Big may 2016 by MAXMEDIA BAHRAIN

BUS ESS a Gulf Business magazine for today’s entrepreneurS

IN Gulf

may 2016 / Vol-10 No:05

NG I K N A B

INEERING G N E

G N I T KE R A M

MED

N I C I

LAW DISPLAY UNTIL may 20, 2016

Ingenieur Constant-Force Tourbillon. Ref. 5900: IWC and motor racing have always had one thing in common: the quest for the perfect time. Now, thanks to Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, the upholding of that tradition is in the very best hands. In their role as Formula 1 drivers, they are revitalizing the legend of that golden generation of Mercedes Silver Arrows, which wrote their history into the asphalt of the world’s motor racing circuits in the 1930s and 1950s. With the IWC Ingenieur collection, these momentous successes assume a new aura. While certain design cues and the choice of materials reference the modern era of motor racing, the precision and reliability of the IWC- manufactured movements are a fitting reminder of the Silver Arrows’ unmatched performance. It turns timepieces into time machines. And wrists into podiums. I WC . E N G I N E E R E D FO R M E N .

May 2016

Moda Mall, Gound Floor. World Trade Centre, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, 17431177, 17 534 444 www.asiajewellers.com

ENGINEERED FOR MEN WHO BELIEVE IN TIME MACHINES. WE WISH YOU ALL THE BEST FOR THE BAHR AIN GR AND PRIX.

may 2016

april 2016

May

BUSINESS Contents Gulf

leAd generATion To feed Business groWTH By eman Bu-rashid

ArTology Creative Hub for the Budding Artist

39 BesT pAying joBs in THe gCC Analysis of the 10 Highest paying Careers 4

may 2016

62 pAnAmA pApers: lArgesT doCumenT leAK in HisTory By dr. Alex suchy von Weissenfeld

Amy morgAn And liAm fArrell

Talking Business Behind the Wheel of a Bentley

Under the Patronage of

His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Crown Prince Chairman of the Bahrain Economic Development Board

Congratulations to the 2016 Award Winners

Ahmed Mansoor Al Aali Lifetime Achievement Award

Alia Almoayed Alia Almoayed Nutrition Consultancy

Khalifa Al Mannai Mannai Technological Facilitations W.L.L.

Dr. Lamya Mahmood Dr. Lamya Specialist Dental Center

Micro-Enterprise of the Year

Start-Up of the Year

SME of the Year

Mohamed Rafea Midal Cables Ltd.

Hala Almoayyed Almoayyed Contracting Group

Dr. Sara Al Reefy London Breast Care Centre

Enterprise of the Year with International Footprint

Sustainable Business Award

Female Entrepreneur of the Year

Strategic Partners:

Knowledge Advisors:

BahrainAE

May

BUSINESS Contents Gulf

at a glance CoveR StoRy 39

Best paying joBs in the gcc Analysis Report on the 10 Highest Paying Careers

entRePReneuRS

seAside pArAdise interview with sofitel’s Hr director

Fresco Fruit Art that’ll Blow your Mind

crave Serving the Best Comfort Food with the Finest Ingredients

ContRIButoRS 32

proF. Mukhtar al-hashiMi Why Family Businesses Must endure

khalid al qoud the value of Pursuing an Internship

RegulARS

68 sTyle file

The Classiest fashion pieces

gAdgeTs

Fashion Bold statements

gadgets the latest in electronics

hotel listings All they have to offer

quoted What the vIPs said

The Coolest lifestyle items

BIG Words

With the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix now over, the media frenzy surrounding the event has finally died down – until next year. However, the after-effects of the race will continue to be felt throughout the year, as an estimated $600 million has been pumped into our economy as a result. And while on the topic of money, our cover story this issue looks at the 10 highest-paying careers in the GCC. Also included in the article is some information Parth Vaya on what it takes to get into each career field, as well Deputy Editor as a little trivia. We talk to a number of Bahrain’s 6

may 2016

upcoming entrepreneurs such as Thajba Najeeb, founder of Artology, a studio for budding artists. We also talk to Sayed Hadi Al Mosawi, founder of Fresco, an outlet that produces some of the tastiest cocktails and most beautiful fruit art you will ever see. Following up on last month’s Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship, we bring you interviews with some of the esteemed award winners. Lastly, our contributors keep you updated on the latest developments in their respective fields of expertise. Have a good read!

BUSINESS Gulf

a MAXMEDIA PUBLICATION Bahrain’s premier entreprenurial lifestyle magazine PUBLIShEr / EdItor IN ChIEf

Sameer Uchi

MaNaGING PartNEr / GroUP EdItor

Mohd. A. Kayani

dEPUty EdItor

Parth Vaya

SaLES & MarKEtING dIrECtor

Tarek Rashdan

MEdIa CoordINator

Namrata Sunil SaLES tEaM

Nadine Nasser | Aya Jabri ProdUCtIoN MaNaGEr

Sachan Chandran

GraPhIC dESIGNEr

Haroon Rasheed

PhotoGraPhEr

Honey Sharma

dIStrIBUtIoN CoNtroLLEr

Salah Abdulla Hassan

Please e-mail us any form of business, banking, financing, investments or entrepreneurial news. email us on: big@maxmediaco.com

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may 2016

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$600million Estimated revenue generated from this year’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

2.8% 404 134 m Growth of employment in Bahrain’s financial services industry during 2015.

Number of financial institutions in Bahrain.

Height of the Jabal al Dukhan, Bahrain’s highest point.

% 11.3

Percentage of Bahrain’s land used for arable farming.

32,500 Estimated attendance at this year’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

may 2016

UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF H.H. Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa His Majesty King’s Representative for Charity and Youth Affairs Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Charity Organization The Third Auction Gala Dinner

And H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa Under Secretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs, Ministry of the Interior The Honorary President of the Bahrain Arts Society

The Sovereign Art Foundation

The Third Charity Art Exhibition

Prize 2016 The Sovereign Art Foundation ‫الفنية الخيرية‬Schools ‫سوفرن‬ ‫الخيرية‬ ‫مؤسسة‬ ‫الفنية‬ ‫مؤسسة سوفرن‬ The Sovereign Art Foundation ARTWORK Schools FOR CHILDREN IN NEED Prize 2016 Schools Prize 2016 201٦ ‫الـمـدارس‬201٦ ‫جـائـــزة‬ ‫الـمـدارس‬ ‫جـائـــزة‬ Exhibition: 12th - 19th April 2016

ARTWORK CHILDREN IN NEED at The Arts Centre, Kingdom of Bahrain ARTWORK FOR CHILDREN IN FOR NEED

‫لألطفال المحتاجين‬ ‫المحتاجين‬ ‫ارسم لألطفال ارسم‬

th Exhibition: 12th - 19 April 2016 th th

We request the pleasure of your visit to the Third Charity ArtArts Exhibition: -19 April 2016 at The Centre,12 Kingdom of Bahrain at The Arts Centre, Kingdom of Bahrain

٢٠١٦ ‫ أﺑريـﻞ‬١٩ ‫ ولﻐـﺎية‬١٢٢٠١٦ ‫أﺑريـﻞ مﻦ‬ ‫الﻤﻌـرض‬ ١٩ ‫ ولﻐـﺎية‬١٢ ‫الﻤﻌـرض مﻦ‬ ‫ مملكـــة البحـــرين‬،‫مركـــﺰ الفنون‬ ‫ مملكـــة البحـــرين‬،‫مركـــﺰ الفنون‬ IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

‫ؤسسة سوفرن الفنية الخيرية‬

201٦ ‫ـائـــزة الـمـدارس‬

‫سم لألطفال المحتاجين‬

٢٠١٦ ‫ أﺑريـﻞ‬١٩ ‫ ولﻐـﺎية‬١٢ ‫ﻤﻌـرض مﻦ‬ MEDIA SPONSORS

Sovereign Art Foundation - ME

‫ مملكـــة البحـــرين‬،‫كـــﺰ الفنون‬

The Sovereign Art Foundation

SAF_BAH

NEWS

Kooheji jewellery opens Boutique in Moda Mall BAHRAIN: Leading jewellery company, Kooheji Jewellery, opened it’s seventh and ‘First of its Kind’ branch in Moda Mall, located at the World Trade Centre Bahrain. The opening of the new branch took place in the presence of customers and family members who were there to experience the latest addition of the seven branches extended across

Hungarian Visa application centre opens in BaHrain BAHRAIN: Residents of the Kingdom of Bahrain can now apply for visas to Hungary at the visa application centre launched for the Embassy of Hungary in the capital city of Manama. Applicants can visit VFS Global’s modern and well-appointed centre to submit visa applications and enroll for biometrics. The

Kingdom of Bahrain is the fourth country in the Middle East, after Kuwait, the UAE and Saudi Arabia from where applicants can apply for a visa to Hungary. VFS Global has been serving the Government of Hungary since 2010, and currently serves the client in nine countries from 34 visa application centres globally.

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. In line with the opening of this branch, Kooheji Jewellery also launched a new set of diverse pieces of jewellery with unique characteristics, paved with diamonds and precious stones that combine yellow, white and pink gold. The new collection also includes a wide variety of distinctive designs and wedding and ring collections.

union plastics Moves into new $20M facility

BAHRAIN: Union Plastics office is moving to their new premises, a $20 million plastic industrial unit, at the Bahrain

International Investment Park in Hidd this month. The purpose of this move is to cater to the growing demand of plastic products, amass new clients, increase the workforce, and hike up the export sales. As a resource for all kinds of businesses, Union Plastics specialises in signage, complete shop interior fit outs, exhibition stands and all kinds of custom fabrication.

BaHrain, Kuwait sign $940m electricity deal H.E. Ferenc Csillag, Hungarian Ambassador (third from left), with officials at the event

big -tionary Business terminology

MAY 2016

Hysteresis Occurrence of a time gap between the application or removal of an action or force and its effect.

Bahrain Finance Minister, Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

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BAHRAIN: Bahrain and Kuwait have signed a deal worth $940m to develop electricity networks in the island kingdom. Bahrain’s Finance Minister signed the deal with the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development director Abdulawahab Al Bader. The agreement was part of a GCC support plan for Bahrain as the Kingdom has been particularly hard hit by reduced revenues from low oil prices.

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NEWS

ViVa introduces new digital solutions BAHRAIN: Viva recently unveiled a range of new technological innovations to its customers, with the aim to introduce Bahrain to a world of modern lifestyle with connected digital solutions under their new “VIVA Connected Life” program. The new smart technologies tailored for homes and cars, along with portable devices for child tracking and health monitoring, link various

aspects of customers’ everyday lives through Viva’s 4G network. The home automation technology, for example, includes advanced access features, and smart surveillance cameras packed with sensitive sensor-activated features. VIVA Connected Life also delivers energy-saving benefits to home owners, with a smart LED home lighting system and Wi-Fi thermostats.

Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA CEO with VIVA representatives

eo signs with creative firM, unisono

BAHRAIN: Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Bahrain recently signed its latest deal, for its strategic communications partner, with branding agency, Unisono. The agency is responsible for all internal and external communications including the digital marketing of the chapter, as well as setting the creative theme and strategic brand messaging for the year. The Bahrain Chapter of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) was established in 2004 and currently has 45 members.

big -tionary Business terminology

MAY 2016

us giant ge starts worK on new saudi facility KSA: GE Oil & Gas has marked the ground-breaking of its manufacturing and service facility at the Modon site in the second Industrial City, Dammam. This new phase of work will build upon the recent expansion of the GE Oil & Gas Pressure Control manufacturing facility that was inaugurated

stratificatiOn

Classification of a mass of data (obtained from research or survey) into categories and subcategories on the basis of one or more chosen criteria.

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in late 2015, the industrial giant said in a statement. It will serve as a manufacturing, assembly, repair, services and training facility for advanced gas turbines and mechanical drives. With three offices and seven facilities, Saudi Arabia accounts for the largest GE workforce in the Middle East with over 2,000 employees.

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NEWS

saudi plans $2 trillion fund for post-oil era

Deputy Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman

KSA: Saudi Arabia plans to set up a $2 trillion megafund for the post-oil era, according to Saudi Deputy Crown

Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He laid out his vision for the Public Investment Fund, which will eventually control more than $2 trillion and help wean the kingdom off oil. The Deputy Crown Prince has also stated that Saudi Arabia will agree to freeze crude oil production levels only if Iran and other major producers do so. Iran has said it will not join fellow OPEC and non-OPEC members in a plan to freeze oil production in an attempt to boost prices as Iran wants to revive its oil industry following the lifting of international sanctions as part of an international deal over Tehran’s nuclear programme.

Foreign Firms in saudi araBia required to Hire more locals KSA: Foreign companies active in Saudi Arabia will be required to have 75 percent of their workforces made up of local nationals, according to a report. The new rule was implemented by the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), the government body tasked with encouraging greater foreign direct investment into the kingdom. Despite

extensive government efforts to find more jobs for locals, Saudi Arabia’s labour force grew by only 46,000 during 2015, its slowest pace since records began in 1999. Jadwa Investment’s latest update on the labour market in Saudi Arabia, released earlier this month, also showed that ‘Saudization’ rates within the private sector fell for the first time since 2011.

2000 millionaires moVe to duBai during 2015

UAE: About 2,000 more millionaires moved to Dubai last year, taking the total number to 42,000, according to new research. New World Wealth’s report on millionaire migration showed that the number of millionaires living in the emirate rose by five percent last year. It added that Dubai saw strong inflows from North Africa - including Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco - and Turkey. The report also showed that the rest of the UAE added a further 1,000 millionaires last year, reaching a total of 72,000, up four percent. Globally, the Australian cities of Sydney and Melbourne saw the largest inflows of millionaires, with 4,000 and 3,000 setting up home during 2015.

big -tionary Business terminology

MAY 2016

stOcHastic situations or models containing a random element, hence unpredictable and without a stable pattern or order. all natural events are stochastic phenomenon. and businesses and open economies are stochastic systems because their internal environments are affected by random events in the external environment.

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d Reaine onlds.co coe

NEWS

Firms compete to Bring Hyperloop to tHe uae UAE: Two rival transport companies are battling it out to become the first to introduce the ‘Hyperloop’-branded bullet train to the UAE. US-based firms Hyperloop Technologies and Hyperloop Transportation Technologies have separately unveiled their plans for a superhigh-speed transport network in the UAE in recent weeks. The trademarked Hyperloop technology is the brainchild

of SpaceX founder Elon Musk. Still under development, it is a tube-based transport system that can move compartments or ‘pods’ of people to and from their destination at speeds of up to 1,220 kilometres per hour. This is just less than the speed of sound (1235 km/h). The system could cut journey times between Abu Dhabi and Dubai to between eight and 15 minutes.

asry signs deal with gulf turBo

BAHRAIN: ASRY has signed a Specialised Services Agreement with Gulf Turbo which will allow them take a permanent presence at the yard. Gulf Turbo is a specialist in the repair and reconditioning of all models and types of turbochargers

big -tionary Business terminology

MAY 2016

and has offices in Singapore, UAE, Oman and Bahrain. The company’s service station in ASRY will be equipped with the latest technology required for overhaul, balancing, reblading and repair of all types of turbochargers.

smart doorBell startup raises $61.2m USA: Smart doorbell startup Ring has recently raised a further $61.2 million in a series C round led by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, with participation from existing investor Sir Richard Branson. VentureBeat first discovered Ring back in 2013 when the startup was known as Doorbot — which was basically a doorbell equipped with a Wi-Fi-connected camera. Since then, the company has rebranded and developed new technology and products such as Ring Chime, motion-detection smarts, and a cloud-based video storage hub. At

$250, the company’s latest security device comes in at $50 more expensive than its existing video doorbell, but it promises a smaller form factor, a sleeker design, and highly configurable motiondetection zones.

shark-spotting drone could prevent attacks AUSTRALIA: A UAV named The Little Ripper is a USD 250,000 is being developed by Australian company Skyline, using the military grade Vapor 55 drone. The device, which can cruise for up to an hour, has a high-tech camera onboard that can spot sharks. A piece of software is being developed that will enable the UAV Vision’s CM100 camera to differentiate between shark species, in order to help rescuers work out which sightings require assistance. Eventually, the drone will automatically pass that information onto lifeguards and emergency services. The Little Ripper is currently being trialled in New South Wales for a six month period after a successful run at Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter base at La Perouse.

iceBerg PrinciPle Observation that in many cases only a very small amount of information is available or visible about a situation or phenomenon, whereas the ‘real’ information or bulk of data is either unavailable or hidden.

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NEWS

misconduct! New KPMG report reviews new misconduct regulations and what financial institutions must do

BAHRAIN: The culture and conduct of financial institutions are drawing more scrutiny from regulators and supervisors as they have turned their attention increasingly to instances of misconduct in both the wholesale and retail financial markets. The latest in KPMG International’s Evolving Banking Regulation series, entitled “Culture and Conduct,” looks at the challenges for banks and other institutions arising from the regulatory, commercial and societal pressures to improve their standards of conduct. In wholesale markets, the report takes note of the overarching theme of applying broad principles of governance and transparency to the world of wholesale market conduct. On the retail side, international

standard-setters, the EU and many national authorities have taken moves to strengthen consumer protection and increase transparency. Across financial markets, regulators are looking to hold board members and senior management of firms directly responsible for establishing, maintaining and communicating their firms’ culture and values and for leading cultural and ethical change. The report also provides a roadmap for institutions to follow in successfully designing and embedding desired culture and values with steps to help ensure that they are reinforced throughout the organization. The report can be viewed online at www.home. kpmg.com.

big -tionary

curriculum Vitae

Business terminology

Jalil-Al-Aali, Head of Financial Services, KPMG Bahrain

cV. a summary of a job applicant’s professional experience and educational background, along with other relevant information regarding the candidate’s qualifications. The curriculum vitae is similar to a resume, but is used more frequently by candidates who have published works in journals, such as scientists or academic professionals.

May 2016

EvEnt

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Students and Faculty from Al Noor International School

Art for A cAuse royal charity organization announces art exhibition

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H.E. Dr. Mustafa Al Sayed, Secretary-General, Royal Charity Organization

Press Conference was held at the Capital Club in March to announce the activities of the 3rd Charity Art Exhibition in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The aim of the Exhibition is to raise funds for the orphans under the care of the Royal Charity Organization. Students from 10 educational institutions were invited to participate in this year ’s event. The four winning students from each of the four age groups will be honoured with the Sovereign Art Foundation Schools Prize, and a cash prize of BD 500. More than 200 student artworks will be displayed for one week at the Art Centre near Bahrain National Theatre, and will be available for public viewing.

EvEnt

BAHrAIN E Goes GreeN

energy-eFFicient r&D centre launcheD

arth Environmental Services WLL, a leading company in sustainable energy efficiency development, recently launched an R&D Centre in Bahrain. The company, which operates throughout the Middle East and Greater Carribean region, has also launched an innovative product to save energy through Magnetic Energy Recovery (MER). The breakthrough technology will enable consumers to not only conserve energy, but also save money in the long term.

Arnim Ramsey, CEO, Earth Environmental Services (second from left), with official guests at the opening ceremony

roll your owN susHI chez sushi opens First outlet in bahrain

ubai-based sushi franchise, Chez Sushi, officially opened their first outlet in Bahrain last month. The franchise in Bahrain is controlled by EatCorp, a food and beverage management company. The outlet is located in Nakheel Centre, a complex of commercial spaces in Saar.

may 2016

Fresh From

the source ‘Fresco’ is the Kingdom’s Hippest New Juice Bar and Cafe 22 22

may 2016 2016 may

EntrEprEnEur ith their dazzling array of fruit art, salad, and cocktails straight from the blender, Fresco is a one-stop shop for healthy, tasty refreshment. We have a chat with the man behind the operation, Sayed Hadi Al Mosawi, to find out more about his ‘fruitful’ endeavour. What were you doing before starting Fresco? I owned a small marketing and media establishment and wanted to turn my focus to the Branding field. My other experiences from previous jobs were all about communicating with people, either through customer service or through marketing and sales for business to business deals.

What inspired you to start Fresco?

I tried to think of a type of business which had the potential to thrive in the market with a new and unique concept, where I could use my own experiences, skills and interests, and which was not limited by any place or time to grow. Ever since I was child, I had eagerly tackled any challenge thrown in front of me, especially if it would give me the chance to create/innovate new ideas and concepts to do my own way.

How many outlets do you have, and where are they located?

Currently, I have only one branch, which is in Isa Town. The second branch will be opening in Budaiya soon. However, the plan is to open at least five more branches within three years here in Bahrain, and to grow out of the GCC as well, either by franchise deals or by opening branches belonging to the main company and managing them from Bahrain.

What items do you serve at Fresco?

We serve Pure fresh juices, Cocktails, Fruit Salads, Milkshakes, Smoothies, Coffee, Fruit teas, Snacks, Fruit Art Arrangements and unlimited Freshness experience with our friendly professional services.

I know a lot of people who enjoy a refreshing cup of fresh juice or healthy snack during the day but don’t have the time to make it themselves or go out and buy it. Do you offer a delivery service? For the mean time, we have delivery services only for the fruit art arrangements by order. But for the juices, we advise our customers to always have their juices at the shop to enjoy them in their best condition, especially considering the fact that some of our layered Cocktails may not reach the customers in their standard condition because of the vibration during delivery. However, the juices delivery plan is on the books and could be available soon.

That being said, there are quite a number of lesser-known juice shops around the country. What makes your business stand out from the rest?

When starting Fresco, my goal was to create a different and unique concept, with products comparable to whatever was available on the global market, not just here in Bahrain. Today I can say-as customers have said in the past-that the most attractive things about Fresco are its: creativity, professionalism, amazing taste and high standard services. I believe the secret is the ‘Fresco’ brand overall, which people always love from the first impression.

I know that for a lot of people, presentation is quite important. But what do you tend to focus on more, the taste of the product or presentation?

The balance! We trust that we can get customers’ complete satisfaction only once they enjoy what they’ve ordered first with their eyes, and then enjoy the fruitful amazing taste with their tastebuds!

From a health perspective, which fruits that you serve are the healthiest?

All fruits are neutrally healthy but I guess the Avocado is one of the most, especially when blended with fresh milk and honey as we serve it.

Which items at Fresco are the most popular ones for customers? A number of them are quite popular, actually. People

“My goal was to create a different and unique concept, with products comparable to whatever was available on the global market, not just here in Bahrain.”

mostly like to order the fresh fruit Cocktails. Consider this an invitation to you, the reader, to discover our menu yourself and pick your own favourite!

So if I were to ask you to make your best cocktail for me, what would you make?

You should try the Fresco “Extra Shot”, I trust that you will like it!

What advice do you have for any aspiring entrepreneurs in the Kingdom?

Don’t ever be afraid to start, and once you start, don’t ever stop..your dreams turn to reality only if you keep your eyes on the prize.

What are your future plans for the company?

The plans are too big for me to fit in a few short sentences. My vision is to make Fresco one of the most successful and famous franchise Juice Bars & Cafes in the GCC, and around world as well! To find out more about Fresco, follow their Facebook page, ‘Fresco Fruit Art Company WLL’, or on Instagram @fresco_bh

may 2016

Art AttAck! ‘artology’ is a Creative Hub for aspiring artists of all ages 24

may 2016

EntrEprEnEur n today’s technology-driven environment, the idea of expressing oneself through some creative pursuit other than updating our Facebook statuses, seems completely lost to the majority of us. In between staring at a computer screen at work, and dozing off in front of a television screen at home, our inner artists have been locked away. For Thajba Najeeb, founder and proprietor of Artology art studio, unleashing that artist is what she does best, and in our interview with her, reminds us of the importance of art in today’s world.

What were you doing before Artology?

I used to work as an interior designer before switching careers to teach art at Ibn Khuldoon National School – something I do to this day, while running Artology on the side along with my sister, Reem. I’m so glad things worked out the way they did – being an interior designer was not as much fun as I had hoped it to be!

What inspired you to start Artology?

I wanted to devote more energy towards my art, and converted an old squash court into an art studio. It started out as simply a space where my sister, who is also an artist, and I, could pursue our own artistic interests with no restrictions whatsoever. Soon, a number of people began to join us on a regular basis. That’s when we thought, “We might be onto something here”, and gave our studio a name. Artology has come quite a long way since then!

Who is Artology meant for?

It’s meant for anyone with a passion to create art. We have classes for adults in the morning, and children in the afternoon. I teach art at Ibn Khuldoon National School during the day, during which Reem teaches the adult class at the studio. I teach the kids’ class during the afternoon.

What kind of art do you teach?

We do our best not to restrict people in any way, and simply provide them with the tools in order to express themselves through their art more easily. We teach people to create art from anything ranging from water-colours to pastels to wood. We recently had a project where our kids made their own wooden clocks, and another one where they created pictures of owls from nothing more than cut pieces of paper and some glue.

What were some of the challenges you faced when trying to set up your business? I’d have to say funding was the major challenge. We started with only BD 200, and we’ve come quite a long way since then. But in order to really expand, we needed quite a bit of funding – a problem that we’ve recently been helped with through generous support from the EDB and Tamkeen. Another challenge is the competition we face. Today,

“[Artology] started out as simply a space where my sister and I could pursue our own artistic interests with no restrictions whatsoever.”

there are quite a few art studios out there that look way fancier and have better facilities, and might convince parents to send their children there instead of here. However, we have quite a few loyal students who trust us and believe in the way we teach. At the end of the day, we just want to create an environment where someone can feel completely at ease, have a good time creating art, and make some friends.

Who is your all-time favourite artist?

I have quite a few favourites but if I had to choose one, I guess I would say Gustav Klimpt. I’m just in love with his art.

So Artology started out as an art studio for yourself, but do you still create your own art? If so, what type of art do you specialize in, and what personal art projects have you been involved in?

I like to mix media. I get a canvas and throw anything I can at it whether it be pastels, markers, paints, colour pencils etc. I’ve actually displayed my art at quite a few exhibitions already, both here and abroad. They’ve received quite a good response, thankfully! Currently, I’m working on a series about Pakistan – a part of the love affair I’ve been having with the country for the past three years. I travel to Pakistan every couple of months to get some inspiration, and then come back and continue working on the project.

What future plans do you have for Artology?

Thanks to the generous funding from the EDB and Tamkeen that I had mentioned earlier, we’re about to open another branch in Andalus park in a couple of months.

In your opinion, what makes art important and why?

My answer to this question would be way too long, so I’ll do my best to shorten it for you! Art is simply a form of expression. Asking someone not to create art is asking them not to express themselves, which to me, is just inconceivable. So many kids are not being encouraged nearly enough to create art, meaning that simple motor skills such as using your fingers to draw or build something, are being lost. Furthermore, bringing your ideas to life through art is simply the most rewarding experience ever, and allows people appreciate beauty in the world around them.

What advice would you give to anyone hoping to turn a hobby or dream into a business? When you get to do what you love for a living, you won’t work a day in your life. The only advice I can give is to be passionate what you do and go for it. Any goal worth pursuing is undoubtedly going to have quite a few obstacles along the way, but if you truly believe in what you’re doing, you’ll find a solution to each problem. To find out more about Artology, follow them on Instagram @artology.bh

may 2016

IndulgIng

the Crave ‘Crave’ Serves the Best Comfort Food with the Finest Ingredients 26

may 2016

EntrEprEnEur n a country like Bahrain, restaurantgoers are simply spoilt for choice. With so many restaurants to choose from, and so many factors deciding the ultimate sustainability of a restaurant, it’s difficult to truly stand out from the crowd. Surprisingly, in the single year that they’ve been operational, Crave has managed to do just that. We have a chat with founder Ahmed Al Shafei to find out their secret ingredient.

What were you doing before starting Crave?

Before starting Crave, I had just graduated from university and was hunting for a job that would make full use of my potential and give me recognition for my efforts. Jobs were found, but none which gave me the “hard work pays off” spirit.

What inspired you to start Crave, and when did you start it?

The main reason for starting Crave was simply to create an opportunity for myself to stand out from the crowd. In all the jobs I had been offered, I felt like I’d have to wait quite some time before I achieved the measure of success I was hoping for.

Did you start the restaurant by yourself, or do you have a business partner?

At first, I went up to my brother Yousif who is my business partner, with the initial plan of launching Crave. I love food, and he has a lot of experience in public relations, networking, and event management. So we figured, why not be our own managers and be entrepreneurs? I handled the first couple of months of searching for the location and getting the paperwork and construction

done, while my brother was still working. But when we launched, he quit his day job and we both concentrated on making Crave stand on its feet and come to life.

Where is the restaurant located? Why did you choose that location?

The restaurant is tucked in the weaves of East Riffa, in an area we grew up and are familiar with. It’s hidden and needs to be searched for. When I’m asked why, I have two responses, the first is that all the prime locations are really expensive for business start ups, and something that the general public don’t know is, it’s very difficult to convince prime location owners to agree to leasing you a space when you don’t have an identity yet; all the spaces are reserved for big food and beverage players. Second reason is, where is the identity in opening up a place in a strip which already has 10 other joints? It’s hassle for parking space, and even more difficult to convince newcomers to try out something new. We agreed that, if the food is good, then the people will come.

Aside from the quality of the food, what is the most important contributing factor to the success of a restaurant, out of the three: Marketing the restaurant, its Location, or the Interior design/atmosphere? That’s a difficult question, because all three are pretty important! If I had to choose, I would say marketing the restaurant, but when I say marketing, I don’t mean ads on the street and such, I mean giving the restaurant a story and making it unique so it would market itself.

What type of cuisine do you serve? We serve an American cuisine, with an Arabic twist. All the recipes came from tweaking existing classic recipes to give them a better sensation to the tastebuds.

“All the recipes came from tweaking existing classic recipes to give them a better sensation to the tastebuds.” What do you tend to focus more on: the presentation of the food or its taste?

The taste has proven to be more important to people. Ok, with great presentation you might eat with your eyes before tasting the food, but what’s presentation if the taste is below average?

What would you consider to be Crave’s signature dish? The two most popular dishes are the buffalo wings and the signature lamb chops.

There seem to be a rising number of people who are following vegan or gluten-free diets. Do you serve dishes to accommodate that?

We are currently working on vegan choice for our menu which will hopefully be ready to launch soon.

What advice do you have for someone hoping to open their own restaurant?

Opening up a restaurant is definitely a challenge, but all that it requires is the first step. Definitely go for it, because you will gain a lot of experience and your learning curve will grow daily. You will even learn new stuff about yourself every day. Believe in yourself because hard work DOES pay off.

What are your future plans for Crave?

Future plans at the moment are just remaining consistent and keeping the customers happy and interested. We’re working on a breakfast menu which we will have up and running as soon as we can. To find out more about Crave, follow them on Instagram @crave_bh

may 2016

May 2016

interview

SeaSide ParadiSe

Interview with Huda Mirza, Sofitel HR Director

erched on Zallaq’s pristine beaches, the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa blends French art de vivre with traditional Bahraini styles. Located just four kilometers from the Bahrain International Circuit, the 5-star resort has established itself as one of the finest luxury hotels in the Kingdom. In an interview with the establishment’s HR Director, Huda Mirza, we gain further insight into how they are able to provide such a high standard of service to their patrons. What, according to you, is the importance of hiring qualified staff for each department? For me, the importance of hiring qualified staff for each department is really the same as any other HR Director envisions; it is simply approaching the tasks or job with the right person armed with the needed tools to ensure that responsibility will be carried out efficiently.

How often is training and appraisal rendered to employees at the Sofitel? Training is administered on the property on a regular basis, especially for new joiners. I would say every month, we conduct 3-4 trainings, including the inductions and orientation. In addition, appraisals are done on an annual interval as guided by our head office.

What is your favourite part about working in the HR department?

I have to say, working in HR department provides

What are some of the activities that you have planned for this year?

Well, just recently we had this Sakhir Desert Camp BBQ night out, which was a really fun-filled night with the Team. Later this year, we are planning to hold another event for the staff wherein we are still in the process of finalizing the details.

Have you noticed an increase in performance and effort after the team building activities? If yes, how? Definitely! The positive changes are evident. You will notice this from

challenges would be hiring the right person for the right job, with the preference for having a Bahraini candidate in the view of enhancing further our Bahrainization percentage.

What are the key skills or qualites that you look for in a candidate before hiring him/her? Qualities that we look for in a candidate are: motivated, eager to learn, a positive outlook in life that everything can be learnt and adapted to. As much prior experience in the

“Qualities that we look for in a candidate are: motivated, eager to learn, a positive outlook in life that everything can be learnt and adapted to.” me satisfaction which is priceless, especially whenever I get to assist our ambassadors. My favourite part would be being challenged to maintain a balance between work & leisure for the staff. The main reason most of the ambassadors choose to stay with us is because we are good at this.

There were several team-building activities held for the employees of Sofitel Bahrain in 2016.

their faces and how they greet you each day: with a smile and positive energy. This is reflected in the guests’ comments, where they give more positive reviews of our ambassadors for delivering the hospitality service as promised to our valued guests.

What are some of the challenges that you face on a day-to-day basis as HR Director of such a prestigious hotel? One of the biggest

hospitality industry within the same position they are applying for, is obviously a huge bonus.

How would you describe your management style and personality?

My management style would be very simple, everything should be in order and according to the policy and procedure, for if we work daily through guidelines and simplicity, I believe that’s the best way to achieve success with ease. may 2016

FaceBook's

next Billion

Zuckerberg’s “Free Basics” Scheme:

Too Good to be True?

By: Johannes Boie, The Interview People

acebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has big ambitions for India: to connect the digitally undersupplied South Asian subcontinent to the Internet. In December, he touted his plans in an article in The Times of India, arguing that connecting to the Internet means connecting to the job market, to education, to health care and communication. In order for India to further develop economically; a billion people would have to be connected to the Internet. Yet when Mark Zuckerberg speaks of “the Internet,” he’s speaking of nothing but Facebook. 30

May 2016

Ulterior Motives

His article is written proof of the big PR-lie that Zuckerberg has been hocking for years, from one country to the next. In reality, Zuckerberg never planned on connecting a billion Indians to the Internet, as he claims in his article. Zuckerberg wants to connect them with Facebook, at all costs. And secretly, he hoped, he could pull that off without anyone noticing. He made a point of calling his project “internet.org” – and not “facebook.org”, although it has since been rebranded to “free basics”. The young billionaire has spared neither time nor money to try to achieve his goal. He invited users to write letters to the Indian authority pleading to support him. Facebook paid millions of dollars for advertising in India. And last September, Zuckerberg welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Facebook headquarters in California. After all, there are already 40, often even poorer,

countries that have accepted Zuckerberg’s gift of access to Facebook, which, obviously, doesn’t require any access to the Internet.

Users are clients

But India has balked at Facebook’s request, with the national telecom regulator ordering Reliance Communication Ltd., Facebook’s local business partner, to halt the free service in the name of “net neutrality.” Net neutrality means, broadly speaking, that any type of content online — videos, images, advertising, journalism, the offer of a startup as well as a big corporation’s like Facebook — needs to be able to reach users the same way, without additional costs or time, and without requiring a special service. The U.S. too has adopted similar guidelines on net neutrality, aiming essentially to create equal conditions for all Internet users. Zuckerberg’s initiative, on the

other hand, envisages allowing the user access to only Facebook and a handful of other selected websites. Many in India saw this as colonial-type behavior. No wonder that alongside the skepticism of government authorities, a popular movement against Facebook’s plans in India has emerged. Universities as well as CEOs are publishing protest letters. Indian companies are supporting each other on the site “SaveTheInternet. in,” while Indian newscasts regularly report on net neutrality. The Californian company is largely deaf to the protests, and keeps repeating that the program is about creating jobs, providing education and expanding communication. It is true,

after all, that somebody has to connect the rural areas of India to the Internet, and the sooner the better.

’

Zuck’ s War

India’s authorities saw through Facebook’s rhetoric, which happened to be missing some important facts: A billion Indians on Facebook would be a major new market for Facebook, whose growth is flattening in the U.S. and Europe. Because new users also means new data from one billion people for Facebook, there is more money to be made on advertising. So it is clearly

“Zuckerberg never planned on connecting a billion Indians to the Internet. Zuckerberg wants to connect them with Facebook, at all costs.”

very profitable for Facebook to “bring the Internet,” including to far away places in the Indian countryside, even if Zuckerberg is trying to make a mark as a humanitarian. So India’s rejection of the public relations and lobbying of the American social network is a major global affair. Economists say that services like Facebook’s “internet.org” harm the economy in the medium to long term, because the newly connected people can surf on Facebook, but not on the sites of small startups, for instance. It is not surprising that startup founders in India were some of the most vehement opponents of the plans. By denying Zuckerberg’s offer, India could become a role model for other emerging nations. But you can bet that Facebook won’t give up so quickly on its Indian ambitions — too much is at stake.

may 2016

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COVER STORY

NG I K N A B

INEERING G N E

G N I T KE R A M

MED

N ICI

LAW

An AnAlysis of the region’s 10 highest pAying cAreers may 2016

61 39

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a career to pursue. While some professionals aim to achieve a perfect work-life balance, for the majority of them in the GCC, particularly expats, the size of the paycheque is the biggest incentive. Driven by curiosity, we decided to do a little research of our own in order to find out which jobs in the region were the most financially rewarding. Here’s a closer look at the 10 highest-paying roles among key professionals in the GCC, starting with the highest:

1. Chief Executive Officer Average monthly pay including allowances: $27, 230 Salary Applicable to: Bank CEOs Other job titles offering the same average monthly pay: CEOs in oil and gas companies What CEOs do/ why they earn so much: Chief executive officers serve as leaders in organisations, so everything they do and all the decisions they make

can have an impact on the company’s bottom line. What it takes to get the job: The qualifications would depend on the nature of an organisation, but it is ideal to have both a graduate and undergraduate degree, with a strong background in finance and leadership. Other job titles offering the same average monthly pay: CEOs in oil and gas companies.

2. Marketing Experts Average monthly pay including allowances: $25,860 Salary Applicable to: Chief Marketing Officers What CMOs do/ why they earn so much: Just like CEOs, chief marketing officers (CMOs) have a huge responsibility, as they manage the marketing operations of an organisation and work towards improving the brand. Employers expect them to exude strong leadership, as well as planning and strategic thinking skills. What it takes to get the job: The candidate should be a strategic thinker, creative and innovative, 40

May 2016

meticulous planner, and possess commercial awareness, as well as project management skills, interpersonal skills, follow-up skills and computer literacy.

Minimum qualifications would normally include a university degree in marketing, sales or similar and experience in managing a marketing/sales team.

3. Top Accounting, 4. Lawyers Finance Professionals

Average monthly pay including allowances: $20,960

Average monthly pay including allowances: $ 20,420 Salary applicable to: Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) What CFOs do/ why they earn so much: CFOs analyze key data to help determine the value of company share prices via their ability to deliver future profits and cash flows to shareholders. They are seen as key strategic advisors within an organisation.

Salary applicable to: Chief Legal Officers

What chief legal officers do/ why they earn so much: Companies hire their own lawyers to ensure their business is protected from possible lawsuits or legal issues. They manage all contractual issues and agreements, along with ensuring that the company is limited from any forms of legal liability. What it takes to get this job: A general counsel position requires a candidate to have at least a law degree with the right legal qualification. They will also typically need at least 8 years of post-qualification experience, including at least five years with a reputed law firm.

What it takes to get this job: The key to becoming a successful CFO is to have a passion for finance, accounting and delivering shareholder value. Economics and Accounting Majors provide a good base, as does ongoing professional development through the CPA channel. Other job titles offering similar compensation: Engineering project directors.

5. Doctors Average monthly pay including allowances: $20,000 Salary applicable to: Specialist neurologists, vascular surgeons, child psychiatrists/ psychologists, heads of obstetrics and gynaecology What neurologists do/ why they earn so much: The position requires extensive training and education. Neurology comes under specialty medicine, and a consultant in this area is highly valued and highly paid. What it takes to get this job: The time required to become a consultant [or neurologist] depends upon a number of factors [including training]. Training time is minimum eight to ten years. Most often [they] are PhD/ doctorate holders. To practice as a neurologist or a medical consultant in the Gulf region, one has to complete the registration and licensing process from the respective state council of health. may 2016

trivia: top 10 hiGheSt paiD CeoS in the worlD 1. Charif Souki

6. Senior Bankers Average monthly pay including allowances: $19,000 Salary applicable to: VPs for corporate banking, retail banking, branch network, alternate channels and asset and liabilities. What bank VPs do/ why they earn so much: The VP of the bank is heavily involved in crucial decisions, including long-term large level loans, potential investments that can raise the profile of the bank. The senior level roles within banking are seen as the key decision makers that can transform the image of the bank.

What it takes to get this job: Senior banking positions are often filled by individuals that have worked their way to the top. In most cases, VPs have started at entry-level roles within the banking industry and worked their way up the ladder. A degree in finance would be ideal for someone hoping to enter the field. Other roles that offer the same average monthly pay: Marketing vice presidents, project directors in oil and gas companies, bank chief operating officers (finance and operations).

Company: Cheniere Energy Annual Compensation: $141,949,280

2. Mario J. Gabelli Company: GAMCO Investors Annual Compensation: $85,049,800

3. lawrenCe J. elliSon

Company: Oracle Annual Compensation: $78,440,657

4. leSlie MoonveS Company: CBS Annual Compensation: $65,589,245

5. niCholaS howley Company: TransDigm Group: Annual Compensation: $64,214,656

6. Don a. MattriCk

7. Senior Engineers Average monthly pay including allowances: $16,880 Salary applicable to: Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP) project directors What MEP directors do/ why they earn so much: Responsibilities of MEP directors can vary from one company to another, but they’re mainly in charge of matters that have to do with mechanical, electrical and plumbing installations in construction projects. They may focus on one specific area for a company or they could be the person responsible for all MEP matters for one huge project. What it takes to get this job: Candidates should have at least 20 years’ experience with an MEP background starting usually as a 42

May 2016

mechanical engineer and working their way up through the ranks. They must have a degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, experience in managing big projects and have worked for a similar company, a contractor, consultancy or developer.

Company: Zynga Annual Compensation: $57,814,391 annual pay

7. riCharD C. aDkerSon

Company: Freeport McMoran Copper & Gold Annual Compensation: $55,260,539

8. Jeffrey weiner

Company: LinkedIn Annual Compensation: $49,071,364

9. Stephen kaufer Company: TripAdvisor Annual Compensation: $39,014,227

10. Martine a. rothblatt

Company: United Therapeutics Annual Compensation: $38,218,255

8. Top IT Managers Average monthly pay including allowances: $16,330 Salary applicable to: Chief information officers (CIOs), IT directors What CIOs do/ why they earn so much: They lead and manage projects involving design, deployment, testing and support of business solutions. The job involves coordinating, setting up of an information technology department; defining policy and

procedure, organizing structure and team management. What it takes to get the job: The candidate should ideally have at least ten to 12 years’ experience in the IT field, working his way up from IT analyst to senior role to managerial level. Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in computer or IT and at least three to four years in a managerial role. Other roles with similar pay: Executive Creative Directors

10. Actuaries Average monthly pay including allowances: $14,970

9. Retail Head Buyers/ Merchandisers

What actuaries do/ why they earn so much: Actuaries work mostly in insurance companies, where they analyse various data to assess the possibility that an event will occur, such as the risk a car will crash. Evaluating risks are necessary in order to draw up insurance policies that can help lower the cost of that risk. What it takes to get the job: Becoming a fully credentialed actuary requires passing a rigorous series of professional examinations, which usually take seven years.

Average monthly pay including allowances: $15,000 Salary applicable to: Head of planning/merchandising; head of buying for a luxury retail brand What head buyers do/ why they earn so much: The role of a head buyer of a retail company is crucial in every business. Whatever decisions the buyer takes can impact the brand or image of the retailer, so it is important that the person holding this position is up to date with the latest industry trends and possesses enough insights into the potential upturns in the customer market. What it takes to get this job: A candidate should ideally hold a degree either in marketing, business studies or retail management. Candidates normally start their careers on the shop floor, eventually working their way up to head buyer. may 2016

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2016

Bahrain award for

EntrEprEnEurship IntervIews wIth thIs Year’s DIstInguIsheD wInners The second Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship closes another chapter in Bahrain’s rich history of business cultivaion. Out of hundreds of applicants, six lucky winners will now reap the rewards of their hard work and perseverance. Along with a huge amount of media exposure, the winners will receive financial and organizational support to help them along their entrepreneurial journey. Now, we get a chance to interview some of the entrepreneurs to find out more about their backgrounds, opinions on the Award and future career plans. may 2016

“i started off with 6 trucks, one small crusher and about 30 workers doing small contracting jobs with Bapco.”

May 2016

ahmed Mansoor al a’ali Lifetime achievement award

ama Group of companies a pioneering Bahraini entrepreneur, ahmed Mansoor al a’ali has made significant contributions to the national economy during his six-decade long career. this year’s Lifetime achievement award winner, he talks to us about his entrepreneurial journey and imparts some of his wisdom. In your six-decade long career, what is your proudest achievement?

 Working on projects that have helped serve my country and my people such as the construction of Salmaniya Hospital, the Bahrain International Airport, Shaikh Khalifa Port and the Bahrain Public Transport Project, these are the projects that mean a lot to me and I am very proud to have done.

How did you start and build the AMA Group of Companies?

 I established the company in 1949 when I was 19 years old. I started off with 6 trucks, one small crusher and about 30 workers doing small contracting jobs with Bapco. It was between the years of 1949 and 1954 that I started making a name for myself in the market, with 5 good years of hard work with Bapco. During this time, I was able to start doing major construction, welding and painting projects. A major break in my success came when I was invited to take part in a tender in 1962 for the construction of many big petrol tanks. I was competing with 4 other big foreign construction companies and won the tender. I thank God for rewarding me for my hard work and for the opportunities he gave me otherwise I wouldn’t be where I am today.

How does it feel having been recognized for your efforts with this Award?

 This Award was handed to me by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and this can only happen once in a lifetime. It’s a very special feeling having been recognized with this Award and my special thanks go out to him.

What is your personal motto for success?  Be honest in everything that you do!

What did you like most about the competition?

 Throughout my career, my competition provided me with challenges and huge motivation to keep pushing forward. Good competition is always healthy, and I love how this Award has pushed many bright young entrepreneurs to acieve great things.

Are there any categories you would like to see included next year?

 I would like to see a Young Entrepreneur Award to encourage our younger generation to aim high.

What advice do you have for anyone hoping to apply for the Awards next year?

 I would like to say to them that if they work hard and put their minds to it, nothing is impossible! I also would like to extend a special vote of thanks to His Royal Majesty King Hamad, His Royal Highness the Prime Minister and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, to all the Ministers and Government Officials and to the people of Bahrain for their undying support throughout the years. All this would not have been possible had it not been for them.

may 2016

“a very important step is deciding that your health is worth making an effort for.”

May 2016

alia almoayed

Micro-enterprise of the Year

alia almoayed nutrition consultancy alia almoayed is one of the best-known nutritional consultants in Bahrain. apart from running her own successful consultancy, she has also written health articles for various publications and appeared in radio and tv programmes on the subject. we discuss her award win, as well as the importance of not taking our health for granted.

Were you surprised by your Award win?

 Quite surprised indeed! It was certainly a great honour to be among some of the country’s greatest entrepreneurs.

What inspired you to start your own nutritional consultancy?

 My background is in Public Relations, and I also have

a Master’s degree in Marketing Communications. But it was only after a personal illness that I got into health and nutrition. My health issues were increasing and after a painful abdominal surgery, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I googled and applied alternative healing methods and slowly started to improve. Shortly after that, I decided to change careers completely and re-qualify as a Nutritional Therapist and bring the information to the Middle East.

What would you say is the single most important change a person can make to his/ her eating habits in order to lead a healthier lifestyle?

 Unfortunately, there is no single thing you can do just like there’s no magic pill. But I would say that a very important step is deciding that your health is worth making an effort for. Once you make that decision, you will be ready to take the steps necessary to reach optimal health.

How did you hear about the Bahrain Entrepreneurship Awards and what made you apply for it?

 I saw a billboard on the highway. It happened to be the same day that I was planning my next media show. I thought it was a sign. And I guess it was!

What is the next step for you now, after the win?

 I have a few projects lined up, most of them involving media where I can spread the health message in Arabic to as many people as possible in the region. I’m very excited to get the opportunity to do that and I look forward to interacting more and more with my viewers through my health show.

What did you like most about the competition?

 It had a thorough application process which made it easy to describe and explain to the judges what you’re about and what your goals are.

As part of the prize for winning the MicroEnterprise of the Year Award, you get to have dinner with the judge of your choice. Which judge did you choose to have dinner with and why?

 I would love to have dinner with HRH Princess Reemabint Bandar Al Saud because I admire what she has done and continues to do, and because Saudi Arabia forms a big part of my audience base.

What advice do you have for anyone hoping to apply for the Awards next year?

 Apply early and write down your work plans for the next few years so that you can efficiently utilise what the Award has to offer.

may 2016

“i felt like opening this clinic was my duty and responsibility towards women in my country.”

May 2016

dr. sara al reefy

Female entrepreneur of the Year

london breast care centre the London Breast Care Centre in Bahrain is a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary medical centre, offering a full spectrum of breast care services. the Center provides high quality and cost-effective breast care services to women in a caring and compassionate manner. In an interview with Dr. sara Moemen al reefy, founder of the Centre in Bahrain, we discuss her successful medical career and award win.

How did you hear about the Bahrain Entrepreneurship Awards and what made you apply for it?

 It was a coincidence actually; I had never thought of applying to such a big award at this stage as I have only started the business last July. One day, my husband and I were passing down a road, and there was big banner poster advertising for the Award and that submissions were still open online. He said to me, “You should apply for it, you deserve this award!”

Were you surprised by your Award win?

Where did you study oncoplastic surgery and where were you working before starting the London Breast Care Centre?

 I studied at St. George’s University Hospital in London and then worked at the Princess Grace Hospital in Harley Street, London. After a couple of years there, I came back to Bahrain and set up the breast clinic at King Hamad University Hospital.

What inspired you to finally take the step towards opening the clinic in Bahrain?

 A number of factors. The high number of breast cancer cases in Bahrain, coupled with the young age of women at diagnosis was one. The lack of current health services that are sub-specialized in Oncoplastic breast cancer surgery was another. I felt like opening this clinic was my duty and responsibility towards women in my country.

We know that the Centre here is affiliated with the London Breast Care Centre in the UK. Of what advantage is that to your patients and your business in general?

 The London Breast Care Centre in London has provided us with guidance and support while running our centre here in Bahrain. We need their support for setting up our policies and to maintain a high standard of quality medical care here in Bahrain, like they do over there. Women here are in need of such services. They come to our centre after having been made to wait several months for an appointment at a public hospital! A woman cannot wait that long if she has a lump in her breast, she needs to see the doctor and be investigated with a mammogram or ultrasound as soon as possible. She wants to find out if it’s cancer or not today!

 Very much so! When I first got the call to come up for the quarter finalist workshop and to prepare for an interview, I was over the moon. It felt like such a great achievement to be appreciated for what you do. At that stage I was one of 125 business companies who applied for the Award. You can imagine how hearing my name at the Award ceremony for winning made me so grateful and truly appreciated.

What is the next step for you now, after the win?

 The Award came with a very generous fund that will enable us to purchase new medical equipment to keep our centre to the highest standards and provide patients with the best diagnostic tools.

What did you like most about the competition?

 The fairness, the organization, and the easy online process of application. There were also two auditors during the interviews who were auditing the judges’ questions and making sure every applicant had a fair amount of time and fair questions. I truly thank the organizers for this aspect, as it is only seen in high standard international awards.

As part of the prize for winning the Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award, you get to have dinner with the judge of your choice. Which judge did you choose to have dinner with and why?

 I have chosen to dine with Princess Reema Al Saud, as she runs a breast cancer support group in Saudi Arabia and I felt that she would be most understanding of the importance of our centre.

What advice do you have for anyone hoping to apply for the Awards next year?

 Just do it. Get your paperwork done properly, organize your business in a professional manner, and if you truly believe you are offering something unique, you just might win!

may 2016

“such awards give the candidates experience in presenting themselves and organizing their train of thoughts.”

May 2016

hala almoayyed

sustainable Business award

almoayyed contractinG Group (acG) almoayyed Contracting group is a regional full-service general contractor headquartered in Bahrain. with a proven track record of providing top quality service, this is the second year in a row that they’ve been honoured with an award. executive Director of the group, hala almoayyed, tells us more about the challenges of running such a large enterprise, and what the award means for her company.

Were you surprised by your Award win?

 Yes, I was pleasantly surprised by the win, especially since I consider all the contestants who were shortlisted to be market leaders and distinguished in their entrepreneurial skill sets.

What is the next step for you now, after the win?

 To be consistent with the vision of the company and to maintain gradual consistent growth for my shareholders and employees.

What did you like most about the competition?

Where did you study and work before starting your career at Almoayyed Contracting Group?  I completed my Bachelor of Science in Business

Administration (BSBA) at Georgetown University, USA. I then pursued further studies at the Chelsea School of Art and Design, England, graduating with a Foundation Degree in Fine Arts in 2002. Later that same year, I started working as a trainee in Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons under the mentorship of my father, Farouk Almoayyed. I then settled in at the Almoayyed Contracting Group as a Project Development Manager in early 2003, and later took on further responsibilities as an Executive Director to the Contracting Group.

As Executive Director of ACG, and what are some of your day-to-day responsibilities?

 My day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing the management of 16 distinct business units, including two overseas operations. These units provide various services pertaining to a number of areas such as civil, electromechanical and plumbing contracting, maintenance and servicing, and facility management.

How did you hear about the Bahrain Entrepreneurship Awards and what made you apply for it?

 I heard about the Award through word of mouth. Almoayyed Contracting Group is lucky enough to have won an Award two years in a row. Last year, we won the People’s Choice Award which was a great honor for us. The category of Sustainable Business is very close to my vision in the organization. I try to create different business units to diversify the streams of income, and felt we were well suited to apply in this category.

 I enjoyed looking back at my 14 years of work experience and reflecting on the achievements of my team. Presenting to the panel of judges was challenging since it was the first time I had personally taken part in such a competition. At that point, I wasn’t concerned about winning but was more focused on reflecting the growth and empowerment of my management team and organization.

Are there any categories you would like to see included next year?

 I would like to see a category for Male Entrepreneur of the Year. I also think there should be a Lifetime Achievement Award for Women, since this award has only been won by male candidates so far. There is room to give this award to many distinguished females in our society and I would encourage establishing an award with this title.

As part of the prize for winning the Sustainable Business of the Year Award, you get to have dinner with the judge of your choice. Which judge did you choose to have dinner with and why?

 I haven’t gotten a chance to have dinner with a judge yet, but I would choose to have dinner with Sheikha Hessa bint Khalifa bin Hamad Al Khalifa, as she is a pioneer in setting up Al Salam Bank and Injaz in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

What advice do you have for anyone hoping to apply for the Awards next year?

 I would encourage anyone thinking of applying for the Awards to apply even if they have a small business, since such awards give the candidates experience in presenting themselves and organizing their train of thoughts. I wish all the success to the candidates applying for the next round.

may 2016

“our challenge is to sustain and improve upon our successes.”

May 2016

Mohamed rafea

enterprise of the Year with International Footprint

midal cables ltd. since the company’s inception in 1977, Midal Cables has developed into a significant player in the alumimium and electrical transmission Industry in Kingdom of Bahrain. the company’s CeO, Mohamed Mustafa rafea, tells us more about the company’s international presence, and why they were thoroughly deserving of their award.

excitement and joy. Within our hearts we felt that our organization had done all the necessary to fulfil the criteria for winning. But competition from other contestants certainly did not make things easy.

What is the next step for you now, after the win?

 In any business, sustainability is the biggest challenge. Our challenge is to sustain and improve upon our successes.

What did you like most about the competition?

 I studied at Texas’ A&M University and started working for Midal Cables right after graduating, in 1992.

 The entire selection and evaluation criteria, the guidance of the organizers and the sportsmanship spirit of the contestants. Being awarded by HRH the Crown Prince Shaikh Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa was an absolute honour, and the icing on the cake.

What kind of international presence does Midal Cables currently have?

Are there any categories you would like to see included next year?

When did you start working at Midal Cables and what were you doing before then?

 Midal Cables has always had its presence globally in term of sales and export. As per Midal’s expansion strategy, Midal started building new manufacturing units globally, harvesting the idea of the ‘Think Globally, Act Locally’ strategy. This solves the proximity and logistic challenges that can be faced by any manufacturing unit.

What is your personal motto for success?  Team work, empowerment and dedication.

How did you hear about the Bahrain Entrepreneurship Awards and what made you apply for it?

 The Bahrain Entrepreneurship Award is a prestigious award and has been the talk of the town since it began. My friends and the business community in general, convinced me to apply for it. Their advice was based on the track record and achievements of the organization.

Were you surprised by your Award win?

 Since the competition was tough and all the contestants had made their mark in their respective fields of expertise, it was definitely a surprise, filled with enormous

 Not particularly. I think the organisers have done a fine job so far. However, we would like to be considered for the Sustainable Business Award next year.

As part of the prize for winning an Award, you get to have dinner with the judge of your choice. Which judge did you choose to have dinner with and why?

 Since this was done via Skype, I am unable to select one! Although, frankly speaking, each one of the judges was an outstanding personality in their own right. I wouldn’t mind having dinner with any of them.

What advice do you have for anyone hoping to apply for the Awards next year?

 Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, as you have nothing to lose. The Award has a number of categories which encourage almost all kinds of entrepreneurs to participate. This is a unique way to appreciate entrepreneurs. The application process itself makes each entrepreneur feel proud of him or herself. I’d like to extend a special thanks to Tamkeen for this Award, which encourages the youth to believe in their abilities.

may 2016

InspIrIng the

Masses Interview with Hala Sulaiman, Tamkeen’s Marketing and Communications Director

he meticulous planning and effort that went into creating this year’s Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship certainly seems to have paid off. We talk to the person responsible for organising and creating awareness about the event Hala Sulaiman, Director of Tamkeen’s Marketing and Communications Department. Through our interview with her, we gain a bit more insight into the work that goes on behind the scenes, and what changes we could see in the years to come.

As Tamkeen’s Director of Marketing and Communications, what were some of your responsibilities with regard to this year’s Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship?

One of our department’s foremost concerns is to keep the momentum of the Award by sustaining public awareness and interest towards it. Another responsibility is creating a year-round calendar of activities for the winners up to the post-award ceremony phase. It is also important to ensure the importance of the Award as part of the Kingdom’s efforts to enable Bahraini businesses to grow and develop and become a critical part in ensuring the sustainability of the Kingdom’s economy. 56

May 2016

Bahrain is filled with entrepreneurs from various fields and of all ages. What demographic are you targeting through your marketing campaigns in regards to the Entrepreneur Award?

We target Bahraini businesses across all categories including Micro-Enterprises, Start-Ups and SMEs, businesses and entrepreneurs of various sizes and scales. However, one condition is that the participating enterprises and entrepreneurs must reside in Bahrain, and must have in their respective companies at least one Bahraini as Founder and Key Member of the Management team. While the categories of the Award were important in highlighting the efforts of entrepreneurs across a multitude of sectors, the categories also served to showcase how a business can be successful regardless of its size. This was important in order to inspire Bahrainis to pursue their passion and create a valuable business model, no matter what stage of development they’re currently in.

What different media platforms did you use to create awareness about the Award in the months leading up to it?

All possible channels were utilized to communicate the objectives of the event. These include print, TV, radio,

outdoor (billboards, flags, etc.), social media, events (such as workshops), video, and on-site advertising such as lift ads, roll-ups, etc. In addition, the Bahrain Award of Entrepreneurship Organising committee participated in several roadshows with the various business societies. We also worked with our strategic partners to touch base with their various customers from the private sector. Furthermore, we utilised their communication channels to ensure the message reaches out to the maximum number of entrepreneurs and enterprises.

Is there a plan to associate this award with an international entrepreneur affiliation such as the world recognized EO (Entrepreneur Organization)?

Yes, indeed. The Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship was designed for the private sector and unless we work with all the various business-related societies such as EO, Bahrain Businesswomen Society, Bahrain Professional Women (BPW), the Bahrain SME Society, KPMG Entrepreneurship club to name a few – this event cannot succeed.

Have you thought of using the name ‘Entrepreneur of the Year Award’ instead of ‘The Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship’? It seems much simpler to say, especially since this

is an annual event.

The name reflects the nation’s efforts in encouraging the implementation of new business ideas and concepts that Bahrainis have, hence, the “Bahrain” part is important as part of the Award’s name. In addition, the Award is not only about an individual entrepreneur; it represents the spirit of entrepreneurship all over the Kingdom, hence, the “Entrepreneurship” part of the award.

Why don’t you create an Entrepreneur award for best branding and communication?

Thank you for your suggestion. Every year, after the event, we carry out an impact or opinion survey with the pubic and the various stakeholders involved in the awards. The Award is evolving every year, learning more as we go along. The categories of the Award are important, and we’ll continue refining them in the future.

In last month’s interview with Dr. Ebrahim Janahi, Tamkeen’s Chief Executive, he mentioned that the prizes

for the Award winners include cash as well as business mentorship. Would it include marketing services for the winners’ businesses themselves?

Each business has to be looked at individually, as areas for development vary significantly. Some businesses may require more operational support than marketing support, while others might require more marketing support than operational support. The prizes range from 20,000 Bahraini Dinars to 50,000 Bahraini dinars through Tamkeen’s various enterprise support offerings and it is up to the winner how they would like to utilise it within this range of offerings.

This year, a new award, ‘Female Entrepreneur of the Year’ was introduced. Why was this category added? The addition of The Female Entrepreneur of the Year award is part of the Award’s commitment to evolve and expand the vision of the Award. The Award is driven and committed to introduce new elements to the program, and expand the perspective of entrepreneurship beyond boundaries,

culture, gender or preconceived notions about women, etc.

Based on the number of females winning this year will you have an award next year for, ‘Male Entrepreneur of the Year’? We will continue to keep an eye on how we can further develop and enhance the categories. However, we are proud that 4 of the 6 winners were females. It reflects the increasing engagement of females and women in the private sector and their confidence in being economically empowered.

Are any major changes to the format of the event or marketing strategy planned for next year?

The Award program is constantly innovating and launching new extensions to the original platform. A post-event study is underway and all points for improvement will be considered, including holding parallel activities that could sustain the momentum of the Award. Other aspects such as choice of venue, website mechanics, and all relevant aspects are under study for further development. may 2016

Hands-On

Approach

Understanding the valUe of an internship By Khalid Al Qoud 58

May 2016

nternships provide real world experience to those looking to explore or gain the relevant knowledge and skills required to enter into a particular career field. In addition, they are relatively short term in nature, with the primary focus on getting some on-the-job training, and taking what’s learned in the classroom and applying it to the real world. Interns generally have a supervisor who allocates specific tasks and evaluates the interns’ overall work. Internships are an excellent way to begin building all those valuable connections that develop and maintain a strong professional network for the future.

experience a prospective career path

Exploring is a very important part of the academic process, and internships are a great way for students to gain work experience in a field they are looking to learn about. For internship credit, a faculty sponsor will usually work along with the company supervisor in order to ensure that the necessary learning is taking place. Interns can be high school or college students, or even adults looking to change career paths. As a result, by the time of graduation, college students are reassured that the degrees they working toward are the right ones for them.

gain practical experience, by applying methods and theories learned in classes

Many people learn best by being hands on. But everyone can benefit from seeing the things they have been learning about in class brought to action; whether it’s in a chemistry research lab, a marketing development meeting, or any other subject or technique, interns just need the chance to build a change.

Develop new skills and refine others

Interns can build on their strengths and overcome their weaknesses by creating learning objectives and receiving feedback from a supervisor. This is a unique learning opportunity that they may never have again as a working adult. They need

Benefits Of DOing An internsHip:

gain work experience and transferable skills

Students all have their educational experience in common. What stands out to employers are those students who also have work experience by the time they graduate.

to embrace the mistakes that they will make and view them as opportunities to move forward rather than setbacks. Asking questions, observing, and taking risks, are some of the keys.

Gain confidence in your abilities

Practice makes perfect. If you’ve learned about a specific technique in the classroom, you’re able to test it out in the world of work, making you much more comfortable with the technique. As an employer, there are 5 Key points to running a Successful Internship Program: 1. Mentor the interns and make it a priority in the company. 2. Offer hands-on work within the field and engage them to the company’s projects. 3. Be clear About Hours, Pay, and Future Employment. 4. Keep them busy in order to make them learn the process of the work. 5. Provide frequent feedback. By actively hiring interns and giving back to them in a positive way, you will not only create a vast pool of talented prospective employees, but will also help build a favourable reputation for your business within the community. Khalid Al Qoud is the founder and Chairman of Al Qoud Consultancy and Prince Events Management. He is well trained in fostering professional relationships with various individuals at a local and international level, and has a deep understanding on how to approach them.

This automatically makes them more marketable; as they may require less training and are assumed to be able to handle more responsibilities. In addition to the specialized skills of their field, transferable skills such as interpersonal, communication and computer skills, and also teamwork, are generally required at any job. may 2016

HERE ARE SOME Of tHE lEAd gEnERAtiOn CHAnnElS AvAilAblE fOR MOSt buSinESSES: Word of mouth This includes theintentional word of mouth activities to spread the word about your business with your family members, friends, colleagues and strategic partners.

Public Relations This includes receiving independent third party coverage in the traditional media available in our community.

Online Advertising

Striking While it’s Hot

Lead Generation to Feed Your Growth By: Eman Bu-Rashid

Leads are the lifeline of every business. It is actually clients that are the real sustenance of a business; however, without leads there are no clients. Lead generation is essentially about finding the right mix of channels that will allow you to attract a high number of leads in a cost efficient manner.

et’s start with a definition. A lead is a person who has indicated interest in your company’s product or service in some way, shape, or form. In other words, leads are those who already know about your business and with whom you have already opened communication with. They are

May 2016

not complete strangers. They are people who have already visited your website, seen your Facebook page, read your article in a magazine, attended your event, found you on the first page on google search and so on. For a new business, you many need to test some marketing channels that can produce more and better leads, while a more mature business will need to find ways to optimize the channels that are already working.

Marketing Channels

So the first trick is to look at your business today and determine your most effective channel. If most of the leads come through personal sales calls, you might be tempted to say that sales is the most important channel. However, if some of those appointments come about because people found your website on search engines, then creating content that might attract leads would be an additional effective channel. Equally, we seem to land a significant portion of our leads through word of mouth, but most don’t even consider this a lead generation channel. The second trick is to spend more energy and effort on those channels that have already proven more effective in generating leads before jumping to a new channel. For example, if word of mouth is your greatest lead generation channel, then you should consider other tactics that would enhance word of mouth, such as speaking or public relations as a way to enhance referrals to your business.

This includes the use of pay-per-click platforms, social networks and display ads.

Offline Advertising This includes flyers, lampposts, catalogues and broadcast outlets such as magazine, TV and radio.

Content Marketing This includes publishing and sharing educational content that builds trust and generates subscribers.

Email Marketing This includes building your contact lists and using targeted email campaigns.

Influencers This includes building relationships with individuals who can influence their communities to engage with you.

Search Engine Optimization This includes optimizing your online presence to generate organic search engine traffic.

Social Media Marketing This includes building engagement on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Online Events This includes events such as Webinars, demonstrations on video and online workshops.

Offline Events This includes events such as workshops, seminars, trade shows, exhibitions and customer appreciation events.

Speaking Engagements This includes sponsored speaking engagements at events in our specific industry.

“Leads are those who already know about your business and with whom you have already opened communication with. They are not complete strangers.”

HERE ARE AlSO A quiCk RundOWn Of tHE vARiOuS WAyS tO gEnERAtE lEAdS fOR yOuR buSinESS.  During your self-hosted

events, bring some of your key clients (CEOs & VIPs) to give speeches on their views on the industry, the economy, etc. This will create a long lasting impact and will keep you on top of those clients’ minds for an extended period. It will also attract more attendees to your event.  Ask some of your existing

customers to provide at least 3 referrals to get for example, a BHD100/(or so) off their next purchase.  During the sales process,

use testimonial letters from satisfied clients and then ask the clients if they would be willing to provide a similar letter if everything works out as promised. The customer and your sales representative agree on a quoted price, the sales person completes the work and then before collecting payment, offers an additional, say, BHD20 referral fee if the client writes a letter on the spot.  You can run contests of

your clients who take pictures of themselves using your products. The picture that gets more likes on your Facebook page or Instagram account gets the prize. They will get their friends and colleagues to like their picture. You will also be able to increase your followers.

 As a follow up of the

above tactic, you can print the pictures on a postcard and send them to the clients to send to referrals. The photo can generate much better referrals.  Begin some collaboration

with training institutes. This kind of PR will go a long way into showing your contribution to the community. You can run some simple workshops on the best practices and safety measures, for example.  As part of your

stationery, keep some postcards branded by the company, send handwritten notes to your clients, thanking them for something that happened during the week.  Whenever a purchase

takes place, take a picture of the client and send them a postcard of their picture with highly personalized graphics and messages (having your logo and contact details). They will definitely show this to their friends and colleagues.

“Begin some collaboration with training institutes. This kind of PR will go a long way into showing your contribution to the community. You can run some simple workshops on the best practices and safety measures, for example.”

 Schedule one day a year

 At networking events,

and call it “Customer Appreciation Day”. Use your imagination to the type of gift you can send to your customers. Your customers will spread the word amongst their colleagues and associates. (I remember receiving a box of chocolates on mother’s day from a telecom company and people were posting pictures of the chocolate box on social media, praising the company for their personal touch).

people would always ask how business was, you simply say,”Business is very good, but I am always looking for more clients who need this….”, then you hand them a referral card that clearly states the types of solutions you provide. Just changing your response to this seemingly automatic question can change the way you generate referrals.

Whichever of these maneuvers you think may appeal to you, give it a shot now and see great things happen for your business!

Eman Bu-Rashid is a marketing strategist. She is a Duct Tape Marketing™ Certified Consultant based in Bahrain, the only certified consultant of this network in the region, and the founder of Keynotes Consultants and OnePointSix. She has a passion for helping entrepreneurs and SMEs, specializing in creating simple, effective marketing and business growth strategies. To get more tips and advice on marketing, send her an email eman@keynotesbh.com or visit her website: www.keynotesbh.com

may 2016

Tax Haven Trouble A Look at the Largest Document Leak in History By Dr. Alex Suchy von WeiSSenfelD

new day, a new crisis… often it’s a natural catastrophe that makes the world hold its breath but at the beginning of April a ‘catastrophe’ of a slightly different nature is keeping blood pressures up. Following up on my article in the latest issue of Arabian Homes, this article was supposed to feature an interview with the Prime Minister of Dominca, however due to recent events, I thought it more suitable to discuss a major global issue at hand. Those of you who read my monthly articles in this and other magazines, know that I’m the ‘Go-To-Guy’ for all things ‘offshore’ and therefore I feel rather obliged to give my 2 cents worth on the affair, so aptly named “Panama Leaks”.

background

The background is, that a law-firm headquartered in Panama and with offices around the globe, fell victim to a ‘mole’ who managed to obtain more than 11 Million records pertaining to 214,000 international business companies said law firm had registered and managed over the past 40 years. The real issue here, however, is that the clients, who in reality own those companies – officially referred to as beneficial owners – either have been or still are, 62

May 2016

heads of State or Government or generally are individuals of note such as famous football players or movie stars. A German newspaper, “Sueddeutsche Zeitung”, obtained the database from an anonymous source and made the contents public aided by the ICIJ, the “International Consortium of Investigative Journalists”. Now, let me say first of all, that newspapers live to sell themselves (respectable magazines such as this here are excluded, of course, as we only live to keep you informed and entertained..!). Therefore, headlines such as “Head Of Scandinavian Country Found To Own Company In Offshore Tax Haven” sells copies and NO, I’m not going to drop any names, as I don’t wish to add to the already ongoing “witch hunt”. My aim here is to clarify a few things, which accidentally, may have been miscommunicated or are easily misunderstood in the whirlwind such articles generate.

MisconsTrued inforMaTion

I have often advocated the use of International Business Companies for use in the GCC either as business partner, to secure your or your business partners’ rights to a company or a specific asset or to purchase and hold property. All these uses are perfectly legal and won’t get you into any kind of trouble, provided, you live somewhere in the GCC, say in Bahrain and have no tie ups with your home country in terms of tax liability. Say, you are a European citizen with no connections to Europe anymore; nobody can and would be mad at you if you buy property around the GCC either to live in or to rent out and for this purpose register a small

“owning a personal investment firm in an offshore jurisdiction, even a licensed one, is also perfectly legal if you declare your income to your local tax office.”

Panama: At the Centre of the World’s Attention

investment firm in Belize or The Seychelles. Why? Well, simply put, because Bahrain doesn’t impose income tax on its residents and therefore you’re not hiding any income from the King and his (non existing) tax men, when your profits from such a property holding company are declared in the Caribbean or Central America. The problem only arises if you live in your home country and you enjoy benefits such as hospitals, street lamps and public parks, all of which have been paid for by tax money collected from the community and you are officially not declaring such income in order to reduce your tax load. “Withholding taxes”, it is often said, “is like stealing from your fellow countrymen!” and shouldn’t be condoned by anybody.

sMarT decisions

That said, owning a personal investment firm in an offshore jurisdiction, even a licensed one, is also perfectly legal if you declare your income to your local tax office and if you read the fine print in the “Panama Leaks” articles, there were several people of note from the world of professional football, who have declared such entities to the Swiss tax authorities and I assure you, they’ll be absolutely fine. Mr. Gabriel Zucman, an economist at the University of California in Berkeley was cited by the consortium of journalists as

having said that “these findings show how deeply ingrained harmful practices and criminality are in the offshore world”. For obvious reasons I don’t necessarily agree with him. This is like saying 100,000’s of people get killed by cars every year and everyone working in the automobile industry is – by extension – a murderer. Can offshore or international business companies be misused? The answer is: YES! Are onshore companies used to launder money and pay bribes to government officials: the answer is also YES! As long as you don’t intend to withhold any taxes from the country you live in or a liable to, using offshore or international business companies to organize your investments and/or holdings is not only legal, but also smart. I, however, am going to continue advising my clients to make use of international business companies if it meets their needs and help them achieve their goals – even if not in Panama for the time being! Dr. Alex R. Suchy von Weissenfeld is a Senior Consultant and Area Manager Middle East for C&S International LLC, an internationally active business consultancy out of Vermont, USA. He has spent the last 10 years in Bahrain and has held several academic positions with several local and international universities during this time. For the last 5 years, however, his focus has been on forming companies all around the globe and helping corporations and individuals use these International Business Companies to achieve their personal and professional goals.

may 2016

t a e s t o in the h With

Powered may by 2016 64

D, N U O R A E IM T IS H T ! S E CONTINU LIAM FARRELL, S IE R E S Y E L T N E B G IN OUR ONGO HAT WITH AMY MORGAN AND WE HAVE A CS OF CREATIVE AGENCY, UNISONO. CO-FOUNDER may 2016 april

Unisono is a unique name. What does it mean and who came up with it?

Unisono means ‘one sound’. Liam came up with it. We wanted something part art and science, and music is the art of science. Unison is harmony and that’s what good branding delivers.

When did you start and where do you have offices? We started in 2006 and currently have offices in Bahrain and Dubai.

When I think of advertising or branding I recall the popular American television show, ‘Mad Men’. Are there any similarities?

People might think we are an ad agency - if that helps them understand then great, but we work on the engines behind brands. Ad agencies create monthly campaigns but Unisono builds brand engines that propel companies forward for decades.

What responsibilities does each business partner handle? Amy is the CEO and head of strategy and the brains whereas Liam is the Executive Creative Director and responsible for our creative output. That said, Amy is highly creative and Liam inputs on our brand strategies!

What are some of your proudest projects?

We have won quite a few international awards so it’s unfair to single out just one, but winning Jury’s Selection for Best Brand Identity at 2015’s Transform Awards for Batelco’s rebrand was nice. Creative people are never happy with their work; the next award win will be our proudest, for a moment!

Fast food chains use fast colours in their branding. Do you employ colour psychology?

We always think deeply about a brand’s essence and never choose a colour for trend. For GFH’s rebrand we used two colours. Midnight Blue feels stable, rooted, calm and builds trust while Rubine red is high frequency and shows the brand is capable of innovation, change and dynamism. Both are key in shifting the brand’s perception.

Do you work with a marketing optimization partner when developing brands, or are the analytics done in-house? Both, depending on the brief. More

may 2016

successful clients know they cannot go to market without research and strategy and we can’t do awardwinning work without insights. When we launched VIVA in Bahrain, we understood the issues in the local market but research gave STC confidence. The strategy paid off as the results show.

Some clients would be much more difficult to deal with than the others, right? Good business = good relationships. If a client or agency doesn’t want to do business positively, if they want to dominate or be dishonest, then relationships suffer. Unisono knows branding better than most but our clients know their markets better than us - we appreciate this when presenting solutions.

Conceptual advertising costs more money but is it worth the money and is there any evidence to back this up? Unisono did a study into advertising consumption and the results amazed us. People engage so much more with a concept – the ROI is much better.

Name an all-time favourite ad campaign and why. French Connection UK’s name change to FCUK was the single most effective campaign in my memory. This simple, challenging idea put billions onto their bottom line and injected ‘charisma’ into a very mundane fashion brand.

With technology rapidly evolving when new industry trends can we expect soon?

Anything that can be digitised will be. Anything that can be digitised will be put online. Anything that can be put online will be commoditised. The future is digital; traditional story telling will remain but the means of exchange is going to change. Whatever happens next, there will be an advert for fast food, beauty products or technology in front of you.

What are your future plans for Unisono?

Brand ventures. We know what works in terms of the business engine behind great brands. We can build the brand engine and promote it with engaging marketing. Now we are partnering with entrepreneurs who share the vision and can realise next generation brands, companies that service real market needs with brilliantly defined products.

TE MONTHLY "AD AGENCIES CROEA S BRAND D IL U B N O IS N U T U B S N IG pA M CA IES N pA M O C L pE O pR T A TH ES IN G EN FORWARD FOR DECADES."

may 2016

Fashion

Statement pieceS to make a laSting impreSSion Business people, be bold. BIG’s picks from global fashion powerhouses

GUCCI

Men’s Leather Briefcase This large leather briefcase characterized by its semi-opaque appearance and textured grain. Gucci, Moda Mall BD 1120

BreItlInG

avernger hurricane

The Avenger Hurricane flaunts a standout 50mm diameter. It revolutionizes watchmaking with its ultra-sturdy and ultra-light case made in a futuristic material named Breitlight, and it surprises observers with its Manufacture Breitling movement equipped with a 24-hour military type display. Breitling, City Centre BD 3130

may 2016

GUCCI

eeL Loafer

Made from incredibly soft eel with a shiny finish, these green loafers are designed to be worn with the heel folded down. Gucci, Moda Mall BD 270

BUlGarI

credit card hoLder

Credit card holder in black soft grain calf leather with brass palladium plated “Bulgari Bulgari” ring motif. Four credit card slots and a middle pocket. Bulgari, Moda Mall BD 76

Karen MIllen

Perforated Bucket Bag

The perforated bucket bag is an understated yet sleek shape that will work with everything in your wardrobe. Endlessly versatile, it will take you seamlessly from work to weekend. Karen Millen, City Centre BD 65

etro

PaisLey Print WoMen’s shirt

This multicolor silk Paisley Print Shirt with long sleeves and front button fastening is a must-have addition to the spring/summer wardrobe. Etro, City Centre BD 165

may 2016

LifestyLe

To add more power To a high-flying lifesTyle

ION aIr Lp WIreLeSS turNtabLe

This nifty device allows you to send the sound from your records wirelessly to any Bluetooth speaker. The turntable can play 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. A quiet belt drive system combined with an auto-stop function makes for convenient operation. The unit’s 1/8” (3.5 mm) aux input lets you connect other equipment and also wirelessly transmit that sound to the Bluetooth speaker.

Virgin Megastore, City Centre BD 40

ION SNapCam LIte Camera

The iON SnapCam Lite isn’t your typical camera. Sure, it takes amazing photos and videos, but here’s the difference: you wear it! This compact camera attaches directly to your clothes with a clip or magnet. When you’re ready to shoot, just tap the SnapCam once for immediate stills or twice to start shooting HD video. Whatever your source of adrenaline is, this action camera has all the features and ease-of-use to be adventure-ready right out of the box.

RadioShack, Seef Mall BD 32

may 2016

NaNOLeaf Smart Ivy LIghtbuLb

The Nanoleaf Smart Ivy is the world’s most energy-efficient light bulb. Smart, sleek and stylish, the Nanoleaf integrates itself well into our modern, technologydriven lifestyle. The compact bulb can be controlled wirelessly through a computer or smartphone, with a voice-command option available as well. Currently only compatible with IOS devices, an Android supported version will be available later this year.

Virgin Megastore, City Centre BD 48

bOSe SOuNdLINk bLuetOOth Speaker 3

The new generation SoundLink Bluetooth speaker from Bose plays louder and longer than its popular predecessor, with advanced technologies that reproduce the fullness, clarity and depth of your music.

Virgin Megastore, City Centre BD 100

targuS Lap ChILL mat

The Targus Lap Chill Pro is a usb-powered high performance cooling mat for your laptop. Dual fans are positioned below a ventilated surface which allows heat to dissipate and air to flow around your laptop. Suitable for up to 17” laptops the Lap Chill Pro has a unique tilt mechanism; with a simple twist you can increase and decrease your laptop viewing and typing angle. Wrapped with soft touch padding the Lap Chill Pro is ideal for use on your lap or on a desk with its flat base and rubber pads to keep your laptop stable.

Virgin Megastore, City Centre BD 20

may 2016

the BIG

hotel guide Your guide to the Kingdom’s hotel outlets

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq thalaSSa Sea & Spa  Dining

Fiamma: Italian Restaurant

Designed with an indoor and an outdoor seating area, this outlet will serve authentic Italian food. Opening Hours: Thursday - Saturday 12:30pm to 3:00 pm, Every night except, Sunday: 8:00pm to 11:00pm (Fiamma is closed on Sundays)

Saraya: All Day Dining / International

Exquisite buffets with flavors from across the world. Available is breakfast, lunch and dinner and also a la carte and live cooking station. Opening Times: Daily 6:30am to 10:30am, (11am on weekends) Lunch: 12:30pm to 3:30pm, Dinner: 7:00pm to 10:30pm

Wok: South East Asian Restaurant

The perfect combination of stones and wood in the décor to reflect an Asian feeling is defiantly there. Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 7:00pm to 11:00pm (Wok is closed on Tuesdays)

Tapas: Restaurant

It services a wide range of exciting tapas, and the best cocktails on the island. Tapas bar has a truly vibrant and lively atmosphere with its Cuban band. Opening Hours: Daily: 11:30am to Midnight

La Mer: Seafood Restaurant

Sheraton hotel Bahrain 

Shopping

Alhilal Bookshop

It is the signature restaurant of the hotel, guests will enjoy the freshest seafood and catch of the day cooked at the live cooking station with a French savoir-faire to please all tastes.

Al Safir Restaurant

Opening Hours: Daily: 9am to 9pm

Opening Hours: Daily: 7:00pm to 11:00pm

For Information

Pashawat: Arabic Restaurant

Dining

Gastronomical buffets for breakfast lunch and dinner as well as superb á la carte options. Opening Hours: Breakfast 6:30am - 10:30am Lunch 12:30pm – 3.30pm, Dinner 7:30pm – 11:30pm

Soie Chinese Restaurant

Alhilal Bookshop: +973 17 531 665

Spa & Salon

Image Spa & Leisure

Relax in the dramatic ambience with dark wood floors, oriental ornaments and lanterns.

Opening Hours: Daily: 6am to 10pm

Opening Hours: 7:00pm – 11:30pm (Closed on Saturdays)

Opening Hours: Daily: 7am to 10pm

Golestan Restaurant

Sheraton Health Club Sheraton Fitness

Discovery of traditional Iranian dishes with freshly oven-baked breads served at the table.

Opening Hours: Daily: 9am to 8:30pm

Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday Lunch 12:30pm – 2:45pm, Dinner 7:30pm – 11:30pm Friday: Lunch 12:30pm – 3:45pm, Dinner 7:30pm – 11:30pm (Closed on Sundays)

Image Spa & Leisure: +973 17 524 570 Sheraton Fitness: +973 17 524 570 Sheraton Health Club: +973 17 533 533

For Information

It is open in the evenings and offers a delightful Lebanese cuisine. Guests will enjoy large varieties of Mezzah as well as delicious charcoal grilled specialties. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:00pm to 1:30am (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

Spa & Salon

Thalassotherapy

(Call for Appointment)

nightlife

Amber Bar

Opening Hours: Daily: 6pm to 2am

Lagoon Pool Bar

nightlife

Opening Hours: Daily: 8am to 8pm

An Nada Lounge

Lobby Lounge Bar

Opening Hours: Daily: 7:00am – 10:00pm

Opening Hours: Happy Hour: 1:00pm to 7:00pm Daily 1:00pm – 1:00am

Opening Hours: Daily: 8am to Midnight

For Information & Reservations

For Information

Opening Hours: Daily: 11:30am to Midnight

Espressamente Illy

A perfect place to meet and enjoy a cup of espresso, refreshing beverages and light snacks.

Al Safir: +973 17533533 ext 259 Soie Chinese Restaurant: +973 17 533 533 ext. 497 Golestan Restaurant: +973 17 533 533 ext. 375 Espressamente Illy: +973 17 533 533 ext. 1790

may 2016

An Nada Lounge: +973 17 533 533 ext. 293

Tapas BAR For Information & Reservations

Hotel: +973 1763 6363 - Concierge: +973 39349659

the K hotel  Dining Klouds

Enjoy an assortment of culinary delights with their special Themed Nights everyday of the week. Opening Hours: Daily: 7pm to 11pm

Friday Brunch

Discover The K difference in Friday Brunch!

IS YOUR HOTEL LISTED ON THIS PAGE?

Opening Hours: Friday, 12:30pm to 4:30pm

The K lounge

Some new dishes include the world famous Angus steaks and exceptional desserts with that extra K flavor. Our ongoing promotions include: Daily Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm, Coors Light & Burger Treats, Ladies Night from Saturday to Wednesday all cocktails free of charge for Ladies. Opening Hours: Daily: 11am to 2am

Kenza Lounge

Outdoor seating and Arabesque interiors, experience the finest Lebanese dining. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 7pm to 2am

Be included in Business In Gulf’s hotel guide and benefit from the exposure the magazine offers.

nightlife The K lounge

Opening Hours: Daily: 11am to 2am

Champions Sports Lounge Opening Hours: Daily: 11am to 2am For Information & Reservations

K Hotel: (973) 1736 0000 Klouds: (973) 1736 0000 ext. 4019 K Pool: (973) 1736 0000 or email banquet@thekhotel.com

the ritZ-Carlton, Bahrain hotel & Spa  Dining

Overlook Café

The perfect place to relax by the water and enjoy a variety of light lunch items, refreshments, beverages and cocktails with a tropical flair. Opening Hours: Daily: 10am to 6pm

La Med

Casual dining in generous surroundings is brightened with natural sunshine and views of the turquoise blue waters of the Gulf. Opening Hours: Continental and Arabic Breakfast: 7am to 10:30am, Lunch Buffet: Noon to 3:30pm, Lunch Express: Noon to 3:30pm, All Day Dining Menu: 3:30pm, Dinner: 7pm to 11:30pm, Friday Brunch: 12:30pm to 4pm

Plums

The specialty being premium beef and fresh, top quality seafood, it provides guests with the ultimate in dining pleasure.

Burlington Club

big@maxmediaco.com Tel: +973 17 402482 Fax: +973 17 402483

Mohd Sharif Hatam & Sons

The Ritz-Carlton has a dedicated cigar lounge with a cellar of premium malts, cognacs and vintage wines.

Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10am to 2pm – 4pm to 8pm

Opening Hours: Daily: Noon to 2am

For Information

The Lobby Lounge

The traditional high tea is served daily in the Lobby Lounge and boasts all the luxurious delicacies that you would expect. Opening Hours: Daily: 8am to Midnight

The Ritz Gourmet Lounge

Chopard Boutique: +973 17 580 667 Mohd Sharif Hatam & Sons: +973 17 580 889

Spa & Salon

Elie & Jean Beauty Center Gents Saloon

Experience authentic chic ambience like in a Parisian along with homemade pastries and richly decorated desserts.

Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday: 9:30am to 8pm, Friday: 10am to 7pm

Opening Hours: Daily: 7am to Midnight

Sports Club & Spa (Membership only)

For Information & Reservations Hotel: +973 1758 0000

Opening hours: Daily: 5:00am to 10:30pm

Shopping

For Information

Chopard Boutique

Elie & Jean Beauty Center - Gents Saloon: +973 17 580 798

Opening hours: Daily: 7am to Midnight

Opening Hours: Dinner: 7pm to 11:30pm

Primavera

Primavera, the ever popular Italian restaurant offers a very exciting menu. Opening Hours: Lunch: Noon to 3pm Dinner: 7PM to Midnight

Nirvana

Nirvana brings royal flavors to The Ritz-Carlton for a dining adventure rarely enjoyed outside of India. Opening Hours: Lunch Noon to 3pm Dinner 7pm to 11:30pm

may 2016

Gulf hotel  Dining Al Waha

Dinners are spoilt for choice with an extensive array of buffet fare featuring local and international dishes, as well as an impressive variety of Bahraini hummus. Opening Hours: Breakfast 6:00am – 10:30am Lunch 12:00pm – 3:30pm, Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm Friday Brunch: 12:30pm - 4:00pm

China Garden

The restaurant, which is designed in a modern oriental style, offers a varied selection of food influenced by distinct Chinese regions creating Cantonese, Szechuan and Peking specialties. Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday Lunch 12:00pm to 3:00pm, Dinner 7:00pm to 11:00pm (Closed on Sunday)

Sato

It is favored by Japanese Embassy staff who are said to love its peaceful Zen-like surroundings and exquisite features, including teppanyaki rooms and an authentic robatayaki grill and a Sushi bar with a smoking section. Opening Hours: Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm

Takht Jamsheed

Taking inspiration from Persia’s royal palace of Takht Jamsheed, the Gulf Hotel’s chic restaurant offers a fine dining experience fit for a king. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm, Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm (Closed on Mondays)

Zahle

The menu boasts an extensive selection of hot and cold mezze, grilled meat and regional Lebanese fare, such as beautifully presented shish kebab served in a golden box atop warm Arabic bread and burning coals.

Fusions

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, Weekdays: 7:00pm – 1:00am, Weekends: 7:00pm – 2:00am Saturday Lunch 12:00pm -3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 2:00am

Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday 6pm – 12am (Closed on Saturday)

For Reservations

Fusions is a contemporary and stylish rooftop restaurant boasting unrivalled views over the hotel’s tropical gardens and Manama skyline.

La Pergola

Renowned for being one of Bahrain’s oldest Italian eateries, the intimate restaurant offers a fantastic Mediterranean ambience with a vaulted roof and striking wall murals depicting scenes of ancient Rome. Opening Hours: Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm

Margarita Mexicana

All dishes, including tortillas and guacamole, are freshly prepared at guests’ tables to guarantee that the menu and fine dining experience are as authentic as possible. Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday 6:00pm – 12:00am (Closed on Saturdays)

Royal Thai

The restaurant is situated in a grand pagoda in the grounds of the hotel’s tropical gardens and provides scenic views overlooking the turquoise waters of the outdoor swimming pool. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm, Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm (Closed on Mondays)

Al Waha: +973 1774 6425/26 China Garden: +973 1774 6423/24 - Fusions: +973 1771 3000 La Pergola: +973 1774 6419/20 Margarita Mexicana: +973 1774 6462 Royal Thai: +973 1774 6421/22 - Sato: +973 1774 6429/30 Takht Jamsheed: +973 1774 6431/32 Zahle: +973 1774 6417/18

nightlife

Sherlock Holmes Opening Hours: Daily: 12:00pm – 2:00am

Typhoon Bar and Lounge Opening Hours: Daily: 5:00pm – 1:00am Happy Hour: 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Vintage Wine Bar Opening Hours: Daily: 5:00pm – 1:00am For Reservations

Sherlock Holmes: +973 1771 2450 Typhoon Bar and Lounge: +973 17 746 395 Vintage Wine Bar: +973 1774 6461

the DoMain Bahrain hotel  Dining

Txoko

A playful and vibrant venue crowning the top floor of The Domain Hotel and Spa. Opening hours: Daily 4:00pm – 2:00am

Imari

Cosmopolitan Japanese restaurant and lounge Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 6:00pm – 12:00 am Sunday Closed

Le Sauvage

French Steakhouse , open grill kitchen Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 6:00pm – 12:00 am Monday Closed

Le Domain

Fresh, light and passionate cuisine from the south of France. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 6:00pm – 12:00 am Monday Closed

Figs & Olives

A casual duet eatery of both classic Italian and Lebanese comfort foods. Opening hours: Daily 6:30 am – 10:00 pm

The Cigar Lounge

Refined and masculine social space with walk in humidor. Opening hours: Daily 6:00 pm – 12:00 am For Information & Reservations Hotel: +973 16000 400, 16000 200, 16000 222, 16000 333.

may 2016

al Safir hotel  Dining

Yalla Yalla

In place of Savoy Café, Yalla Yalla offers lunch and dinner bufftets as well as an ala carte menu. Opening Hours: Daily: 6:30am - Midnight

Bennigan’s

Enjoy tasty food and spirited conversation. Opening Hours: Daily: 6am - 2am

Cucina Italiana

The place where Italian Food is served with style & passion.

Marriott eXeCutive apartMentS  Dining

SKYWALK CAFÉ

Find this contemporary yet cozy café, one of our favorite Bahrain restaurants, on the ground floor. Enjoy international cuisine, and even keep connected with free Wireless Internet access available onsite. Opening hours: daily, for breakfast, lunch and dinner For Reservations +973 17 363999

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 6:00am - 1:00am

Spa & Salon

Ann Beauty Salon

Come in and relax to soothing music as our therapists provide the perfect treatment. For Information & Reservations Al Safir Hotel & Tower: +973 1782 7999 Email: alsafirh@batelco.com.bh Bennigan’s: +973 1781 3750 Website: bennigans.com.bh Cucina Italiana: +973 1700 1317 Website: cucinaitaliana.com.bh

raMee GranD hotel & Spa  Dining

Lemon Tree

Featuring a dynamic menu, the Lemon Tree is the place to enjoy our signature casual dining, delicious breakfasts, Friday family brunches, scrumptious dinners and those all-day quick nibbles. Enjoy a Cheers to Labor Day breakfast/lunch/dinner buffet on 1st May. Opening Hours: Breakfast: 6.30am – 10.30pm Lunch: 12.00 pm – 3.30pm, Dinner: 7.00pm – 11.30pm For Reservations

Lemon Tree: +973 17111999

novotel al Dana reSort  Dining

La Perle

Enjoy a delicious range of culinary specialties with an extensive selection of appetizers, salads and desserts to complement your choices Seafood and fishes. Opening hours: Daily: 7:00pm - 12:00am

Zytoun

Mediterranean Grill buffet restaurant serving a variety of Mediterranean and international foods. Opening hours: Daily: 6:30am - 11:00pm

Ruka

Ruka aims to present itself as the region’s most luxurious Japanese restaurant/lounge. With breathtaking views of the Bahrain from the 24th floor, the vast azure Arabic Gulf & the infinite cerulean skyline, Ruka’s connotation to its name certainly holds true to its very core. All you can eat sushi for BD 12, everyday from 12pm - 3 pm. Special DJ performance every Thursday & Friday from 7pm-2am. Bottomless cocktails with 2 sushi rolls on Mondays for BD 19, 6pm-2am. Opening Hours: Daily: 12.30pm – 3.00pm and 6.00pm -11:30pm

feet of pure serenity. Inspired by wellness techniques from around the globe, our spa features 13 treatment rooms with a unique selection of facials, massages & treatments designed specifically for women, men & couples. Opening hours: 10.00am – 11.00pm 7 days a week Health Club: 6.00am - 11.00pm Pool Bar: 10.00am – 6.00pm For Information

Reborn: +973 17 111980

nightlife

Ibrida

Ramee Grand’s very own club and steak-house is the heart of Bahrain’s biggest nightlife entertainment and has steadily become the perfect venue for the after-work crowd to unwind or for weekend revelers to dance the night away, while sipping on specialty drinks prepared by our expert mixologist. LMFAO Live Performance on 28th May, BD 20 pre-sale, and BD 30 at the door. Free drinks for ladies upon buying pre-sale tickets. Tuesday Open Mic Night from 9pm - 12am. Opening Hours: Club: 8.00pm – 2.00am Restaurant: 7.00pm - 11.30pm For Information Ibrida: +973 17 111972

For Reservations

Ruka: +973 17111971

Rasoi

nightlife

Le Bellevue

A relaxed yet elegant bar offering one of the most stunning views of the sea and city skyline. Light live music in the evenings. Opening hours: Daily: 4:00pm - 2:00am

Pool Bar

Pool bar is open on weekends during DecemberFebruary and every day from March 1 until November. (Closed during Ramadan). Opening hours: Daily: 9:00am -8:00pm For Reservations

Hotel: +973 1729 8008

Rasoi takes you on a culinary journey with its extensive buffet display, open exhibition kitchen and live cooking areas. Soothing music from a live ghazal band while you dine creates the perfect atmosphere for our guests to relish the sophisticated blend of flavors, which celebrate the vibrancy, of Indian cuisine. Sing & Savour Karaoke Night on 29th April, from 7pm - 11pm. Opening Hours: Daily: 12.30p.m - 3.00p.m and 6.30p.m - 11.00p.m For Reservations

Rasoi: +973 17111973

Spa & Salon

Reborn

The Spa at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa is 5,000 square

may 2016

iBiS Seef ManaMa 

MerCure GranD hotel Seef 

SEEF RESTAURANT

NEYRAN RESTAURANT

Dining

Enjoy a wide range of succulent dishes from around the globe in a casual and tranquil setting. The a la carte menu is available throughout the day and our chef’s special is freshly prepared daily. Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite or to have a more relaxed sumptuous meal, the restaurant is the perfect choice to satisfy those yearnings. Opening Hours: 4 AM to 11 PM daily, 7 days a week Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast timings: Intercontinental breakfast is from 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM Breakfast Buffet is from: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM Intercontinental breakfast is from: 10:30 AM – 12 PM Lunch: 12 - 3:30 PM Dinner: 7 – 11 PM Come try out our special Combo offer for lunch & dinner! Revel in one of our culinary delights for your main course from the menu. Add BD 1 for a delicious salad and soft drink.

SEEF CAFÉ

The ideal place to meet with family and friends and enjoy a delightful array of cold and hot beverages, mocktails, light snacks, and sweets, while watching your favorite sports team play on our big screen TV. Opening Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week For information & reservations:

+973 17386020 or e-mail H6303-RE@accor.com

Dining

Specializing in flavors from Europe with hints of Asian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, Neyran’s menu presents a reflection of striking aromas and essences. Guests can start or end their day with a meal from our extensive deluxe buffet for breakfast, lunch or dinner whilst our a la carte menu provides limitless choices anytime of the day in general surroundings brightened with natural sunshine. Opening hours: 06:30 - 23:00, every day

CASA BAR & TERRACE

Shades of Oak and yellow surroundings, brightened with natural sunshine, Casa Bar provides that chic and stylish setting with stylish décor and the comfiest furnishings all in a Moroccan style. Casa Bar’s cigar collection epitomizes graciousness with a menu that has been created to complement the tastes of aficionados who will find the humidor stocked with some of the finest premium cigars. Don’t miss out on Casa Terrace, on the mezzanine level, where you can enjoy the finest open-air hospitality with a beautiful view of Manama and the Seef skyline. Unwind with live entertainment, a wide variety of shishas, light meals and sandwiches...with your favorite drink! Opening hours: 14:00 - 02:00, every day.

SAMA POOL & BAR

Marvel at the panoramic city and the sea views, the endless skyline framed against the beautiful sunsets from Bahrain’s highest roof top at Sama Pool Bar. This urban oasis is an unmatched visual feast and the perfect place to enjoy an evening of barbecued grill or gather with a group of friends over light snacks and beverages. The ‘sky’ high experience is completed as you dive into the clear blue water of the pool, with the open-air pool deck a refreshing relief from the city’s buzz throughout the day. The Sama Pool Bar is also a coveted venue for pool parties, family barbecues, farewell gatherings, weekend treats, corporate events, anniversaries or for that special event to celebrate with your friends and family. Opening hours: 10:30 - 19:00, every day.

the DraGon hotel anD reSort  Dining

MUJU RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

MUJU’s contemporary style and timeless sophistication blends with a warm and inviting ambiance that combine to make the ideal venue for lunch, dinner or cocktails. MUJU’s exquisite international menu has a wide variety of delicacies for even the most discerning of palates. Whether for lunch or dinner, its timeless classics and seasonal specials are a treat to the taste buds. With its warm ambiance, breath-taking sea views and culinary masterpieces, MUJU restaurant and lounge is an indulgence to your senses. Laze away an afternoon or watch the sunset, sipping cocktails while enjoying an appetizing selection of treats from the lounge menu. Opening hours: Everyday 12pm till 5am

YAMIN JANA MEDITERRANEAN SEAFRONT

RESTAURANT Treat yourself to a refreshingly different dining experience at Yamin Jana, a Mediterranean-Style seafront lounge with an Arabic twist. Allow yourself to be transported all over the Mediterranean when sampling tapas in true Spanish style, as well as authentic Lebanese mezze. The beverage selection is as vast as the Mediterranean, with great beverages and an amazing variety of different shisha flavors. Yamin Jana seats 140 guests on a beautiful al fresco wooden deck. Watch the evening come alive when the whole of Amwaj and all its lights breathe life into the lagoon in front of the Dragon Hotel & Resort. Opening hours: 11am to 2 am every day.

may 2016

For Reservations

+973 17 58 44 00 H5685@accor.com/H5685-RE@accor.com

CORNERS

Corners is the first pub to open in Amwaj Islands. A place to socialize and unwind whilst enjoying the latest in live sports, bands and DJs including resident DJ. With a diverse selection of food, including traditional pub grub as well as International classics to treat the taste buds, Corners is your ultimate Gastropub. Opening hours: 2pm to 2am For Reservations

+973 1603 1111/ +973 1603 3833 fo@dragonresorthotel.com

SWiSS-Belhotel  Dining

SWISS-CAFÉ RESTAURANT

al areen palaCe & Spa  Dining

RIMAL RESTAURANT

Rimal offers all-day dining in a light and airy setting that provides a spectacular view of the resort. Catering to Middle Eastern and global tastes, guests can indulge in a sumptuous breakfast buffet or select from an extensive a la carte menu. Opening hours: daily Breakfast served daily: 6:30am - 10:30 am Last Order: 11:00 pm

SAFFRON RESTAURANT

Resplendent in majestic shades of gold and maroon, with a beautiful high ceiling, traditional Middle Eastern accents and a spectacular view of the resort’s grand outdoor pool, this signature dining venue introduces a new menu inspired by modern Bahraini dishes, combining elements of enticing European and Khaleeji fusion. Opening hours: daily For lunch: 11:30 am-3:00 pm For dinner: 6:30 pm - 11:00 pm

KEIZO RESTAURANT

Keizo offers guests surprising signature dishes from traditional Far East cuisines contemporarily prepared and elegantly presented. Highly experienced chef and multi-talented sushi chef all make up this exceptional dining venue. Opening hours: Thursday, Friday and Saturday For lunch: 11:30 am-3:00 pm Open daily for dinner: 6:30 pm - 11:00 pm Closed on Sunday

An all-day dining restaurant located on the 10th floor, with a panoramic terrace overlooking the city. The a la carte menus, as well as a wide variety of buffets, are available throughout the day. Enjoy a Mother’s Day Buffet on 1st, 8th, or 29th May. Lunch Buffet from 12:30pm-3pm, and dinner from 7pm-11pm. Glass of bubbly on the house! Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 11:30 PM, everyday Business Lunch buffet: 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday (7 BD net per person including soft drinks and mineral water) International Dinnerbuffet: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday (8 BD net per person including soft drinks) Arabic Dinnerbuffet: 7.00 PM - 11.00 PM, Thursday and Friday (8 BD net per per person including soft drinks) Friday Seafood Lunch: 12.30 PM - 3.00 PM (Net BD 12 per person including soft drinks)

CAFECCINO

Lobby Café serving a variety of salads, sandwiches, pastries, hot and cold beverages in a casual ambience. Opening hours: 24 hours, everyday

B28 bar & lounge

This trendy bar is located on the 28th floor with panoramic view. 30% off on selected beverages between 4:00 PM-8:00 PM on all days except Sunday. Enjoy live music with Olga: Sunday to Wednesday from 7:30 PM, Thursday and Friday from 8:30 PM onwards. Opening hours: 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM, Saturday to Thursday & 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM, Friday

Floor 27

The incomparable hall, overlooking the Seef area is the place to host any type of events. Opening hours: 24 hours, everyday For Information and Reservations

+973 66310041 reservationsbse@swiss-belhotel.com

SENSES LOUNGE

Indulge in delicious pastries, freshly baked cakes and our special selection of tea and coffee. Senses Lounge is the perfect place to relax and re-charge your senses. Opening hours: From 9:00 am - 10:00 pm

Silk’s restaurant

Asian Fusion cuisine Open from 6.00am to 10.30am for breakfast, from 12.30pm to 4.00pm for lunch, and from 7.00pm to 11.00pm for dinner. Thursdays from 7.00pm to 11.00pm (Thursday Night Out)at BD27 net Mondays from 7.00pm to 11.00pm (Monday Seafood Night) at BD 27 net Friday from 12.30pm to 4.00pm (Award-Winning Friday Brunch) at BD31 net

The Gallery

French brasserie Open from 7.00am to midnight.

Rimal Spa Open daily from 10.00am to 10.00pm 12 luxurious treatment rooms

SPICES

Spices Indian Restaurant ensures the best Indian food available, as well as the highest quality possible service. Spices has many exciting signature dishes that are perfect for all and set us apart from the others. Opening hours: 12.00 to 23.00

LA MOSAIQUE

The spacious, elegant and classic La Mosaique Restaurant is open 24 hours a day, serving a choice of international buffets and a la carte menus. This restaurant is suitable for all, from family meals out, to meetings, with our facilities being able to cater for all. La Mosaique really does have something too suit all tastes, along with great atmosphere and fantastic service! A must for seafood lovers, who can choose from our extensive a la carte menu or our market place selection of fresh fish which is delivered daily from local Bahraini fisherman. Opening hours: daily for lunch and dinner

+973 17 84 50 00/+973 17 84 50 01 alareen@alareenpalace.com

Dining

WAVES SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

For Reservations

MövenpiCK hotel Bahrain 

CroWne plaZa Bahrain 

The Gym & Wellness Open daily from 6.00am to 10.00pm Tennis Court Infinity pool Cybex equipment

Flamingo Bar & Lounge

THE HARVESTERS PUB AND TERRACE

Serves the best pub grub in town and is the perfect place to meet up after work with friends or colleagues. There is live entertainment from our band every night, and you can also catch the latest sporting action of one of the many screens.

Weekdays open from 2.00pm to 2.00am Weekends open from 12.00pm to 2.00am Daily happy hour from 2.00pm to 9.00pm Live band performance daily except Saturdays from 8.45pm 12.30am

CAPPUCCINO CAFÉ

For Reservations

TRACKS SPORTS BAR

Silk’s Restaurant: +973 17460017

Coffee shop is located in the lobby area, and serves freshly brewed tea, coffee and pastries throughout the day. Hold your meeting here with colleagues, or simply sit and enjoy the surroundings. A great place to socialize with friends and colleagues and watch all the world’s best sporting events everyday on big screen. Come and enjoy Tracks’ relaxed and friendly atmosphere, play pool or darts, listen to great music while having a drink and a fabulous snack from our menu. Opening hours: daily from 3pm to 1am For Reservations

+973 17531122 cp@cp-bahrain.com

may 2016

BUSINESS Market Place Gulf

may 2016

BUSINESS Market Place Gulf

WE COME TO YOU FOR A CHANGE! autoMAX car care will come to your office or home to perform the above services on your vehicles. Call us now or book online to schedule an appointment.

Oil Change

Battery Change

Wiper Change

light BulB Change

T.: +973 17 404 131 F.: +973 17 405 441

a/C gas Filling

Brake Change

spark plug Change

suspensiOn

-Book appointment online-

www.automaxme.com

THE MUST HAVE ACCESSORY FOR ANY SELF-RESPECTING CAR! Raised rubber writing for all international tires in colours of your choice. Custom fonts and words available on request.

Exclusive Distributors in GCC for all

products

Starting 2.5!!! BD4 from juSt Road 115 l Sitra 601 Tel: +973 1712 5171 l info@tires-art.com

may 2016

Quoted “The positive impact of coaching start up entrepreneurs and providing them with information and tools to succeed ensures they have their impact on Bahrain’s business community as the Kingdom’s new generation of difference makers.” Dr. Ebrahim Janahi, Chief Executive, Tamkeen

“Bahrain offers a unique value proposition in the transport and logistics sector, positioned as a gateway to the region offering modern infrastructure, competitive costs, strong human capital and an evolving regulatory environment.” Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive of the EDB

“We are living in an exceptional era, where profound environmental transformations are re-shaping the ways we live, do business and interact.” Mary McGinnis, AmCham Bahrain, Business Development Consultant

“Technology is a great enabler, and it has been widely adopted with growing numbers of travelers embracing the mobile revolution as they become increasingly tech-savvy.”

“In spite of international market fluctuations, we are still witnessing a large influx of projects in the region’s construction segment. In line with this, we are also seeing an increased demand for geotechnical services.”

Dr. Jassim Haji, Chief Information Officer, Gulf Air

Wiliam Chen, Executive Director, Geoharbour Middle East Construction

80 88

may february 2016 2012

Every great day begins with a great mattress At American Beds we believe a healthy lifestyle begins with a good nights sleep. That’s why for more than a century we have been providing a peaceful sleep to thousands of our satisfied customers with mattresses that are deep, supportive and highly durable. Using state-of-the-art technology, our mattresses are famous for being the most comfortable anywhere in the world. To find out more, just pop into our Bahrain showroom and put your mind at rest.

www.americanbeds.com Showroom opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9am - 1pm and 5pm - 9pm. PO Box 20376, Shop No. 31-33, Building 29, Block 331, Manama, Bahrain | info@americanbeds.com | Tel: +973 1721 3995 | Fax: +973 1710 2864