate in the Aussie quizzes and you may just walk away with some fabulous prizes! Its good ol’ Aussie-style fun at the Viceroy! Hurry over as the ‘Down Under’ promotion is available daily for lunch and dinner from 8 to 26 May 2007. For reservations, please call 04 397 7444.

As a continuation of the series of various events for the year 2007, the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi held a Fiesta Latina night whereby over 150 guests were greeted in the Grandballrom by Mr. Moine Kandil, the General Manager of the Hotel who believes that such kinds of folkloric and food festivals brings countries closer together whereby their traditions and habits are exposed to other people around the world. The Hotel held before a Moroccan, Italian, Greek, Australian, Indonesian and other festivals are in the plan as Indian and Singaporean.

Award for environment support The Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi has been granted an award certificate by the Minister of Environment and Water H.E. Dr. Mohamed Saeed Al Kindi in the ceremony that was held at the National Theater to mark the calendar of the series of celebrations of environment support. The Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi is a strong believer of instilling in the minds of the people the importance of keeping the environment clean and protecting it to save our one and only planet.

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TRAVEL DIRECTORY

ALGERIA ALGERIA General Information Area

Embassies & Consulates Algeria: 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

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Italy 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

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, Finland, Guinea, Iceland, Ireland,

292330

793766

in the Sahara at night

Italy, Leichenstein, Mali, Monaco,

912004

912046

Languages Arabic (official)

Norway, San Marino, Sweden,

French (commercial)

Switzerland

692031

691554

692076

693014

693408

693037

594977

692397

921502

924687

Airports

Customs Regulations

Algiers (920 Km from city centre)

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or

Annaba (12 Km from city centre)

400 gr of tobacco and 1 bottle of

Constantine (9 Km from city

wine are admitted free of Duty

Berber (in rural areas)

centre)

Currency regulations

Wahran 910 Km from city centre)

Any amount of foreign currency

Tlemcen (20 Km form city centre)

may be taken into Algeria but is

792139

784274

924023

923451

No airport tax on departure

prohibited to take any Algerian

922828

923770

Ports

currency into or out of the country.

Algiers (principal), Annaba, Oran,

Proof of all foreign exchange

691849

691175

Skikda, Mostaganem, Bejaia

transactions must be presented

941375

Business Hours

on departure.All foreign visitors

Government offices and state

must change a minimum of AD

Enterprises

1000.

941310 693781

692212

922553 925313

92541

922856

922415

690871

693642

783134

782882

603518 922713

922719

692300

691917

737310

738158

912026

912030

691388

692316

08.00 to 17.00 Sat to Wed

Currency

0800 to 12.00 Thu

1 Algerian dinar (AD) =100

Banks

Centimes

09.00 to 16.00 Sat to Wed Turkey 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

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

Manama: 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

May I Travel Arabia I 99

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

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 Cairo 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

100 I Travel Arabia I May

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

18 Aisha El-Taimouria St.Garden City 3547200 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

3563903 3406152 3408648 3414038 3415075 3540657 3563540 3601027 3443400 3602657 3610463

3489060 5783040 3400937 3415249 3420709 3036464 3480310

Portugal 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

Embassies & Consulates

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 1 Iraqi dinar (ID)= 1.000 FILS

Baghdad 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

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

Korea Rep. 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

May I Travel Arabia I 101

Embassies & Consulates Embassies & Consulates Amman 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

102 I Travel Arabia I May

JORDAN

4641271

4616552

5930246

4616552

4644635

4612725

5664148

5664190

5931859

5930487

5925416

4612964

5529391

5539393

5666124

5689227

Area

shop,airport tax on departure.

220 volts,50 cycles AC.

5931530

5932607

92.000 sq.Km

Port

Visas

Aqaba

Visas required by all and can be obtained from

5605175

5604082

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

4641273

4659606

5930351

5932887

5672331

5696591

JORDAN

General Information

5929934

5694059

5925614

5930836

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

4623175

4619172

Languages

Sat to Thu.

on entry is permitted.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Banks

Currency

4638185

4659730

Airport

08.30 to 15.30 Sat. to Thu.

1 Jordanian dinar(JOD)=1.000 fils.

5930486

5931006

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

Electricity

5675135

5681971

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

May I Travel Arabia I 103

LEBANON

General Information

Area

08.00 to 14.00 Monday to Thursday.

10.452 sq.Km

08.00 to 11.00 Friday, 08 to 13 Saturday.

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

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

104 I Travel Arabia I May

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 Tripoli 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

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

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

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

May I Travel Arabia I 105

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 Rabat 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

106 I Travel Arabia I May

765474

762237

755120

755410

764003

765425

764746

767003

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

Rabat (10 Km from City Centre) Casablanca (30 Km from Town Centre) Agadir (20 Km from Town Centre) 39 Ahmed Balafrej Ave., Souissi 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

631782

750078

751125

758722

751767

750189

751775

753591

760728

766667

707400

705200

673788

674567

Businesses

661611

766742

08.00 to 12.30 and 16.00 to 19.00

756446

756445

Tangier (sea port for the North)

Business Hours Government 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.

Banks Winter 08.15 to 11.30 and 14.15 to 16.30 Mon to Fri. Summer 09.00 to 15.00 Mon to Fri

765681 753509

Casablanca (main sea port)

753590

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

730171 268000

707387

752863

752865

759303

758048

706974

705749

757521

757522

730636

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

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

762605

704980

707070

742145

720905

704531

762265

765661

674363

674769

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

Currency regulations No Moroccan currency may be imported or exported.

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

OMAN OMAN

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

Ports

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

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

Airports

Thu.

Seeb (40 Km from City Centre).

Electricity

No alcohol.No Limit for Tobacco products.

Embassies & Consulates Muscat, Ruwi 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 P.O.Box 105, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 600815

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

May I Travel Arabia I 107

QATAR

Embassies & Consulates Doha 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

108 I Travel Arabia I May

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

4329117

4329118

4832030

4832720

4423007

4329118

4832409

4832139

General Information Area

Airport

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.

(2000 estimate) 700.000

Capital

220/240 Volts 50 cycles AC.

Ras Laffan (Gaz and ind.)

No objection certificate required from Qatari

Doha

Doha, Umm Said (oil and petrochemicals)

Minsitery of Foreign Affairs. Other businessmen,

Main Cities

Business Hours

if their visit is sponsored by a reputable Qatari,

Doha, Rayan, Umm Said,

Government

may obtain a 72- hour visa at Doha Airport.

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

4438692

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

Banks

None

4884101

4884298

diurnal range

07.30 to 11.30 Sat to Wed.

Currency

07.30 to 11.00 Thu.

1 Qatari Riyal (QR)= 100 dirhams

4432555

4429400

Languages Arabic (official), English ( commercial).

4832645

4832649

4835204

4835206

4885111 4421991

Electricity

SAUDI ARABIA

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

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 Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Riyadh 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

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

P.O.Box 94387, Riyadh 11693 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

4884144

4884750

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

P.O.Box 94315, Riyadh 11693 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

4880835

4883945

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

May I Travel Arabia I 109

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

Embassies & Consulates Khartoum 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

110 I Travel Arabia I May

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

Embassies & Consulates Damascus 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.

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

Jordan 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

May I Travel Arabia I 111

Embassies & Consulates Tunis 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

112 I Travel Arabia I May

783166

788804

231222

750058

751091

767824

231811

766549

781655

792797

232538

750367

796577

792371 792631

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

793228

Capital

Businesses

Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Spain, Sweden,

792600

790797

Tunis

Winter:08.300 to 12.30 and 14.00 to 16.00

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

Mon to Fri.

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

792233

794389

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

Summer:07.30 to 13.00 Mon to Sat.

Customs Regulations

Temperature/Climate

Banks

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco

Winter:13â&#x2C6;&#x17E; 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.

Summer: 35â&#x2C6;&#x17E;C,hot and dry

Mon to Fri.

Currency regulations

Languages

Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon. to Sat.

The import or export of Tunisian currency is

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 currency exchanged back must not exceed 30

792107 280486

721700

721670

358000

358001

786455

788242

288411

789518

780544

781264

787819

783394

Skanes (8 Km west of Monasrtir)

Visas are required by all except nationals of

890347

799949

Melita (6 Km west of Djerba)

Angiulla, Antigua, Austria, Bahrain, Barbados,

per cent of foreign currency originally exchanged

791015

783177

Tozeur (south oasis area)

Belize, Bermuda, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada,

or 100 dinars, whichever is the greater.

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

Currency

321811

324155

Ports 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),

791251

786625

780875

784661

Korea Rep 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

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

Embassies & Consulates

Abu Dhabi Algeria P.O.Box 3070 Argentina P.O.Box 3325 Australia P.O.Box 32711 Austria P.O.Box 3095 Bahrain P.O.Box 3367 Bangladesh P.O.Box 2504 Belgium P.O.Box 3686 Brazil P.O.Box 3027 Britain P.O.Box 248 Canada P.O.Box 6970 China P.O.Box 2741 Czech Republic P.O.Box 27009 Denmark P.O.Box 46666 Egypt P.O.Box 4026 Finland P.O.Box 3634 France P.O.Box 4014 Germany P.O.Box 2591 Greece P.O.Box 5483 Hungary P.O.Box 44450 India P.O.Box 409 Iran P.O.Box 4080 Italy P.O.Box 46752 Japan P.O.Box 2430 Jordan P.O.Box 4024 Kenya P.O.Box 3854 Korea Rep P.O.Box 3270 Kuwait P.O.Box 926 Lebanon P.O.Box 4023 Libya P.O.Box 5739 Mauritania P.O.Box 2714 Morocco P.O.Box 4066

4448949

4447068

4436838

4431392

63646100

6393525

6267755

6267133

6657500

6674141

4465100

4464733

6319449

6319353

6665352

6654559

General Information Area

Dubai International (4 Km east of city), duty-free

to Thu

90,559 sq.Kms

shop

Electricity

(including Offshore islands)

Fujairah Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l, Duty-free shop

Abu Dhabi 240/415 volts, 50 cycles AC,

Population

Ras Al Khaimah International (20 Km south of

Northern Emirates

(1999 est.)2.80 million

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 International Aiports.Other Will be required to

6326600

6318138

4456969

4458787

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah,Ras Al-Khaimah

Ports

4434276

4436835

Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al-Qaiwan

Jebel Dhanna/Ruwais Abu Dhabi

obtain visas through sponsorship.

Mina Zayed ( Abu Dhabi town, 20% UAE

Customs Regulations

6782800

6795716

Temperature/Climate 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), 1000 cigarettes, 200

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

Port Rashid(Dubai Town), 50% UAE tonnage

cigars or 1 Kg tobacco(Dubai) are allowed duty-

very dry in Abu Dhabi, Wet in Ras El Khaimah

Ajman, Fujeirah

free.However locally retailed tobacco products

Languages

Mina Saqr (Ras Al Khaima) Khorfakan (Sharjah/

are as cheap as duty-free goods.

Arabic (official), English ( widely spoken in

East coast), container terminal.

Alcohol, drugs, pearls and firearms are

Business and government)

Mina Khalid (Sharjah Town), 20% UAE tonnage

prohibited

Airports

Business Hours

Currency regulations

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.

6325900 4445566

6351690 4449878

6328927

6325063

4435100

4434158

4435630

4453712

6654847

6656008

6660107

6667877

6664800

6651518

4447618

4448714

4435622

4434219

4435696 4447100 6666300 4435337 4446888 4492100 4450030 4462724 4433963

4449157 6652827 4435348 4444109 4493500 4450033 4465772 4433917

Netherlands P.O.Box 46560 Norway P.O.Box 47270 Behrain P.O.Box 2517 Pakistan P.O.Box 846 Palestine P.O.Box 841 Qatar P.O.Box 3503 Romania P.O.Box 70416 Russia P.O.Box 8211 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 4057 Spain

6321920

6313158

6211221

6213313

4463333

4464633

4447800

4447172

4434652

4434363

4493300

4493311

6666346

6651598

6721797

6788731

4445700

4446747

P.O.Box 46474 Sudan P.O.Box4027 Switzerland P.O.Box 46116 Syria P.O.Box 4011 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

6269544

6274978

6666788

6654231

6274636

6269627

4448768

4449387

6811331

6812707

6655421

6662691

6326600

6318138

4436691

4435441

4448457

4447978

May I Travel Arabia I 113

YEMEN

Embassies & Consulates

General Information YEMEN

No duty-free shop.Sanaa

General Information

Ports

Area 527.970 sq.Km

Population

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

Business Hours Government

(2000 estimate)17.5 million

08.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Thu.

Capital

Businesses

Sanaa(political), Aden(economic)

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

Main Cities

Banks

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

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

Temperature/Climate

Electricity

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

220 volts, 50 cycles AC

cooler and drier in Sanaa.

Visas

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

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

Sanaa.

must be presented with employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supporting letter.

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

Processing of applications takes 3 to 6 days.

and drier inland.

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

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

sometimes also be arranged by hotels.

Languages

Customs regulations

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

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

Airports

duty-free.

Al-Rahaba(10 Km north of Sanaa).

Currency regulations

Hodeida

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

(6 Km Southeast of city)

currency before departure.

Al-Janad

Currency

(4 Km northeast of Taiz)

1 Yemeni Riyal(YR)=100 fils

Khormasakar International (10 Km from Aden).

114 I Travel Arabia I May

Sanaa 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

209689

209688

285865

289568

208814

209523

275337 247946 215170

244418 212334

275948

274196

268888

269160

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

May I Travel Arabia I 115