Travel Arabia Sept 07 by Kalimat Group International

Online Version: www.travel-arabia.com

Sept 2007, Volume 3, Issue 8

RAMADAN

KAREEM Celebrate the holy month of Ramadan

The New

wonders of the world

THE SEOUL Of Korea The Unique & Incomparable

Homes of Sanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;a TION C A R ATT ce - The ala The P Town Old

editor’s note

There are a lot of things to do if you decide not to leave next summer. It only takes proper planning and I’m sure you would not mind the heat. I didn’t so I’m sure you wouldn’t.

Sadly, I didn’t get a chance to leave the country this summer. Not that I didn’t have plans but important matters forced me to stay behind. In short, I was here all the time coping with the unbearable heat but I survived. Yes, one can stay here despite the weather and be busy.

Now that business is back as usual, I hope this issue will trigger your curiosity on some of the topics that we have featured. You will read about the new Seven Wonders of the World. It’s truly amazing that our world has so much wonders. Even if your country didn’t make it to the top seven, the fact that it was nominated was an honour itself. Let’s do our best to protect and preserve these wonders.

he long summer vacation is over. Most residents and expatriates are back to resume work. Those with children head to schools to enroll their kids whose classes resume this month. The roads are beginning to get crowded too, signaling the return of hectic days in the UAE, especially in Dubai.

One event that definitely kept summer in Dubai fun and exciting was the Dubai Summer Surprises. There were no dull moments during the 10-week celebration. Each week brought joy and surprise to both young and adults. I personally enjoyed the Cartoonival and Hello Kitty shows at the Modhesh Fun City. The decision of the DSS Committee to have all ten surprises run together during the celebration was an excellent idea. Most of the participating malls were packed with people watching performances as well as kids enjoying a lot of treats. With less people on the road last month, I’m sure a lot of motorists were happy because the flow of traffic was much faster and smoother. There were congestion at Al Maktoum Bridge but the opening of the Floating Bridge helped reduce the traffic because it provided an alternative route for people living in Sharjah and those who don’t have the Salik tags. One thing that I also observed this summer was the increase of student drivers. Since there are fewer drivers on the street, summer is a perfect time to take driving lessons. There is less queuing time, thus more time to practice driving. Signing up at a fitness center is another way to enjoy summer. You will have more time to tone that muscle, reduce the fats and feel healthy and beautiful.

By the way, September also signals the start of the holy month of Ramadan. The third pillar of the five religious obligations of Islam, Ramadan is an important religious act for some 1.5 billion Muslims throughout the world. Fasting is a common practice during this sacred month and it provides many benefits. One learns self-control and shows greater sympathy for the needy and the poor. We are featuring an article about Ramadan to give our readers a bit of information about this important tradition. We have also included reminders for non-Muslim who may not be aware of what to do and not to do during Ramadan. Since suhoor and iftar are essential elements of Ramadan, most restaurants are offering special Ramadan packages to enjoy with your family, friends, colleagues and guests. Whether you want a five-star buffet style or group packages, the choices are endless. Happy reading to all and enjoy the spirit of Ramadan.

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 Assistant Designer Mohd Noufal Althaf Hussain Sales & Marketing Manager Syed Muhammad Arif arif@kalimatgroup.com Distributor Jashanmal National Co. LLC Travel Arabia Lebanon Office Riad el solh 11072070 P.O.Box 11-1197 Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961 3 435 780 Fax +961 7 762 104 Travel Arabia disclaimer All text and layout remains the copyright of Kalimat Group International FZ LLC, unless stated otherwise. Travel Arabia is fully independent, and its views are not those of any company mentioned herein. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.

your letters

Reader’s view of Travel Arabia.

Photo credits

The credits for the images that we used in the article titled “Soothing Spas” in the July-August issue were inadvertently omitted. Credits should go to Assawan Spa & Health Club at Burj Al Arab, The Spa at Shangri-La, Satori Spa at Jumeirah Bab Al Shams, Senso at Radisson SAS, Murjan Coral Signature Spa, Eden Spa & Health Club at Le Meridien Abu Dhabi and Softouch Spa at Kempinski MOE for the images. Our apologies.

ture Signa Coral n ja r Spa Mu

Senso a t Radis son SA S

The Editor

Dubai Summer Surprises I would like to congratulate the Dubai Summer Surprises committee for an excellent work this year. I am a parent who always looks for ways to get my children enjoy their summer because we couldn’t afford to travel abroad. The trip to Modhesh Fun City is always a relaxing and interesting time for my family. The live stage shows were very interesting and I could tell that my kids really enjoyed it. The Arts & Crafts section at the Modhesh Fun City is a learning experience. They were taught how to weave a basket and then to make a bracelet. My daughter kept the basket and the bracelet that she made. She was very happy. We also toured a lot of malls and found interesting shows and surprises. It was indeed one of the great summers that we’ve ever had.

Francesca de Jesus Satwa

Is Salik really helping?

Dubai’s new electronic toll system which was launched in July 1st had definitely alleviated the traffic congestion in Al Garhoud Bridge. I saw the traffic situation in both Al Garhoud and Al Maktoum Bridges the day Salik was implemented and boy, the scene was unbelievable. Motorists who didn’t have Salik tags have to squeezed through the heavy traffic at Maktoum Bridge while those who have tags had the ease and convenience of passing the Al Garhoud Bridge. As a motorist myself, the Salik toll system is very convenient because it gets me to my residence faster and to my appointments easier. The disadvantage of course is the AED 4 that I had to swallow from my budget. Well, nobody gets free rides nowadays. A. Smith Al Badia

The New Seven World Wonders I watched with amazement the announcement of the new Seven Wonders of the World. It’s amazing how people worked their way to have their country voted as one of the new wonders. I am not from India but one day I was surprised to receive an email telling me to vote for the Taj Mahal. Well, why not? Taj Mahal is an icon and the story behind its construction is incredible. A true love story. I’m glad Taj Mahal made it to the list. Let’s hope people will continue to preserve their own wonders whether it made it to the list or not. C. Hughes Jumeirah

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

The Holy Month of Ramadan

Ramadan Delights

The New Wonders of the World

The Homes of Sana’a, Yemen

The new Seven Wonders of the World was announced after years of anticipation and millions of votes. The winners were the Great Wall of China, the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer statue, Machu Picchu in Peru, the Mayan city of Chichen Itza in Mexico, The Colosseum in Rome and Taj Mahal in India. Take a glimpse of the famous wonders for your next travel trip.

Devotion and togetherness are two of the basic elements of Ramadan. Most families spent iftar (breaking of the fast) together during the first week of the month but here in the UAE, most people have their iftars at restaurants and other dining places. Since Ramadan is one of the busiest months for the industry, hotels are offering promotions. The choices are endless so read through and make your reservations.

About the Cover: This September, the people of the UAE along with the rest of the Muslim population celebrates Ramadan, an important religious act. Photo courtesy of Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

The Seoul of Korea Korea, commonly referred to as the ‘Land of the Morning Calm’, is a country rich in history and traditions. To experience Korea, one has to discover its many places. Start with Seoul, a city where traditions and culture co-exist with the modern times. Seoul has exciting places to visit.

The Palace-The Old Town in Downtown Burj Dubai The Palace-The Old Town, is scheduled for opening this September, 2007 in The Old Town Island, Downtown Burj Dubai. The luxury hotel offers direct views of Burj Dubai, the tallest building in the world, and is surrounded by the Burj Dubai Lake.

GALLERY SCAN ARABIAN FISHING BOATS

A Home from Home

Twice the Delight

Whether you’re looking for a large luxurious villa with your own pool or a smaller apartment, Arabian Breaks provides accommodation of the highest standards and a helpful, personal approach to customer service. It provides property owners and developers the opportunity to offer their apartments or villas on a short term basis to visitors and holiday makers.

Situated in the heart of Burj Dubai, Al Manzil Hotel is probably well-known for its sports grill and bar, however there’s much more to Al Manzil than the renowned Nezesaussi. It has the Conservatory restaurant which offers an exquisite threecourse buffet lunch amidst opulent rustic and Arabesque surroundings and Esca which serves authentic Italian cuisine in a contemporary and elegant environment.

Events September Arabian energy September 1-30 Ibis World Trade Centre

In harmony with Oriental and Arabian moods during the holy month of Ramadan, the Ibis World Trade Centre hosts “Arabian Energy”, a special art exhibition for Maria Higman, taking place at the hotel’s lobby from 1 to 30 September, 2007. A British national who

Perpetual Metamorphosis Print Making Exhibition by Karen Oremus 29 August – 10 September, 2007 The Jam Jar Canadian native, Karen Oremus has been working as an artist and educator in Canada, the United States, Europe and most recently, the Middle East

I Travel Arabia I Sept

has lived and worked in the UAE for four years, Maria Higman has taken inspiration from Dubai’s exotic multi-cultural atmosphere. Her work reflects distinctive moments such as the call to prayer, people enjoying Arabic coffee and the sun setting and rising over the desert. “Every aspect of living in the UAE inspires my work,” says Maria. “I have always painted since I could hold a paintbrush. I love painting and have a passion for capturing vision and beauty on canvas both for pleasure and to create a permanent remembrance.” The artist works in a variety of mediums, enjoying the texture of oil paints and the movement of acrylic paints. She often combines mediums to achieve the precise effect she is seeking. The artworks will be available at the hotel’s lobby, which is open to the public 24 hours a day every day throughout the exhibition period. For further information call Ibis on 04 332 4444

as a Professor of Art and Design at Zayed University teaching the disciplines of painting, drawing and print-making. The Jam Jar will be displaying her very personal artwork that explores the unpredictability and fragility of life from both a universal and personal perspective. This is emphasized through her examination of the concept of physical and environmental decay brought about by the passage of time, physical disease and decay, and destruction through war.

Perpetual Metamorphosis, addresses her mother’s tragic illness, dementia, and thereby marks the human metamorphosis. The conceptual support for the Perpetual Metamorphosis series includes maps which signify ‘place’ and ‘distance’ demonstrating both the physical and mental distance between the artist and her mother.

GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK September 8 – 12 Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK will showcase over 3,000 companies in three dedicated industry events this September – GITEX Business Solutions, GULFCOMMS and Consumer Electronics. GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK will run from 8-12 September 2007 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), and will be held in association with GITEX Shopper, which takes place from the 6-12 September 2007 at the Airport Expo Dubai. Dubai World Trade Centre will organise three major components of GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK, designed to maximise the value for business visitors and exhibitors. • GITEX Business Solutions – The Leading International IT Trade Event for Enterprise and SMBs for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia • GULFCOMMS – The Largest International Telecommunications Trade Event for Mobile, Fixed, IP and Satellite for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia • Consumer Electronics - The Premier International Trade Event for Consumer Electronics, IT Systems, Components and Peripherals for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia

COVER STORY

The Holy Month of

The third â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pillarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of the five religious obligations of Islam, Ramadan is a vital religious act among all Muslims in the Arab and Muslim countries and beyond. It is the time for devotion to God and self restraint. HABEEB SALLOUM writes why Ramadan is the most important time to Muslims throughout the world.

10 I Travel Arabia I Sept

The sacred month of fasting has many special benefits. During this period Muslims by experiencing hunger learn self-control and show greater sympathy for and try to help the needy and poor. Sept I Travel Arabia I 11

12 I Travel Arabia I Sept

Ramadan, a special month of the year for some 1.5 billion Muslims throughout the world, is one of the five pillars of Islam and the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It marks the day the Qur’an was revealed via the angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad. During Ramadan, Muslims observe sawm, or fasting, lasting for the entire month during the daylight hours. From dawn until sunset, stringent rules dictate that eating, drinking, smoking, or marital sex are strictly forbidden. All healthy Muslims both male and female

calculations. Before the sun rises, families get up early to have suhoor, a pre-fast meal and after sunset break the fast with iftar, a post-fast meal. Following the custom of Prophet Muhammad, the fast is often broken with dates then followed by sweet drinks. Subsequently, the meal is enjoyed with friends and family and, at times, with invited travellers who are not residents of the area. Even though the practice is to have small meals in some Muslim countries, in others eating goes on to the hours after midnight. During Ramadan in the majority of Muslim countries most restaurants and other eating-places are closed during the daylight hours but

self-control and show greater sympathy for and try to help the needy and poor. A time of intensive worship and devotion to God, the fasting emphasizes one’s spiritual nature and purifies the person’s thinking and behaviour, leading to cleansing the body of overindulgence and leads to practising charity and other good deeds and a kinship with fellow believers. During the whole month, Muslims try to read the Qur’an as much as they can. A good many will read the whole book at least one time or more while others spend a good

Ramadan will start on Thursday, the 13th of September and will continue for 30 days until Friday, the 12th of October. about age twelve must take part in sawm. The start of Ramadan varies from year to year, depending on the Islamic lunar calendar. Since it is some 12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the date changes from year to year. The much-anticipated beginning of Ramadan is based on a combination of the physical sightings of the new moon (which is why the crescent is often used as an unofficial symbol of the month) and astronomical calculations. The calculations practice is not universal. It varies from country to country. In some lands, the start of the fast relies heavily on sighting reports while in others it is based totally on

usually do a brisk business when evening falls. The fast is an obligatory 30-day period of penance and forgiveness - a time of worship and inner reflection allowing for complete devotion to the Muslim faith and a way of coming closer to God. It is the utmost time to strengthen family and community ties. The third ‘pillar’ of the five religious obligations of Islam, Ramadan is a vital religious act among all Muslims in the Arab and Muslim countries and beyond. It is an observance of a monthlong period when believers can ‘cultivate piety’ and become close to family and friends. The sacred month of fasting has many special benefits. During this period Muslims by experiencing hunger learn

part of their time listening to the recitation of the Qur’an at home or in a mosque. In some of the mosques some one thirtieth of the Qur’an is recited each night in what is known as tarawih, hence, completing the entire Book when Ramadan ends. Muslims think of Ramadan as a kind of enhancement for their worldly and spiritual lives and an appreciation of God’s gifts to humankind. As well, as many health conscious people will tell anyone who will listen, ‘fasting is beneficial to good health and gives a break in the cycle of overindulgence’. On the other hand, there are certain exceptions made to those who would be affected adversely by fasting. The

Sept I Travel Arabia I 13

Tips for Non-Muslims during Ramadan • Avoid eating, drinking, chewing or smoking in public between the hours of sunrise and sunset, thus being considerate to those fasting. • Dress and behave modestly, avoiding behaviour that could cause offence. • Avoid playing loud music, at home, in your car or on the beach. • Avoid singing or dancing in public. • Saying “Ramadan Kareem” to Muslims and attending a fast-breaking feast, or Iftar, would be appreciated. • Using profane language is prohibited. • Be cautious when driving because levels of concentration can drop because of a lack of sleep and fasting. • Shops and government departments are open for shorter hours during Ramadan. • It is obligatory to donate a set amount of money to charity in order to help the poor to buy new clothes and food so they too can celebrate. sick, travelers, and women in certain conditions such as pregnancy are exempted from the fast but must make it up subsequently when they are able. The last ten days of Ramadan are a time of special religious feelings as everyone tries to exude an aura of goodness and belief by their devotions and thoughtful actions. More so during a very special day in Ramadan, the evening of the 23rd day of Ramadan, called Laylat-al-Qadr (the Night of Power). It is the evening of the day when the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, and it IS believed that a person’s sins are forgiven and any good act is returned many times over. Because of this belief, innumerable Muslims spend the evening and, in fact, entire night praying. The day after Ramadan ends is marked by the celebration of a threeday Feast of Breaking the Fast called ‘Eid-al-Fitr. During this time, many adorn their homes with lights and decorations, dress in their finest clothes, give treats to children, enjoy visits with friends and family and celebrate with large meals. It is the time of joy and happiness. Like Christmas in the West, gifts are exchanged and the holiday is usually celebrated with relatives, friends and even strangers who cannot afford the

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expense of feasting. As the people congratulate each other, serve pastries and enjoy the festivities with those of lesser means, they are reminded of their shared obligation to aid those who live in poverty and suffering. The dishes prepared reach their epitome of appeal during the three-day feast. Year after year and century after century, the Muslim housewife has little problem in deciding what dishes she is going to prepare for the menu of the thrilling festivities of ‘Eid al-Fitr or simply called, ‘Eid’. For many families, the festive dishes served for the Eid are those inherited from their forefathers, especially the innumerable types of pastries. From the rich repertoire of these foods, housewives and cooks have endless choices. However, following age-old traditions, families, as a rule, serve the same dishes, with small variations - it all depends on which country or city one calls home. For travellers living in a nonMuslim land and being lucky enough to be invited to an Eid meal at the home of one of their Muslim friends in the congenial atmosphere created by the final aura of Ramadan, is an event that will not be easily forgotten. It will give them an insight into Ramadan – the most important time of the year for Muslims.

Sept I Travel Arabia I 15

RAMADAN PROMOTIONS

Ramadan Delights The holy month of Ramadan is a time for devotion and togetherness. It is a practice for people to eat together. Whether you dine with your colleagues or with your family, the choices for the perfect venue are endless. Ramadan Kareem!

16 I Travel Arabia Coral Deira,I Sept Dubai

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel The daily extensive Iftar Buffet at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel will make Iftar an unforgettable experience. Set in exquisite surroundings, the lavish Iftar buffet features an array of traditional Arabic dishes, including fattoush, tabouleh, hommos, motabal and a large variety of hot foods and sweets. Accompanying this delicious selection is a delightful assortment of refreshing Ramadan drinks and soft beverages for only Dhs.119* net per person. The Al Bustan Rotana Hotel’s Conference and Banqueting team welcomes the beautiful spirit of Ramadan with special group and corporate packages explicitly designed for gatherings this holy month of Ramadan.

The team has thoughtfully created packages offering a unique array of Iftar and Sohour menus, featuring both traditional favourites as well as a wide selection of innovative dishes. Especially designed for corporate entertainment, ranging from 30 to 1,000 persons in a private venue as well as for outside caterings, these special Ramadan packages start from only AED 110* per person, inclusive of chilled juices and soft drinks. For further information, please

Corp Executive Hotel

contact the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel’s Conference & Banqueting Team at 04-282 0000.

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites The tranquil ambience of Pergolas Restaurant and wide spread of delicious Arabic dishes provide the best feast and experience for the entire family this Ramadan. The Iftar is priced at AED 129* net per person including Ramadan juices, American coffee and tea. For those looking to host private Iftar receptions, the service can be arranged in Al Yasat Ballroom or through the outside catering for a minimum of 50 persons with price starting from AED 150* net per person. Staying happy for entire month has never been easier task once you plunge into happy mood with amazing offer in Double Decker pub of Al Murooj Rotana. The award winning favourite invites you to enjoy “Happy Hour” prices every day from 7 pm to closing starting from the 13th of September until the 14th of October. To double the happiness, DD will also show the exciting games of Rugby World Cup 2007 on the big screen. For reservations and more information please contact us on 04 3211111, ext 2202.

Beach Rotana Resort & Towers Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers takes care of the Holy Month of Ramadan not only as an activity but as a way of

living for 30 days. The hotel is hosting a daily Iftar for clientele staying in house and walk in friends at the famous “Rosebuds” Restaurant with the most attractive buffet ever made in Abu Dhabi for Dhs 115* (subject to 10% service charge & 6% tourism fee). For reservations and details, call +971 2 6979100.

Burjuman Rotana Suites Enjoy special authentic culinary creations in The Gallery at Burjuman Rotana Suites. A traditional Iftar buffet for AED 89* includes beverages, or choose from the exclusive Ramadan tidbits menu. The Corporate Oriental Buffet for groups above 30 persons is available for just AED 79* and guaranteed to please all tastes. Burjuman Rotana Suites raises the bar of luxury and sophistication to a completely new level. It offers international and domestic travelers a new luxurious alternative for overnight stays, conferences and other events, including the benefit of direct access to the prestigious Burjuman Shopping Mall. For reservations call UAE toll free: 800 ROTANA or 971 4 3524444.

Corp Executive Hotel A delicious open Iftar buffet will be served between sunset and 8pm, which will include traditional favourites such as Roasted lamb & Oriental Rice, Beef Maklouba, Kofta and Shish Tawouk. Kunafa, Kataief and Baklawa along with a selection of dried fruits make up for some of the sweeter delicacies on the menu. This extensive buffet is being offered for AED55 per person only.

Coral Deira, Dubai Suhoor will be an a la carte affair in Mood restaurant and in true Ramadan tradition will be available until 4am. Shisha lovers can indulge in their favourite flavour at Snug, the intimate open air venue at the rooftop. There are a variety of tobaccos to choose from including apple, rose, grape, ajami and many more. Snug is open from 7:30pm onwards. A Lutanist enlivens the atmosphere from 9:30pm playing classic Arabic music and popular numbers from different parts of the region. This talented musician will entertain any traditional musical requests until midnight. Authentic coffees and snacks are served complimentary at each table. Additional items such as pizzas, sandwiches and finger food can be ordered along with Sahlab, Qamar El Din and other Ramadan beverages. For bookings and more information, please call 04-3417474 or email k.szenasi@corp-hotels.com.

Coral Deira, Dubai The Coral Deira, Dubai ensures that superb cuisine is offered at attractive prices so that fine dining is affordable for everyone. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous Suhour in the privacy of their rooms or at Rumours café for an incredible Dhs 40 net per person. Included in the menu is an enticing array of dishes. The exciting Iftar buffet (which includes soft drinks and fresh juices) features regional specialities like

Sept I Travel Arabia I 17

Lamb Tagine with olives and harira soup apart from the ever-popular mezze treats. Included in the dessert repast are exotic dishes like mohalabia made with camel milk along with traditional favourites like crème caramel. All this for just Dhs 65 per head with the additional benefit of paying for just eight when you book for ten. Besides, there are daily changes in the menu so repeat diners can never get bored. Shisha lovers can savour their favourite flavours at the Rooftop Al Mashrabia café. For just Dhs 25 they can choose between fruity or floral flavours to wind up a leisurely evening. For bookings and more information, please call 04-2248587 or email info@coral-deira.com.

Crowne Plaza Dubai Get the ultimate buffet experience 24/7 at Al Dana. This outstanding value for money restaurant has earned its reputation for the best seafood night in town, with some fantastic ‘all you can eat’ buffet set prices. Other theme nights include Far East and Mediterranean nights. During the month of Ramadan, Al Dana will be offering a sumptuous breakfast, lunch and dinner international buffet and A La Carte Menu. A well hidden oasis full of unexpected delights, Sakura has become a well known destination in Dubai. It offers authentic Japanese cuisine, with a sushi bar, teppanyaki tables, tatami private rooms and A La Carte Menu.

Come and be entertained by our witty Chefs on the teppanyaki tables. Freshly flattop grilled Lobster, fillet or juicy strips of chicken, a selection big enough for all. Crowne Plaza’s award winning steakhouse restaurant is open throughout Ramadan. A steak lover’s paradise, Western Steakhouse serves only the finest U.S. grain-fed beef. Let the talented team at the Western Steakhouse take your dinning experience to a new level. For reservations and other bookings please call 800-Crowne (276963) or email F&Breservations@cpdubai.ae.

Dusit Dubai

Dhow Palace Hotel Try the Iftar buffet at Docklands for AED 99 net per person. Dine with a group of 10 and one gets to eat free. Or try the unlimited selection of Kebab and curries this September at Dhow Ka Aangan from the chef’s designed menus starting at AED125 for non-veg, chicken and mutton; AED145 for seafood selection and AED 85 for vegetation selections. Offer available for dinner only. The Ranch Steak House offers different types of steaks, for AED99 onwards, all accompaniments that come along are inclusive in the offer. The Oriental offers an all-u-caneat-and-drink every Wednesday and Thursday for AED 99 with soft beverages; AED 140 with unlimited beer and wines and AED190 with unlimited standard alcoholic beverages.

The ever popular Friday brunch has Eat n Drink All U Can at AED 99 inclusive of standard alcoholic beverages. Special arrangements can be made to keep the little ones occupied through the lunch Teetotalers at AED 75 with Kids at AED 50. For reservations and bookings, call +971 4 3599992.

Dusit Dubai During the Ramadan season, the Al Wasl Ballroom of Dusit Dubai will offer

Iftar from sunset to 10:30pm every evening. An extensive Arabic and International buffet will be available for Dhs 129 per person. Shisha is also available. 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!

Emirates Palace

Crowne Plaza Dubai

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Emirates Palace offers Khimat al Qasr Ramadan tent, a sumptuous Iftar and Souhor buffet with an exquisite mix of Ramadan favourites and popular Arabic fare such as hot and cold mezzah, grilled dishes, salads, soups, fateer, fresh juices and delicious

selection of deserts. A wide range of shisha will be available which can be enjoyed with the accompaniment of authentic Arabic entertainment. Iftar Buffet priced at Dhs 160 per person (plus 16% tax and service charge) while Souhor Buffet is for Dhs 100 per person (plus 16 % tax and service charge). Prices inclusive of coffee, tea, buffet and Ramadan juices. The ‘Khimat al Qsr’ Ramadan Tent is presented in association with Du. Corporate bookings are available on request. For further inquiries or reservations please call 02-690 9000.

The Fairmont Dubai Break your fast under a soaring atrium with an extensive Iftar buffet showcasing a delicious Arabic themed menu at Cascades. Guests are invited to enjoy an assortment of cold and hot mezzeh, juicy grills, leg of lamb ‘Ouzi’ style and roasted veal with zaatar and vinegar. To satisfy your sweet cravings, indulge in a selection of traditional Middle Eastern confectionary, including konafa, basbousa and katayef complemented by a variety of beverages from seasonal juices, specialty Ramadan mocktails and freshly roasted Arabic coffee. Dhs 160 per person served from sunset until 8:30pm. For reservations, please phone 04 311 8316. Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai A special Arabic-theme Iftar buffet is offered at the Promenade Restaurant during the holy month of Ramadan. Break your fast with traditional favourites like Shish Taouk, Lamb Briyani, Hammour Harra, Fried Kibbeh, Sambusek, Falafel, Lamb Kofta, Chicken Molokai and much,

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

much more. The Iftar buffet is available daily throughout the month of Ramadan and is priced at Dhs 65 per person For guests who would prefer to dine with friends, family and colleagues in larger groups, there are special private dining rooms available with a separate buffet spread. For more information, call 04 397 7444.

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa Experience traditional local hospitality in tranquil setting of Arabic tents overlooking the Indian Ocean at Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa. Break your fast with delicacies specially prepared by the dedicated Oriental chef, complimented by the serene location and backdrop for this Iftar buffet. The price is AED 75 net per person (inclusive of 5% Municipality fee and 10% service charge). For reservations please call + 971 9 244 98 88.

Grand Hyatt Dubai For a real taste of Arabia, experience a true Ramadan atmosphere in the luxury and opulence of Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Ramadan tent. This year’s ever-popular Laylati Café will be bigger than ever for 2007, with a beautifully ornate Ramadan tent on Grand Hyatt Dubai’s events lawn. Choose to sit at a table or recline in a lounge area, while enjoying an a la carte menu and, of course, a wide selection of shisha. Choose from traditional Arabic cuisine, snacks, special Arabic sweets, fresh juices and Ramadan drinks all within the spectacularly themed and airconditioned tent. At sunset on each day of Ramadan, Grand Iftar will be hosted in the

Grand Hyatt Dubai magnificent Baniyas Ballroom. With a huge menu selection including a host of pan-Arabic Ramadan cuisine, fruit juices, soft drinks and the allimportant dates, Grand Hyatt Dubai will provide you with a truly authentic and unforgettable Iftar experience at AED 125 per person. Children between the ages of 6 – 12 get a 50% discount while children under 6 go free. For reservations and other bookings, please call 04 317 2222.

Intercontinetal Al Ain The Ramadan Tent at Al Nawafeer is open daily from 8:00 pm till 2:00 am on weekdays and from 8:00 pm till 3:00 am on weekend. Minium cover charge of Dhs. 25 per person redeemable and Children’s free entry with kids corner. Authentic Arabic a la carte menu, different kinds of shisha, cold and hot beverages & traditional Ramadan drinks Oud player daily from 9:30 till 1:30 am. Raffle draw every Friday night, exciting prizes to be won.

JW Marriott Dubai Mays El Reem and The Market Place will offer buffets, live cooking stations and shisha service everyday for the month of Ramadan. For Dhs 125, you can enjoy a relaxed family atmosphere, Ramadan beverages and delicious traditional Arabic cuisine at Mays Al Reem, and Dhs 148 at

The Market Place, including soft drinks and juices. Awafi, the rooftop Arabic Café will be open exclusively for groups of 50 or more in the evenings. Awafi will offer an á la carte menu to enjoy and an Oud player for entertainment. In addition, every Thursday and Friday during Ramadan, Awafi will offer Suhour buffet for Dhs 98, and Dhs 118 including soft drinks and juices from 20:00 until 01:30 hrs. For more information and reservations please call 04 6077977/ 04 607 7099 or log on to www.marriottdiningatjw.ae

Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community With its tranquil surroundings at the water’s edge, and views of the lake, the Courtyard by Marriott is the perfect venue to enjoy your Sohour and Iftar during Ramadan. Why not start your mornings at Cucina’s Breakfast Buffet, or unwind after a long day at the Pine Grill’s Iftar feast, while enjoying unlimited shisha at the pool terrace. Room service will be available 24 hours, and home delivery from 7am to 11pm, while a prayer room will be set aside for our Muslim guests. Cucina Italian Kitchen will be offering a scrumptious breakfast buffet to keep you going through the day! From 6.30 until 11am, you can enjoy this delicious feast fit for a king. During lunch, a delicious buffet will

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Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates

JW Marriott Dubai be on offer from 12noon to 3pm each day, along with the regular a la carte menu. Friday Brunch will still be available as a non-alcoholic package for Dhs 125 per person. The Pine Grill will be offering a special buffet dinner, which will include delicious Arabic cuisine, mixed international salads, an olive bar, fresh seafood and cold cuts, and an array of mouthwatering desserts to satisfy any palate. The buffet will be offered between 5:30 and 8pm every evening, and thereafter our regular International Buffets and BBQs will be available. The Iftar buffet includes unlimited soft drinks, water and coffee for only Dhs 119, and for additional Dhs 35, there is unlimited shisha on offer at the pool terrace. For reservations call 04 885 2222 or log on to www.marriottdiningatcy.ae.

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates has tantalizing dining offers throughout the holy month. For the festive Iftar celebrations, guests will be spoilt for choice with Sezzam’s daily Iftar buffet offers for AED138, including soft drinks. During the Ramadan period, Sezzam will be open from 11:30AM to 7:30PM serving an a la carte menu in a screened area. Sezzam also offers a sumptuous all day buffet with a wide variety of international cuisine, which will be enriched for Iftar. Meanwhile, Aspen Café serves a refreshing array of salads and sandwiches all throughout the day, along with other delicacies for which the popular Alpine café is known. Additionally, 24Seven Restaurant, the casual all day dining spot, will be offering a special a la Carte menu featuring Arabic Mezzah as well as a variety of shisha to be enjoyed. For more information and booking inquires please call restaurant reservations at +971 4 4095999 or send an email to restaurants. malloftheemirates@kempinski.com

Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Enjoy an amazing Iftar buffet at Views restaurant with a spread of international and Arabic dishes for only AED 75 served from sunset. Children between the ages of 6-12 can dine for half price while children under 6 dine for free. The restaurant

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates

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will also have a rich Suhour menu that will be served upon request in Views or in the comfort of your hotel room. While dining, guests will be treated to the marvelous view of the Indian Ocean, making it a perfect place to savour the many delights prepared by the resort’s highly experienced chefs. Guests at the hotel will be spoilt for choice at ‘Layali Al Aqah’, the resort’s popular traditional Ramadan tent and the largest tent on the East Coast. With the golden sand beach and the majestic Hajar Mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop, the tent is the perfect venue to enjoy a timeless Ramadan. Giant screens will also be showcasing traditional Arabic entertainment for the viewing pleasure of guests in the tent. Traditional Arabic delicacies will be served daily including delicious Fetir, pies stuffed with scrumptious

served. Well known singer, Wagih Kandil, will enliven the evenings with haunting Oudh melodies. Experience the friendliest hospitality and unwind under the stars everyday from 8pm to 2am.

Le Meridien Dubai During the month of Ramadan Iftar will be served from Sunset until 20:00 pm at Yalumba . A variety of Seafood, a mixed grill, a samosa station and delicious sweets are just a few of the dishes available for Dhs 109 nett per person. Children who are 5 years old to 11 are priced at Dhs 59 nett. Al Mijana, the Lebanese restaurant would like to invite families and friends to celebrate Iftar Al Mijana will serve from sunset until 8:00 pm, and the a la carte and set menus will be offered thereafter. For Dhs 109 and Dhs 59 for kids including regular beverages. For reservations and enquiries, kindly contact (04) 702 2455.

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi

fillings such as cream, fruit and nuts, prepared on site by Le Méridien’s famous Arabic chef, specially flown in for the occasion. Guests can also indulge in a number of Arabic dishes such as Hommous, Foul Mesdames, Balila and many more. Traditional hot and cold Ramadan drinks such as Tea, Coffee, Sahlab, Helba and Karkade, flavoured Shisha will also

Ramadan celebrations is a special event with Layali Al Sahar Tent situated with a view of the Arabian Sea at Talay & Wakataua. Enjoy a traditional Arabic Iftar buffet for AED 125 net per person at Talay. Sohor Tent will include shisha, delicious snacks and Arabic ice cream freshly made. Consume the night with a game of cards or Dominos with friends during the holy month of Ramadan.

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi From September 1, 2007, Shuja Yacht is offering Seafood Dinner Cruise, daily except Sundays for 155 Dhs. Saturday brunch is 150 Dhs. Shuja Yacht is also available for individual or corporate private booking and during Ramadan for private Iftar & Souhour booking. Amalfi is proud to introduce Chef Rudy Casera. Barely time to settle down, Chef Rudy has already created a new menu, offering a wide choice of regional specialties from Northern Italy. Timings for Ramadan are Daily Breakfast Buffet 05:30 10:30 hrs ; Daily Lunch Buffet 12:00 – 15:30 hrs and A la carte dinner menu 19:00 – 23:00 hrs.

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Layali El Hilmiya, Ramadan Tent poolside area is available for private iftar booking during the holy month of Ramadan. It is also open every evening for Souhour with their hot and cold assorted menu along with variety of Sheesha tastes. Don’t forget to enter the raffle draw and be a winner with lots of valuable prices. All Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee. For booking and reservation call us on 02 674 2020

the fun and games at the “EMMA Club” with toys, face painting and a great children’s buffet. Every Friday from 12.00 noon until 3.00 pm. AED 120 per person 50% discount

Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

for children from 6-12 and free for youngsters under 6. For more information or bookings please contact the hotel at 04 336 6000 ext 320

Experience Ramadan at the Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai in the traditional atmosphere of the Layali tent. Enjoy an Arabian feast that will delight your senses with live cooking stations and cuisine heralding from Syria to Lebanon, Tunisia to Kuwait. Relax amid the live three piece band, sheesha and traditional zam zam water served upon arrival. There will be a separate area available for the kids to run around and enjoy themselves leaving you free to lounge the night away. From sunset until 10 pm the hotel will be serving Iftar, and the Suhour menu will be available from 10pm onwards. Iftar is AED 95 per person for food only and for larger groups tea and coffee are inclusive. With large bookings every eleventh person is complimentary. For more information or bookings please call +971 4 336 4 336 6000 ext.307. Throughout Ramadan Somerset’s will be open daily from 9am until 2.30am. You can soak up the Somerset’s atmosphere and enjoy good pub grub at lunch and dinner time while relaxing and talking with friends and colleagues. For more information or bookings please contact the hotel at 04 336 6000 ext 331 The traditional Friday Family Brunch during Ramadan is served in the Oud Metha Ballroom. Indulge in a great selection of sushi, seafood, Mexican specials, Italian treats, Swiss Raclette, cold cuts and mouth-watering desserts such as the Chocolate Fountain and Mövenpick premium Ice Cream. While you relax over lunch give your young ones the opportunity to become aspiring painters or join in

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Renaissance Dubai Hotel For just Dhs. 99/- per person, Sails will offer an extensive selection of Arabic specialties to break the fast. You and your family can choose from a wide array of salads, Arabic and Iranian dishes, fresh meat from the grill, shawarma and special Ramadan juices, accompanied by a sumptuous spread of fresh fruits, Oriental and International desserts. The offer is available everyday of the week during Ramadan from 6:00pm - 8:00pm followed by the a la carte specials. Enjoy the Seafood Buffet on Thursdays and Fridays from 8pm – 11.30pm. The Aquarium Lounge is stocked with traditional Arabic sweets to help you break your fast on a sweet note during the holy month of Ramadan. The pool side tent is also open every evening from 8:00pm till 1:00am to offer you the perfect Ramadan ambience so you can celebrate with family and friends. Treat yourself to a special Ramadan drink or enjoy your favourite Shisha while relaxing to the sounds of Oriental music.

Shangri-la Hotel, Dubai Enjoy a sumptuous Iftar at Dunes Café during Ramadan. An extensive selection of Ramadan favourites include Arabic mixed grill, a Foul station, Shawarma and Falafel sandwich station all for only AED 144 per person inclusive of unlimited local Arabic beverages. After Iftar, the international buffet will be available from 20h45 to 23h30 for AED 175 per person inclusive of unlimited

selected beverages. Come and experience a traditional Moroccan Family Iftar at Marrakech. Enjoy bowls of wholesome Harira soup accompanied with sumptuous breads, tables laden with traditional Moroccan salads and fluffy pastries stuffed with mince meat and almonds. Experience the savoury sweet customary pastilla and complete your meal with a variety of Moroccan sweets. The Moroccan Family Iftar is available daily during the month of Ramadan for AED 144 per person inclusive of unlimited selected beverages. Price is inclusive of 10% Municipality fees and 10% service charge. For further information and reservations, please call (04) 405 2703.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

Sheraton Deira Hotel Sheraton Deira Hotel and Austrian airlines have teamed together this Ramadan to shower you with a flying opportunity including 2 night stays at the luxurious Hotel Bristol, Vienna, while you partake from the lavish Iftar buffet at Dhs. 75 net featured at the hotel’s signature dining outlet, The Terrace, an atrium and Mediterranean styled venue. Executive Chef Robin Gomes and his team have prepared the Iftar delights, which consist of a wide spread from soups, appetizers, main courses, carving and desserts. One cannot forget about the traditional juices, which is a customary affair for Iftar, such as tamarendi, kammruddin and more of such refreshing juices. The buffet items change on a daily basis to give the palette a new taste each day. The highlights of the buffet include traditional dishes like bambia bil zait, fattoush, moutabhel, carvery of ouzi or shawarma’s, main courses such as chicken harees, fish harra, daoud basha, kofta kebab, and tempting desserts like katayef, mahlabiya, baklawa, aseeda and basboosa. The more times you dine, the more you increase your chances of winning 2 round trip economy tickets courtesy of Austrian airlines with accommodation and breakfast from Hotel Bristol. Corporate Iftar bookings are also entitled for the raffle entry. Call 04- 2688888 ext. 8615 for more details.

Sheraton Deira Hotel

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Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers The culinary team at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers has whipped up a combination of festive and fortifying meals to help make both the fasting and feasting meaningful and enjoyable. In addition to a sumptuous Iftar Buffet, the hotel has prepared a unique Dates’ corner. At the Sheraton Dubai Creek‘s Iftar buffet (which is served at the Hatta Room), guests can discover a myriad of fresh and nutritious variety of Dates on offer. Executive Chef Fabien and his team scoured the emirates for some of the best dates in town and cooked up a special Dates menu. An array of mouth-watering dishes from around the world is also featured on the Iftar buffet spread. Our chefs have created 7 different menus, which will rotate on a daily basis, including a magnificent lamb roast. Breaking of fast is never complete without the traditional dates and sweets. In addition to the Dates corner, the buffet also offers Katayef, Kunaffa, Umm Ali and others popular Ramadan beverages. For variety, we have also prepared some non-traditional sweets like Sesame Cream Brulee, Cheese Cake, Rasmalai, Gulab Jamun, fresh fruits and others. Priced at AED119 net per person, the Iftar buffet is served daily (during the holy month of Ramadhan)

from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. And to encourage you to visit us more often, take advantage of the Ramadan Iftar Passport, which will entitle you to a complimentary Iftar buffet after three paid visits. After your meal, move outdoors to the poolside where the Al Mashrabiya tents are set up. Intricately decorated in true Arabic charm, the air-conditioned tents provide private majlis seating areas with TV sets. There is an a la carte menu offered here for snack items like hot and cold mezzeh, freshly-made sandwiches and sweet desserts. And as you enjoy the cool pool view, you can also sit back and relax with flavourful shishas over a wide range of board games and cards. And there’s more! When you partake in the Iftar buffet at Sheraton Dubai Creek, you may just be the lucky winner to win yourself a great holiday package for two persons. The prize includes luxurious accommodation in one of Starwood Hotels & Resorts plus two return Economy flight tickets, courtesy of Etihad Airways. Hence, hurry over and make your table bookings now at (04) 207 1705.

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Embrace the spirit of Ramadan at the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers in a beautiful tent, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The traditional offerings of dates and juices to break the day’s fast will be followed by a mouth watering “Iftar “and “Suhoor”

spread of Arabic and international dishes. The hotel offers live cooking, carving and grilling stations where delicacies like crunchy Falafels, juicy Shawarmas and tender Kebabs freshly prepared by their skilled Chefs will ensure you end your evening satiated and satisfied. This spacious and scenic setting is complemented by live “Oud” performances. In addition, camel rides by the beach and outdoor cushioned seating where one can relish a cup

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

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of Arabic coffee and a flavoured Shisha will leave you with a true insight into the spirit of Ramadan and its culmination with the celebration of Eid. Indulge that sweet tooth with the “Ice Cream Temptations” at the Coffee House. Experience that holiday feeling with a portion of “Caribbean Dream” or get romantic over a serving of “Coupe Amore”. Whatever the craving, it guarantees you sweet satisfaction. Calling all seafood lovers to Sheraton Jumeirah’s Al Hadiqa restaurant! Enjoy your favourite flavoured shisha with a selection of delicious Arabic dishes made with shrimp. From Shrimp Shawarmas to grilled Shrimps served with Garlic Butter; this special summer promotion will leave you craving for more. For all vegetarians, Sheraton Jumeirah’s Peacock restaurant is offering the best in vegetarian Chinese cuisine. Spice up your meal with the Beijing style Chinese cabbage with chilli or dig your chopsticks into a bowl of soft, freshly made Hakka noodles. For those with a sweet tooth, try lychees with almond bean curd or the ever popular fried bananas drizzled with honey. What’s more we will round up the meal for you with a fortune cookie each. For all restaurant reservations, please call 04-315 3218

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Celebrate Ramadan with the Family Enjoy a city break at the Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai during the holy month of Ramadan. The package is available from the beginning of Ramadan, 13th September, through until 13th October and costs only AED 999. While at the hotel you can relax in two interconnecting rooms, feast upon our delicious buffet breakfast or Suhour (complimentary for up to four persons), and enjoy a late 4pm check out. In addition to this you will have a further 10% discount on laundry services and all food and beverage in the hotel’s numerous outlets including the Layali tent serving Iftar and traditional entertainment in the evenings. Families can take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service provided by the courtesy of the hotel which runs to City Centre, the beach and Gold Souk where you can explore the great shops and sandy shores of Dubai. Or alternatively unwind at the hotel’s free-form rooftop pool and lounge the day away. We look forward to welcoming you and your family at the Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai. Price includes 10% municipality and 10% service charge. The above offer is subject to availability at the time of booking. For more information and bookings please call 04 336 6000 ext. 650

A Room And A Free Car! Stay at Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community this Ramadan and explore Dubai’s many attractions at your leisure with a free use of a car during your stay courtesy of Dollar Rent a Car. The Escape! Drive package starts from AED

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700++ for single occupancy and AED 750++ for double per room per night with a minimum stay of two nights. The room rate includes breakfast and the car rental with unlimited mileage and car insurance included. Escape! Drive package for suite accommodation and luxury car is also available. Valid international or GCC driving license is required. Quote booking code “TRS”. Terms and conditions apply. For reservations please call Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community on +971 4 885 2222 or visit www. cydubaigreencommunity.com. Free Access To Major Attractions Enjoy a weekend escape this Ramadan and explore the many famous Dubai attractions with ease, comfort and great value offers at JW Marriott Dubai and Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community with prices ranging from AED 740 to AED 1150 per room per night. The offer from both hotels include Deluxe accommodation at JW Marriott Dubai or Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community, daily international buffet breakfast for two, one Ramadan evening meal for two per stay; plus you can choose one of the these complimentary activities: Desert safari, SKI Dubai pass, City tour, Wild Wadi pass, a round of golf at a championship golf course, or a AED200 shopping voucher at the Mall of the Emirates! Complimentary access to these attractions is valid for two people per stay including transfers to and from the chosen attraction. Book now and explore the sites of Dubai for free! For reservations please call:

Renaissance Dubai Hotel JW Marriott Dubai at +971 4 6077980 or visit www. jwmarriottdubai.com; Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community at +971 4 8852222 or visit www. cydubaigreencommunity.com. Remember to quote promotional code ‘CUE’ at the time of booking to avail of this amazing Ramadan offer.

Special “Anwar Ramadan” Package The award-winning Renaissance Dubai Hotel is celebrating the month of Ramadan with its special “Anwar Ramadan” package that includes either Iftar or Suhour. The offer beginning from the 14th September to 10th of October, 2007 allows guests checking into the hotel during the holy month of Ramadan to opt for this special package with rates beginning from just AED 582 for single and AED 715 for double occupancy respectively. Guests choosing this package can also enjoy a traditional Ramadan Iftar at the Mediterranean restaurant Sails. The hotel’s pool side tent is also open every evening from 8:00 pm till 1:00 am to offer guests the perfect Ramadan ambience so they can celebrate with family

and friends. Here, guests can treat themselves to a special Ramadan drink or enjoy their favourite Shisha while relaxing to the sounds of Oriental music. Located just north of the city centre, the Renaissance Dubai Hotel is perfectly positioned to provide quick access for both business and leisure. 281 spacious rooms and suites spread across 6 floors, feature amenities including high speed internet, 60 satellite channels and 24-hour room service while the outdoor swimming pool, sauna and high-tech fitness centre provide total relaxation. For reservations, please call +971 4 262 5555 (extension: 8044/8910) or email: renrsvn@emirates.net.ae. Visit our website at www.dubairenaissance. com

Kempinski Hotel Mall of Emirates Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is celebrating the spirit of Ramadan this year by offering generous rates on selected rooms. “Kempinski has always taken pride in participating in the culture and traditions of the areas in which we operate. The holy month of Ramadan is the most important date in the Middle Eastern calendar and we embrace this opportunity to provide our guests with a comfortable sanctuary and authentic festive cuisine during this period”, said Michael Henssler, General Manager, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. From 13 September to 9 October guests staying at the luxury hotel can take advantage of exclusive rates from AED880 for Deluxe rooms

to AED1280 for Grand Deluxe rooms, not including service charges and municipality fees. For more information and booking inquires please call reservations +971 4 4095999.

Layali Al Sahar Tent Le Meridien Abu Dhabi is offering ?????????????? a special Ramadan rate for UAE residents of AED 400 net for single deluxe and AED 450 net for a double deluxe offer includes Sohor. Capture the true Spirit of Ramadan The newly opened Corp Executive Hotel in Al Barsha has some tempting offers lined up for the month of

Ramadan. Highly recommended is an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s apartments. You will experience a new dimension in hospitality, a combination of cutting edge design with boutique-style elegance. The rooms are equipped with all the modern technological tools which facilitate easy communication – whether for business or pleasure. These stylish apartments are available (studio, single or double room) during Ramadan at an incredible AED450 per person. For bookings and more information, please call 04-3417474 or email k.szenasi@corp-hotels.com

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Kempinski Hotel Mall of Emirates

Millennium brings

Moroccan Ramadan to Sharjah

Experience Ramadan in the traditional Moroccan way as Millennium Hotel brings the famous city of Djemaa el Fna in Marrakesh to Sharjah. Relive the tradition at this famous main square of Marrakesh known for its festivities and theatrical sceneries. “This Ramadan we will have the same Moroccan concept by recreating the famous city of Djemaa el Fna here in Millennium Sharjah. We will try to bring the traditional souk from there to here. We will try to have similar decorations like the one in Morocco and let our guests and the community here experience how Ramadan is happening there. We’ll try to copy it from there to here,” said Oukba Nafai, Assistant Food & Beverage Manager of Millennium Hotel Sharjah. “Morocco is a very old country and has a very deep culture. Their people still practice their culture and a lot of people from here want to learn how things are conducted in the past so we want them

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to experience it here in Millennium Sharjah,” he added. To relive the tradition, the whole lobby of Millennium Sharjah will be transformed into a Moroccan souk. The outlets will be decorated with curtains, lamps, table cloths and carpets that are similar to that in Morocco. There will be tents with the traditional Arabic sitting. “We even brought items from Morocco like the silver cutlery, plates, carpets, the leather cushions with different colours, Moroccan fountains and other handicrafts,” Nafai added. Hotel staff will also wear the traditional Moroccan clothes or the djellaba with different colours for women and the jabadour traditional Moroccan clothes for men. As guests enter the hotel, the Ramadan atmosphere will be immediately felt as complimentary tea will be offered. The hotel will set up a Moroccan corner where guests can visit and enjoy the

Moroccan tea (not Arabic tea). The iftar buffet will be served at both Citrus and Al Dallah outlets at the hotel’s ground floor. Nafai said there will be adequate seats for the guests and the food selections will be enormous with choices from Moroccan, Arabic and Lebanese food. The hotel will be serving Moroccan traditional dishes like couscous,Harira Soup Served with lemon and croutons, Tagine with lamb or Tagine with chicken and olives in addition Live carving Station with Roasted Ouzi with Mix Fried Nuts, Iranian Mixed Oriental grill,Biryani, and Lebanese dishes. There will be separate tents for salads where Oriental Mezzeh and International Salads will be offered plus Moroccan salad like taktouka, Zaalouk, Houmous, babaghanouj, tabouleh , hot Appetizers and more. Not to forget are the tempting desserts like Oriental Dessert Um ali, Mouhalabia, Kunnafa Naboulse”, Basbousa, plus a wide selection of Moroccan sweet corner like Shabakia, Brewaat filled with nuts, Kaab Ghasal, Rhouiba, to name a few. The hotel will also provide entertainment for the guests through a magician and an oud player playing Arabic songs. Tents will be set up at the terrace for families and guests to enjoy their iftar. The iftar buffet will be served from 6:30 to 8:30 pm for 90++AED per person. It will be followed by the regular dinner buffet for 90 ++ AED. This year’s Ramadan at Millennium Hotel Sharjah is being supported by Tameer Holding, Etihad Airways, Masafi Water, Coca-Cola, Twinings, Evian, Mehtab Vegetables & Fruits LLC and Lacnor. Reservations at least three days before the date is requested to have guaranteed seats. Companies with 30 or more employees for the iftar will be accommodated at the ballroom or in one of the hotel’s banquet halls. For more information and reservations, call +971 6 5566666 ext 2045 or 2040.

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Ramadan Kareem at the

Sheraton Jumeirah With the holy month of Ramadan fast approaching, the city’s hotels and restaurants are gearing up for this holy event. Ramadan, which is synonymous with praying, fasting and charity, is observed with religious sanctity by Muslims across the world. The act of fasting called “Sawm” is only broken either before sunrise with a “Suhoor” meal or after sunset with a meal known as “Iftar”. Restaurants and hotels across the city bustle with life in the evenings and are the perfect meeting ground for family and friends. At the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers, the spirit of Ramadan is embraced with a beautiful Ramadan tent overlooking the Arabian Sea. The customary offerings of dates and juices to break the day’s fast are followed by a mouth watering Iftar and Suhoor spread of Arabic and international dishes accompanied by the soulful sounds of the “Oud”, a traditional instrument played live by local

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musicians. Live cooking, carving and grilling stations where delicacies like crunchy Falafels, juicy Shawarmas and tender Kebabs served hot off the grill by the hotel’s skilled Chefs ensure that guests leave satiated and satisfied. This spacious and scenic setting is complemented by an adjoining “Majlis” which offers guests a relaxing atmosphere to watch their favourite programmes on large plasma screens or play a round of backgammon or dominos. There are also two smaller seaside tents which can seat up to eight people for a more private dining experience. In addition, free camel rides by the beach and outdoor cushioned seating where one can relish a cup of Arabic coffee and a flavoured Shisha will leave guests with a true insight into the spirit of Ramadan and its culmination with the celebration of Eid. For Ramadan Tent reservations at the Sheraton Jumeirah, please contact 04-315 3218.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

The unveiling of the new Seven Wonders

AFTER YEARS OF ANTICIPATION AND OVER 100 MILLION VOTES, THE NEW SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD WAS ANNOUNCED IN A CELEBRITY-STUDDED CEREMONY IN LISBON, PORTUGAL. THE WINNERS WERE THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA, THE ANCIENT CITY OF PETRA IN JORDAN, BRAZIL’S CHRIST THE REDEEMER STATUE, MACHU PICCHU IN PERU, THE MAYAN CITY OF CHICHEN ITZA IN MEXICO, THE COLOSSEUM IN ROME AND INDIA’S TAJ MAHAL.

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of the World is a muchanticipated event because of its global participation. The announcement has created mixed reactions around the world. In Amman, the capital city of Jordan, fireworks began firing off the sky as soon as the city of Petra was named, second to the Great Wall of China. At Chichen Itza, in Rio de Janeiro and in Peru (the three winners in Latin America), as well as in Rome and India, people cheered, danced and applauded when their sites were selected. It was an impromptu celebration with people laughing, cheering, dancing, and jumping, some even crying in expression of their joy and pride. The campaign to select the new wonders began in 1999 by Swiss filmmaker and adventurer Bernard Weber, following the destruction of

Afghanistan’s giant Bamiyan Buddha statues by the Taliban in 2001. The initiative seeks to recreate the popularity of the original Seven Wonders of the World, of which, the Great Pyramids of Giza, is the only surviving structure. Of the 200 nominations from around the world, 77 sites were selected by a jury and were narrowed down to 21 in January of 2006. Votes were cast and over 100 million votes were reportedly gathered by the organizers by the end of polling at midnight of July 6. The announcement was made on July 7, 2007 at a ceremony hosted by British actor Ben Kingsley and US actress Hillary Swank at Lisbon’s Stadium of Light. These new world marvels will definitely inspire a lot of travellers, thus creating a stir in the travel world. Here, we give you a glimpse of the new Seven Wonders of the World and decide where to go on your next journey.

1. The Great Wall of China The 6,700 kilometers (4163 miles) barricade running from east to west of China is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest manmade structure. Like a gigantic dragon, the Great Wall winds up and down across deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus. The fortification was built to protect various dynasties from invasion by the Huns, Mongols, Turks and other nomadic tribes. The best preserved and most imposing section of the wall is at Badaling, 50 miles north of Beijing and over 2,625 feet above sea level, but the magnitude and beauty of the wall can also be seen at Jinshanling, Mutianyu, and Simatai. The Construction of the Great Wall first began during the warring period of 476 - 221 B.C. In the beginning

walls were built at some strategic points by different kingdoms to protect their own territories. After the first Emperor Qin Shihuang of the Qin Dynasty unified China in 221 B.C., he decided to have the individual walls joined together creating one Great Wall. It took more than 1 million people and more than 10 years to finish the work. The best time to visit Beijing is May, September and October. For more information on The Great Wall, log on to www.cnto. org

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2.Petra, Jordan Popularized by the movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, the city of Petra, sometimes called “The Lost City”, is known for its dramatic tombs and temple façade including one that served as a church during Byzantine times. The city’s inhabitants, Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people settled in the city more than 2000 years ago, and turned it into an important junction for the silk, spice and other trade routes that linked

through the Siq, a narrow gorge, over 1 kilometre in length, which is flanked on either side by soaring, 80 metres high cliffs. The colours and formations of the rocks are dazzling. As you reach the end of the Siq you will catch your first glimpse of Al-Khazneh (Treasury), a massive façade, 30m wide and 43m high, carved out of the sheer, dusky pink, rock-face and dwarfing everything around it. The Treasury is just the first of the many wonders that make up Petra. You will need at least four or five days to really explore everything here. For more attractions of Petra, visit www. visitjordan.com.

Aparecida, 12 October. Since 2000, when it was given new lighting, the statue and the accesses to it have been through a revitalizing process. The highlight was the inauguration on 20 January 2003 of the mechanized access, with panoramic elevators and

These new world marvels will definitely inspire a lot of travellers, thus creating a stir in the travel world. China, India and southern Arabia with Egypt, Syria, Greece and Rome. The rose-red rock city was forgotten for centuries until it was rediscovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, who tricked his way into the fiercely guarded site by pretending to be an Arab from India wishing to make a sacrifice at the tomb of the Prophet Aaron. Entrance to the city is

3.Statue of Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

escalators. Now it is no longer necessary to climb up the 220 steps to the image. The 125-foot statue of Each of the three panoramic Christ the Redeemer with elevators holds 14 people. The outstretched arms has been access area caters for visitors elected “The Wonder of Rio” by who come by car as well as for its residents. Overlooking Rio those who use the train of the de Janeiro from atop Mount Corcovado Railway. New visual Corcovado, the statue was built communication has also taken in pieces in France starting in over. The belvedere offers maps 1926, and shipped to Brazil. The that point out major tourist monument was inaugurated in landmarks such as Rodrigo de 1931, on the day of Our Lady of Freitas Lagoon, Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon beaches and Maracanã Stadium. Found on the parapet, the maps are a great help to those not accompanied by guides. And even before reaching the statue itself, visitors can get to know a little of its history. Cosme Velho Station, completely revitalized, has become a modern and comfortable place of leisure and entertainment. A new boarding

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area has been built, besides tourist shops, a VIP room and an auditorium. The Cultural Space (Espaço Cultural) stands out preserving as it does the whole rich history of the Railway and the Monument. To find out more about the site, visit www.braziltour.com.

4.Machu Picchu, Peru Built by the Incan Empire in the 15th century, the ruins of Machu Picchu (old mountain) were rediscovered in 1911 by Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham. One of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world, Machu Picchu’s walls, palaces, temples and dwellings are perched in the clouds at 8,000 feet above sea level in the Andes overlooking a lush valley 310 miles from Lima. It is not accurately known when the Incas settled in the region but the ruins indicated that the Inca turned the site into a small but extraordinary city. Invisible from below and completely self-contained, Machu Picchu is surrounded by agricultural terraces sufficient to feed the population and watered by natural springs. The ruins have palaces, baths, temples, storage rooms and some 150 houses, all in a

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remarkable state of preservations. One of Machu Picchu’s primary functions was that of astronomical observatory. The Intihuatana stone (meaning Hitching Post of the Sun) has been shown to be a precise indicator of the date of the two equinoxes and other significant celestial periods. For more of Machu Picchu, visit www.machupicchu. org.

5. Chichen Itza pyramid, Mexico The ancient Mayan capital of Chichen Itza is an archaeological zone in the eastern region of the state of Yucatan. It lies 120 km (74 mi) east of Merida on Highway 180, in the direction of Cancun. The climate is hot and dry, with an average temperature of 34º C (93º F). This step pyramid surmounted by a temple was built according to the solar calendar. Shadows at the fall and spring equinoxes are said to look like a snake crawling down the steps, similar to the carved serpent at the top. This unique experience draws hundreds of tourists from all over the world. At Chichen Itza you can also visit the spectacular Cenote Sagrado, a large sinkhole that measures 60 meters

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(198 feet) in diameter. Many fantastic treasures have been found at the sinkhole: rings, necklaces, gold and jade object, as well as the bones of young women that were thrown into the water as an offering to Chaac, the Mayan rain god. Chichen Itza is an ideal destination, not only for those who enjoy archaeology, but also for those who like history and the charming allure of ancient civilizations. For further information, visit www.visitmexico.com

6. The Colosseum, Italy The universal symbol of Rome, The Colosseum or Coliseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commissioned in AD 72 by Emperor Vespasian. It was completed by his son, Titus, in AD 80, with later improvements by Domitian. The Colosseum is located just east of the Roman Forum and was built to

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a practical design, with its 80 arched entrances allowing easy access to 55,000 spectators, who were seated according to rank. The Coliseum is huge, an ellipse 188m long and 156 wide. Originally 240 masts were attached to stone corbels on the fourth level. Just outside the Colosseum is the Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino), a 25m high monument built in AD315 to mark the victory of Constantine over Maxentius at Pons Milvius. Vespasian ordered the Colosseum to be built on the site of Neroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palace, the Domus Aurea, to dissociate himself from the hated tyrant. His aim was to gain popularity by staging deadly combats of gladiators and wild animal fights for public viewing. Massacre was on a huge scale: at inaugural games in AD 80, over 9,000 wild animals were killed. The area has influenced the design of modern stadiums. For more of Rome, visit www.romaturismo.it.

7. Taj Mahal, India The white marbled-dome mausoleum in Agra was built by a 17th century Mogul emperor, Shah Jahan, in memory of his wife, Arjumand Bano Begum, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth. The architecture combines Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles. The complex houses the graves of the emperor, his wife and other royalty. The construction of Taj Mahal began in 1633 and 20,000 people worked for 17 years to complete the enchanting mausoleum. The material

was brought in from all over India and central Asia and it took a fleet of 1000 elephants to transport it to the site. Taj Mahal changes its moods with the seasons and the different times of the day. At dawn, the marble has a delicate bloom in shell pink, by noon it glitters majestically white, turning to a soft pearly grey at dusk. Monsoon clouds give it a moody blue tint and it appears and disappears like a mirage in the drifting mists of winter. It can be solid and earthbound, fragile and ethereal, white, amber, grey and gold. The many faces of Taj Mahal display the seductive power of architecture at its best. For more of Taj Mahal, visit www.incredibleindia.org

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Ideal address for MICE organizers in the heart of Dubai Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites is more than just a venue. It is perfectly designed to meet the requirements of any event or conference, from company business meetings to major banquets, receptions, weddings and other social functions. The Hotel provides prestigious and comfortable meeting and banqueting facilities giving attention to all aspects of your banqueting needs, such as projection facilities, advanced technology, in-house meeting planner and value added extras. On a smaller scale, meetings, press launches, seminars and conferences can be accommodated in Al Aweer Meeting Rooms. From conferences tables, natural day light to the latest state-of-theart conference technology, these meeting rooms are the perfect choice to keep our guests focused on their important business. The meeting rooms are equipped with projection screens, LCDs, microphones, overhead projector, projection screen, slide projector, laptop computer connection, PA sound system, stage, video conferences, wireless

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internet connection. Al Murooj Rotana Hotel possesses the largest 744 smq pillarless Ballroom in Dubai. The Al Yasat Ballroom is the ideal venue for weddings, conferences and theme parties. It is the only venue in town with direct access of natural day light and magnificent waterfall view. The Ballroom can be subdivided into five meeting rooms, has a separate access located at the lower lobby level with valet parking facilities, sophisticated setting with 550mÂ˛ marbled pre-function area with a small Majlis, latest state of the art audio/visual facilities, a separate Majlis and two side access. The technical facilities of Al Yasat Ballroom include Latest audiovisual facilities: video projection, motorized roll up screens, television monitors, mobile conference system, wireless LCD projection, integrated presentation system, audio

music system, sound reinforcement and lighting, plasma screens in pre-function area, wireless internet connection, control room, direct access from guest room to ballroom. The outdoor pool side area is an excellent location to host receptions for up to 150 guests. The incentive groups are offered a large choice of leisure activities including exciting and unforgettable experience of desert safari; traditional Dow Cruise dinner, Dubai city and shopping tour; yachting trip or refreshing day in Wild Wadi water park.

Club Rotana Every demand of discerning business traveler is met and satisfied by specially designed Club Rotana concept with dedicated personalized service and 3 exclusive Club Rotana floors. Club Rotana redefines

the business hotel services - seamlessly combining luxurious accommodation, sophisticated meeting facilities with personalized service. Located on the top floors of the hotel, the Club Rotana provides 24 hour personalized service to ensure that each and every request can be immediately and efficiently addressed. Club Rotana guests enjoy private reception with express check-in / check-out, secretarial services, complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, evening snacks & cocktails in Club Rotana lounge, pillow menu, E-butlers. Club Rotana rooms provide a wide range of deluxe in-room amenities and additional services, such as complimentary airport transfer and access to the Club Rotana lounge. Exclusive features in the Club Rotana rooms include telephones with IDD, voice mail and to mobile forwarding facility; in-room 24-hour dedicated, highspeed Internet access; TV with multi-satellite channels, trouserpress. Other facilities include a state of the art Bodylines Leisure & Fitness Club, Business Center, shops and beauty salon.

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ARABIAN GALLERY

Arabian Fishing Boats

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LIVING ARABIA

The unique and incomparable homes of Sana’a A traveller once described the fascinating old toweringhomes of Sana’a, Yemen’s capital as ‘huge cakes, lavishly decorated for an important reception’. HABEEB SALLOUM travelled to this city and explores the uniqueness of the place.

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When one first sets eyes on the closely packed majestic abodes of Sana’a, with their picturesque outside decorations, you will realize that there is nothing like it in the world. The descendants of the first skyscrapers on earth, these fairytale-like houses are the embodiment of captivating urban architecture. Sometime ago, a Swiss filmmaker, Bernard Weber nominated Old Sana’a, one of humanity’s greatest achievements in the last 2,000 years, to be among the seven new wonders of the world. Their prototype is said to be

constructed and set in such a way that they would roar with the blowing wind. From the days of that famous palace, Yemen’s capital has carried on the tradition of building colourful towering structures. Today, old Sana’a, which is one of the largest completely preserved medieval cities in the world, is filled with these dwellings. Within its deteriorating walls, there are over 6,000 houses, 103 mosques, 14 hammans and numerous palaces, covering almost 36.5 ha (90 ac), built in unique and sophisticated traditional Yemeni style - some more than 500 years old. Erected in a 1,000 year-old method, they are packed side by side and usually rise from 4 to 9 stories.

combination of tufa and limestone in various colours. These support the remaining stories, built from burnt clay bricks. Some protrude and form a variety of patterns, highlighted, along with the edges of the windows, by a whitewash of gypsum. However, the most exquisite part, exhibited on the outside of the house are the highly decorative double arches. Their geometrically intricate stained glass transoms with elaborate plaster-and-glass filigree give an air of prestige to the structure. During the day, radiating a very warm and dim light, they create

Sana’a is considered a real museum in the open air, a place that preserved its ancient architectural style which made it famous all over the world. The old city of Sana’a is one of the most ancient cities in the Arab world and distinguishes itself for its unique and incomparable buildings. the famous Ghumdan Palace, built by the Sabaean King Sha’r Awtar in the 2nd century A.D. A great sky-reaching edifice, it was erected in Sana’a and became legendary in Arab folklore and history. Yemeni historians assert that this castlelike structure, which lasted until after the advent of Islam in the 7th century, rose to a height of 20 stories. Each of its sides was built with different coloured stone and the roof was made from translucent alabaster, so clear that one could see the birds flying overhead. To give it an aura of mystery, four bronze lions at each corner were

Unlike Arab mansions in the north, constructed around a courtyard, Yemeni houses look outward. The facades, decorated differently in each region, in Sana‘a are covered with elaborate zigzag patterns of white gypsum and roofs crowned with towers and cornices. Their windows with top arches are a complex fretwork of superimposed types and shapes, often with traditionally made alabaster panes of different colours. Much different than other Middle Eastern homes, they project an enchanting skyline of architectural beauty. Atop a foundation of basalt rock, the first two floors are usually built from a beautiful

colourful hues on the inside walls and, during the night, throw out a rainbow of colours to the outside. However, today, these traditional alabaster windows are being replaced by the products of the 20th century. The bottom floors, in the past, were used as barns for animals, but today, along with the second stories, are utilized for storage. The diwan, a large room employed for family celebrations, and other living chambers are on the third floor. Those above include the kitchen and living quarters, usually housing extended families. Each floor has its toilet on one side of the house. These

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IF YOU GO Facts About Yemen: 1.Entrance visas to Yemen are available very easily from all Yemeni embassies or consulates. Holders of EEC passports, the G8 and Arab Gulf countries can now obtain entry visas at boarder points or airport. Travellers to Yemen require a passport that is valid for at least six months. 2.Currency in the Yemen is the riyal - current value in 2007, about 176 riyals to one US dollar. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, exchanges offices and hotels. Visa Cards are accepted in some hotels and banks in Sana’a and other large cities 3.Non- Muslim visitors are free to import alcoholic beverages for private consumption but should not drink in public places. 4.Bring warm clothing if travelling in the cold mountainous areas; and light clothing for the desert and coastal areas. Travelling to Yemen is fine in all seasons, but the coastal and desert areas are quite hot in summer. The ideal season to visit Yemen is from October until April. 5.Ladies travellers should dress modestly in the public places. Visitors should not take photos of people at prayer and women without permission, military places, police personnel, and installations. Also, with a few exceptions, non-Muslims cannot enter most mosques. 6.Tipping, not common in the

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past is becoming more common. Tipping for waiters and taxi drivers from 10 to 15 per cent. 7.If your cell phone has GSM service, you should be able to use your phone in most cities in Yemen. The GSM network currently covers more than half of the country. 8.For information regarding Sana’a hotels see website: http://www. yementourism.com/services/ hotels/index.php Sites to See in and Around Old Sana’a: Bab al-Yaman, the last remaining gate in the ancient Sana’a’s walls - provides a focal point for the trading activity of the old town. Dar al-Hajjar (The Palace on the Rock), built just outside Sana;s for the last imam, Yahya in 1935, the palaceis one of Yemen’s landmarks. The Great Mosque: First erected in the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad. The Museum of Traditional Arts & Crafts, housed in the former residence of an Imam, it features displays of traditional art and craft. National Museum: features huge wealth of antiquities from Yemen’s past civilizations. Quabbat al-Bakiliya: An imposing mosque with Turkish style cupolas, easy to inspect from a distance. Salah al-Din Mosque: Built in pure Yemeni style

flushed, in the past, into an excrement room at the bottom of the house. Special cleaners then gathered the human waste, dried it in the sun and sold it to heat the public baths whose owners, in turn, retailed the ashes as fertilizer. It was a natural way of recycling which kept the city clean. Today, most residences are linked or are in the process of being connected to sewers and their problems. The last room at the top, called the mafraj is the most elegant and highly valued

chamber in the house. Light entering from the fanlights above the windows gently diffuses colour dashes of blue, green, red and yellow through the stained glass pieces on the soft whiteness of the plastered walls. Located on at least three sides, the windows are kept low and offer a panoramic view of Sana’a’s skyline. Rich in decoration and furniture, the mafraj is the crown of traditional Yemeni homes. All its sides are edged with mattresses and cushions, often topped with woollen

mats. The whole floor is covered with carpets and a tray is set in the middle of the room on which are placed spittoons, water pipes, thermos bottles for cold water and an incense burner. Books, decorative plates and cups are placed on gypsum shelves along the walls and a table is usually found at one end of the floor. An all male enclave set aside for entertaining guests, it is the nucleus of social life and used as a council chamber, for relaxing and dining and, above all, for the afternoon sessions of qat - leaves of a non-addictive plant chewed for pleasure by about 90% of the men and 10% of the women. Almost every day after lunch, guests arrive, bringing their own qat. For the remainder of the day, poetry, politics and business are discussed as the leaves are chewed in the soothing atmosphere of the mafraj. To a traveller walking in the narrow streets of the city of Sana’a, the towering buildings with their enormous variety of decorative techniques appear to have sprouted out of the littered alleyways since the mist of time. Yet, all is not well for these exquisite and treasured structures. The galloping expansion of the city since the 1962 revolution is eroding the age-old buildings. Almost every dwelling is in need of repairs. Also, neglect and traffic in the narrow streets is further undermining the homes.

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In the nick of time, about two decade ago, UNESCO recognized Sana’a as a unique part of the human cultural heritage and, with the government of Yemen, has launched a program to restore the old city to its past splendour. Some of the streets have been cobble-stoned and restoration of houses and the city ramparts are ongoing. Humankind would be much richer if the efforts to renovate this alluring city from the Arabian Nights are crowned with success. Sana’s with more than 50 mosques, minarets, luxuriant gardens, hammams and its unique market, is the first jewel of Yemen and starting point for an incredible trip in this legendary land.

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NOTE For Further Information Contact: Embassy of the Republic of Yemen, 54 Chamberlain Avenue Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 1V9. Tel: (613) 729 6627. Fax: (613) 729 8915. Embassy E-mail: info@ yemenincanada.ca Consular/Visa E-mail: consular@yemenincanada.ca; or Embassy of the Republic of Yemen, 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Suite

705, Washington, DC 20037, USA. Tel: (202) 965 47601/. Fax: (202) 337 2017. E-mail: webmaster@ YemenEmbassy.org ; or Ministry of Tourism - Tourism Promotion Board: Al-Hassabah, P.O. Box: 5607, Sana’a, Yemen. Tel: (9676/ 5/033-251)17/. Fax: (967034-251 )1-. E-MAIL: ytpb@yementourism.com Website: webmaster@yementourism.com

AMBIENCE

Sydney Harbour Bridge

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OUTSIDE ARABIA

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The Seoul of Korea Step into dynamic Korea and discover a sparkling world that you have never experienced before. Korea is the unique family place where family can enjoy everything from well-being spa tour to family fun oriented theme park! Korea, commonly referred to as the ‘Land of the Morning Calm’, is a country rich in history and traditions. To experience Korea, one has to discover its many places where traditions and culture co-exist with the modern times. The Korean Peninsula extends southward from the eastern end of the Asian continent. It is roughly 1,020 km (612 miles) long and 175 km (105 miles) wide at its narrowest point. Mountains cover 70 percent of the land mass, making it one of the most mountainous regions in the world. Perhaps the most famous of Korea’s cities is Seoul, the capital for about 600 years. Seoul hosted many international events including the 1986 Asian Games, 1988 Olympic Games and the 2002 Korea/Japan FIFA World Cup. Seoul is Korea’s political, economic, social and cultural hub. The famous Han River runs through the heart of the city. The river divides the city in two; the northern part of the city is a focal point for culture and history while the southern part is well known for its business district. In Seoul you can find ancient palaces and Royal Shrines of the Joseon Dynasty, as well as the Seoul World Cup Stadium, 63 CITY building, Lotte World, Han River, Namsan, Bukhansan Mountain National Park, Daehangno, Insa-dong, Itaewon, Myeong-dong, Apgujeong, Namdaemun and

Dongdaemun Markets. On the outskirts of Seoul you can find Seoul Land, Everland, Caribbean Bay, The Korean Folk Village, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and Namhansan Mountain Fortress. If you’re having trouble finding the right places to visit, start at some of Seoul’s best tourist sites.

Insa-dong, a gathering place of traditional culture To experience the traditional culture of Korea while remaining in the heart of the city, try Insa-dong. With art galleries, traditional craft stores, antique art dealers, traditional tea houses, and traditional restaurants, it is simply the place in Seoul for tourists wanting to experience traditional Korea. The area is especially good for finding antiques (old paintings, ceramics, paper crafts and antique furniture).The 70 or so art galleries in the area make Insa-dong ideal as a cultural attraction. Insa-dong is designated as vehiclefree on weekends (Saturdays from 14:00-22:00, Sundays from 10:0022:00), and a flea market sets up in the streets with people peddling their antiques, accessories, and artworks. Travelers from abroad also gather here with wares from the world over, so the flea market items are not just limited to

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Korean goods. But because the streets of Insa-dong are narrow and complex, make sure to pick up a map at the Tourist Information Center before starting out.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most prominent palace of Korea Gyeongbokgung Palace was the main residence and palace of the royal family during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), and boasts an impressive 600 years of history. Built by Taejo Seonggye Lee (ruled 1392-1398), founder of the Joseon Dynasty, the palace was completed in 1395 after the capital of the nation was changed from Gaeseong to Hanyang (current Seoul). The 410,000 sqm area of Gyeongbokgung Palace includes the ‘Geunjeongjeon’, the main hall where official ceremonies took place and government officials could see the King; the ‘Gyeonghoeru’, where banquets were given for diplomatic reasons, and ‘Hyangwonjeong’, an artificial island created inside a pond. Also located within the palace is the National Folk Museum, built to help further the understanding of the lives of Korea’s ancestors. Take a walk along the stone walls of Gyeongbokgung Palace, and tourists will come across the Cheongwadae (also known as the Blue House, the presidential mansion of Korea). A portion of the palace is

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currently being reconstructed, and it is estimated to be finished by October of this year.

Namdaemun Market, Korea’s greatest marketplace

Namdaemun Market, Korea’s oldest open-air market, is a truly massive, all-inclusive marketplace for clothing, children’s wear, accessories, shoes, kitchen items, regional specialty items, imported items, and more. The market offers a wide range of merchandise at affordable (and often downright cheap) prices, and most stores act as both retailers and wholesalers. The market has managed to retain the feel of a traditional marketplace, which lends it a very earthy appeal- the stores and stalls offer much to see, making the market ideal not only for shoppers but for sightseers as well. Most stores at Namdaemun Market only open for certain hours according to their own needs, so it’s a good idea to plan a trip ahead of time according to the desired items. Mt. Namsan is nearby, making the two locations a great pair for a combined excursion.

Dongdaemun Market, the Mecca of fashion Dongdaemun Market is dubbed a fashion mecca due to the large number

of shopping malls and smaller retailers that concentrate on selling clothing and accessories. Ever since its opening in 1905, Dongdaemun Market has been one of the major markets in Korea. It is more clothing-oriented than Namdaemun Market. Doosan Tower, Migliore and Freya Town are just a few of the 30 shopping malls with 27000 retailers and 50000 wholesalers. The malls deal mostly in accessories, clothing, shoes, gift items and everything for your head to your toes. Most of the merchandise is on top of current trends and styles but with 20 to 30% cheaper price. Dongdaemun Market is more crowded at night than during the daytime, because small boutique and shop owners from Korea’s regional areas and even overseas flock to the market at night to buy for their stores. The market makes for a unique nighttime excursion.

Mt. Namsan, the apex of Seoul’s night view

relatively low elevation, the surrounding areas make the view a fantastic one, which explains the popularity of the mountain as a resting place for Seoul’s citizens. At the top of Mt. Namsan are the Palgakjeong Pavilion, Seoul Tower, and a marine aquarium, and on the way up are the Namsan Library, fountain, and botanical garden. The summit can be reached by taking the hiking trail or by riding a cable car. A breathtaking view of Seoul can be seen at the Palgakjeong Pavilion, and tourists who climb the Seoul Tower (479.7m above sea level) are rewarded further with a view that reaches as far as the sea at Incheon’s harbor. When night falls, a view of Seoul’s twinkling lights and neon signs can be enjoyed at Mt. Namsan. Located nearby is the Namsangol Traditional Korean Village and Namdaemun Market.

Korean Folk Village, the place to experience Korea’s history One of Seoul’s most popular attractions is the Korean Folk Village. Here visitors can experience the wellpreserved traditions and culture of the Korean people. Set in a natural environment occupying approximately 243 acres, visitors can experience the natural atmosphere with over 260 traditional houses reminiscent of the late Joseon Dynasty,

Situated 265m above sea level, Mt. Namsan is a symbolic mountain located in the center of Seoul. While it has a

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including various household goods from different regions. All these features have been relocated and restored to provide visitors with a broad understanding of Korean food, clothing, and housing style of the past. About 20 workshops, various handicrafts such as pottery, baskets, bamboo wares, wooden wares, paper, brass wares, knots, fans, musical instruments, iron wares and embroidery are practiced. In the Korean Folk Village, where the customs and lifestyles of the past generations have been carefully preserved, various lifestyles prevalent during the Joseon Dynasty can be seen.

Other Attractions

If you want to explore contemporary Seoul try visiting the COEX Mall, a novel entertainment facility in the heart of the city. With over 250 large commercial stores and over 100,000 visitors on weekdays, it is generally considered to be the best entertainment complex around. There are over 800 restaurants to dine in, and various places to shop, eat and play, such as night clubs, theaters, book stores, record stores, and a grand aquarium The best places to visit in COEX Mall are the Megabox Cineplex, Kimchi Museum, Food Court, and Bandi & Lunis Bookstore. The unique, fancy and beautifully lit interior of Megabox Cineplex resembles a space-station, and is a favorite with teenagers. With a total of 17 screens, you can pick from a wide selection of movies. The aquarium has a water-tunnel where you can see sharks and tropical fish swim over your head, and is a place sought out by many couples. There are

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about 40,000 aquatic creatures, which you can view just as if you were actually in the ocean. The Kimchi Museum is a popular place for foreigners; it exhibits about 70 different types of Kimchi, pictures, Kimchi jars from different districts, and other historical exhibits about kimchi. The Food Court has a cozy atmosphere, with natural sunlight filtering through the pyramidshaped glass roof. With its cross-marked glass floor, the water flowing underneath it, great prices and great atmosphere, it is simply one of the finest places to eat. There is also the huge Bandi & Lunis Bookstore, Game Park, Young Fashion Plaza and many other great places to visit.

Fun and Excitement Fun and success go hand in hand at Korea’s theme parks. Amusements parks such as Everland and Lotte World are two of Korea’s huge parks with world class facilities comparable to famous attractions such as Disneyland. Everland Amusement Park, the 4th most popular park in the world, includes a zoo, snow sledding and botanical garden in addition to the theme park. The park is built on three themes, namely, the Festival World, Caribbean Bay and Speedway. Caribbean Bay is rated as the largest water park in the world with similarities to the Caribbean Islands. Speedway is a choice for people with a passion for racing.

Caribbean Bay first opened in October of 1996 as the world’s first indoor and outdoor water park, located on the outskirts of Seoul in Yongin, attracting numerous metropolitan residents. Caribbean Bay has 12 indoor attractions and 11 outdoor attractions, also with a village that has restaurants and accommodations. The most popular outdoor pool at Caribbean Bay is the artificial Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5m. Lotte World is another gigantic, multipurpose complex featuring malls, sports facilities, theme park, deluxe hotel and a folk village. Here, most of the facilities are indoors. It is rated as the largest indoor theme park in the world. Lotte World is the perfect spot for entertainment and sightseeing in the heart of the city. It is a theme park filled with the most thrilling rides, an ice rink, and different kinds of parades as well as a folk museum, a lake, and much more. About 6,000,000 visitors are welcomed every year, and about 10% of the visitors are foreigners. The structure inside makes use of the natural sunlight, and it is open for visitors all throughout the year, regardless of the weather. Useful Information: If you want to visit both Caribbean Bay and Everland, the Combo-Pass is highly recommended. Also, no food is allowed inside Caribbean Bay, so if you’ve brought your own food, you can eat at the picnic tables prepared outside the water park. Don’t forget the high temperatures may spoil your picnic meal, so choose carefully what kind of food you pack.

TOP 5 KOREAN FOODS

Bibimbap

An essential pleasure of travelling overseas is the opportunity to sample the native cuisine of different countries so here are some of the best dishes to enjoy while travelling in Seoul.

Bibimbap is a dish with minced meat, veggies, eggs, sesame oil, and hot bean paste mixed with rice. The ingredients are varied by region, with consideration to the aesthetics of the colors in the dish and its nutritious value. Jeonju City’s Jeonju bibimbap is especially popular.

Dolsot Bibimbap

Galbi Galbi, meaning ‘rib’ in Korean, is a dish featuring beef or pork ribs cut into 6 to 7cm chunks, then served broiled or grilled. There are two types of galbi‘yangnyeom galbi’, which is marinated before it is cooked, and ‘saeng galbi’, which is grilled without any seasoning. Suwon City’s Suwon galbi is famous for its tastiness.

Bulgogi Bulgogi is a dish with thinly sliced beef or pork marinated in soy sauce, green onions, garlic, sesame, and sesame oil, served grilled.

Dolsot bibimbap is a variation of the bibimbap served in a heated stone pot. The stone pot works to retain the heat inside the dish while it is being eaten. The pots are hot enough to sizzle while the bibimbap is being mixed!

Mandu Mandu is a Korean-style dumpling with minced meat, tofu, kimchi, and vegetables wrapped in a thin flour skin. The mandu is named differently according to cooking method‘jjinmandu’ (steamed), ‘gunmandy’ (fried), or ‘mulmandu’ (boiled). The mandu is also referred to by the main ingredient on the insides- meat mandu, kimchi mandu, and vegetable mandu are the most common variations.

USEFUL INFORMATION • Any foreign visitors wishing to enter the Republic of Korea must have a valid passport and obtain a Korean visa before arriving. Citizens of 102 countries who wish to visit Korea temporarily are permitted to enter without a visa according to visaexemption agreements, or in accordance with principles reciprocity or national interest.

• Most restaurants, hotels and shops accept credit cards. You may not be able use credit cards at small businesses and in rural areas. You may also want to check whether your credit card is accepted or not by looking at door signs. Visa and Master are most common ones you can find.

• Korea lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct seasons. Spring lasts from March through May. From July to August, it is humid with occasional rain. Autumn arrives by October. Winter months starts from late November to early March.

• Tipping is not customary in Korea. Sometimes, expensive restaurants and luxury hotels may add a service charge of 10%. Thus, you do not necessarily have to prepare for extra charges since it will be included in the bill.

• The unit of Korean currency is won. One AED is about 250 KRW. One US dollar is equivalent to about 919 KRW.

• There are three types of public telephones in Korea: coin-operated telephones, card phones, and credit

card phones. A local call costs 70 won (US$0.06) for three minutes. Intercity calls cost considerably more. Coin phones return coins that are not charged, but do not return change for partially used 100 won coins. Card telephones can be used to make international calls as well as local and intercity calls. Telephone cards come in 2,000, 3,000, 5,000, and 10,000 denominations and are on sale in shops close to telephone boxes and in banks. There are also credit card phones, which you can use with major credit cards.

August, short sleeved shirts and shorts would be a good idea. Late November through early March you must be prepared for the cold. A scarf and gloves are recommended for January and February, and remember that it snows at higher elevations in Korea.

• From mid-March through late-May, and mid-September through mid-November you can wear long sleeved shirts and slacks plus possibly a cardigan or a jacket. During summer, June through

For Further Information, Contact: Korean Tourism Organization, Dubai Branch at +971 4 3312288, Fax +971 4 3310999 or email knot@eim.ae or visit www.tour2korea.com

• Visitors who need information or encounter problems during their stay in Korea can dial 1330 for visitor information or interpretation in English. This service is free of cost and available 24 hours.

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ATTRACTIONS

N W O T D L O E AI B H U E-T N BURJ D C A L A P TOW N E TH IN DOW

suit & ms o o xe r u l 2 de 4 2 ith w s n Ope

The Palace-The Old Town is scheduled for opening this September, 2007 in The Old Town Island, Downtown Burj Dubai, the flagship development by Emaar Properties. The Palace is managed by Sofitel Luxury Hotels and forms an integral component of Emaar’s mega project. The luxury hotel offers direct views of Burj Dubai, the tallest building in the world, and is surrounded by the Burj Dubai Lake. “As a result of significant market research and new internal strategies, Accor group has positioned Sofitel as a luxury brand of hotels worldwide,” says Christophe Landais, managing director, Accor Middle East. “The Palace opening comes at an opportune time for our regional development plans and will certainly be the benchmark for the Sofitel Luxury Hotels brand in the Middle East.” Jean-Philippe Bittencourt, general manager of The Palace – The Old Town, added: “We are pleased to open at a time when much attention is being focused on the Downtown Burj Dubai development and the emirate in general. “As a unique luxury hotel within Downtown Burj Dubai, The Palace combines the charms of an Arabian palace with the intimacies of home. The hotel will appeal to leisure and business visitors alike and it is our utmost priority to ensure that the needs and comforts of all our guests are met. “ The landmark hotel carries 242 beautifully appointed deluxe rooms, including 81 suites all with balconies overlooking the lake or The Old Town Island. The rooms bear an authentic design scheme that uses pleasing colours, motifs and silks to bring forth a distinct Arabian flavour. To ensure the highest levels of comfort, the beds have been harmonised by Sofitel’s exclusive MyBed concept, which affords guests a unique sensation and an exquisite softness as they sleep. Each floor is

fitted with a guest relations station and a personal butler has been assigned to every room to ensure maximum luxury and privacy. The Palace’s perfectly proportioned architecture, with meandering walkways, courtyards, high vaulted ceilings and terraces lends itself to the enchanting ‘1001 Nights’ tales. Rich colours, regional textures, iconic arches and terraces have been blended to form a palatial archetype that befits royalty and stays true to the hotel’s Arabian heritage. Three outstanding fine dining options feature at The Palace, each boasting an unmatched cuisine and setting. The Argentine Grill, Asado adopts a cavern-like interior style and hinges on the open grill concept, where premium meat cuts are cooked at the centre of the restaurant. Ewaan is located in the main lobby and is an all-day-dining lounge that serves Mediterranean food. In October 2007, The Palace’s flagship restaurant, Thiptara will open right out on the lake. Open exclusively for dinner only, guests can sample the restaurant’s fine Royal Thai cuisine while enjoying striking views of the Burj Dubai and lake. The same month will see The Palace achieve another first for Sofitel with the opening of the first LeSpa by Sofitel in the Middle East. The 1,000 square metre spa accommodates separate facilities for men and women and will offer guests of the hotel traditional Hammams, Monsoon showers, massages under a Vichy shower, spa rooms, a gymnasium and Carita beauty salon and barber shop. The Old Town Island, primarily a residential development, is an attraction in itself offering a host of dining and entertainment facilities for guests. Water taxis docked at the harbour frontage can transport hotel guests to the Burj Dubai, the Souk Al Bahar – an Arabian-influenced waterside shopping market and The Dubai Mall – one of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destinations.

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A home from home

PROPERTY

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a large luxurious villa with your own pool or a smaller apartment, Arabian Breaks provides accommodation of the highest standards and a helpful, personal approach to customer service.

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Have you ever dreamed of staying in a place where you feel like you’ve never left home? A place that has all the amenities of your home, including a kitchen where you can cook your meal, that of your family and even your guests. Where there is greater privacy, more space for the family and most of all, better value compared to hotel accommodation. How about a holiday home that generates a lucrative income and provides the flexibility for your personal use. Dream no more as these are possible with Arabian Breaks, a new concept in private holiday accommodation where visitors and holiday makers are provided with a truly comprehensive selection of high quality accommodation for overall enjoyment and satisfaction. The idea of high quality holiday homes in Dubai was introduced by RCI Global Vacation Network Group, the world’s leading shared ownership and holiday exchange organization. Arabian Breaks offers apartments and villas on a weekly basis equivalent to the standards of 4 and 5-star hotel accommodation. It also provides property owners and developers the opportunity to offer their apartments or villas on a short term basis to visitors and holiday makers. Breaks are marketed in weekly units with a typical stay being one to two weeks. The concept will appeal to business people attending exhibitions, conferences or those who simply want their own home from home in preference to a

hotel. It also provides the chance of bringing family or friends on a well earned break at a much reduced cost than staying in an equivalent hotel. The apartments and villas are offered in main destinations in the Gulf, initially focusing on Dubai and the surrounding areas. “The Gulf area enjoys a good climate for most of the year. It also offers an ever increasing number of indoor and outdoor attractions that keep the season running for most of the year,” said explained Nick Turner, Managing Director of Arabian Breaks and RCI Middle East. Unlike Europe, where the main season is only a few months, Arabian Breaks anticipate that properties can be effectively marketed for nine to ten months of the year in the Gulf. Other areas being explored are Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Muscat, Bahrain and Doha. The locations offer a range of service and amenities. “We have apartments close to the beach and villas in luxury developments. Most will benefit from having restaurants and shops nearby, access to swimming pools, health clubs and night life. All benefit from weekly maid service included in the rental charge, but could be done on a daily or twice a weekly basis at an extra cost,” added Turner. Visitors who arrived in their destinations will get transfers from the airport to the property where a representative will run through the property with you, explain about the inventory of equipment and give a list of local attractions. “You’re then left in peace and quiet for the duration of your stay until you check out and return to the airport.” Other provisions for guests include the option of a welcome pack for their arrival covering basic provisions for breakfast, tea and coffee, fruit, soft drinks, etc. Properties are available from 3 pm on the day of the arrival and have to be vacated by 10 am on the day of the departure. For property owners and developers who want a good return on their investments, the

furnishings, fixtures and fittings need to be of high standard comparable to either 4 or 5- star hotel accommodation. “Arabian Breaks provides its owners with a minimum list of requirements, ranging from good quality beds and sofas to brand name TVs and CD players. The owner has to provide and to maintain all the contents of the property to a standard that is previously agreed with Arabian Breaks. If required, Arabian Breaks can put owners in touch with specialist companies who will undertake the interior furnishings for them,” explained Turner. What sort of properties is Arabian Breaks looking for? “Properties that meet the expectations of our multi-cultural client lists, visitors from Europe probably want a property close to the beach or a pool, whereas visitors from the Middle East tend to opt for accommodation close to amenities like shopping malls,” said Turner. Since Arabian Breaks has a rating system just like hotels, properties that they market are comparable with 4 and 5 star hotels so the net income for owners with suitable accommodation will start at around $1,200 per week for a onebedroom apartments to US$4000 per week for a luxury villa. Owners are encouraged to get a minimum of one year contract to get the best commercial returns. For more information or reservations, call +971 4 362 1312 or log on to www.arabianbreaks.com for the property listings.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

“Sands and Lights of the Emirates” Dr. B.R. Shetty, MD & CEO of New Medical Center Group and Mr. Moine Kandil, the General Manager of Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi inaugurated the photography exhibition “Sands & Lights of the Emirates” by Indian Artist Abdul Khaliq. Abdul Khaliq who works as the IT Manager of the Millennium Hotel hails from Hyderabad, the city that holds the ethnic and traditional values of India and also known as the “City of Pearls”. His exhibition is consists of pictures taken in the past two years in Abu Dhabi which mostly showcased beautiful sceneries from the Emirates. Photography which took a centre stage of his leisure activities since 2004 has turned into a passion for an engineering graduate. It started in 2004, when he realized his interest in photography and bought his first camera. To analyze his skills and to improve he registered with the International German Photographic Organization to share his work with fellow photographers. In a very short span of time he graduated from a member to channel manager for his active involvement and splendid photographic skills. He created a niche among the community members. His areas of interest have been documentary, landscaping and cultural. His interest is exploring different cultures and tradition, capturing the realities and moods of human nature, natural sceneries as well as man made beauty. His portfolio exhibits simple picture which are close to human life and nature. His recent collection is based on a dedicated series on structural marvels of UAE and promoting environmental awareness, which is becoming the issue of global attention. Apart from the gifted photographic skills, Abdul Khaliq has penned some impressive poetry in Urdu and short stories which are part of his personal treasure.

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Vivid Imagination Ibis World Trade Centre hosted its 5th art exhibition for this year, with Vivid Imagination for Yalda Jafari held from 15th July to 31st August. Originally from Iran, with an Italian mother, Yalda Jafari was brought up in New York where she lived all her life and majored in Computer Graphics/ Animation at New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) Yalda’s aspirations for art are not limited to conventional ways of expression. She has expressed her inner artistic moods through computer graphics, interior design, fabric/ furniture paintings and deigns, greeting cards, children’s story books and even murals. When asked about the technique and daring colors she’s been using, Yalda commented saying, “Being a self taught artist I have created my own technique and style of painting. I signify my work through bright bold colors which is my way of expressing a part of me to the outside world. I believe that as an artist what you bring out on canvas is what your inner soul is like and how you see everyday objects.” She further added: “I have created my own technique and style of work. My work consists of illustrations, modern and abstract paintings. And I leave it to my exhibition’s visitors to

choose what they like.” Using different mediums for her artwork and partaking in different international exhibitions and charitable events, allowed her to be part of different cultures and broaden her inspirational ideas. Because of her passion for art and design, she was recently been appointed as the Chair of The Empty Quarter art gallery in the University of Wollongong in Dubai, to give talented artists the chance to exhibit and display their own work. She held different solo and group exhibitions both locally and internationally, in Iran her country of origin, Sharjah, Dubai and the United States of America. Yalda concluded saying: “I would like to thank ibis for giving me this opportunity of exhibiting my artwork for his guests and visitors over a period of 48 days. My future plans are to have even more solo exhibitions and even take part in group exhibitions similar to what I have been involved with in the past.”

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A Sizzling Summer In

Ras Al Khaimah With full hotels, busy golf courses and new tourism projects announced each month, Ras Al Khaimah enjoyed a record summer season. Proving there is no stopping now, all hotels in RAK reported on average 78% occupancy levels through the typically low summer season. It was a bumper summer all round. Dr Khater Massaad, Advisor to RAK Crown Prince and CEO of RAKIA confirmed that the emirate was eagerly awaiting the opening of its new properties Al Hamra Palace which was on schedule for 2008 and which can now be seen on the horizon as one approaches RAK along Emirates Road. There is also the Banyan Tree project and Khatt Springs Hotel which is due to open by early 2008, to be closely followed by Rotana and Marriott Properties. The recent announcement of Hilton Hotels Corporation signing of a management agreement with RAK Properties that will see a new integrated lifestyle development, Hilton Mina Al Arab Resort; open in the first quarter of 2010. Dr Massaad confirmed that Ras Al Khaimah was making significant head way with its overseas marketing efforts with a 30% increase of visitors from the UK and approximately 15% increase from Russia. However, he confirmed there is still lots of growth in all of RAKâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s target of the markets and confirmed that the remainder of the year would see an

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aggressive marketing campaign with events in Germany, UK, Japan and Russia. The manager of RAK Tourism, Hilary Mc Cormack recently launched the new RAK City Tourist Map which was designed to provide visitors with ideas on what to do in RAK. She also revealed that improvements were currently be made to the Tourism website. The tourism website would provide visitors with more details of the location and history behind some of its more famous heritage sites. She also confirmed that RAK Tourism along with the other Government departments were working towards make these sites more tourist friendly, in addition to preserving and resorting several other sites across the Emirate. Ras Al Khaimah has all the natural elements of a world-class destination: the mountains, the Arabian Gulf and the vast desert areas. With the Emirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proximity to international airports, its new hotel properties and the growing number of all category of tourist, RAK Tourism is working to ensure the destinations sustainability while weaving all these elements together.

For more information: Hilary Mc Cormack Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Tel: 07 244 5125 Fax: 07 244 7463 Web: www.raktourism.com

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SHOPPING

Precious Time Forever

Shopping

Transcending the sands of time and elegance, Forever is the latest gem in the Aigner Watch Collection. A combination of visual elegance and innovative genius, the watch features a black leather strap retaining its subtleness while the diamond and precious stones encrusted dial takes it into the world of sophistication and imagination. A

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masterpiece amongst timepieces, the Limited Edition Forever Watch turns from an exquisite piece of jewellery into an ultramodern digital timepiece with the flick of a button. A mystery, a passion, an indulgence …. Precious Time Forever.

Master Eight Days Perpetual SQ, watchmaking refined to an art form.

Exclusively available at all Paris Gallery outlets in the UAE.

The brilliant Da Vinci watch Luxury Swiss watch manufacturer IWC is bringing the Da Vinci into the future with a new generation of watches. The new watch is now available in select stores and boutiques across the Middle East. With the Da Vinci Chronograph, IWC has developed its first proprietary chronograph movement and has given it a modern interpretation with an incomparable analogue time display. A limited special edition pays tribute to IWC chief designer Kurt Klaus, and the Da Vinci Automatic represents the practically elegant three hand watch in a smaller format.

Already the only perpetual-calendar watch to offer an 8-day power reserve, this model further highlights its exceptional nature with an entirely skeletonised movement. Representing an outstanding technical accomplishment, each component is designed, open worked and decorated to become part of an extraordinary work of art. The read-off mode of the perpetualcalendar, power-reserve and day/night indications preserves the transparency of the watch. In creating this exceptional model, the engineers, designers and representatives of the crafts united within the Manufacture set themselves – and successfully met – the daunting challenge of transforming this timepiece into one of the most exquisite embodiments of Fine Watchmaking.

Limited edition watch celebrates life of Antoine de SaintExupery IWC Schaffhausen, the luxury Swiss watch manufacturer, drew on the life work of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s work “Courrier Sud” that has provided the source of creativity for IWC’s latest homage to this talented and charismatic individual. The Pilot’s Watch Automatic Edition Antoine de Saint Exupéry features a relief engraving on the back, which outlines the geographical range of operations in Saint Exupéry’s era. Its production will be limited to the historical number 1,929; the year of the novel’s first publication in Paris. The Pilot’s Watch Automatic Edition Antoine de Saint Exupéry features an automatic movement with a power reserve display, large seconds and a date indicator that resembles the altimeter

display in an aircraft. The watch shares the same external characteristics of the first edition of the novel: tobacco-coloured dial, large, luminous Arabic numerals and substantial hands, which also glow in the dark. A new feature is the power reserve display – previously something of a rarity at IWC. The silver initial “A” from Antoine de Saint Exupéry’s signature again decorates the dial, this time level with the date display. The watch is provided with the classic protection against magnetic fields by an inner case made of soft iron, has a screw-in crown, is water-resistant to 6 bar (60 m) and has a convex sapphire glass with antireflective coating on both sides. This special timepiece is worn on a brown, solid buffalo leather strap and an exclusive, limited edition of the novel around which

everything revolves, is also included in the price, from the Parisian publishing house of Gallimard. Of the 1,929 watches produced, 1,178 watches will be in stainless steel, 500 in rose gold, 250 in white gold and a single piece in platinum, which will eventually be auctioned for a good cause.

NEW ORIGINAL by RADO The first hardmetal watch ever made and the brand’s founding model, the New Original by Rado revisits its own legend. Launched as DiaStar in 1962, it has surfaced once again in all its subtle splendour, retaining the essential elements of its identity - the resistance of its materials, the creativity of its design, its innovative character. Its lines and proportions have been revised. Fluidity. Its functions brought up to date. Precision. Technology. The evolution of one of the classic series in watchmaking design, still set apart by its unequivocal and authentic lines. Its spirit remains intact. With its characteristic bezel and the insertion of the dial in the oval frame of the case, the New Original presents a veritable play on form and light. Contrasts. Elliptical splendour. An avant-garde model. A legend in its own time.

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TAG HEUER LAUNCHES GRAND CARRERA The TAG Heuer Grand CARRERA is a new premium collection of superlatively sophisticated timepieces inspired by the spirit of modern GT cars. Innovative and contemporary, its draws its DNA from the classic TAG Heuer Carrera collection born in 1964 and consistently reinterpreted ever since to become a TAG Heuer icon. The new TAG Heuer GRAND CARRERA embodies TAG Heuer’s unique motor-racing heritage and passion for Avant-Garde design and technologies. Amongst its many premium features is the ingenious GT car engine-inspired Rotating System, making it possible to replace conventional hands by a disk displaying functional information even more clearly on the dial.

The sea and the sun, on your own wrist Like magic, the word conjures up the opulent luxury of the Mediterranean coast. This was the sporty, chic, pleasureseeking world that inspired Baume & Mercier’s designers to create the Riviera line in 1973. With its original, 12-sided (dodecagonal) bezel that symbolized the twelve hours of the day, the Riviera design made its mark on an era and rapidly became an emblem of the philosophy behind Baume & Mercier’s timepieces: avant-garde aesthetics and traditional technique. Today, the Riviera collection welcomes four new creations that share the values of the originals; glamour with the very feminine Riviera L White Wave, a passion for the sea with the Riviera XXL Chrono Diver, athletic elegance with the Riviera XL 4 Screws, and a taste for adventure with the Riviera XXL Magnum.

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

Twice the delight

Conservatory at Al Manzil and Esca at Qamardeen, The Old Town, Burj Dubai

Situated in the heart of Burj Dubai, Al Manzil Hotel is probably well-known for its sports grill and bar, however there’s much more to Al Manzil than the renowned Nezesaussi. The Conservatory restaurant at Al Manzil Hotel offers an exquisite three-course buffet lunch amidst opulent rustic and Arabesque surroundings. With a wide selection of Mediterranean and Eurasian dishes, the cuisine is anything but conservative. The starters consist of healthy salads, hummus and prawn cocktail, as well as specialty dishes, such as Babaganoush (eggplant with pomegranate seeds) and

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pumpkin salad with black peppercorn, which was vibrantly coloured, tantalizing and zesty. The variety of main courses available is supreme. The Thai Beef curry was brimming with rich coconut flavours. The pièce de résistance for me was the fish amritsari. The fish was succulent and the crispy coating was beautifully seasoned. Vegetarian options are aplenty with zucchini and tomato parmesan, sautéed exotic vegetables and Indonesian style stir-fry. The soup of the day was tomato and basil and it was the perfect accompaniment to the warm bread rolls and Arabian flat bread.

Dessert was the part of the meal that I was most looking forward to and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. With twelve choices immaculately presented in miniature glasses and one main, I was spoilt for choice with dark and white chocolate mousse, crème brule and Turkish baklava amongst various other treats. Fruit Salad is also available for those with a healthier palette. The Old Town souk is a stone’s throw from Al Manzil and after the magnificent lunch, I took a stroll and wandered into various new outlets such as a futuristic tea-shop and a quaint Arabic curios store. Before I knew it, it was sunset and time to dine at Esca located in Al Manzil’s sister Hotel, Qamardeen, also nestled within the Old Town. Esca serves authentic Italian cuisine in a contemporary and elegant environment. I was joined by a friend from Florence who was in search of the best Italian in Dubai. As we walked down the modern spiral staircase; my friend and I were astounded by the dramatic décor. With sumptuous theatre-esque curtains

and spectacular, dramatic lighting, I felt like I was on a film-set. The concept of Esca is innovative and unique; guests can enjoy the buffet as well as items from the a la carte menu for one fixed price. A selection of fine wine is also available. The appetizers at Esca include traditional Italian delicacies such as bresaola (dried beef) with melon as well as an assortment of fish, meats and cheeses. For non-Muslims, there is a separate section with pork cuts and prosciutto. After consuming some minestrone soup, I indulged in chicken spinach and ricotta cannelloni. It was absolutely delectable and could easily have come straight from the kitchen of Marco Pierre-White. As I was admiring the state-ofthe-art pizza oven and listening to the contemporary jazz music, Michael, the waiter appeared with a platter of fresh Pizza Napoletana and insisted my friend and I select something from the a la carte menu and choose one of the freshly-cooked pasta dishes. Despite being full, I obliged and chose the grilled prawns with garlic butter mushrooms. The king prawns, marinated in olive oil and oregano was sensational. From the pasta selection, I chose Penne Arrabiata which was cooked to perfection. The dessert tray was filled with several diminutive delights such as crème caramel, almond biscotti and fig tartlets with mascarponi as well as the legendary Italian dessert, tiramisu, which was sublime.

I was particularly impressed with the exceptional service at Esca. Pradish, the Assistant Food & Beverage Manager ensured our glasses were never empty and happily shared anecdotes with us. An espresso completed the gourmet meal. We then proceeded al fresco to admire the stunning swimming pool, breathtaking waterfall and enjoy shisha. Pradish revealed that Esca’s philosophy is “spoiling people” and I was definitely treated like royalty. With myriad restaurants in Dubai, it can often be difficult to differentiate, but apart from the mouth-watering cuisine, Conservatory and Esca offer an unparalleled dining experience with personable staff and first-rate service. The lunch buffet at Conservatory in Al Manzil is open between 12-3pm and is 95 AED. Dinner at Esca at Qamardeen is open between 7-11pm and is 125 AED. Shisha is available from 5pm at the courtyard in both Hotels and is 35 AED. Amidst a deluge of construction work, sand and dust, Conservatory and Esca are hidden gems of The Old Town and in Esca, we definitely found the best Italian in Dubai. Twice the delight….and I left twice the size.

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SPA REVIEW

Ultimate Spa Experience at Banyan Tree Desert Spa and Resort, Al Areen

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Capturing the essence of Arabia, each villa is designed to incorporate an intimate fusion of traditional Middle Eastern and contemporary Asian architecture. The interior effortlessly combines arabesque style furnishings with elegant far eastern fabrics, wrapping guests in sheer luxury. A truly unique spa experience awaits visitors at Banyan Tree Desert Spa and Resort Al Areen. The newly opened Middle-Eastern inspired resort is nestled in the heart of the wind-caressed Arabian Desert. The Spa is the Middle Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest spa and hydrotherapy area at 10,000 square metres and is a world first in terms of design and treatments. Banyan Tree Desert Spa and Resort, Al Reen is situated in the southwest of the Kingdom of Bahrain, in the prestigious Al Areen development. The resort is a 35-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport and five minutes away from the world famous Bahrain International F1 Circuit.

Understated Charm and Elegance A majestic silhouette on the Arabia horizon, the resort features 78-luxuriously appointed villas. There are 56 one-bedroom Desert Pool Villas, each measuring 400 sqm (4305 sq ft) and 22 two-bedroom Royal Pool Villas spanning 740 sqm (7965 sq ft) and featuring private open-air swimming and jet pools, over-sized infinity bath tubs and sprawling master bedrooms.

Arabian Opulence Banyan Tree Al Areen offers fullyfledged five star amenities including six international restaurants, the signature being Saffron which serves contemporary Thai cuisine and floats majestically on a lake, extensive meeting and banqueting facilities, which lend themselves to a range of events from corporate retreats to weddings, a comprehensive fitness and wellness centre boasting, two-tennis courts, a squash court, separate male and female gymnasiums, with the latest cardiovascular and fitness equipment, a kids club and an indoor lap and outdoor free form swimming pool. For the less energetic, the resorts library boats a multilingual selection of magazines and books.

In May 2001, the Banyan Tree Phuket Spa Academy was established to provide dedicated training facilities to ensure that therapists consistently deliver the high quality treatments that guests have come to expect.

Banyan Tree Spa The highlight of the prestigious resort is the Banyan Tree Spa, a groundbreaking spa concept. Designed with inspiration from the gardens of the Royal Arabian palaces, the spa is the largest and most extensive spa in the Middle East, spanning an area of 10,000 sq m (107, 640 sq ft). The spa boasts eight Deluxe Pavilions each spanning 140 sqm (1507 sq ft) and four Royal Spa Pavilions covering 190 sqm (2045 sq ft) each one with twin treatment beds, twin rainmist shower beds, infinity or sunken bathtubs and a private garden. Guests will have a chance to experience innovative spa therapies

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SPA REVIEW

such as the Gui Shi Rainmist Massage, a holistic massage which incorporates warmed river stones and an intensive rain shower experience promoting circulation and relaxation. Banyan Tree Spa is home to the world’s largest modern day hammans. Crowned by a grand dome, the Garden Hamman resides on a lush and serene water garden with cool fountains and invigorating streams. A sprawling waterfall curtain forms a sensuous veil between the intimate garden and the inner sanctum of the grand Hamman. Other facilities include Hydrothermal Garden, Ladies’ Beauty Garden, Gentleman’s Salon and extensive fitness and wellness facilities.

Gallery Recreate the Banyan Tree lifestyle in the comfort of home. With exquisite crafts, aromatic essential oils wafting in the air, and soothing strains of spa music, Banyan Tree Gallery offers a complete sensory experience. Resortstyled furnishings, pampering spa treats, beautiful craft arts, eclectic gifts and elegant accessories count among the signature Banyan Tree Gallery products. All have been hand-picked and chosen for their innovative designs, exquisite craftsmanship and quality materials.

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Diverse Attractions For nature lovers, the island is home to over 300 species of birds including the rare sooty falcon as well as the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest Socotra cormorant breeding colony. Spot these winged beauties at the Al Reen wildlife park, which is overlooked by the resort. Join excursions to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bahrain Fort, or the Barbar Temple â&#x20AC;&#x201C; constructed during the second and third millenniums BC and dedicated to Enki, the god of wisdom and living water. The Kingdom of Bahrain also offers a wide range of activities for the adrenaline loving including off road driving and Formula BMW racing. Contrast these fast paced activities with an evening visit to the local souk, a labyrinth of lanes and outdoor stalls fragranced for colourful spices. Other activities in the area include falconry, pearl diving, sand bar exploration, golf, camel riding, include desert quad driving, site seeing trips, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park and deep see fishing. For reservation or enquiries please contact + 973 17845 000. For more information on Banyan Tree Desert Spa & Resort, log on to www.banyantree. com

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Bath amenities by Anne Sémonin in all Radisson SAS hotels All Radisson SAS Hotels & Resorts in Europe, Africa and the Middle East are now equipped with bath amenities by the French cosmetic brand Anne Sémonin, an exclusive range of high quality beauty products. In standard rooms, the basic portfolio comprises 40 ml bottles of shower gel and shampoo (or alternatively an all-purpose hair- and body shampoo), conditioner, body

lotion, a soap bar and a shower cap. In business rooms and suites, guests will find 80 ml or 200 ml bottles and additionally bath salts and a hand cream. All bottles are presented on a chic amenity tray in Black, Silver matt or Oak and come with a so called innovative ‘Jack-Cap’, which are reclosable. “Anne Sémonin is a worldwide known brand and an expert in skin care

technology”, comments Kurt Ritter, President & CEO of The Rezidor Hotel Group. “With these beauty products, we offer a relaxing and sensual bathing experience to our guests – fitting perfectly with Radisson’s style and services.” Anne Sémonin was founded more than 20 years ago in Paris and was the first to combine essential oils and trace elements – and the first to offer ‘madeto-measuret’ products and treatments for a sophisticated clientele. The Anne Sémonin portfolio is available in luxurious spas, hotels and boutiques in France and all over the world and has made headlines in major international wellness- and lifestyle publications. Based on a holistic and personal approach to beauty, all products are designed in the image of cosmeceutics; from natural active ingredients used in the maximum concentration authorized. They are formulated according to the most advanced technological procedures, in collaboration with scientists and cosmetic surgeons who specialize in anti-aging. The company is also dedicated to travel: Visits of hotels and spas all over the world are an inherent part of the business – Anne Sémonin knows what clients of an international first class hotel chain need.

Gary Player to Design Saadiyat Island Signature Course Golfing legend Gary Player is to design the first of two championship golf courses planned for Saadiyat Island – the 27 square kilometre island offshore Abu Dhabi city which is being transformed into a world-class tourism, culture and residential destination. The Saadiyat course will be the first in the Arabian Gulf with several beach-front holes. It is also the first in the UAE to be designed by the South African who is acknowledged as the most successful international golfer of all time, and whose career includes three Masters wins, three British Open titles, two PGA championships and the US Open title to complete

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the Grand Slam. “Gary Player is renowned as much for his dedication to the principles of design excellence as he is for his golfing accomplishments. He is recognised worldwide, as an uncompromising perfectionist who settles for nothing but the best,” said HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) and of Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the name behind the transformation of Saadiyat Island. “We are convinced Gary will bring to this project his impeccable set of values and insistence on quality which

Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, Marks Soft Opening The pre-opening team members at the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, headed by General Manager, Adrian Rudin, raised the flag to mark the hotel’s tt soft opening. Mr. Rudin was joined by Resident Manager, Khaled Ghaleb, and other executives at the momentous event, which pre-empts the doors of the hotel opening to guests and visitors. The first phase of the exciting new project has taken only 24 months to come to fruition. The first pile went in to the ground on 17th August 2005 and the pre-opening team has been dedicated to opening the hotel on time and with facilities available for guests. “We are delighted and proud that we are marking the imminent soft opening of the Shangri-La Hotel in Abu Dhabi. In 24 months, we have conceptualised, built and delivered a product that is outstanding in the local market and we are looking forward to welcoming our first guests over the coming weeks,” said Adrian Rudin. The 21-acre project includes 214 luxurious rooms and suites all with balconies, as well as seven villas, each with its own theme. The Residence will house 161 spacious serviced apartments, ranging from studio to four–bedroom units. Exceptional recreation facilities throughout the complex include four outdoor swimming pools, a health club with private pool, children’s pool and

playground, five private beaches and a variety of sporting activities. Al Jaber Group has played an instrumental part in the phenomenal development and growth of the United Arab Emirates over the last 30 years. With a current dedicated and professional workforce of over 25,000 employees and a visionary management team the group has made a significant

have earned him worldwide respect. This course will be a world-class asset for Saadiyat Island and Abu Dhabi and one capable of hosting international-standard tournaments,” added Sheikh Sultan, “We were also particularly impressed with the humanitarian work of the Player Foundation which has improved educational resources for underprivileged children across Africa, Asia and the USA.” A ‘first’ for The Player Group in Abu Dhabi, Gary Player expressed enthusiasm about being a part of the transformation of Saadiyat Island: “I am both honoured and delighted to be appointed to design this golf course at Saadiyat Island and look forward to producing a world-class facility that will compliment this world-class destination.” The Gary Player Signature course, which is scheduled for completion in 2009, is being constructed in the Saadiyat Beach

contribution in playing an integral part of the countries ambitious construction efforts. Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently manages 50 hotels under Shangri-La and Traders brands with a room’s inventory of over 24,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services.

district – one of seven distinct zones within Saadiyat Island. According to Senior Course Designer Jeff Lawrence, “The objective is to keep the design of the Beach Course simple and straight forward, yet visually stunning, while concentrating design efforts on the strategic values that will stand the test of time.” The golf course is due to be presented this September, when TDIC also hopes to appoint a clubhouse designer. The facilities will be open to club members as well as some hotel pay-and-play guests. An international operator will be appointed to run the facility. A second ‘ocean-style’ golf course is to be built in Saadiyat Island. The two courses will substantially enhance the golf tourism offering of Abu Dhabi which already has a championship course at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which is owned by TDIC, and is home to the annual European Tour-backed Abu Dhabi Golf

Championship to be staged for the third time in January. “Saadiyat Beach is a dramatic setting for any golf facility with the clubhouse and the course planned to offer sweeping Gulf and beach views,” said Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA and Managing Director, TDIC. “Our research has shown that golf is a key ingredient in the meetings and business tourism sectors which we anticipate will account for one third of our targeted three million annual tourist arrivals by 2015.” The Saadiyat Beach concept is expected to have strong appeal, particularly among European tourists who are looking for the kind of excellent waterfront destinations the island represents. Caption: Player (left) and Lee Tabler (right) after sealing the Gary Player signature course for Saadiyat Island

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KM Properties breaks ground for Tamani Hotel KM Properties, the real estate arm of Dubai-based business conglomerate KM Holding, broke ground for its mixed use commercial, retail and hotel project, TAMANI Hotel at Park Lane, at Business Bay. Mr. Shehab Lutfi, Business Development Director “Dubai Properties”, cut the ribbon to signify that construction work is now underway. “TAMANI Hotel at Park Lane is a unique project offering a truly mixed-use concept combining commercial, hotel and retail components in one stunning development. This landmark project further enforces KM Properties’ position as an innovator in the field of property development,” said Sanjeet Joher, group chief operating officer, KM Holding, at the groundbreaking ceremony. “We at Dubai Properties are very supportive to world-class developers in Dubai such as KM Properties and we consider them our partners more than being

our clients. Hence, we will do our best to make this project successful,” added Shehab Lutfi.

TAMANI Hotel at Park Lane is located at the heart of Business Bay – one of Dubai’s newest city-within-a-city developments, running from the city’s arterial highway, Sheikh Zayed Road, alongside the new Creek from Ras Al Khor.

Designed by world-renowned architect Carlos Ott, the aerodynamic glass and steel skyscraper features 33 storeys of commercial, recreational and hotel facilities and will use artistic lighting, which will make it look spectacular and different - by day and night. “KM Properties’ iconic buildings are made more attractive by offering the best in location, lifestyle and price, making them an attractive option for those thinking to invest in property in Dubai for the long term.” Joher added. Park Lane Tower will be a state-of- the-art facility, complete with the latest ‘touchof-a-button’ technological innovations including security, home automation, satellite communications, and bespoke lighting systems suited to business and personal lifestyles. TAMANI Hotel at Park Lane is being constructed by Al Rostamani Pegel LLC, a member of the Al Rostamani Group, which was created in partnership with the Berlinbased firm Gustav Pegel & Sohn.

Six years of team building Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa and Grosvenor House recently completed their annual team building programme. Set up 2001, the programme encourages hotel associates to become a highly motivated team who are able to work together to achieve the company’s goals whilst retaining a positive, healthy work - life balance. The team building activities took place over a period of three weeks, with each session lasting eight hours, encompassing 60 participants, ranging from the most junior associates to senior management. Each group consisted of a mix of associates from various departments to recreate the working environment and so that they would learn to work together by drawing upon the individuals skills of each team member in order to complete tasks. “Our annual team building exercise

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is fundamental to the development and motivation of our associates. We always talk about the importance of collaboration, working while having fun, respect and support for one another and these team building days are geared around these fundamental values,” commented Pam Wilby, general manager, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa and Grosvenor House. “The team becomes stronger and happier as a result and we can face another year of high standard of services for our guests.” Activities are based on Starwood’s core competencies which promote associates to resolve issues that are standing in the way of accomplishing goals, enhance communication skills, conflict management, understanding individual talents and helping to nurture these in to fruition. The training additionally encourages team members to work together

in harmony, whilst pushing individuals to be assertive and proactive in their day to day work. This year the team building programme worked in conjunction with ‘Drive the Vision’, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa and Grosvenor House motivational initiative which aims to instill pride in the associates and help maintain the hotels world class reputation. “Drive the Vision & the team building programme emphasise the importance of collaboration, respect, fun and recognizing one another’s achievements,” added Pam Wilby. “Our hotel is home to 2000 associates who all make the hotels exceptionally unique in the world of hospitality. These programmes are our way to thank them for their daily dedication, made them proud of their colleagues and their teams and remind them of our friendly work atmosphere.”

“Indigo” the Indian Fusion Restaurant at the Beach Rotana Hotel& Towers welcomes its first guests….

Unique Experience at the refurbished Al Rawda Rotana Suites Following one year and a half of renovation undertaken, Al Rawda Rotana Suites Abu Dhabi re-opens to welcome its guests in the finest revamped look. Tarek Al Sharif, General Manager of Al Rawda Rotana Suites states: “I am proud to have led this project since its very first start, and for being part of its development in each stage. After my experience with the opening of the Beach Rotana Suites, today the refurbished Al Rawda Rotana Suites sets off in great settings to become the newest Hotel Apartments in Abu Dhabi.” Innovative 109 spacious Studios & Suites, together with ultimate facilities ensuring contemporary comfort for a comprehensive stay “home style”. The property introduces Al Dar new restaurant, serving daily International buffets; Still, Moka café, serves light refreshments and pastries all day. And to keep fit, Bodylines, a well-equipped and modern fitness center is now available. Emphasizing on the above Tarek Al Sharif said: “Our target market is wide and diverse; we are prepared to cater for all clientele needs. From Business, Leisure to Long-stay, the facilities and services at the premises entice us to look at every

opportunity. Conveniently, the property location is adjacent to the newly opened Al Wahda Mall, further offering our guests the latest shopping experience.” Special Opening Rate valid till the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan: AED 400 per room, inclusive of Breakfast, subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee, for Single and Double Occupancy. “After all, the Management and Family members at Al Rawda Rotana Suites will spare no detail making their Guests stay a Unique Experience.” concluded Tarek Al Sharif.

August 1st 2007 was the date Indigo at the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers received its first dining guests. A new Indian fusion restaurant, presenting a dedicated Northern Indian cuisine with Fusion Twist. “Indigo is the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi, a unique venue flavored by modern Indian cuisine, with comprehensive Signature dishes to savor every guest” commented Mr.

Freddy Farid, General Manager of the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers, Area Vice president Abu Dhabi/Al Ain. Cozy Interior, Stylish design, candles in a lively setting and up to date music set the scene for a perfect evening at Indigo. The senses are enlivened by the food, with strength of flavor and seductive aromas that create a journey of discovery.

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The Dunes Golf Course Gets Ready for Play

Mr. Luay Amin Hassun Managing Partner of QHC Architects & Engineers (left) pictured with Mr Gavin Faull, President, Swiss-Belhotel International seal the deal for the new Swiss-Belhotel Resort & Spa, Sharjah.

Swiss-Belhotel chooses Sharjah for first property Swiss-Belhotel International headquartered in Hong Kong, has chosen the Emirate of Sharjah as the location for Swiss-Belhotel Resort & Spa, Sharjah the group’s first property in the United Arab Emirates which is expected to be completed within 22 months. In an effort to blend with the local environment, the property has been designed as a low-rise resort and spa located on Sharjah’s most popular beach nearby to the Sharjah-Ajman border. Comprising a luxurious complex of villas and 350 guest rooms and suites, the 4-star property will boast extensive restaurant outlets, ballroom and meeting rooms, retail shops, as well as first class health and recreation facilities including a large resort spa, outdoor freshwater swimming pools, indoor squash courts, tennis courts and a fully equipped gymnasium. The contemporary one, two and three bedroom villas offer guests an extra special experience with their own outdoor facilities including Jacuzzi, pool and terrace. Guests will be spoilt for choice with a variety of restaurants offering everything from Asian specialties to Seafood. The lobby lounge is the ideal meeting place while the hotel’s piazza will be recognized for its informal choices including an ice-creamery and pizzeria. The planned leisure facilities will be

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second to none with several swimming pools (and poolside bars) including a kid’s pool and a stretch of pristine sandy white beach. Golfers will be delighted with the hotel’s indoor golf simulator, while tennis players will be able to enjoy a game by day or in the cool of night under flood lights. Guests who prefer to just relax and unwind should visit the Spa and surrender to the intuitive touch of the international team of spa therapists. The spa which will feature a juice bar will offer a variety of treatments including, facials, wraps and massages. The Sharjah property announcement follows quickly on the heels of the group’s recent Kuwait and Qatar announcements. With more than 20 years of experience and strong global brand recognition, SwissBelhotel International is planning to add several properties to its Middle Eastern portfolio over the coming years in both resort and city locations. “We are pleased to announce the construction of the Sharjah property as our first in the United Arab Emirates. Sharjah is rapidly developing, particularly in terms of its tourism sector.” said Mr Gavin Faull, President, Swiss-Belhotel International. “Sharjah offers an attractive business environment, which has lured a number of leading brands and companies to the Emirate, and we are delighted SwissBelhotel International is part of this rapid development phase. The Emirate enjoyed impressive economic growth in 2006 and substantial foreign investment as a result of high performing business sectors. Now is the ideal time for Swiss-Belhotel International to enter the market.” he added.

Progress on The Dunes, the 18-hole championship golf course based in Dubai Sports City, is at an advanced stage, with developers confident the course will be ready to play by the end of the year. Set for an official opening in December 2007, The Dunes is rapidly reaching completion, with Dubai Sports City officials planning to use the time between completion and opening to allow the course to mature, so that it will provide the highest quality playing experience. “The Dunes will be a world-class course,” said U. Balasubramaniam, CEO of Dubai Sports City. “From enabling Ernie Els to realise his vision in the design, through to working with leading developers and managers in the construction and organisational strategy, we’re pulling out all the stops to make this a fantastic golfing experience.” “The construction effort has been considerable, but we can see that the results are going to be exceptional. The Dunes will be a course that golf enthusiasts around the world will talk about,” he added. Every step of the development has involved some of golf’s most experienced professionals. Designed by leading tour professional, Ernie Els, The Dunes’ links-style course has been built by Septech Emirates, and the club will be managed by the internationally-renowned Troon Golf. Such exceptional care and attention to detail reflects the effort that has gone into developing The Dunes into one of the world’s most exciting, challenging courses. The greens and fairways are turfed with varieties of Bermuda grass, a warm season grass that survives punishing temperatures. The infrastructure required to support the 211-acre site is now ready. Almost 50 kilometres of piping are in place to provide irrigation, backed by a pump station capable of supplying the course with more than 2,000,000 gallons of water every eight hours. Advanced GPS technology has been used to match precisely the physical space to the original drawings. More than 100 people have worked on all aspects of the golf course construction and irrigation installation, to a contracted timetable of 480 calendar days. Almost two million cubic meters of earth have been moved to form The Dunes course and neighbouring sites, and over 6,000 man hours have been spent shaping the course into its distinctive form. “We’re extremely pleased with the results of everyone’s commitment to this project,” said Jeff O’Brien, Business Development Director, Septech Emirates. “Working on The Dunes has been a great opportunity to harness the latest technologies to the project of building a world class golfing venue,” he added. Set in 69 acres of native vegetation, The Dunes combines a links-style course with traditional classic design. On his last visit to the site, designer Ernie Els confidently stated that he felt it would be “the best course in Dubai” upon completion.

Zen the spa at Rotana The Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers, member of the Leading Hotels of the World, and the Leader 5 star property in Abu Dhabi, announced the opening of its unique Zen the spa at Rotana. Zen concept is unique, a holistic philosophy portrayed as a retreat for Body, Mind and Spirit. Zen is uncomplicated and uncluttered. Mr. Freddy Farid, Area Vice President Abu Dhabi & Al Ain and General Manager of the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers commented: “Zen the Spa at the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers offers nothing less than a five star service. The Experience designed at Zen the spa is without equal, with internationally certified team members offering the spa guest a personalized consultation for the most suitable treatment, and directions for every day’s well-being

reflected in their inner and outer self ’. Ms. Jo Clare, Consultant for Zen the spa at Rotana said: “The aim is to provide each and every spa guest with “me time” to simply re-balance and rejuvenate, to enhance the balance and harmony through Zen focused Spa treatments.” Modern and relaxed finishing, calm and tranquil décor, Zen the spa at the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers will comprise of 10 treatment rooms (6 for females & 4 for males), 2 VIP suites equipped with Jacuzzi and relaxation areas making the place a true Resort Retreat. A dedicated team of therapists with high level of competencies and skills will serve a wide treatment menu, using prime quality selected product line to suit all clientele. This varied selection of treatments being available, includes relaxation, body,

facial, hand, foot, mud bath and a variety of massages. “Zen the spa is the first of its kind in the city, offering high quality standards in a calm, tranquil, and intimate ambiance, created for guests in search of relaxation and pure selfindulgence. Zen the spa at the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers will leave its visitors with a unique, breathtaking and well-being experience they will seek every time they are in Abu Dhabi”, concluded Mr. Farid.

Discover “Life’s Simple Pleasures” at Four Points by Sheraton Under the ultramodern skyline of Dubai, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc is increasing its portfolio of leading hotels with the addition of two new Four Points by Sheraton hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Downtown, Dubai and Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, due to open before the end of 2007. The first hotel to open this year is Four Points by Sheraton Downtown, Dubai which is located on Mankhool Road in the residential area of Bur Dubai. The hotel is ideal for business & leisure travelers, not only by being close to the main business & shopping areas of the city but also by offering its guests all the business and leisure facilities they should require. This new hotel will feature a total of 252 oversized Rooms & Suites that will include Classic rooms, Preferred rooms as well as Junior

Suites and Executive Suites. All the Preferred Rooms will have upgraded amenities & benefits whilst the Junior Suites feature a combined living room and bedroom as well as a kitchenette. The Executive Suites have a separate Living room and Bedroom, in-room laundry facility as well as a fully equipped kitchen. These Suites are ideal for guests who would like to stay for an extended period of time or for families on vacation. All guest rooms and suites are furnished in a contemporary design and showcase the latest Four Points by Sheraton standards. Some of these standards include: the ultimate comfort bed, namely the “Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort Bed”, which offers a deluxe plush top mattress, a welcoming quartet of pillows, inviting duvet all wrapped in the crisp feel of 200 thread count sheets; in-room entertainment via a

32 inch Interactive LCD Television with a large selection of TV Channels as well as movies on demand; Wireless high speed internet access; Tea & coffee making facilities as well as a mini bar. Although there is an abundance of comfort found in the rooms and lounges, it will also be found in the food. By introducing the feel of real home cooking and the no-nonsense value for money, Four Points by Sheraton Downtown, Dubai will introduce the comfort food concept through a wide selection of international dishes on the buffet at the “Eatery” all day restaurant. Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, scheduled to open later on this year, is strategically located in the heart of the city’s financial and commercial district on Sheikh Zayed Road. There are a number of shopping malls located nearby

and the property is ideal for both business and leisure travelers. It will feature 390 Rooms & Suites that include Classic & Preferred Rooms, Junior Suites as well as One, Two and Three Bedroom Suites. Some of the restaurants in the hotel include “CASA” restaurant & lounge that will offer traditional Moroccan cuisine as well as “Me” Mediterranean restaurant. There will be five meeting rooms featuring the latest audio visual facilities. Leisure facilities will include a state of the art gymnasium as well as a roof top swimming pool and lounge area with scenic views of Dubai. Following on the objective of delivering the Four Points by Sheraton core brand values of an Honest, Uncomplicated & Comfortable experience, both of these new properties promise to offer their guests a unique and unforgettable stay.

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The Return of Dubai’s Unique Extravaganza

After a successful first season, ‘Jumana – Secret of the Desert’ returns to the Al Sahra amphitheatre from 1 October 2007 to dazzle audiences with a sound, light, water and pyrotechnic extravaganza, telling the story of Prince Omar and his princess through dance and narration by Omar Sharif. The Jumana show is the only permanent live entertainment in Dubai, celebrating the region’s rich history and culture, interpreting fable and folkloric themes from the Gulf, the Maghreb, the Levant, Yemen, Oman and Persia into a spellbinding fantasy. With more than 60 dancers and acrobats; camels and horses; the production is a thrilling combination of state-of-the-art effects against a spectacular desert backdrop. Jumana is performed daily at 21:00, Tuesday to Saturday, at the Al Sahra Desert Resort, in Dubailand.

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AUTHENTIC ARABIC CUISINE The food and beverage outlets at Al Sahra showcase popular dishes from around the regions of Arabia, the Maghreb and the Gulf in a simple and authentic manner. Traditional dishes such as Ouzi (a whole lamb cooked in a ground pit for 24 hrs), an array of deluxe BBQ items seasoned in Arabic spices cooked on a charcoal grill, and live bread baking stations from Syria and Egypt, are several of the interactive cooking displays on offer. The outdoor Lahab (‘flame’ in Arabic) restaurant is situated next to the amphitheatre’s souq area with the setting sun as a backdrop. Inside the Amphitheatre, the Jumana Lounge provides a wide selection of beverages and Middle Eastern tapas ‘a la carte’ for guests to enjoy before or after the show. The main entertainment complex also incorporates a traditional Arabic craft souk, a Bedouin style village area, a date plantation with a falaj (an ancient Arabic irrigation system), a

camel farm; a petting zoo and horse stables surrounded by indigenous regional flora and fauna in a typical desert oasis landscape – an ideal setting for the day visitor.

PUBLIC TICKETS The world-class extravaganza ‘Jumana – Secret of the Desert’ is a highlight on the Dubai’s social and cultural scene. Performed daily at 21:00, Tuesday to Saturday, in the Al Sahra Amphitheatre, the Jumana show has become a ‘must-see’; Combined with authentic Arabic dining options, it offers a once-in-the-lifetime experience to all visitors in Dubai. For reservations, please call the Al Sahra Box Office on 04 367-9500. Show tickets are AED230 per adult and AED115 per child (4-12 years old). A return transfer to the Resort will be available from selected 4 and 5 star hotels.

The mythological world of Greece at Dias Experience the rich and legendary world of the mythological Greece at ‘Dias Legendary Greek Cuisine’, a Greek themed fine dining place that promises to please all the five senses

with its awesome ambience, authentic flavours, exotic beverages, soothing music, and luxurious seating arrangements. Ornate columns and statues in the main dining area, huge beverage area with the widest selection of Greek beverages for the first time in the UAE and exclusive VIP rooms mark just the beginning of the Dias experience. Carefully selected ingredients, signature combinations, complex flavours and aromas distinguishes Dias cuisine. Dias promises a great culinary trip along Greece, and from 350 BC till the modern era, thus unveiling a marvelous array of authentic Greek cuisine including lobster pasta, fricassee of lamb, and Dias mousaka, along with some of the more popular taverna specials like souvlaki, friend kalamari and grilled haloumi salad. The rich and diverse menu of Dias will truly fascinate even the most selective food connoisseurs. Adding a dash to the evenings is the in-house DJ who spins classic and modern, English and Greek popular numbers taking guests to feel yet another level of the Dias experience. As the clock ticks 11:00 in the evening, music gets louder transforming the classic ambience of Dias restaurant to that of a vibrant nightclub. A flagship venture of Tetrada Management Company, Dias is located at Le Meridien Dubai (International Airport), and is quickly accessibility from anywhere in Dubai.

Flippers Club at

Jean-François Laurent, the General Manager of Fujairah Rotana Resort and Spa was proud to open Flippers Kids Club, a club specially designed and furnished for children aged between 4-14 years old. As Flippers opened its doors the children were welcomed by Pepe the Clown and shown around the excellent facilities by the Recreation Manager Sean Andrews and his team before face painting, mini lunch and balloon bending for all. The children are treated to: one large games room, which is complete with a graffiti wall, one games room

Fujairah Rotana which accommodates a cinema area where the youngsters can relax and enjoy the latest DVD releases, play board games or limbo and the jewel in the Flippers crown is the multimedia room, which boasts three of the latest electronic game consoles on the market and a workstation where technologically minded teens can check emails and keep up-to-date with their friends. “We have something for all types of children here, we provide a fun, safe and active club for our smaller guests,” says Sean. Fujairah Rotana has a fast growing reputation as a ‘little taste of paradise’, and with the opening of Flippers Kids Club, the resort is making that true for the whole family.

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Emirates Palace Opens the Stunning Anantara Spa

Landmark Suites in Ajman Landmark Group of Hotels, a regional hotel management company, a part of Zenath Real Estate, announced the opening of the ‘Landmark Suites’, a 4-star deluxe hotel located on the Corniche Road in Ajman. The new hotel group is a part of Landmark’s aggressive expansion program in high-growth areas of the UAE, and also reflects Ajman’s growing prominence as a leisure and business destination in the Middle East. With 107 suites featuring firstclass amenities and private balconies with stunning views of the ocean, the Landmark Suites also offers a health club equipped with a gym, swimming pool, sauna, steam bath, Jacuzzi and Ayurvedic massage center. The hotel also offers guests 24-hour dining restaurants that serve choices of continental, oriental, Indian and Chinese cuisine. “The Landmark Suites will cater to the increasing volume of business and leisure travelers, who are attracted to the emirate because of its scenic beauty, affordable lifestyle,

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and commercial and industrial facilities fueled by the economic boom in the emirate. This has created a niche demand for quality hotel accommodation and world class amenities,” said S.M. Sadique, Group Director of Landmark - one of UAE’s leading Hotel Company’s that is part of the Khalid Abdullah Al Ghurair Group and a subsidiary of Zenath Real Estate. Other hotel amenities include 24-hour room service and security, business center, conference facilities, Internet facilities, car rental, travel desk and shuttle services to shopping districts in Dubai and Sharjah. The hotel is the sixth under Landmark group of hotels management, as the company also has three hotels in Dubai, and one each in Bahrain and Afghanistan. In addition to the six existing hotels, Landmark is in the process of developing 10 hotels during the next two years in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

Emirates Palace opened of its exclusive Anantara Spa, the only branch of the renowned holistic spa and wellness brand in the UAE. With the addition of the spa, the luxury resort has now become one of the regions finest destinations for leisure, relaxation and wellbeing. “With the opening of the Anantara Spa, guests can look forward to an extraordinary wellness experience that combines the great therapeutic traditions of the world. The Anantara Spa brand offers a holistic approach to wellness with noticeably unique culturally-adaptive treatments, and we’re happy we are able to offer this unique spa experience to our guests at Emirates Palace,” said Noel Massoud, General Manager of Emirates Palace. Operated by Bangkok-based MSpa International, an awardwinning operator of resort and city hotel spas in Asia, Middle East and Africa, the Anantara Spa at Emirates Palace features an exotic blend of Morrocan-inspired interiors, domes and graceful archways interlaced with delicate Thai-style furnishings and spa fittings. Radiant with diffused light flowing in through the softly tinted windows, the spa exudes a calm and peaceful ambience, echoed by water fountains in and around the reception area that reflect the spirit of Anantara, “water without borders”. Mr Steven Conquy, Chief Operating Officer of MSpa International explains the concept, “The word Anantara means “the flow water without borders” and evokes the freedom, movement and harmony that are the spirit of the Anantara Experience. Each Anantara Spa draws its strength from the rich cultural traditions, historic heritage and natural beauty of its destination. As such, every experience is a unique voyage of discovery and inspiration that is distinctly Anantara”. The seven treatment rooms are comprised of three double spa suites complete with Jacuzzi tub, steam shower and grooming area; two double spa rooms with attached shower and grooming area, one double Traditional Thai Massage room and one Vichy Shower room with heated marble for all water based treatments. At the very heart of the spa is a traditional Morrocan Hammam which accommodates up to four people. The Hammam area includes two Jacuzzis, two steam rooms, heated marble, ice cave and two private changing rooms. Hammam guests can also take advantage of an exclusive relaxation room and private dining area. Treatments range from an impressive selection of international massage therapies, facials and skincare treatments to indulgent half day Spa Signature Journeys with inspirational names such as Gateway to Arabia and Path to the Pearl of the Orient. Products used in all treatments are ripe with natural ingredients and include the Anantara range, containing unique Thai healing ingredients; Elemis, botanical based skincare; Charme d’Orient, French Morrocan products and C-Products from the Dead Sea in Jordan. Anantara Spa’s are found in some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, now Guests and visitors to Emirates Palace can enjoy the superior pampering and ultimate wellbeing experience for the first time in the UAE.

DAMAC launches ‘Westside at Lincoln Park’ Luxury lifestyle provider and the region’s largest private sector master developer, DAMAC Properties, launched its project in Dubailand called Westside at Lincoln Park. “We are delighted to unveil another beautiful commercial and residential project, Westside at Lincoln Park in Arjan, Dubailand. This is a strategic development offering everything that one seeks right from state-of-the-art facilities to luxurious internationally designed environment,” said Mr. Hussain Sajwani, Chairman, DAMAC Holding. Dubailand is an innovative, awe-inspiring entertainment and leisure development that represents an integral part of Dubai’s bold vision to become the worlds top tourism destination. Arjan is a development within Dubailand

which has been master planned to suit the busy lifestyle of fast-paced professionals. Ideally located on Emirates Road and providing easy access to all visitors. Just 10 minute from Dubai International airport and 60 minutes from the Capital. ”Westside at Lincoln Park is a mixed Chicago architecture style at Arjan, the master plan development by Mizin, within Dubailand. This Brilliant white architecture with the great blue sky as a backdrop, best describes Westside at Lincoln Park at Arjan,” said Mr. Peter Riddoch, CEO DAMAC Properties. Inspired by Chicago style architecture, the building has a well articulated and ornamented front entrance, flat roofs with parapet walls and beautifully designed roof terraces. The project has a state-ofthe-art gymnasium, swimming pool and retail on the ground floor.

DAMAC Holding has now grown into a global conglomerate with more than 7000 employees in 18 countries. Being the first private sector company to make a commitment to Dubai’s real estate market, DAMAC Properties has become the market leader with a strong sales record to its credit. Furthermore, DAMAC Properties recently won three prestigious awards at the CNBC Arabian Property Awards 2006. Property developer bagged the best development award for ‘Oceanscape’, best architecture award for ‘Ocean Heights 2’ and the best website award for the company’s website – www.damacproperties.com. In December 2006, the company also won the IREF ME award for the best residential development in the UAE.

Sept I Travel Arabia I 85

First guests make bookings at InterContinental Residence Suites

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), the world’s most global hotel company, has revealed that ‘InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City’ is in the final stages of completion and bookings are now being taken for 1 November 2007 onwards. The Suites are already proving popular with both regional and international travellers, with the first booking being made by a prominent British businessman who will stay in one of the luxury apartments towards the end of the year. For travellers looking for up-scale, extended residential accommodation, InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City offers 212 exceptionally stylish apartments encompassing studios as well as one, two and three bedroom suites. Located in the heart of the ambitious, mixed-use Dubai Festival City development, the property also has a Royal Suite penthouse with stunning panoramic creek views and its own spa treatment room. “We have a truly international team with both local and international knowledge giving us fantastic opportunity to provide a very personalised service to all of our guests,” said Steven Greenwood, who has over 11 years of experience with IHG and has recently been appointed as Hotel Manager, InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City. “Making the property available for bookings from November has re-confirmed the enormous demand for this type of upscale, extended residential

86 I Travel Arabia I Sept

accommodation as the market in Dubai continues to mature and diversify.” All rooms within InterContinental Residence Suites, Dubai Festival City are kitted out with top-of-the-line facilities such as high-speed, broadband Internet, 37” plasma screen TVs and a fully-equipped kitchen. All apartments come complete with maid and laundry services and 24-hour in-room dining is also available. The Royal Suite is a spectacular 4000 square foot duplex with private elevator access, a fullyequipped kitchen with Bosch designer appliances and a luxurious lounge with a 50” LCD television. Other facilities include a boardroom, three superbly appointed guestrooms, a fitness room and private spa treatment room. The rooftop garden and private balconies provide breathtaking views of the waterfront and the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road skyline. Open to all guests, the food and beverage outlets include ‘Mezza Luna,’ a casual Italian restaurant, a coffee shop offering take-away deli service, and Level 17, a sophisticated lounge boasting a 180-degree view over the creek. Residents also have the option of dining at one of the restaurants located at the nearby InterContinental Dubai Festival City and Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City and signing it back to their InterContinental Residence Suites accommodation. For those wanting leisure time, there is a 24 hour gym equipped with the latest technology, including the ‘Kinesis’ wall, an indoor, 25 metre, temperature controlled lap pool, a children’s splash pool and a spa pool on the sun deck. For corporate travellers who regularly require on-site business facilities, InterContinental Residence Suites has a 24-hour business centre, two meeting rooms and two offices, both of which guests can hire to use as their own for the duration of their stay. InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City has its own management and concierge teams, and while guests can enjoy additional facilities at the nearby InterContinental and Crowne Plaza hotels via a complimentary shuttle service provided throughout the development, it is a free-standing, fully serviced hotel apartment concept. With the Festival Waterfront Centre now open all three properties will have a direct link to the shopping centre, which covers 2.1 million square feet and will be home to more than 550 retail outlets and over 90 restaurants and cafés. While shoppers can shop until they drop, golf fans are spoilt for choice with Dubai Creek Golf Club just a few minutes away and Al Badia championship golf course located within Dubai Festival City itself.

ICHG opens EXPRESS BY HOLIDAY INN InterContinental Hotels Group has opened ‘Express by Holiday Inn Dubai Internet City’, the group’s first limited service hotel in the Middle East. To mark the occasion IHG hosted a morning launch event to showcase the brand’s trademark ‘Great Breakfast.’ The breakfast was attended by senior management from InterContinental Hotels Group and developers, Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding BSC ©, both of whom shared the latest plans for the Express by Holiday Inn brand, the fastest growing limited service brand in the world, opening on average two hotels every week around the globe. Speaking about the plans, Michel Augier, Acting Chief Operating Officer, InterContinental Hotels Group, Middle East & Africa, said, “The rapid global expansion of the Express by Holiday Inn brand will be mirrored in the Middle East with a growing demand for limited service hotels offering competitive pricing, quality accommodation for both business and leisure travellers and the reassurance that an international brand brings.” Added Augier, “Currently, hotel options in the Middle East for travellers on a budget are quite limited, with many people having to select more expensive accommodation in order to guarantee themselves satisfactory levels of amenities and service. This will now change with the opening of Express by Holiday Inn Dubai Internet City.” The properties will be operated by Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding Co. BSC ©, which is the exclusive developer of the Express by Holiday Inn hotels in all GCC countries, except Saudi Arabia. Commenting on the opening of Express by Holiday Inn Dubai Internet City, Sami Al Ansari, Chief Executive Officer, Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding Co. BSC ©, said, “Express by Holiday Inn Dubai Internet City is the first of 22 hotels planned across the GCC countries and Jordan by the end of 2010. Ishraq believes Dubai is the perfect location for the first of four Express by Holiday Inn properties scheduled to open within the next 18 months, due to the established tourism market and demand from corporate travellers around the world.” The property comprises 244 rooms over four floors and is completely integrated into the strategically located Dubai Knowledge Village complex. Developed by InterContinental Hotels Group, Express by Holiday Inn is the world’s largest limited service brand and is growing rapidly. Globally, there are more than 1,600 Express by Holiday Inn properties with over 140,000 rooms offering comfort, value and convenience to international business and leisure travellers.

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TRAVEL DIRECTORY

ALGERIA ALGERIA General Information Area

Embassies & Consulates Argentina 7 Rue Hamani 718683 643843 Australia 7 Rue Jean Rey, 75724 Paris cedex, France 40593300 592081 Austria Les Vergers,Rue No.2 DZ-16330 Bir Mourad Rais 562699 567352 Bangladesh 14 Ave.des Frères Oughlis 594805 603629 Belgium 22 Chemin Youssef Tayebi,El-Biar 922446 925036 Brazil 48 Boulevard Mohammad V 749575 749687 Bulgaria 13 Boulevard Bougara,El Biar 691514 691787 Canada 18 Mustafa Khaled St.,P.O.Box 48 914951 693920 China 34 Boulevawrd Des Martyrs 692724 693056 Colombia 7 Avenue Malika Gaid,El-Biar 922090 923817 Cote D’ivoire Parc Paradeaux P.O.Box 710,Hydra 692828 693683 Czech Republic P.O.Box 999,Villa Malika 692274 693031 Denmark 12 Ave.Emile Marquis,Hydra 692234 692846 Egypt P.O.Box 297,Hydra 691807 692952 Finland P.O.Box 256 Hydra 691212 691637 France 25 Chemin Gaddouche,Hydra 692488 691369 Germany P.O.Box 664,165 Chemin Sfindja 741956 740521 Greece 60 Blvd.Col.Bougara 600855 691655 Holy See 1 Rue Noureddine Mekiri 16090 Bologhine 623430 572375 Hungary P.O.Box 68 ,El-Mouradia 691709 694431 India 14 Rue Des Ambassades 923444 924011 Iraq 4 Rue Arezki Abri,Hydra 603125 601097 Italy

88 I Travel Arabia I Sept

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

292330

793766

912004

912046

08.00 to 12.00 Thu

2,381,741 sq.Kms

Electricity

Population

220 volts (110 volts in some

31,19 million (2000 est.)

areas).

Capital

A continental adapter is

El-Djazair (Algiers)

necessary 127 volts or 3-phase

Main Cities

127/220/380 AC 50 cycles.

Algiers, Wahran/Oran,

Hotels may have a mixture of 127

Qacentina, Annaba Al-Boulaida,

and 220 volts.

Si di Bel-Abbes, Setif, Tizi Ousou.

Visas

Temperature/climate

Visas are required by all except

Summer: 27 to 32C

nationals of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan,

Coast temperature,13 to 24C

Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya,

Winter:Temperature variations

Mauritania, Morocco, Sudan,Syria,

inland,dropping to as little as 10C

Tunisia, Yemen, Andorra Denmark,

in the Sahara at night

Finland, Guinea, Iceland, Ireland,

Languages

Italy, Leichenstein, Mali, Monaco,

Arabic (official)

Norway, San Marino, Sweden,

French (commercial)

Switzerland

692031

691554

692076

693014

Berber (in rural areas)

693408

693037

Airports

Customs Regulations

Algiers (920 Km from city centre)

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or

594977

692397

Annaba (12 Km from city centre)

400 gr of tobacco and 1 bottle of

924687

Constantine (9 Km from city

wine are admitted free of Duty

921502 792139 924023 922828 691849

centre)

Currency regulations

784274

Wahran 910 Km from city centre)

Any amount of foreign currency

923451

Tlemcen (20 Km form city centre)

may be taken into Algeria but is

No airport tax on departure

prohibited to take any Algerian

Ports

currency into or out of the country.

Algiers (principal), Annaba, Oran,

Proof of all foreign exchange

Skikda, Mostaganem, Bejaia

transactions must be presented

Business Hours

on departure.All foreign visitors

Government offices and state

must change a minimum of AD

Enterprises

1000.

923770 691175

941310

941375

693781

692212

922553

08.00 to 17.00 Sat to Wed

Currency

92541

0800 to 12.00 Thu

1 Algerian dinar (AD) =100

922856

922415

Banks

Centimes

690871

693642

783134

782882

925313

603518 922713

922719

692300

691917

737310

738158

912026

912030

691388

692316

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

691257

693161

692574

593770

230068

230067

691255

693979

693085

691758

693846

607555

591227

Embassies & Consulates

BAHRAIN

KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

General Information Area

on depature BHD 3.

Tourist visas available at Bahraini embassies or on

707 sq.Km

Ports

arrival at entry points-Bahrain Airport or the King

Population

Mina Sulman

Fahd Causeway from Saudi Arabia.Visas cost BD

(200 estimate) 642.000

Business Hours

10 for 72 hours or BD 15 for 7 days.

Capital

Government Offices

Customs regulations

Manama

07.00 to 13.00 Sat. to Wed.

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or _ 1

Main Cities

Commercial Offices

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

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

Temperature/climate

Banks

Currency regulations

Summer: 40 to 45 C,hot, humid.

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

There are no restrictions on the amount of

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

Electricity

currency bring in/take out of Bahrain.

Languages

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

Currency

Arabic (official), and English (commercial).

three-phase AC.

1 Bahraini dinar (BHD)=1.000 FILS

Airport

Visas

Qatari riyal and UAE dirham are exchangeable at

Muharraq (505 Km from Manama)

Visas required for all except GCC and UK

rate of DH 10 or QR 10=BHD 1.

Taxis, hotel reservations, duty free shop Airport tax

nationals.

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

713669

713662

714717

710031

224631

229994

723800

727304

725119

826582

720005

721518

291734

293655

530210

536282

259211 712785

715527

722400

722101

786929

786220

716565

715059

291109

291980

291629

291628

534040

536475

786994

784998

714162 740566

740178

224320

212295

210284

210271

531480

530158

293663

293540

244113

255960

276099

276054

710200

710300

531533

530445

725222

725921

537722

533261

252546

252578

531085

530063

227811

224623

714149

715702

533448

536557

723737

727343

534404

531273

273300

272594

277072

262358

Sept I Travel Arabia I 89

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

90 I Travel Arabia I Sept

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

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

3406152 3408648 3414038 3415075 3540657 3563540 3601027 3443400 3602657 3610463

3489060 5783040 3400937 3415249 3420709 3036464 3480310

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

3363950

3363952

3604693

3603618

3410107

3410151

3489354

3609074

3490797

3494590

3490468

3481682

3486550 3406397

3547359

3545658

3542693

3411484

3404357

3402250

5745236

3358320

3358232

3408356

3400340

3408962

3412479

3563318

3558110

3609722

5700844

3540850

3543065

3557371

3573200

3614225

3604815

IRAQ IRAQ

General Information Area 438.317 sq.Km

Population 21.7 million(2000 est.)

Capital Baghdad

Main Cities Baghdad, Basra, Mosul, Kirkuk

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

Languages Arabic (official and commercial).

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

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

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

Electricity 220 volts,50 cycles AC.

Visas Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Egypt, Jordan, and Sudan. Visa applications should be made well in advance and supported by a written invitation from a government organization.No admission granted to visitors holding passports showing evidence of travel to Israel. Visitors must register for stays exceeding 14 days and exit visas are required for visits exceeding 30 days.Apply to Directorate of Residence,52nd street Baghdad, Tel:92377 Test for HIV (The Aids Virus) is required.

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

Currency

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

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

5430275

7717052

7170635

5430572 7766271

7760488

7196061 7192037

7180340

7766572 7195183

7196520

7765000 4222014

4229549

7198677

7198680

7765058 7195157 5412892

7196186

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

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

2228353

5417026 7760647

1 Iraqi dinar (ID)= 1.000 FILS

Sept I Travel Arabia I 91

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

92 I Travel Arabia I Sept

4641271

4616552

5930246

4616552

4644635

4612725

5664148

5664190

5931859

5930487

5925416

4612964

5529391

5539393

5666124

5689227

5931530

5932607

Area

shop,airport tax on departure.

220 volts,50 cycles AC.

5605175

5604082

92.000 sq.Km

Port

Visas

Aqaba

Visas required by all and can be obtained from

4641273

4659606

Population (2000 est.) 5 million

Business Hours

any Jordanian consulate.

Capital

Government Offices:

Some visitors may acquire visas on arrival at

Amman

08.30 to 15.30 Sat to Thu

International airports.

Main Cities

Ramadan: 09.30 to 13.30 Sat to Thu.

Customs regulations

Amman, Aqaba, Irbid, Zarka

Commercial Offices:

200 cigarettes,25 cigars or 200 g tobacco,1

Temperature/climate

Summer:08.00 to 13.30 and 15.30 to 19.30

bottle of spirits.

Summer 18 C to 22 C in Amman,Dry,

Sat to Thu.

Currency regulations

5930351

5932887

5672331

5696591

5929934

5694059

JORDAN JORDAN

General Information

5925614

5930836

4623175

4619172

Winter 4C to 12 C in Amman,dry.

Winter: 08.30 to 13.30 and 15.00 to 18.30

Export of currency equal to the amount declared

4638185

4659730

Languages

Sat to Thu.

on entry is permitted.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Banks

Currency

5930486

5931006

Airport

08.30 to 15.30 Sat. to Thu.

1 Jordanian dinar(JOD)=1.000 fils.

5675135

5681971

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

Electricity

5929111

5929113

5693102

5693404

5921771

5925185

5686155

5680404

4624680

4611633

5518134

5518441

5607311

5607350

5667738

5684018

4641158

4647448

5924154

5921154

4614167

4614173

4644251

4644187

5931177 5931416

5930179 5930685

4641935

4651945

5674307

5605790

4641251

4612353

5934780

5932666

5923100

5923759

5920101

5920121

4642381

4654717

General Information General Information

Wed.08.00 to 12.30 Thu.

Area

Ramadan 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

17.8182 sq.Km

Banks

Population

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Thu.

(2000 estimate) 2 million

Ramadan 8.30 to 12.30 Sat to Thu.

Capital

Electricity

Kuwait City

240 Volts single-phase

Main Cities

50 cycles AC

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

Temperature/climate

KUWAIT KUWAIT

Visas Visas or entry permits are required in advance by all

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

visitors except for nationals of the GCC states.

Winter cool, some rainfall in November to January.

Transit visas are not required by passengers

Languages

continiuing their journey to a third country bt the same

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

aircraft,or by passengers transiting within 24 hours.

Airport

However,passengers must have tickets with reserved

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

seats and valid documents for their onward journey.With

Taxis, duty-free shop, no airport tax.

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

Ports

duplicate must be validated by the Ministery of Interior.

Mina Abdulla (oil)

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

Mina Al Ahmadi (principally oil)

obtained from a Kuwaiti consulate.Some Nationals

Shuwaikh (container,ro-ro, slipway) Shuaiba

require a No Objection Certificate issued by Minister

Business Hours

of Interior.

Government Offices:

Customs regulations

Winter 07.30 to 13.00 Sat to Wed.,

No alcohol,500 cigarettes,2lb tobacco.

07.30 to 11.30 Thu.

Currency regulations

Summer 07.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Wed.

There are no restrictions on the import or export of

Ramadan 08.30 or 09.00 to 13.00 Sat to Thu.

currency

Commercial Offices:

Currency

08.00 to 12.00 and 15.00 to 18.00 Sat.to

1Kuwaiti dinar(KD)=1.000 fils

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

2433075

5326274

2427185

2519497

2467421

2449993

5318530

5330882

2542688

5722018

2561029

2562153

2561029

2562153

5314458

5321453

2563025

2560173

5330165

5333341

5382024

2402971

2529015

2529021

2519955

2563877

5312890

5324198

5319850

2571058

4830975 4817055

2520763

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

5312600

5313782

2530600

2525811

2514588

4819250

2560694

2529868

2445120

2445124

2518155

5326168

2533500

2570894

4814004

2526874

2562103

2571682

3529172

2575182

4813700

5317423

5312650

5326334

5316802

5652943

5320794

5320834

2561962

2961963

5327649

5327648

5329315

5329319

Poland P.O.Box 5066,Safat 13051 Qatar P.O.Box 1825,Safat 13019 Romania P.O.Box 11149, Dasmah 35152 Russia P.O.Box 1765,Safat 13018 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 20498,Safat 13065 Spain P.O.Box 22207,Safat 13083 Sweden P.O.Box 21448,Safat Switzerland P.O.Box 23954, Safat 13100 Syria P.O.Box 25600,Safat 13112 Thailand P.O.Box 66647,Bayan 43757 Tunisia P.O.Box 5976,Safat Turkey P.O.Box 20627,Safat 13067 UAE P.O.Box 1828,Safat 13019 UK P.O.Box 2,Safat 13001 USA P.O.Box 77,Safat 13001 Yugoslavia P.O.Box 20511,Safat 13066

2510355

2534760

2513599

2563428

4843419

4848929

5646277

5659044

2400250

2420654

5325827

5325826

2523588

2564224

2551872

5340176

2531164

5396509

5317530

5317532

2522416

2528995

2531785

2560653

2518569

2526382

2403335

2426799

2424151

2407368

4818872

5327568

Sept I Travel Arabia I 93

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

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

94 I Travel Arabia I Sept

01/826711

826712

01/987900

987903

04/418860 01/374701

374709

01/217412

217772

Bahrain Bliss Street,Itani Bldg 03/611936 367952 Belgium Hebu Building,Baabda Beirut 05/920551 923987 Brazil P.O.Box 166175,Rue Des Antonins,Baabda 05/921138 923001 Bulgaria Raoucheh 01/861352 Canada Sheraton Hotel,Damascus 0211/6116851 611803 Jal el Dib Highway 04/713900 710595 Chile Naccache 04/418670 418672 China Ramlet Al-Baida 01/850315 822492 Denmark Ain Mreiseh 01/364264 372970 Egypt Ramlet El-Baida 01/867917 863751 France Hazmieh,Beirut 01/420000 420013 Germany P.O.Box 2820,Rabieh 04/914444 914450 Greece P.O.Box 309,Naccache 04/521700 418774 Hungary Fanar 01/898857 India P.O.Box 113-5240,Kantari St. 01/372811 373538 Iran Bir Hassan 01/821230 821224 Italy Centre Ville,Beirut 01/985200 985305 Japan P.O.Box 3360,Baabda 01/989751 989754 Jordan

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

05/922500

922502

01/822515

842220

01/806314

805349

04/418870 01/862966

865194

01/863041

864583

01/791093

791095

05/468152

746620

01/865271

810460

05/924484

924747

01/300042

303837

01/860351

861524

05/464120

464030

01/353270 01/339505

339394

01/324129

324167

05/457431

950434

04/412080

407557

01/857000

857009

01/990400

990420

04/542600

544136

01/888701

403670

01/852682

821610

01/739633

739638

LIBYA LIBYA

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan Sharia Al-Aftas 4771183,4775192 4775192 Algeria Sharia El-Kairouan 4440052 4447042 Argentina Sharia Ibn Mufarrej 4770588 TX20190 Austria Dahra 4443393,444 4440838 Bangladesh Hadbe El-Khadra 903807 900856 901866 TX 20970 Belgium Tower No.4,5th Floor 3333660 3333771 75618 Benin Quartier Gout-Shaal 830990 Tx 20357 Bosnia Ben Ashour 602406 602162 Brazil S.Ben Ashour 607969,608 3614895 Bulgaria S.Benin Ashour 609690/4444 Burkina Faso Gergaresh 4771221 4772626 Chad Dahra 4443955 TX 20341 China Andalous 4775131 4775689 China-Taiwan Gergaresh 4775052/478 4774980 Cuba Andalous 4771346 4776294 Cyprus Ben Ashour 609728/6015 609547 Czech Rep. Ben Ashour 361543/37 600839 Denmark Andalous 606848 TX 20978 Egypt Sharia-El-Shatt 4444945 4448909 4449262 Finland Ghot Eshaal 830559 830559 France Andalous 4778267 4773807 4778266 Germany S.Hassan El-Mashai 4448552 4448333 4448968 Ghana Al-Suwae Khetumi 4444256 TX 20879 India S.Mahloud Shaltut 4447899 4441835 3337560 Iraq Gourgi 4770487 4770780 Iran El-Jamahiriya 606871 6069 602687 Italia S.Uahran 3334131/2/3 3333447 3331673 Japan Tower No.4 Hall 13/14 607462/3 607462 Korea Gergaresh 833484/ 8331 833503 Kuwait Ben Ashour 4440282/ 444 607053 Lebanon Ben Ashour 3333733/ 334 TX 20609 Malaysia Andalous 833693/ 8337 833692 Mali Rue Dahanal 33313304/ 44 3331304 Malta

Rue Dahanal Mauritania S.Eysa Wokwak Morocco April Str. Nicaragua S.Al Nassr Pakistan Manshia Ben Ashour Palestine Tripoli Philippines Tripoli Poland Ben Ashour Ruanda Andalous Romania Ben Ashour Saudi Arabia Tripoli Slovak Rep Jallal Bayar St. Somalia Gurji Sudan

3338081/ 334

4448401

4443223/444 611101 3330800

TX 20346

608269 333600411

607619/ 6076

TX 20049

4772864/ 4772865

4770317

607904/ 6079

TX 20482

3330485/333 3332568/ 3332805 4773124/ 477

3332568

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

4772728

4774781

3337955/ 333

TX 20218

607365/ 607366

607487

4449565

3332423

33.310.613. 331.052 TX 20217 4773146/ 47

TX 20189

4448006

TX 20219

3330852/ 3/4/5/7

3330856

4770251

TX 20733

3600407/ 36

3600408

833704/ 8307

830994

TX 2205

General Information Area

Business Hours

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

1,757,000 sq.Km

Government offices

of all Arab countries.Passport may need Arabic

Population

Winter:(1 Nov.to 31 March)

Translation.Invitation from Libyan company

(2000 estimate)5.1 million

08.00 to 15.00 Sat.to Thu.

required.

Capital

Summer:07.00 to 14.00

Customs regulations

Tripoli

Sat.To Thu.

No alcohol.200 cigarettes,250 grams

Main Cities

Commercial offices

tobacco,0.25 litre perfume.

Tripoli,Benghazi,Misurata,Surt,Sabha

07.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu

Currency regulations

Temperature/Climate

16.00 to 17.30 Sat.To Wed.

A maximum of 20 Libyan dinar on entry and

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

Banks

departure.No restrictions on other currencies

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

Winter:08.00 to 13.00 Sat. to Thu.

though the amount taken out must not exceed

Languages

Summer:08.00 to 12.30

that taken in.

Arabic(official),English and Italian(commercial)

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

Currency

Airports

Electricity

1 Lybian dinar(LD) =1.000 dirhams.

Tripoli(25 Km from City Centre)

220 volts 50 cycles AC.

Benghazi(main port for East)

Visas

Sept I Travel Arabia I 95

MOROCCO MOROCCO

General Information

Area 710,850 sq.Km

Population 30.20 million(2000 estimate)

Capital Rabat

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

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

Languages Arabic, French (commercial), Berber

Airports Tangier (15 Km from City Centre)

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

96 I Travel Arabia I Sept

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

631782

750078

Rabat (10 Km from City Centre) Casablanca (30 Km from Town Centre) Agadir (20 Km from Town Centre) Jordan Villa Al-Wafae, Soussi Korea Rep 41 Mehdi Benbaraka Blvd Kuwait 300 Iman Malik Street, Km 4 Lebanon 19 Fes Avenue, Rabat Libya 1 Chouaib Doukkali Street Oman 21 Hamza Street, Agdal, Rabat Pakistan 11 Azrou Street, Rabat Portugal 5 Thami Lamdouar Street Qatar 4 Tarik Ibn Ziad Blvd. Russia Km 4, Route des Zaers Saudi Arabia 43 Place de L’unite Africaine Spain 3 El Fath St. Sudan 5 Ghomara Ave, Souissi Sweden P.O.Box 428 Switzerland P.O.Box 169,Berkame Sq. Syria 5 Rte., Zaers, Km 1, Souissi Tunisia 6 Fez Avenue Turkey 7 Fez Avenue UAE 11 Alaouines Avenue UK 17 Tour Hassan Boulevard USA 2 Marrakech Street Yemen 11 Abou-Hanifa Street, Agdal

Ports 751125

758722

Casablanca (main sea port)

751767

750189

Tangier (sea port for the North)

751775

753591

Government

760728

766667

707400

705200

673788

674567

661611

766742

756446

756445

Winter 08.030 to 12.00,14.30 to 18.00 Mon to Fri 08.00 to 13.00 Sat. Summer 09.00 to 14.00 Mon to Fri. 08.00 to 12.030 Sat. Ramadan 09.00 to 14.00 Mon to Sat. Businesses 08.00 to 12.30 and 16.00 to 19.00 Banks Winter 08.15 to 11.30 and 14.15 to 16.30 Mon to Fri.

765681 753509

Business Hours

Summer 09.00 to 15.00 Mon to Fri 753590

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

730171

Casablanca and Tangier.

268000

707387

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

752863

752865

Visas

759303

758048

706974

705749

757521

757522

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,

730636

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

762605

704980

707070

742145

720905

704531

762265

765661

No Moroccan currency may be imported or exported.

674363

674769

Currency

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

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

OMAN OMAN

Embassies & Consulates

Mina Qaboos, Muscat (principal), Mina Raysut,

of the GCC.

(2000 estimate) 2053 million

Salalah (main port for Dhofar)

Capital

Business Hours

Customs regulations

Muscat

Government Offices

Main Cities

Currency regulations

Winter:7.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu.

No restrictions on the amount of currency taken

Muscat-Muttrah-Ruwi-Seeb,Salalah

Summer:7.30 to 14.30 Sat Top Wed.

into or out of Oman.

Temperature/Climate

Businesses

Currency

Summer: 35 C - 47 C, Very humid

08.30 to 13.30 and 16.00 to 18.00 Sat.to

1 Omani Riyal(RO)=1,000 Baizas

Winter: 20.7 C men minimum

Wed. 08.00 to 11.30 Thu.

Languages

Banks

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Wed.08.00 to 11.30

Algeria P.O.Box 216, Madinat Sultan Qabous 601698 Austria P.O.Box 2070, Ruwi 112 793135 Bahrain P.O.Box 66, P.C., 115 605912 Bangladesh P.O.Box 3959, Ruwi 112 707462 Canada P.O.Box 1275,Ruwi 112 China P.O.Box 315, Muscat 112 696782 Egypt P.O.Box 2252,Ruwi 112 600411 Finland P.O.Box 84, Muscat 113 702133 France P.O.Box 208, Muscat 115 604222 Germany P.O.Box 128, Ruwi 112 702482 India P.O.Box 1727, Ruwi 112 702960 Iran P.O.Box 3155, Ruwi 112 696944 Iraq P.O.Box 1848, Ruwi 112 604178 Italy P.O.Box 3727, Muscat 112 560968 Japan P.O.Box 3511, Ruwi 112 601028 Jordan P.O.Box 2281, Ruwi 112 786350 Korea Rep.of P.O.Box 2220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 691490 Kuwait P.O.Box 1798, Ruwi 112 699626 Lebanon P.O.Box 67, Ruwi 118 595844 Morocco P.O.Box 3125, Ruwi 112 696152 Netherland P.O.Box 3302, Rruwi 112 705410 Norway P.O.Box 89, Ruwi 112 703289 Pakistan P.O.Box 1302, Ruwi 112 603343 Qatar P.O.Box 802, Muscat 113 701802 Russia P.O.Box 80, Muscat 112 602893 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1411, Ruwi 112 601744 Sudan P.O.Box 3971, Ruwi 112 697875 Syria P.O.Box 85, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 697904 Tunisia P.O.Box 220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 603486 Turkey P.O.Box 417, Muttrah,115 697050 UAE P.O.Box 551, Seeb 115 600302 UK P.O.Box 300, Muscat 113 693077 USA P.O.Box 202, Muscat 698989 Yemen

Airports

Thu.

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

General Information General Information

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

220/240 volts 50 cycles AC

Area

Salalah (domestic)

Visas

309.500 sq.Km

Population

Seeb (40 Km from City Centre).

Ports

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

No alcohol.No Limit for Tobacco products.

694419 793669 605072

602322 603626 703826 604300 705690 797547 696888 605112

698720 619495

600972 695633 601114 799020 793892

794588 604189 603540 699065 603895 697778 697053 604182 693087 699189 605008

Electricity Sept I Travel Arabia I 97

QATAR

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

4831186 4839360

4836452 4831018

4671927 4884202

4671190 4873959

4884202

4873959

4832555

4832196

4832283

4832254

4876959

4876949

4672025

4670448

4835300

4831665

4672237

4673347

4667842

4664644

4831224

4832178

4832202

4832173

4832238

4838264

4832111

4832042

4477773

4478817

4667546

4660548

4836003

4836015

4831885

4833416

4670744

4670747

4832525

4832227

Area

Airport

4329117

4329118

11.437 sq.Km

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

Visas

4832030

4832720

Population

Duty- Free shop, no airport tax.

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.

4423007

4329118

Capital

Ports Ras Laffan (Gaz and ind.)

No objection certificate required from Qatari

4832409

4832139

Doha

Doha, Umm Said (oil and petrochemicals)

Minsitery of Foreign Affairs. Other businessmen,

4832649

Business Hours

if their visit is sponsored by a reputable Qatari,

4832645

Main Cities Doha, Rayan, Umm Said,

Government

may obtain a 72- hour visa at Doha Airport.

4835204

4835206

Al-Khor, Al-Wakrah, Ras Laffan

07.30 to 13.00 Sat To Thu.

Customs regulations

Temperature/Climate

Businesses

Alcohol is prohibited.No limit for Tobacco

Summer 36 to 40 C, in Doha very humid

07.30 to 12.00 and 15.30 to 18.00 Sat to

products.

especially mornings

Thu.

Currency Regulations

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

Banks

None

diurnal range

07.30 to 11.30 Sat to Wed.

Currency

Languages

07.30 to 11.00 Thu.

1 Qatari Riyal (QR)= 100 dirhams

4885111 4421991

4438692

4884101

4884298

4432555

4429400

General Information

(2000 estimate) 700.000

Arabic (official), English ( commercial).

98 I Travel Arabia I Sept

Electricity

220/240 Volts 50 cycles AC.

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

4887171

4887616

4652600

4653057

4887788

4887973

4801217

4801526

4880044

4880208

4195300

4193555

4882888

4882033

4880018

4881075

4882288

4880137

4880101

4881366

4658425

4652800

4801726

4827537

4881255

4882882

4880700

4880660

801974

4801969

4884144

4884750

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

4881916

4888890

4882300

4880927

4881212

4886590

4881100

4880189

4880039

4880072

4882484

4882629

4882211

4881317

4883500

488368

4197000

4192767

4544511

4567513

4828218

4828379

4826382

4827016

4881904

4880854

4823120

4823738

4887272

4887953

4880835

4883945

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

4644688

4044419

4825544

4825694

4657007

4652224

4880606

4880400

4887728

4887729

4883100

4880604

4881291

4880632

4887481

4826196

4880300

4881179

4887900

4887641

4887721

4887823

4826803

4827504

4880077

4882373

4883800

4883278

4826764

4881757

Sept I Travel Arabia I 99

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

100 I Travel Arabia I Sept

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

451084 77170 489229

4899230

272730

271138

43448 80489 72836 471082

465928

77990 74692 451031

452266

81490

78668

271863 451614

451217

75875

77668

451164

451038

440386

452264

451136 81525

81142

45008 2235358 451603

451053

471012

471204

451605

451027

222000 451620

451036

338114

761113

451042 452583

451069

45072 71913 451010

452804

451152

451066

75906 471197

472542

451100 777105

776457

74700 451623 41252

451020

General Information General Information

Area 185,180 sq.Km

Population (2000 estimate)17.76 million

Capital Damascus

Main Cities Damascus, Aleppo, Homos, Latakia, Hama

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

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

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

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

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

Electricity 220 volts 50 cycles AC in Damascus. 115/220 volts in Aleppo

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

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

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

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

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

SYRIA

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

3334167

332732

3732992

3711757

3327691

3329232

3338098

330426

6116851

6114000

6130812

6130814

3331008

3337928

3327992 3323800

332812

2233009

2233035

3337966

3327550

3337966

6667917

3719580

3713294

6119630

6119632

6117675

6110997

3332621

3320325

3339181

3339920

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

3334642

3336871

3339369

6662391

3339369

3330101 3336717 3327570

3327572

4423155

6669043

6616714

3332126 3327261

3327749

3715474

3321137

6660356 3331411

3339243

3333038 3739241

3731600

3332184

3319678

Sept I Travel Arabia I 101

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

783166

788804

231222

750058

751091

767824

231811

766549

781655

792797

232538

750367

796577

792371

792107

792631

280486

793228

792600

790797

792233

794389

TUNISIA TUNISIA

General Information

Area

Government Offices

Kuwait, Liberia, Leichtenstein, Malaysia, Mali,

164,418 sq.Km

Winter :08.00 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 17.45

Malta, Mauritania, Mauritus, Monaco, Montserrat,

Population

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

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

(2000 estimate) 9.65 million

Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon.to Sat.

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

Capital

Businesses

Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Spain, Sweden,

Tunis

Winter:08.300 to 12.30 and 14.00 to 16.00

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

Main Cities

Mon to Fri.

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

Tunis, Sfax, Ariana, Bizerte, Djerba, Sousse

Summer:07.30 to 13.00 Mon to Sat.

Customs Regulations 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco

721700

721670

Temperature/Climate

Banks

358000

358001

Winter: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.

786455

788242

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

Mon to Fri.

Currency regulations

Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon. to Sat.

The import or export of Tunisian currency is

288411

789518

Languages Arabic (official), French (commercial),

Electricity

prohibited.O departure all Tunisian currency must

Berber (in rural areas).

Domestic 220V and 110V.

be converted into foreign currency on production

Airports

Industrial 220V 50 cycles AC

of exchange slips from Tunisian banks. This can

Tunis (8 Km from Tunis)

Visas

be done at the Airport .The amount of excess

Skanes (8 Km west of Monasrtir)

Visas are required by all except nationals of

currency exchanged back must not exceed 30

Melita (6 Km west of Djerba)

Angiulla, Antigua, Austria, Bahrain, Barbados,

per cent of foreign currency originally exchanged

Tozeur (south oasis area)

Belize, Bermuda, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada,

or 100 dinars, whichever is the greater.

Ports

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

Currency

Tunis (main port), Zarzis, Sfax,

Falkand Is, Fuji, Finland, France, Germany,

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

Sousse, Bizerta

Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Giunea, Hong Kong,

Business Hours

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

780544

781264

787819

783394

890347

799949

791015

783177

321811

324155

791251

786625

780875

784661

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

102 I Travel Arabia I Sept

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

Algeria P.O.Box 3070, Abu Dhabi Argentina P.O.Box 3325, Abu Dhabi Australia P.O.Box 58010, Dubai Austria P.O.Box 35539, Abu Dhabi Bahrain P.O.Box 3367, Abu Dhabi Bangladesh P.O.Box 2504, Abu Dhabi Belgium P.O.Box 3686, Abu Dhabi Brazil P.O.Box 3027, Abu Dhabi Britain P.O.Box 248, Abu Dhabi Canada P.O.Box 6970, Abu Dhabi China P.O.Box 2741, Abu Dhabi Czech Republic P.O.Box 27009, Abu Dhabi Egypt P.O.Box 4026, Abu Dhabi Finland P.O.Box 3634, Abu Dhabi France P.O.Box 4014, Abu Dhabi Germany P.O.Box 2591, Abu Dhabi Greece P.O.Box 5483, Abu Dhabi Hungary P.O.Box 44450, Abu Dhabi India P.O.Box 409, Abu Dhabi Iran P.O.Box 4080 Italy P.O.Box 46752, Abu Dhabi Japan P.O.Box 2430, Abu Dhabi Jordan P.O.Box 4024, Abu Dhabi Kenya P.O.Box 3854, Abu Dhabi Korea Rep P.O.Box 3270, Abu Dhabi Kuwait P.O.Box 926, Abu Dhabi Lebanon P.O.Box 4023, Abu Dhabi Libya P.O.Box 5739, Abu Dhabi Malaysia P.O.Box 3887, Abu Dhabi Mauritania P.O.Box 2714, Abu Dhabi Morocco P.O.Box 4066 Netherlands P.O.Box 46560

4448949

4447068

4436838

4431392

3217444

3212677

4766611

6715551

6657500

6674141

Area

Dubai International (4 Km east of city),

to Thu

4465100

4464733

90,559 sq.Kms

duty-free shop

Electricity

(including Offshore islands)

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

Abu Dhabi 220/240 volts, 50 cycles AC,

6319449

6319353

Population

Ras Al Khaimah International (20 Km south of

Northern Emirates

(2006 est.)4.10 m

Town), duty-free shop

220/380 volts, 50 cycles AC.

Capital

Sharjah International (10 Km southeast of

Visas

Abu Dhabi

Sharjah town and 25 Km north of Dubai Town),

Visas are required by all except GCC nationals.

Main Cities

duty-free shop

UK Citizens will be granted 30-day visa at

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah,Ras Al-Khaimah

Ports

International Aiports.Other Will be required to

Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al-Qaiwan

Jebel Dhanna/Ruwais Abu Dhabi

obtain visas through sponsorship.

Temperature/Climate

Mina Zayed ( Abu Dhabi town, 20% UAE

Customs Regulations

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

tonnage)

200 cigarettes or one half pound of

Coast,very humid in Dubai, more temperate

Mina Jebel Ali (Dubai)

Tobacco(Abu Dhabi), 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars

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

Port Rashid(Dubai Town), 50% UAE tonnage

or 500 gm tobacco(Dubai) are allowed duty-

very dry in Abu Dhabi, Wet in Ras El Khaimah

Ajman, Fujeirah

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

6320606

6327727

6101100

6101518

6940300

6946399

4434276

4436835

6782800

6795716

4445566

4449878

6328927

6325063

General Information

4435100

4434158

Languages

Mina Saqr (Ras Al Khaima) Khorfakan (Sharjah/

6446693

6444942

Arabic (official), English ( widely spoken in

East coast), container terminal.

Alcohol, drugs, pearls and firearms are

4492550

4493119

Business and government)

Mina Khalid (Sharjah Town), 20% UAE tonnage

prohibited

Business Hours

Currency regulations

4470100

6667877

Airports Abu Dhabi International (19 Km southeast of

Government Offices

None

City), duty-free shop

08.00 to 15.00 Sat. To Wed. And 08.00 to

Currency

Abu Dhabi New International Airport (Nadia, 35

12.00 Thu.

1 UAE Dirham(Dh)=100 fils

Km form city centre), duty-free shop

Businesses

Al Ain International,Duty-free shop

08.00 to 15.00 and 16.00 to 20.00 Sat.

4492700

4444685

4447618

4448714

4435622

4434337

4435696

4434219

4447100

4449157

6666300

6652827

4435337

4435348

4477146

4477675

4492100

4493500

4450030

4450033

4482775

4482779

4462724

4465772

4433963

4433917

6321920

6313158

Norway P.O.Box 47270 Oman P.O.Box 2517 Pakistan P.O.Box 846 Palestine P.O.Box 841 Philippines P.O.Box 3215 Qatar P.O.Box 3503 Romania P.O.Box 70416 Russia P.O.Box 8211 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 4057 Spain P.O.Box 46474

6211221

6213313

4463333

4464633

4447800

4447172

4434048

4434363

6415922

6412559

4493300

4493311

4459919

4461143

6721797

6788731

4445700

4448491

6269544

6274978

Sudan P.O.Box4027 Switzerland P.O.Box 46116 Syria P.O.Box 4011 Thai P.O.Box 47466 Tunisia P.O.Box 4166 Turkey P.O.Box 3204 UK P.O.Box 248 USA P.O.Box 4009 Yemen P.O.Box 2095

4446699

4490530

6274636

6269627

4448768

4449387

6421772

6421773

6811331

6812707

4453330

4452522

6326600

6318138

4142200

4142469

4448457

4443691

Sept I Travel Arabia I 103

YEMEN

Embassies & Consulates

General Information Area

Ports

527.970 sq.Km

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

Population

Business Hours

(2000 estimate)17.5 million

Government

Capital

08.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Thu.

Sanaa(political), Aden(economic)

Businesses

Main Cities

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

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

Banks

Temperature/Climate

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

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

Electricity

cooler and drier in Sanaa.

220 volts, 50 cycles AC

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

Visas

Sanaa.

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

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

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

and drier inland.

Processing of applications takes 3 to 6 days.

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

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

Languages

sometimes also be arranged by hotels.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Airports

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

Al-Rahaba(10 Km north of Sanaa).

duty-free.

Hodeida

Currency regulations

(6 Km Southeast of city)

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

Al-Janad

currency before departure.

(4 Km northeast of Taiz)

Currency

Khormasakar International

1 Yemeni Riyal(YR)=100 fils

(10 Km from Aden). No duty-free shop.Sanaa

104 I Travel Arabia I Sept

Algeria P.O.Box 509, 67 Amman ST. Belgium P.O.Box 2616 Canada P.O.Box 340 China Al Zubeiri St Czech Republic P.O.Box 2501, Safia Janubia Denmark P.OBox 5302,Taiz Egypt Jamal Abdul Naser St. France P.O.Box 1286, Al Bounia Germany P.O.Box 41 India 12 Jiboti Street Indonesia Hadda Area, house 16 Iran P.O.Box 1437, Hadda Street Iraq P.O.Box 498 Italy P.O.Box 1152 Japan P.O.Box 817, street 38 house2 Jordan P.O.Box 2152 Korea(PDR) P.O.Box 1209, Al Hasaba Kuwait P.O.Box 17036 Lebanon P.O.Box 2283 Morocco P.O.Box 10236,Westy Safia Oman P.O.Box 105 Pakistan P.O.Box 2848 Poland P.O.Box 16168 Romania P.O.Box 2169 Russia P.O.Box 1087,26 sep.street Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1184 Sudan P.O.Box 2561 Syria P.O.Box 494, Hadda Road Tunisia P.O.Box 2561,Diplomatic Area Turkey P.O.Box 18371, Al Safia UAE P.O.Box2250 UK P.O.Box 1287 USA P.O.Box 22347

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

209689

209688

285865

289568

208814

209523

275337 247946 215170

244418 212334

275948

274196

268888

269160

413179

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 105