Britain
in business British Business Group Dubai & Northern Emirates magazine
summer 2010
United we win Dynamic duo: UK + UAE
World’s Best Business Club 2010
Oasis Beach Tower Discover Oasis Beach Tower’s 2, 3 and 4-bedroom serviced beachside apartments along The Walk in Dubai Marina, with easy access to four licensed restaurants and bars, shops, outdoor cafés and galleries. Enjoy refreshing Mediterranean cuisine at ‘thyme’ Bar and Restaurant. Unwind on the large swimming pool deck, enjoy Jumeirah Beach just 3 minutes’ walk away or catch a free ride to the private beach at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa and surrounding shopping malls.
Hatta Fort Hotel Come home to Hatta and escape to a majestic mountain retreat just an hour’s drive from Dubai. Unwind at the temperature-controlled swimming pool and wake up to views of the striking Hajar Mountains from your deluxe chalet-style room. Indulge in your wellbeing with a massage at Senses or try wellbeing of a different kind with gourmet cuisine at Jeema.
Al Sahra Desert Resort This stunning Arabian eco-tourism resort in Dubailand is set in a natural desert oasis environment – the perfect venue for a truly exceptional private party or incentive event. The main entertainment complex comprises an outdoor amphitheatre under the desert sky with a seating capacity for up to 1,100 spectators, with smaller venues and fully licensed catering also available.
For reservations or more information, please visit www.jebelali-international.com
Palm Tree Court & Spa Imagine a beachfront getaway with lush gardens just steps from a private 800-metre palm-lined beach. With spacious junior suites making it ideal for either couples or families, this beach hotel within the award-winning Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, provides access to swimming pools, spa, golf course, horse riding stables, diving centre, children’s club and 15 restaurants/bars.
Jebel Ali Hotel Situated within the award-winning Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, this beach hotel and its fully refurbished garden and sea view rooms provide excellent value for money and access to vast resort facilities including a private 800-metre beach, three swimming pools, spa, golf course, horse riding stables, diving centre, water sports centre, marina, children’s club and 15 restaurants/bars.
Bateaux Dubai For an unforgettable Dubai experience, cruise in air-conditioned luxury onboard the glassenclosed Bateaux Dubai past the modern landmarks and historic sights of Dubai Creek. Freshly prepared gourmet cuisine complemented with licensed beverages makes this a must-do Dubai highlight. Bateaux Dubai cruises every night for dinner and may be chartered for private events.
The Essential Arabian Library In celebration of the centenary of the birth of Sir Wilfred Thesiger, the last of the great explorers, we offer 17 books and a limited edition print from The Arabian Heritage Series.
Described as a “Masterpiece” in The Times, this classic of travel literature is a must-read for anyone interested in the Arab world. The special Centenary Edition celebrates the anniversary of Thesiger’s birth in 1910, and includes 84 photographs and a fold-out map.
The authorised biography of Sir Wilfred Thesiger investigates this fascinating figure’s family influences, his wartime experiences, his philosophy as a hunter and conservationist, his writing and photography, and his friendships with tribal people.
This book is a breathtaking pictorial edition of the travel classic Arabian Sands, and contains the same fold-out map which appeared in the first edition of Arabian Sands in 1959.
Dhs 120 *
Dhs 185 *
Dhs 165*
normal retail price
This title by Daniel and Serga Nadler takes an in-depth look at the world of silver and how it is valued for its many purposes by different cultures around the globe.
A wonderfully illustrated book that covers the fascinating history of shawls from their earliest origins. The history of the Kerman shawl, is one of its delightful highlights.
Arabian Destiny is an insightful autobiography and a very personal account of the life of the late Edward Henderson – a man whose life was inextricably linked to the history of the UAE.
Dhs 295 *
Dhs 295 *
Dhs 55 *
This enchanting book is a showcase of the people of the Emirates during the mid-20th century. A superb collection of photographs by Ronald Codrai, documenting times gone by.
A wonderful photographic memoir by world renowned photographer Ronald Codrai. This book focuses on Codrai’s time spent in the Arab world during the past half-century.
This personal record of the seafarers of the Emirates focuses on a time when the Gulf was home to the largest merchant-sailing fleet in the world.
In this concise, yet thorough, description of
Dhs 185 *
Dhs 185 *
Dhs 185 *
Dhs 85 *
Tel +971 4 282 4060 Tel +971 2 677 2005
Fax +971 4 282 7898 Fax +971 2 677 0124
books@motivate.ae motivate-adh@motivate.ae
the Arabian countries benefiting most from 21st century affluence, Edward O’Sullivan summarizes years of experience.
Order online:
SUMMER OFFER
Entire collection now only Dhs 1450
including free delivery in the GCC A saving of over 50% off the normal retail price of Dhs 3000
Free Limited Edition Print Worth Dhs 350 Launching a Dhow, Abu Dhabi, 1948 by Sir Wilfred Thesiger (16� x 12�)
Dubai
an aerial tour
Dubai
Dubai is an emirate of spectacular sights. With post-modern architecture and high-rise towers that jostle with one another, the city’s aerial views provide a magnificent insight into its different landscapes – be they manmade islands or landscaped villas, magnificent highways or grand hotels, verdant green parks or giant shopping malls – taking the reader on an awe-inspiring scenic tour.
an aerial tour
Beyond the city’s limits, turquoise-blue waters with sandy beaches, symmetrical palm trees and ancient desert landscapes provide photographers with many opportunities. International aerial photographer, Dirk Laubner, has produced a fine portrait of the emirate that reveals why Dubai is such a popular tourist destination. Published in a single, five-language edition, Dubai – An Aerial Tour is a collection of brilliant images of the emirate and a fascinating record of Dubai from the air as we see it today. Placing tourist attractions and significant landmarks in perspective, it provides a magnificent aerial tour for visitors and residents alike.
Dirk Laubner
Dirk Laubner
This book by internationally acclaimed photographer Dirk Laubner takes you on a breathtaking aerial tour around the emirate of Dubai.
This intimate and colourful view of the Emirates is a reproduction of one of famed British artist Trevor Waugh’s journals, kept while travelling the length and breadth of the land.
This book is part of the ‘Noor Ali Rashid’s Royal Collection’, and includes beautiful historical images, highlighting the 40 years of remarkable transformation undergone by the UAE.
Dhs 145 *
Dhs 185 *
Dhs 125 *
Dubai
Patrick Lichfield’s photography has spanned four decades of change. His iconic images from the early 1960s to the present day, include notable personalities and events that characterised their times.
#& !#! #
A cousin of Queen Elizabeth, The Earl of Lichfield, launched himself as a photographer in 1962. He soon progressed from photographing London’s party set to editorial work for national daily newspapers. Success in notable London magazines, such as the highly influential magazine, led to commissions from , and #& ! magazines in the United States. Since that time, his pictures – ranging from formal and informal portraits, including many members of royalty as well as celebrities, prominent figures from the world of fashion and beauty to high profile advertising – have become well known around the world.
Patrick Lichfield
Dubai
In recent years, Patrick Lichfield has been a frequent visitor to Dubai, a destination he admires and enjoys and one which certainly provides a wealth of fascinating subjects for his camera. ' #& !#! # is the outcome of these visits; it is a rich study of one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest growing cities.
" % # # " !# ! #
#& !#! #
P a t r i c k
L i c h f i e l d
Patrick Lichfield’s portrait of Dubai presents images of a cosmopolitan city, a vibrant emirate and a dynamic people in tribute to one of the fastest growing cities in the world.
A beautiful heartfelt tale of two cultures, and a love and understanding between a Western and Arab family. The Times called it “a deeply sympathetic evaluation of a culture�.
A compilation of poetry by Dubai’s leader, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Sheikh Mohammed reveals his passions but tempers them with justice and tolerance.
Dr Frauke Heard-Bey’s definitive history of the UAE is a must-read about life in the seven Trucial States before the wealth of oil, and events leading up to the 21st century UAE.
Dhs 185 *
Dhs 55 *
Dhs 75 *
Dhs 120 *
BRITAIN in business
48 Return to base
Summer 2010
Tips for relocating to the UK
51 Capital lifestyles 54 Business on par BBG goes golfing
43
Glasgow Science Centre is an example of the UK’s dynamic new direction.
Editor-in-Chief
Corbis
The contents and opinions in this issue do not necessarily reflect the views of the BBG, nor should they be taken as an endorsement by the BBG of any specific product or service. All currency conversions correct at press time.
The best cities around the world
Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Group Editor and Managing Partner Ian Fairservice
13 Chairman’s message
Group Senior Editor Gina Johnson Group Editor Catherine Belbin | catherine@motivate.ae Contributing Editors
15 BBG news 26 Outward bound Saudi Arabia’s new allure
56 Great explorations Sir Wilfred Thesiger: a centennial
60 Pension transfers Growing retirement funds
62 Britain on a roll Dynamic holiday experiences
64 Cultural explosion UK summer spectacles
Dominic Ellis | motedt@motivate.ae Ingrid Valles Pó | ingrid@motivate.ae Dorothy Waldman | dorothy@motivate.ae Chief Sub Editor Iain Smith | iains@motivate.ae Art Director Karen Evans | karene@motivate.ae Junior Designer Roui Francisco | rom@motivate.ae
27 Strategic strokes Lessons from Dubai’s downturn
28 Eco Focus Environmental necessities
30 Scottish links
70 Celebrations Best of BBG events
72 New Member Directory 82 BBG offers
Scotland swings into business
51
General Manager – Production S Sasidharan | sasidharan@motivate.ae Production Manager Sudhakar Chandran | sudhakar@motivate.ae General Manager Group Sales Anthony Milne | anthony@motivate.ae
36 Dubai’s enterprising spirit Right place at the right time
38 Banking on the UAE Better service for consumers
General Manager Special Projects Ashish Limaye | ashish@motivate.ae Senior Advertisement Manager Rowena Miranda | rowena@motivate.ae Advertisement Manager Debashish Shome | debashish@motivate.ae Deputy Advertisement Manager
40 Budget overhaul The new UK coalition budget
43 Above the table Exposing the UK’s new bribery laws
Abhinay Bhartiya | abhinay@motivate.ae
45 Full tills ahead Retail recovery
46 Plugging the brain drain Learning for staff retention PO Box 2331 | Dubai | United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 282 4060 | Fax: +971 4 282 4436 motivate@motivate.ae | motivatepublishing.com Printed by IPP, Dubai
47 Clocking in Re-entering the workforce
62 BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 11
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BRITISH BUSINESS GROUP
BBG COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN & CEO Mark Beer chairman@britbiz-uae.com mark.beer@difccourts.ae DEPUTY CHAIRMAN & COO Jonathon Davidson jdavidson@davidson-legal.com DIRECTOR LEGAL & SECRETARIAT Peter White Peter.White@marsh.com DIRECTOR FINANCE Eesh Aggarwal eesh@eesh.com
World champions
DIRECTOR MEMBERSHIP Ben Goodman ben@it-serve.com DIRECTOR COMMUNICATIONS Melanie Faithfull Kent melanie.faithfull@hillandknowlton.com DIRECTOR EVENTS Beth Thomas beth.thomas@jumeirah.com DIRECTOR FOCUS David J. Burns hr@uhyuae.com DIRECTOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Nick Pearson nick.pearson@beyondsaleseffectiveness.com DIRECTOR UAE ALLIANCES Lubna Qassim lubnaqassim@gmail.com DIRECTOR GOVERNMENT RELATIONS Adel Al Awadhi adel.alawadhi@serco.ae EMBASSY REPRESENTATIVE Jeff Wilson Jeffj.wilson@fco.gov.uk British Business Group PO Box 9333 Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 3970303 Fax: +971 4 3970939 bbgdubai@britbiz-uae.com britbiz-uae.com
WELCOME TO THE FIRST issue of the new look Britain in Business, our quarterly magazine which keeps you informed about all the latest news involving the British Business Group (BBG) and its members. It has been a busy few months for the BBG. In April we were delighted to receive the Daily Telegraph’s ‘Best British Business Club’ award, which was a reflection of the 23 years of hard work by the BBG’s members and staff. Following our Annual General Meeting in early June, we have a new committee and with their energy and enthusiasm we hope to take the group to greater heights. The completion of the new BBG office in August will mark another major milestone, enabling us to better serve our growing membership. It will be known as the David May Building and we are indebted
to all members who have helped in its construction through contributions, advice and support. One of the focus areas for the group moving forward will be better communication, an example of which is this magazine and we are grateful to Motivate Publishing for its support. As a group we are busy embracing new technologies and you can expect an exciting new-look website soon, which will provide you with a wealth of information and functionality. In additional to the more traditional means, you can contact the organisation or any of the separate focus groups through the major social networking channels. Feel free to ‘tweet’ me @bbgchairman.
Mark Beer, Chairman
FOCUS GROUP CHAIRS BANKING & FINANCE Sandy Shipton sandy.shipton@difc.ae
EDUCATION Tim Carnley tim.carnley@ae.britishcouncil.org
HUMAN RESOURCES Sam Stephen sam@knet.ae
MARITIME Edward Newitt edward.newitt@hfw.com
Andrew Pitt andrew.pitt@lloydstsb.ae
ENERGY Terry Willis Terry.Willis@the-eic.com
INSURANCE Peter White Peter.White@marsh.com
REAL ESTATE Dr. Brian Etemad betemad@emaar.ae
ENTREPRENEURS John Martin St Valery john@linksdubai.com
IT Ross McGregor ross@unlimited-it.ae Peter Job pjob@intergence.com
TRAVEL, TOURISM & LEISURE Carol Maddison carol.maddison@visitbritain.org
CEO Stuart Crocker Stuart.crocker@hsbc.com COMMUNICATIONS Rebecca Hill rebecca.hill@mepra.org CONSTRUCTION John Alford john@jasaf.com Nigel Truscott ntruscott@trowers.com
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT Sean Heckford sean.heckford@echarris.com GOLF Richard Musty richard.musty@lloydstsb.ae Janice Marler janice@alarabitravel.ae
LEGAL Dominic Treays dtreays@cragus.com
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Naomi Ellen Jones naomi.jones@ae.biworldwide.com David Cook david@it-serve.com
Robert Surcouf rsurcouf@caversham.com
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 13
Moerdijk, The Netherlands Ritchie Bros. has more than 40 auction sites in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia.
The World’s LARGEST Industrial Auctioneer NO MINIMUMS • NO RESERVE PRICES • NO BUY BACKS RBA – QUICK FACTS 2009 • 195 Industrial Auctions • 336,000 bidder registrations • 98,000 buyers • 37,000 consignments
• 283,000 lots • 130,000 people from 194 countries were approved to bid online at Ritchie Bros. auctions. • Gross auction proceeds of US$3.5 billion.
CONTACT P.O. Box 16897, Jebel Ali Free Zone Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971.4.812.0600 Fax: +971.4.883.8495
www.rbauction.com
NEWS
Diplomatic dispatches
Top to bottom: UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with visiting British Prime Minister David Cameron; UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, welcomes the new British Ambassador to the UAE, HE Dominic Jermey.
GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca have regional offices in Dubai. There are extensive education links with the British University in Dubai partnering with a number of UK universities. The creative industries sector is well represented with the BBC and Sky News both having operations here, along with architects such as Atkins and a host of retail outlets that are familiar on any high street in the UK, such as Marks and Spencer, Debenhams and Harvey Nichols can be found in the UAE's malls. And that is not to mention financial and legal services where regulatory, legal, education and training links are already well embedded. In the opposite direction, we see significant UAE investment in the UK through the Dhs8.3 billion London Gateway project – one of largest ever inward investments that will create 12,000 direct jobs. And we must not forget the extensive support that HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, provides to the horse racing industry in the UK. The British business community in Dubai has helped to build the UAE into what it is today. It is active in all business sectors and I know the community is committed to driving further growth for the UAE, and indeed across the whole Gulf region. The foundations are laid. We now need to work together to mature the bilateral and trade relationship. I am confident that we can achieve this by working together as a community and in tandem with our Emirati hosts.
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I am delighted to be appointed as the new British Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. I have already met many members of the BBG in Dubai and had the pleasure of speaking at one of your excellent events in June. A membership of 1,600, and the accolade of Best British Business Club in the world (as voted for by readers of the Daily telegraph), is testament to the strength and dynamism of your organisation. Much has been made of the close historic ties between the UK and the UAE. It is a shared heritage and friendship of which we can be proud. But like all friendships it requires careful nurturing and should not be taken for granted. I was therefore delighted that the new British Government acknowledged this with a visit here by the Prime Minister within weeks of his election. That visit heralded a series of further Ministerial contacts including a meeting between the new British Foreign Secretary and the Emirati Foreign Minister, HH Sheikh Abdullah, in the UK. The speed at which these senior contacts have been made is a manifest illustration of both the British and Emirati governments shared desire to re-invigorate our bilateral relationship. I am very glad to announce an upcoming State Visit to the UAE by HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh this autumn, and I am confident that we will witness many VIP visits in both directions. The BBG has and should continue to have a role in these visits. One of the main pillars of the bilateral relationship will continue to be trade. The UAE is the UK’s largest market for the export of goods into the region and its 13th largest export market worldwide. Around 70 per cent of UK goods exported to the UAE come to Dubai. But we must not stand still. We have an ambitious target to increase bilateral trade by 60 per cent to Dhs66 billion per annum by 2015. This was a target set at the last UK-UAE Joint Economic Committee meeting and is a figure that I and my UK Trade and Investment team in the UAE will strive to deliver. But the BBG also has a vital role to play. I know that your Chair, Mark Beer, and other BBG members are actively engaged in the JEC process to help identify opportunities in energy, financial services, education and infrastructure sectors. In preparation for our next meeting in October 2010, we are particularly keen to hear about any barriers you have faced in establishing your businesses here in the UAE. The UK and the UAE have significant links in many areas. Moorfields is well established in the healthcare sector.
WAM
HE Dominic Jermey, British Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, addressed the BBG Forum, outlining the direction of the UK/UAE relationship under the new UK Government.
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 15
NEWS
BBG world’s best An international award in any sphere is always something to be cherished, and for the British Business Group Dubai & Northern Emirates to be selected as the Best Business Club globally at The Daily Telegraph ‘Best of British’ Awards was especially satisfying, given that commercial activity has always been at the heart of the group’s philosophy since starting 23 years ago. Judges concurred with many voters’ sentiments by describing the Dubai chapter as progressive, active and well run, offering a plethora of networking events and carefully selected speakers, who provide informative presentations across a range of topics. Mark Beer, Chairman, BBG Dubai & Northern Emirates, said the prestigious award reflected the rapid evolution of Dubai as a dynamic and exciting place to conduct business – and for more than two decades the BBG has been instrumental in this growth. “This award therefore recognises the considerable efforts of the BBG to create opportunity, to help foster new business and to forge strong working partnerships with our Emirati colleagues,” he said. “Since 1987 we have invested a considerable amount of time and energy understanding how to do business here and we remain committed to Dubai and look forward to continuing to play a proactive role in its continued success.” A special commemorative ‘Best of British’ celebration was held at the Meydan Hotel to honour the achievement.
WHAT THE VOTERS SAY
Executive Director Steve Shore displays the Best Business Club award.
BBG is the most active business group I have ever joined. It creates excellent networking opportunities for its members. Events are very informative because of carefully selected speakers, topics and venues. The most dynamic, proactive and far-reaching business group I have ever come across, with regular events, a host of active special interest groups and visionary leadership. Enterprising, exciting and energetic group which is tremendously helpful and supportive of British businesses in the region.
BEST BUSINESS CLUB RUNNERS-UP Highly commended: Franco-British Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Paris Commended: British Chamber of Commerce, Shanghai Commended: Florida Association of British Business (FABB), Miami
16 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
New Ambassador
BBG expands operations
David May accepts BBG’s honours during the recent AGM. The BBG offices in the David May Building at the British Embassy, Dubai, are due to open in August. Named in honour of founding member David May for his contributions, dedication and commitment to the organisation since its 1987 inception, the new offices are adjacent to the existing building. BBG is grateful for the generosity of its members, many of whom donated materials and fittings without charge. They include Rigidal Industries, Gulf Finance, Emirates Rawabi, Brewer Smith & Brewer Gulf, Track 24, Chapman Freeborn, The Big Bus Company, Ducab, Bertling Global Logistics, Deliotte & Touche, Denton Wilde Sapte, Godwin Austen Johnson, KPMG, Khansaheb, Rotary Humm, Sara Trident Emirates, Strainstall Middle East, Tridonic, Atco, Appetite, Fagerhult, Topaz Energy & Marine, Bluehaus, Intercare, Gapcorp, Abdulla
Al Alawi, Amsua, Ibtikar Management Svc, Pearson Consulting, Gulf Finance Corporation, Dubai Financial Services Authority, Serck Services International, Bracewell & Giuliani, Davidson & Co, Blanchard FZ, Kier Dubai, WS Atkins & Partners Overseas, Sanipex, Barclays Bank, David Moleshead, Lloyds TSB, RMD Kwikform ME, Quadrant Marine Consultancy, CoolTech Energy Water Treatment, PKF Chartered Accountants, Matthew Warren, Capital MS&L, Wafi Hospitality, Emirates Bank NBD, Kingstar Group, Reuters Middle East, Caversham, Walter Bailey, Chartis MEMSA Insurance Company, Knowledge Network, International House Dubai, Murray Fenton ME Ltd, Emirates Specialities Co, Fagerhult, Stretch Ceilings, and Serco. Any members still wishing to make a contribution can do so by contacting Steve Shore, BBG, Executive Director
The new British Ambassador to the UAE, HE Dominic Jermey, OBE, previously held the position of Managing Director for Sectors in UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) and Director of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. He led a team supporting 12,000 companies to develop their international operations and was interim Chief Executive of UKTI and headed the Defence and Security Organisation. He has been the Deputy British Ambassador in Spain and Director for Trade and Investment. Earlier Foreign Office roles included setting up and leading its Crisis Response Centre and its Afghanistan Department, as well as its UN peacekeeping team. Overseas postings have included Charge d’Affaires (a.i.) Kabul; UK Representative to the UN Transitional Administration in East Timor; the Balkans; and Pakistan and Afghanistan. Jermey joined the Foreign Office from the investment bank J Henry Schroder Wagg, focussing on European commerce. He is an “enthusiastic but inelegant” scuba diver and horse rider, and also enjoys adventure travel. Additionally, he is a Board Member of the international NGO, CAFOD; Liveryman of the City of London; and Hospitaler of ND de Lourdes.
New BBG directors The BBG has welcomed two new directors to its governing committee following the 2010 Annual General Meeting in June. Melanie Faithfull Kent was appointed Communications Director and Beth Thomas is the new Events Director, The former committee bows out with a multitude of achievements, including membership growth of 15 per cent, more events than any other business group in Dubai and the chapter winning the international award of ‘Best Business Group’ at the prestigious ‘Best of British’ Awards. BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 17
NEWS
Sir Maurice Flanagan: Emirates founding CEO knighted In her birthday honours list, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II awarded Maurice Flanagan a knighthood. He becomes a Knight of the British Empire for services to the British aviation industry and British exports. Flanagan, an honorary member of the BBG, was the founding CEO of Emirates Airline and is currently the Executive Vice-Chairman of The Emirates Group. He has been a BBG member for over 20 years and during that period has shared his invaluable insights and wealth of knowledge at various BBG events and was also instrumental in Emirates becoming a BBG Platinum Sponsor. Flanagan, who was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2000 for services to communities in the UAE, has also been awarded various other awards including: Flight International magazine’s Personality of the Year; membership of the British
Sir Maurice Flanagan, CBE Jeevan J D Mello
Travel Industry Hall of Fame; Aviation Legend award by the Centre For Asia Pacific Aviation; Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and Honorary Fellow (the Society’s highest award); Liveryman of The Guild of Air Pilots and Navigators; and membership of the Executive Committee of the World Travel and Tourism Council.
Empire honours Alison Devine was honoured with the Member of the British Empire in the Queen’s birthday honours. She was the Deputy Director of the British Council, UAE, and is now the Director of the British Council, Taiwan. Additionally, Dr Maha Taysir Barakat, Co-founder, Imperial College Diabetes Centre, Abu Dhabi, was awarded the Order of the British Empire for medical research, training and public health services in the UAE.
Dr Maha Taysir Barakat with HRH Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles, the Duchess of Cornwall.
Hamptons International spotlights owners’ associations Hamptons International, a property services company in the Middle East and North Africa region, discussed the role of owners associations for Jointly Owned Properties in Dubai at the Real Estate Forum organised for members of the British Business Group. Jeevan J D’Mello, Senior Director, Emaar Community Management, presented the highlights of the recent regulations outlined by the Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) under Law No. 27 of 2007 concerning Jointly Owned Properties in Dubai.
18 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
A spokesperson for Hamptons International said: “The issuance of the law and recent regulations regarding Jointly Owned Properties is a landmark for the real estate sector in Dubai. It now brings to focus the role that owners play in managing the communities. Organising a special session for British Business Group was part of our commitment to strengthen awareness of the law and speed up the process of setting up owners’ associations in all jointly-owned communities within Dubai.”
Getty Images
Emirates scores with Durham Emirates has secured its first dedicated cricket stadium sponsorship deal. The Durham County Cricket Club venue in Chester-le-Street, England, will be renamed Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground as an integral part of a six-year sponsorship deal, which also includes branding on the team’s Twenty20 shirts.
Al Dobowi certified
Marsh acquisitions
Retreading company Al Dobowi has become the first company in the Middle East to be certified by Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology (ESMA). UK-based Al Dobowi has worked closely with ESMA for over a year, as well as Dubai Police and RTA officials, to ensure that appropriate standards are implemented. Al Dobowi’s retreaded tyres have gone through extensive testing in laboratories in the Gulf to ensure they meet the demanding heat specifications of the Middle East.
Leading insurance broker and risk adviser, Marsh, recently bought HSBC Insurance Brokers, a wholly-owned subsidiary of HSBC Bank. As part of the transaction, it has also established a Preferred Strategic Partnership with HSBC Bank to provide insurance broking and risk management services to the bank’s corporate and private clients. Marsh plans to increase its presence in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, among other areas.
NEWS
UK Trade and Investment teams guide businesses Doing business in the region requires investment in time and money. The markets are anything but homogeneous and understanding the local culture and building relations is the key for success in every market within the MENA Region. UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is the government organisation that helps UK companies succeed in the global economy and assists overseas companies in bringing their high quality investment to the UK. Accurate and up-to-date information is crucial to the successful export of products or services. UKTI teams are located ‘on the ground’ and can bring to bear experience, language skills, local market knowledge and extensive commercial contacts. Growing numbers of UK companies looking to develop new export markets in the Gulf are using UKTI services available at over 150 locations across the global network of UK embassies, high commissions and consulates. The Regional Hub in Dubai services UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Yemen, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestinian Territories, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria and provides a platform for UK companies to interact with the UKTI and to learn about opportunities in the region. The Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS) is one of the main services provided, and it puts companies directly in touch with UKTI teams who provide tailored local export advice and support.
20 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
OMIS reports can provide a range of advice and support including overviews of particular sectors, market analysis and assessments of the export prospects for a product or service, advice on market entry strategies and identifying potential business contacts and partners. “Our customers often tell us that OMIS has opened doors and created new and exciting opportunities for them,” said Jeff Wilson, director of UK Trade & Investment in Dubai. Mr Wilson added that the UAE is now the UK’s 13th largest export market worldwide and that our close links with both the commercial and public sectors enable us to provide fast and authoritative advice to every type of UK business. Through OMIS, UKTI can also help organise publicity and public relations, bespoke receptions, meetings and seminars and assist UK exporters to introduce their products or services. “I use OMIS frequently. It has saved me countless hours and reduced costs,” said David Knowles, Managing Director PRS Selection Ltd. OMIS is a chargeable service, open to eligible UK companies registered and trading in the UK. If you are a UK company based in the region and wish to explore opportunities in your current or neighbouring countries, you can now commission OMIS directly through the MENA Regional Hub based at the British Embassy, Dubai.
Links Marketing targets UAE The Links Group recently launched Links Marketing, a joint venture between the group and Collaborate Marketing. Links Marketing aims to develop marketing strategies and communication plans including corporate and product initiatives on behalf of clients in the UAE and Qatar. John Martin St Valery, Chief Executive Officer, The Links Group, said it is firmly established as a company formation specialist, but plans to strengthen its core business by offering additional “added value strategic services.” Links Marketing’s services target clients who do not have in-house marketing expertise or require assistance building their brands regionally.
Healthy outlook for All Details All Details Middle East has been appointed sole PR agent regionally for the 79-room Breidenbacher Hof boutique hotel in Dusseldorf. The hotel is directly linked to two in-house clinics, the newly opened private hospital ‘Pearl of Aesthetic’ offers aesthetic and plastic surgery, as well as the well-established private practice ‘Preventicum’ which is a centre for cardiovascular medical science and preventive medicine.
Wates awarded Abu Dhabi school contract Wates was granted the contract to build the Dhs65million extension of The British School Al Khubairat in a joint venture with its UAE construction partner Al Fara’a General Contracting. The school was established in January 1968 on land donated by the late founder of the UAE, HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and became formally established by Amiri decree in May 1971. It moved to new purpose-built facilities at its current location on Airport Road in 1980. Today, it is one of the leading schools in Abu Dhabi and teaches a British Curriculum to about 1,800 pupils aged three to 18, including a secondary school with 850 students and a Sixth Form of over 200. Students follow GCSE and A Level curriculums and access top universities in the UK and around the world. The 12,000 square metre extension will include new sports facilities, a new swimming pool, state-of-the-art teaching space and other important facilities.
City & Guilds partners with Dubai Police Academy City & Guilds has teamed with Dubai Police Academy to offer complete training and educational opportunities to security learners across the UAE. The agreement was signed by HH Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Association; HE General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Commander of the Dubai Police; and Chris Jones, Director General of City & Guilds at the Dubai Police Academy. This partnership offers learners extensive training courses and grant qualifications in the UAE and internationally. The signing ceremony was attended by chief dignitaries and officials including Major General Professor Mohammed Ahmed Bin Fahad, Director of the Dubai Police Academy, HE Guy Warrington, and Amanda Kelleher, City & Guilds Hub Manager, Middle East and South Asia.
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NEWS
Accountants address challenges
From left to right: Amanda Line, Eddie O’Sullivan, Dr Hussam Talhuni and Nizar Sardast.
CHALLENGE: STUDENT SUPPORT The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has launched a network for students in the Middle East which will support budding chartered accountants with events and exam support. ICAEW has around 800 members holding the internationally recognised Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ACA) qualification and approximately 300 students in the Middle East. The student network aims to offer support to those studying to gain the qualification through technical seminars, practical examination advice and social networking. Amanda Line, ICAEW Middle East Regional Director, said: “Studying for the ACA qualification is very demanding. It requires students to be completely focused and determined. But it is worth all the sweat and stress, as it is a great door opener to the world of finance and the beginning of an exciting career. Those studying for the ACA and the Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (CFAB), or our Corporate Finance qualification, should ensure they make the most of the network as engaging with peers is a quick way to get ahead of the game.” Students in the Middle East are geographically diverse, so video conferencing and other online solutions allow them to share their experiences and discuss relevant topics. Nauman Asif, who is in his final studies towards becoming an ACA and works for www.bayt.com, will chair the Middle East student network. He has already been supporting students in the region for three years and with the formation of the network, his support role will become official. Asif said he was delighted that the formation of the Middle East student network is now complete. “I feel a great honour in becoming the inaugural Chairman and I
22 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
am very much looking forward to working with my fellow students and ICAEW Middle East staff in making this a great success.” ICAEW also has an online student community to provide a place where students across the world can meet to discuss topics relevant to their studies. It provides an easy way for students to keep current with their local student network and the profession, as well as access the latest information from ICAEW. CHALLENGE: INSOLVENCY LAWS With the growing urgency for a more effective insolvency regime in the UAE, law reform is a top priority. ICAEW, in collaboration with the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC), published a White Paper, Entitled Inspiring Business Confidence in the UAE Through Effective Insolvency Systems. It summarises some of the challenges linked to the current insolvency laws in the UAE and highlights how confidence depends on clear and transparent rules for dealing with businesses in trouble. The report also outlines strategic recommendations. Key recommendations: t Reform insolvency law to create a transparent insolvency system to protect the rights of creditors and reduce risks for investors in order to inspire business confidence in the region. The focus should be on business rescue, allowing viable businesses to restructure. t Address the knowledge gap through programmes to increase expertise on all aspects of insolvency and business rescue, ensuring success of the reformed law. t Form a body of ‘Licensed Insolvency Practitioners’ to ensure a consistent approach to insolvency by qualified, monitored and licensed practitioners to instil confidence in the process.
World’s first circular office building Designed to symbolise unity, stability and rationality, the worlds first circular office building is the new home of the Aldar Properties headquarters. Located at the water’s edge of Al Raha Beach just off Abu Dhabi Island, the building was named the Best Futuristic Design by The Building Exchange Conference held in Valencia, Spain. MZ & Partners of Doha, Qatar, designers of the Laptop stadium and Zig Zag Towers, were the architects and Arup, whose projects include the Pinnacle in London, Sydney Opera House and Beijing Olympic Stadium, were the consulting engineers. Fagerhult Lighting provided striking illumination that emphasises the unconventional shape, while reducing energy consumption. The 110-metre tall building is wrapped in a diagonal steel grid that largely eliminates the need for internal columns and was developed in accordance to LEED rating system, utilising efficient cooling, lighting and water systems. Additionally, it is built with recyclable materials including glass, steel and concrete with prefabricated elements incorporated to reduce waste.
t Ensure compliance with the reformed law through a transparent regulatory process that would include a national registry accessible to the public. t Establish an assembly of professionals across disciplines such as law and accountancy to provide the Government with support in reviewing laws, regulations and practices. Line said it is widely acknowledged that the current insolvency regime needs improving to offer better support and guidance to businesses experiencing problems. “The economic crisis has made this an issue requiring urgent attention for the UAE to remain an attractive place to both businesses and investors,” she said. ”If dealt with early, a business in trouble can often be helped or restructured, safeguarding creditors’ interests and employees’ jobs. However, more needs to be done to increase the level of knowledge and understanding about insolvency, and especially restructuring, in the UAE.” Dr Hussam Talhuni, Director of DIAC, said the success of any insolvency regime depends on the understanding and expertise among stakeholders, insolvency practitioners, regulators, government departments and judicial courts on all aspects of business rescue. “We are keen to support the Government in addressing the current knowledge gap in this area.”
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Construction and property consultancy, Gardiner & Theobald (G&T), has opened a new head office in Abu Dhabi and appointed a new director to its management team. “At the end of last year we realised that if the firm’s growth continued in line with our expectations, we would need more office space in our central office in Abu Dhabi.” says Jack Higgins, Regional Managing Director, G & T Middle East. G&T has been involved in some of the region’s most prestigious projects, including ADNEC, Saadiyat Island, Etihad Terminal Building and ALOFT Hotel, and is also currently developing several prominent projects across the Middle East, including the Sheikh Saud Tower in Qatar and the Wave in Muscat, Oman. Chris Gunn, who was recently appointed to the Management Team, ‘adds essential skills, particularly in connection with project sustainability,” Higgins adds. Gardiner & Theobald International has 30 years experience in the Middle East and has offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha as well as associations with locally based companies in Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Dubai double for Chelsea Group Chelsea Group, a member of UKbased Crimson Hotels, has opened a new four-star hotel in Al Barsha behind Mall of the Emirates in Dubai and plans to build a 750room hotel near Al Maktoum Airport in Jebel Ali. “We have already acquired the land and will invest Dhs500m in the new property,” said Shiraz Kassam, managing director and CEO of the Chelsea Group. Construction is set to begin soon. 24 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
First Hilton hotel in Al Khobar Hilton Worldwide has signed a management agreement with Jenan Real Estate Company to introduce the first Hilton branded property in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia. The 400-room Hilton Al Khobar Hotel & Residence is scheduled to open towards the end of 2013. Jean-Paul Herzog, President, Hilton Worldwide, Middle East & Africa said, “KSA is one of our key development markets, and with this signing we have achieved our goal of a Hilton branded presence in all the country’s key cities. “The Eastern Province’s multi-faceted tourism industry is the perfect destination for our core Hilton brand. With a combined hotel and residence product, we will be able to cater to the business, corporate, meetings and leisure demands of this city.” Hilton Worldwide is partnering with Jenan Real Estate Company, experts in real estate and community development in the Eastern Province, on the new-build 400-room hotel and residence. The new property will be part of an upscale mixed-use development with a range of facilities including a hotel, residential towers, a retail mall and an office building. Construction is scheduled to start in March 2011.
Trowers & Hamlins opens new office Trowers & Hamlins, in association with Feras Al Shawaf Law Office, is to open its second office in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The new Jeddah office, based in the heart of the business district in Jeddah Square, covers the full range of commercial law work and will operate closely with the rest of the firm’s offices in Saudi Arabia, the wider Middle East and London.
Royal College of Surgeons
NEWS
Gardiner & Theobald open Abu Dhabi office
First Dubai meet for DHA and Royal College of Surgeons The first surgery conference involving Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Royal College of Surgeons of England was recently held at DHA headquarters in Dubai. More than 80 members of the college visited the city and conducted two days of workshops to further enhance the surgical skills of 60 doctors, most of whom work at DHA hospitals.
Spatial Composite Solutions expands
Alhosn University partners with Salford University Abu Dhabi-based Alhosn University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Salford in Manchester for joint research activities, teaching and developing new degrees and training programmes, exchanging visits by staff, teachers and students, the exchange of relevant information and co-developing student progression pathways. The agreement will be in effect for three years, with specific details to be mutually developed on a project by project basis. Prof Abdul Rahim Sabouni, CEO & Vice Chancellor, Alhosn University, said Salford University has been instrumental in developing and promoting university education through its research and development activities and exceptional academic programmes.
Projects for Drake & Scull Drake & Scull International (DSI) has been awarded the contract for the complete mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works for major projects in Abu Dhabi worth a combined value of Dhs240 million. DSI will begin work immediately on the Saadiyat Beach Apartments project located on Saadiyat Island. The series of beachside apartments, which are being developed by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), will provide modern living spaces in private gated communities, offering residents a variety of options. The project is in close proximity to the Cultural District and Saadiyat Beach Marina Village, offering residents convenient shopping and entertainment amenities.
Spatial Composite Solutions, a manufacturer of simulators for cabin crew training, has recently inaugurated a new 27,000 square foot purpose-built composites manufacturing plant to house its growing aviation division. The company is currently building two emergency evacuation trainers for Oman Air, which are due for installation later this year. Following successful crew training installations totaling Dhs36.7 million at Emirates and Etihad, Spatial sees opportunities further afield but remains focused on the aviation sector in the Gulf region as its first priority. “The order books at Airbus and Boeing are being driven by orders from the Middle East just now and the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar will all have requirements for additional training devices as they take delivery of new aircraft in the coming years,” says Joseph McKeever, Spatial’s CEO. A prototyping service for complex shapes requiring precession engineering such as domes for mosques, spiral staircases and spheres, will now be offered by the company. Spatial’s recent theming project at Kidzania in Dubai Mall introduces new areas for growth. “Walt Disney coined the phrase ‘imagineering’,” McKeever said. “I really like this description as it brings together art, imagination and engineering to create something out of the ordinary.”
MEDIA
Outward bound British agencies queue up for Saudi business. BRITISH MEDIA AGENCY PHD has announced the expansion of its Saudi Arabia operation with the opening of an office in Riyadh. The move was a response by the company to the Saudi capital’s rapid rise to prominence in terms of media spending. PHD’s parent company, Omnicom Media Group (OMG), posits that the expansion reflects not only Saudi Arabia’s political status but also its financial and economic role. The agency will support regional and global accounts as well as seek to grow its portfolio of Saudi-based clients. PHD already manages several accounts in the kingdom, including Bank AlBilad, Mazola Oil and Domino’s Pizza, as well as regional ones such as Arla Foods. The new office will be headed by Jean Jabbour. “An office opening is a sign of optimism and confidence at any time but particularly now, as the region begins its recovery after the global downturn,” said Elie Khouri, OMG’s CEO for the Middle East and North Africa. “Our operations in the kingdom proved their mettle in 2009, managing to maintain their lead and business performance overall, in spite of challenging conditions. This has confirmed our optimism and ambition for the kingdom, making the launch of PHD there not only a move for the future but also for the present.” Choucrallah Abou Samra, OMG’s managing director for Saudi Arabia, added: “We know that Saudi Arabia is turning a corner and is now ready for something different to better communicate with today’s consumers and manage the challenges of tomorrow. PHD is the fresh approach advertisers are looking for.” PHD launched in the UK in 1990, was acquired by Omnicom in 1999 and entered the Middle East with an office in Dubai in 2005. It has 70 offices and over 2,000 staff globally. UK MEDIA AGENCY MINDSHARE has won Renault’s media planning and buying account in Saudi Arabia following a competitive pitch. The agency’s Riyadh operation will take over the French car manufacturer’s media business in the kingdom with immediate effect. Mindshare will work with Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, Renault’s partners in Saudi Arabia and the sole distributors in the country. The account will cover all media sectors, including digital, and is part of an effort by Renault to increase its market share in Saudi’s competitive automotive market. Mazen Fakhoury, managing director of Mindshare Saudi Arabia, said: “We’re delighted with the win and it reflects the new Mindshare business model that is business solutions-centric and the talent we’ve assembled in Saudi Arabia. This win helps us consolidate our position with a top-tier client portfolio. We’re really building strategic business partnerships and relationships, rather than going for the short-term hit-and-run.” Mindshare is 26 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Work by Lambie-Nairn for Qatar’s 2022 bid for the FIFA World Cup.
part of British mega-network WPP’s GroupM, along with Maxus, MediaCom and Mediaedge. LONDON’S INTERNATIONAL BRANDING AND design consultancy, Lambie-Nairn, has created the new identity system for Qatar’s 2022 bid for the Fifa World Cup. The identity includes a suite of football illustrations, photographs, bespoke calligraphy and newly commissioned font. Christian Schroeder, CEO of Lambie-Nairn, said: “In order to generate the support required for a successful bid, the brand needs to communicate unique benefits on a national Qatari level to generate support, on a regional level to secure the backing of its neighbours in an underdeveloped football region, and perhaps most importantly, provide Fifa with the opportunity of continuing its strategy of bringing the World Cup to the world.” Lambie-Nairn opened an office in Abu Dhabi during the first half of last year. Based in the UK and part of WPP, it is famous for developing some of the UK’s most iconic TV idents, including Channel 4’s launch logo, BBC2 and the current graphics of BBC News.
Why did some UAE companies sink and others succeed during the recession and what can we all learn from their experiences? BUSINESS SELF-HELP BOOKS are widespread, but what makes Sink or Swim? refreshingly different is that it’s specifically written with the UAE business community in mind, featuring six true stories in which managers impart their experiences during the downturn, as well as separate sections on ‘number crunching’ and ‘health check’ advice, which contain valuable management and money tips. Anyone with an interest in business locally will like this easyto-read, 112-page analysis, published by Motivate Publishing, and written by financial journalist Richard Dean, in conjunction with Gulf Finance’s Steve Williams, who is contributing editor. The title’s sub-heading – ‘How to stay afloat in tough economic times: Business lessons from the UAE’ – shows the book’s central motivation is educational rather than schadenfreude, but the inherent nature of the subject matter means there’s no shortage of arresting, say-it-how-it-is passages. Dean emphasises from the outset that economic bubbles are nothing new, starting with the Dutch Tulip Mania of 1637 through to the dot.com rally at the turn of the millennium – making you wonder why entrepreneurs ignored the clear
warnings in Dubai between 2004-2008. But that’s probably a separate book in itself, and not the focus here, which looks at the micro rather than macro picture. The obvious starting point, given its pivotal role during the boom years, is the property sector, and Dean shines the spotlight on Better Homes, interviewing founder Linda Mahoney and son Ryan. Property returns as the focus in chapter three and provides a riveting climax, documenting salesman salesman Mike Revson who arrived in Dubai in 2004, and went from rags-to-riches-to-rags in tandem with the peaks and troughs of the market. Ebullient Mishal Kanoo from The Kanoo Group recalls how speculators inflated the market and short-termism ruled the roost. “Everybody is told this – keep money aside for a rainy day. It works well for individuals and even better for companies.”
BOOK REVIEW
Strategic strokes
ENVIRONMENT
Eco focus
Guy Warrington.
‘Green’ measures are underway at the British Embassy. AS OUR THERMOMETERS HIT the mid 40s – and even higher elsewhere in the Gulf – none of us in Dubai needs warning of the consequences of the even higher temperatures that will result from global warming. All of us already, at home and in our businesses, have no choice but to spend significant sums of money on air conditioning and those costs will only increase as temperatures increase. Computer projections suggest that parts of the UAE could well be flooded in the future as sea levels rise around the world as a result of global warming. The authorities in Dubai and elsewhere in the UAE have, of course, made a good start in addressing the challenges of climate change. The Dubai Metro – operated by the UK’s Serco – is perhaps the most visible initiative to reduce our collective impact on the environment, with many thousands of people abandoning their cars every day for a greener way to get to and from work. Dubai has also introduced a green building code and, amongst other initiatives, there are plans to do away with plastic bags in the emirate (anyone wishing to get ahead of the game, can collect a re-usable hessian bag from the Embassy’s consular section!). Down the road in Abu Dhabi, the Masdar Initiative, the world’s first zero carbon, zero waste city, was launched in April 2006. UK partners include BP, Rolls Royce, Shell, International Power, Imperial College and Foster & Partners. Abu Dhabi also hosts IRENA, the International Renewable Energy Agency, an intergovernmental organisation for promoting the adoption of renewable energy worldwide. Those of you who’ve visited the British Embassy in Dubai recently will have noticed that we too have taken a series of initiatives to ‘green’ the Embassy. We have introduced recycling points for cardboard and paper, cans and plastics. Our project to reduce the amount of water we use to maintain our grounds (or “xeriscaping” as the experts call it) by planting more native species and reducing grass areas is now almost complete and we have installed environmentally friendly hand-dryers in bathrooms and individual water and electricity meters so that we can monitor consumption more effectively and reduce it. We use our video conferencing facilities daily, with colleagues in Abu Dhabi and elsewhere in the Gulf and with London, to reduce the need to hop in a car or plane. And we’re working with staff to get them to change the way they behave each and every day by recycling, remembering to turn off lights and photocopying/printing less. This will help us to meet our commitment, shared by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as a whole and by many other Embassies around the world, to reduce our carbon footprint by 10 per cent this year as part of the 10:10 initiative. 28 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Such initiatives are part of wider Government efforts to face up to the challenges of climate change and contribute to global efforts agreed at the Copenhagen summit several months ago. The UK was the first country in the world to introduce a Climate Change Act, providing a legally binding, long-term framework for tackling climate change. The Act requires us to cut the UK’s emissions by at least a third by 2020 and by at least 80 per cent by 2050 as well as adapt to climate change and commit to a low carbon economy. Such cuts will not be easy, nor will they be painless. But they are essential if we and others are to prevent global temperatures rising more than 2˚C – that’s the target the world’s leaders went to Copenhagen to get. The dangers of an increase in global temperatures of beyond 2˚C are stark: to our standard of living, to every economy and to the ecosystems of our planet. The time to act is now if we are to save our planet for future generations. Guy Warrington, British Consul General.
SHARE GREEN KNOWLEDGE We would like to hear from BBG members about the initiatives that they have taken to make their operations more environmentally friendly. Contact Martin Day at the Embassy who chairs our Greening Committee (Martin.Day2@fco.gov.uk) to tell us about what you have done and any ideas you have. If there is sufficient interest from members, we will explore the scope with the BBG for creating an environmental forum. That could look at sharing best practice amongst members and also discuss how best to take advantage of the business opportunities that will undoubtedly increase as Dubai looks to adapt to the challenges of global warming and climate change. We look forward to hearing from you.
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Scottish links
30 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Adam Elder / Scottish Parliament
SCOTLAND
The Garden Lobby at the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh. Designed by the late Catalan architect Enric Miralles/RMJM.
Scottish Development International has opened an office within the British Embassy in Dubai to create win-win opportunities.
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 31
SCOTLAND
‘‘I think there are real opportunities, and the investment that Scotland has put into its SMEs in recent years to innovate is paying off.”
VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint
S
cotland’s relationship with England may remain politically sensitive, given that the recently elected Conservative-Liberal government could only muster 12 seats north of the border between them, but in the world of international business, it’s a different story. Across a range of sectors – energy, education, construction, business services, food & beverage – the resounding message from Scotland Development International (SDI) is the country is ‘open for business’ and the organisation, jointly operated by Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Government, is keen to foster new two-way investment opportunities and business alliances with Gulf-based companies. As part of its renewed commercial push, SDI recently opened an office within the British Embassy in Dubai, initially manned by two staff, although they will have support from colleagues in Scotland and 27 staff working in SDI’s EMEA team. The location is felicitous, since SDI aims to leverage on the UK Trade & Investment, which is describes as a very important working partner. Anne MacColl, SDI EMEA Operations Director, said: “Over the last year-and-a-half, we have piloted the idea of having an office here covering the UAE and key Gulf markets. It’s very much a decision based on demand from Scottish companies who have always done business in this market, and we’ve seen that business grow and develop quite significantly over the last few years.” Indeed, the value of exports from Scotland to the UAE rose from GBP210 million (Dhs1.175 billion) in 2004 to approximately GBP360 million (Dhs2 billion) in 2008, increasing the UAE’s ranking among Scottish export territories from 20th to 13th
32 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
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Se sec en to Top to bottom: The Glasgow Science Centre is part of the on-going redevelopment of Pacific Quay, an area which was once a cargo port; The Clyde Auditorium, or ‘Armadillo,’ is a focal point of the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, Scotland’s largest exhibition centre.
place, and as an export destination, the UAE has risen from 15th spot in 2007 to 13th in 2008. SDI’s Middle East Regional Manager Colin Crabbe feels that creating a local presence in Dubai will help form a gateway for Scottish companies looking to explore further opportunities in the region. “This relationship works both ways,” he says. “Scotland has seen significant inward investment from the Gulf region in recent years, due to the significant opportunities it offers in key sectors such as renewable energy, oil and gas, financial services, construction, education and training, and we see our presence in the Gulf region as a fantastic opportunity to grow the long-standing relationships already in place.”
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SCOTLAND
SCOTLAND SUMMER SCHOOL GROOMS FUTURE LEADERS
Top to bottom: Colin Crabbe; The Jumeirah Glasgow Hotel.
Crabbe says while commercial opportunities have tended to evolve around oil and gas industries, nowadays it’s a broader mix, and he cited Gulfood and Arab Health exhibitions as ones which were productive for Scottish companies. “What I feel is that companies that are able to solve problems find opportunities here, irrespective of the sector, whether it’s oil and gas, or business services – I think there’s real opportunities, and the investment that Scotland has put into its SMEs in recent years to innovate is paying off.” He added that Scotland’s ‘USP’ hinges on its academic background, and it’s a sector gaining favour internationally, with Herriot-Watt University opening up at Dubai International Academic City, for example. “There’s several educational institutions looking at the region, we’re very keen to encourage universities and colleges, I’m hoping there will be opportunities for our colleges as well as universities,” said Crabbe. 34 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
The British University in Dubai (BUiD) recently hosted the seventh Al-Maktoum Institute Scotland Summer School for female university students from the UAE and Qatar. The summer school allows students to immerse themselves in a stimulating cultural exchange programme and gives students a global awareness within the multicultural ethos of the Al-Maktoum Institute, Dundee, with the aim of preparing women to be future leaders. “We have had great success with our inter-cultural student visits from UAE and Qatar to Scotland, with the aim of educating the women of our country about other cultures, while preparing them for leadership and global roles within the workplace,” said HE Mirza Al Sayegh, Deputy Chairman of the BUiD University Council, Director of the Office of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance and Industry. While Scotand has a strong international identity, renowned for its whisky, golf and natural beauty, MacColl says the challenge is to be “very clever” about playing up its economic and industrial strengths. “The sub-sea oil and gas sector is an obvious one, but there’s renewable energies which are becoming very important right now,” she said. “There’s been a lot of offshore sites which have been identified and the Scottish government is keen to develop this sector, so we need to look at energy in terms of how we can trade our skills out from Scotland into markets like the UAE, and into Scotland through joint ventures.” She is keen to stress that the Scottish economy is now out of recession, albeit growing at 0.4 per cent, and alongside renewables, will be targeting sectors such as tourism infrastructure to companies in the Gulf. UAE investments in Scotland include Turnberry Golf Course which was bought by Dubai’s Leisurecorp, the Jumeirah Group’s development of a five-star hotel in Glasgow city centre, and the growth of TAQA, the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, in Aberdeen. The region has around 25 ‘GlobalScots’, part of a 600-strong international network, who can provide strategic counsel and regional expertise, who include Gordon Boyle, CEO of BMMI in Bahrain, Guy Crawford, Chief Executive of the Jumeirah Group and Derek Shepherd, Managing Director of Aggrekko. Dubai’s relationship with Scotland is firmly established – the Maktoum family even has its own official family tartan. “The most important thing is we’re open for business, and open to talking to organisations that see a value proposition in Scotland that links with what they’re trying to do in terms of their own business,” said MacColl. “If we can make that match in some of the key sectors, then it’s a win-win situation.”
INTERVIEW
Dubai’s enterprising spirit is carrying it through the financial crisis
Leah Hyslop - Telegraph.co.uk © Telegraph Media Group Limited
Mark Beer, Chairman of the British Business Group, on why British expatriates in Dubai are in the right place. BY LEAH HYSLOP
IN NOVEMBER 2009, DUBAI investment company Dubai World made an announcement which sent waves of fear through the business world. The conglomerate behind Dubai’s extraordinary rise had proposed a delay in the repayment of its debts. For onlookers, the news – hot on the heels of a staggering drop in property prices – suggested that the feverish expansion of the past few decades had finally caught up with the emirate. Fast forward seven months, however, and it looks like Dubai’s economy may have started to (slowly) pick up. On 20 May Dubai World reached an agreement to restructure its billions of dollars of debt, whilst according to a 2010 Citigroup report, Dubai’s GDP is predicted to grow by 4.7 per cent in 2011. Mark Beer, the CEO of one of the Gulfís most active business groups, the British Business group (BBG), is optimistic. “If you imagine all the countries of the world in a race, the best way to think of the financial crisis is as an earthquake. Some countries were running and some were walking when the earthquake happens. The countries which were walking steadily felt the earthquake but kept on walking. The countries that 36 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
were sprinting were the ones which tripped over,” he says. “Dubai, which has been moving at such an accelerated rate of expansion, was undoubtedly a sprinter, and it fell. Now we hope that same energy that made it a sprinter to begin with will help it start running again. “What we’re seeing amongst the British businessmen who belong to the BBG is an enthusiasm to pull together and to get the economy back off the ground.” The BBG was set up in 1987 to encourage the development of British business in the UAE, and undertakes a wide range of activities, from networking events to focus groups for some of the 70,000 Britons estimated to live and work in Dubai. Mr Beer says when the financial crisis happened, he was unsure about the BBG’s future, and predicted a 15 to 20 per cent drop in subscriptions – “as after all, business clubs membership is exactly the type of discretionary spend that companies drop during recessions.” To his surprise subscriptions shot up and the club now has 1,600 members, making it, he claims, the biggest British
business group in the world. “I think what happened is that people were looking for support. When the money is rolling in people don’t think they need tips, events, or courses and what is more, they don’t have the time. It’s during the hard periods that groups like ours become useful.” Mr Beer is confident for Dubai’s future, and keen to emphasise the positive aspects of its recent fall from grace for British businessmen: “I think the economic tsunami cleansed Dubai in many ways. I know it sounds callous when so many Britons lost their jobs, but there have been real improvements in the way things are run. “I think from now on we’ll be seeing growth which is steadier and less reckless
– not just about building the biggest, the fastest and the most impressive.” There are other advantages too, apparently. “Before the crisis, accommodating staff was very expensive here, with property costing more per square foot than in London’s West End. Now it’s more reasonable, which makes Dubai a much more competitive place to do business in.” Mr Beer speaks as if the crisis is already over, but as recently as May, headlines were made when Dubai Capital International, Dubai’s most powerful private equity company, delayed repayments on a $1.25 billion (£860 million) loan. And according to blogger Annabel Kantaria, five Brits a day in Dubai face jail for financial crimes such as bouncing a cheque, or defaulting on a mortgage payment. On being asked about the ongoing problems, Mr Beer – who has a fondness for similes – pauses, and says slowly: “If you imagine the world as a book, Dubai is the spine. Whatever has happened, we are still the place from which you can trade with the left pages of the West, and the right pages of the East. Compared to other countries, our debts are not enormous. These incidents are happening. But they are isolated incidents.” So did the British press exaggerate the crisis? “My polite response is that they took events and blew them out of proportion, making a story out of them. People have to make their own interpretations, but in my opinion, a lot of journalists just wanted to portray a full-blown crisis.” A criticism often levelled at Dubai is its infamous lack of transparency in its financial dealings, but Mr Beer is equally dismissive of such claims: “The Dubai government does publish some statistics – we report to the World Bank – and I personally think people who say these things maybe just aren’t looking. Of course, the official language for reports is Arabic, but they can be found.” He admits that difficulties will be in store for British expats in the future, but adds that they will be the same difficulties faced by people the world over. “The biggest problem in Dubai for Britons, and worldwide, will be access to
Mark Beer.
capital for those that are looking to set up businesses – the banks aren’t lending freely. But we hope in time this will change. Dubai is, and always has been an enterprising, entrepreneurial place. That spirit will carry it through the crisis.” When asked if his efforts to entice businessmen are influenced by the amount of expats who took the first plane home during the crisis, Mr Beer disagrees: “The papers ran stories about expats leaving, but I think that was a certain type of expat – the ones that came over here to make as much money as they could in the shortest amount of time, and leave. The expats that came over here to build a life with their families are still here. It’s been difficult for some, but they’re still in a great place to do business. “Dubai tripped over and it was tough, but now the emirate is picking itself up, dusting off its knees, and going on.” Dubai’s bruises, however, are likely to linger for a little while yet. This article first appeared on the expatriate section of the Daily Telegraph, telegraph.co.uk. BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 37
FINANCE
Banking on the UAE Economies to scale, a stronger operating platform and a wider distribution network will result when ADCB buys RBS’ UAE retail banking.
ABU DHABI COMMERCIAL BANK has signed an agreement to acquire the retail banking business of The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) in the UAE, subject to UAE Central Bank approval. This would be the first acquisition of an international bank’s retail banking franchise in the UAE by a local bank and provides ADCB with an opportunity to increase its profile in consumer banking. ADCB claims the deal “would provide tremendous opportunities for the Bank, doubling ADCB’s credit card business and significantly improving its market share to become one of the top three credit card players in the country.” The Bank remains positive about the long-term growth potential of the UAE and believes that this acquisition will offer a solid platform for future growth. As at March 31, ADCB had 49 branches, 175 ATMs and over 340,000 retail customers and the new deal will allow it to leverage on RBS’s established local retail banking presence with over 250,000 customers, 51 ATMs, three new branches and two customer service centres, along with a processing and a modern call centre facility based in Dubai. The combined business would benefit from delivering economies of scale, a stronger operating platform and a wider distribution network. ADCB, with a total capital ratio of 17.5 per cent as at 31 March, would finance the acquisition from internal cash resources. The total cash consideration is equal to the net asset value of UAE RBS retail banking business at completion plus Dhs168.8 million. As at 31 December, 2009, the net assets of the business were approximately Dhs198.1 million. For ADCB, this amounted to approximately 1.59 multiples of book value. Arup Mukhopadhyay, Head of Consumer Banking at ADCB, said: “The RBS retail business in the UAE is an ideal strategic fit for the consumer banking business of ADCB, which has witnessed dramatic growth over the last five years and remained resilient through the economic downturn. This acquisition adds 38 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
significantly to the two strategic growth engines of ADCB’s consumer banking franchise – credit cards and the mass affluent wealth management business – and the combined entity provides a perfect platform for building a consumer banking powerhouse in the UAE.” Ala’a Eraiqat, CEO and a member of the Board of ADCB, hailed the tie-up as an historic occasion in the UAE banking industry with a local bank acquiring the business of a multi-national bank for the first time. “This position is in line with our key strategic objective of strengthening our core business and market position in the UAE and I am confident this acquisition will deliver long-term value to all ADCB stakeholders.” In a statement, RBS said the transaction, subject to regulatory approval, is expected to complete in the fourth quarter and represents “further progress against RBS’ five-year strategic plan.” “RBS will continue to have an extensive reach in the Middle East and Africa with our Global Banking & Markets (GBM) and Global Transaction Services (GTS) businesses, alongside our wealth management business RBS Coutts, and is committed to maintaining a presence in the UAE going forward.”
INSPECTORATE UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP Inspectorate is looking forward to accelerating its development after Bureau Veritas signed an agreement with UK-based Inspicio to buy the company, a subsidiary of Inspicio, for Dhs2.5 billion. The deal is expected to be completed by the third quarter. Inspicio is majority owned by private equity firm 3i and funds managed by 3i. Neil Hopkins, CEO of Inspectorate, said: “We are happy to join forces with a global leader and a reference within the industry. Bureau Veritas is the ideal partner for accelerating our development thanks to the strength of its network and its complementary technical expertise.” The acquisition of Inspectorate is also decisive step forward for Bureau Veritas, making it one of the world leaders in commodities testing and inspection. This acquisition doubles the size of its laboratory network (330 sites) and the group will employ 46,000 people in more than 140 countries, with revenues of around Dhs13.44 billion. Inspectorate ranks among the global leaders in commodities testing and inspection.
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istock
FINANCE
Budget overhaul
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The key points emerging from the first budget of the new UK coalition government puts public spending on a strict diet.
THIS WAS THE MUCH-HERALDED emergency budget of the new coalition government, and everyone knew it would be tough. It was the second budget in four months, following the outgoing Labour administration’s budget in March – which itself introduced significant measures, such as introducing the 50 pence rate of income tax for those earning over £150,000 (Dhs829,500). ‘Britain is back in business’ was the key message from Chancellor George Osborne and for businesses the lower rate of corporation tax, employment tax reductions for new businesses and the doubling of the lifetime limit for entrepreneurs relief from £2 million (Dhs11 million) to £5 million (Dhs27.6 million) are all welcome developments. But this was a cutting budget, illustrated by the 77 per cent cuts outlined in public services, compared with 23 per cent tax rises. Few would doubt that the public sector has become bloated, and grown enormously in the last 10 years, but it remains to be seen whether the private sector now pulls in and takes up the load. Such is the nature of coalition government that both 40 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Conservatives and Liberal Democrats had to compromise on pre-election pledges. Acting Labour leader Harriet Harman said “Twenty two Liberal Democrat ministerial jobs have been bought at the cost of tens of thousands of other people’s,” in one of the more memorable quotes. One of the key developments will see the Financial Services Authority (FSA) disbanded – that’s huge. The new government will break it up and transfer its powers broadly to the Bank of England, creating a new body, the Consumer Protection and Markets Authority. Mervyn King must be sitting pretty about that – his powers have multiplied. The new body effectively confirms the previous tripartite system has utterly failed to control the increase in debt, which is at the heart of the crisis. The raising of VAT to 20 per cent from next January was a massive move and will generate revenues of around £10 billion (Dhs55.3 billion). It’s a voluntary tax – you can choose what you want to spend – but the benefits are immediate. The other big story was the bank levy based on banks balance sheets (initially proposed to be 0.07 per cent).
BUDGET AT A GLANCE CAPITAL GAINS TAX Capital Gains Tax remains at 18 per cent for low and middle-income savers but from midnight on 22 June, 2010 taxpayers on higher rates will pay 28 per cent. The 10 per cent CGT rate for entrepreneurs, which currently applies to the first £2 million qualifying gains will be extended to the first £5 million. For expatriates who have been non-resident for five tax years, and who are considering repatriation to the UK, it is all the more important to consider disposing of assets that are pregnant with gain before resuming UK-resident status.
CORPORATION TAX Corporation Tax will be cut next year to 27 per cent, and by one per cent annually for the next three years, taking it down to 24 per cent. The small companies’ tax rate will be cut to 20 per cent. The aim of the corporation tax reforms is to “help rebalance the economy away from household debt and government consumption.’’
AVOIDANCE
Sandy Shipton.
The Government also announced that it intends to consult on the introduction of a general antiavoidance rule. The coalition agreement suggested that this would relate only to business tax but the Budget suggests this would be more wide-ranging and apply to all taxes.
VAT On January 4 next year, the main rate of VAT will rise from 17.5 per cent to 20 per cent and zerorated items will remain exempt from VAT over the course of this Parliament.
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The Climate Change levy is a political sop and makes sense, as everyone’s going to say polluters should pay more. There was little in the budget to directly effect expats, at least in the short-term. Expats aren’t subjected to capital gains tax, but the issue of non-domiciled persons is creeping higher up the agenda. There was no direct reference in the budget to an expat tax but it remains on the back burner. I think the sabre will continue to be rattled, especially as all Eurozone countries are desperately seeking revenues and introducing a levy or tax would be a soft touch as most expats are wealthy and don’t vote. Non-doms were bashed by the last administration and the Conservative Government, during their election campaign, said they were keen to make more in-roads, but the provisions that have been introduced are hasty and fumbled in my opinion. There’s no doubt that destinations such as Switzerland and Dubai continue to benefit from Britain’s tax regime. We now have 325 institutions at DIFC – and what the FSA failed to do, the DFSA has achieved, with one single regulatory authority where everything is under one roof.
In summary, I think the number of taxes introduced by the previous administration called for a simplification of the system, and what has been laid out is a step in the right direction. It’s still early days for the new government and people will give them a chance. It had to be a tough budget as there are 10 years to pull back, and I think these types of tough budgets will be here for the next two to three years, without question. Sandy Shipton, Chairman, BBG Focus Group for Finance and Banking.
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 41
Corbis
LEGAL
Above the table
New UK Bribery Legislation has wide-ranging consequences for Middle Eastern companies. THE NEW BRIBERY ACT 2010 introduces a consolidated set of bribery and corruption offences, which includes a new corporate offence of failing to prevent bribery. All businesses will need to be aware of its effect. The Act applies to all companies and individuals conducting business with the UK, as well as individuals and companies based in the UK itself. Offences may be committed where an act is committed outside of the UK that would have constituted an offence had it been committed in the UK. A company may also be liable if an associated person commits an offence while performing services on behalf of the company in a foreign jurisdiction. An “associated person” could include, for example, a foreign agent or foreign subsidiary. This will mean that companies will need to ensure that agents, subsidiaries and business partners are aware of and comply with the Act. The offences in the Act can broadly be classified as follows: t Offences of bribing another person (e.g. offering, promising or giving a financial or other advantage for improper performance of function); t Offences relating to being bribed (eg requesting, agreeing to receive or accepting a financial or other advantage for improper performance of a function); t Bribery of foreign public officials (eg to obtain and retain business or an advantage in the conduct of business). Notably, contrary to some other jurisdictions (such as the US), there is no exception in the Act for small “facilitation payments” made to public officials. Under the Act, an individual guilty of an offence may, on summary conviction, be imprisoned for a term not exceeding
12 months and a fine of up to Dhs27,650. On conviction or indictment, these penalties can go up to an unlimited fine for corporate entities, and imprisonment of up to 10 years for individuals. In addition, conviction under the Act could trigger a confiscation or civil recovery order under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, forcing the wrongdoer to pay all of the proceeds of a contract won as a result of a bribe. The Bribery Act 2010 received Royal Assent in the UK on 8 April 2010, just before Parliament was dissolved for the general election. Although no date has yet been set for implementation of the Act, it is anticipated that the necessary secondary legislation will be passed shortly. Jennifer Bibbings, Head of Corporate for international law firm Trowers & Hamlins, says: “The new Bribery Act 2010 will have wide-ranging implications for many Middle Eastern-based businesses. In addition to affecting UK businesses operating in the Middle East, all businesses from other jurisdictions doing business with the UK will also be affected.” Given that the UK is a major trading partner of a number of businesses and companies based in the region, she believes the effect of the legislation needs to be understood by a very wide variety of businesses in the Middle East. “Practically, the legislation means that any commercial organisation will automatically be guilty of the offence of failing to prevent bribery, unless it can demonstrate it had ‘adequate procedures’ in place designed to prevent persons associated with the organisation from bribing others. Given that penalties include both prison terms and heavy fines, the consequences of falling foul of this legislation could be very serious.” BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 43
RETAIL
Full tills ahead
Dubai Mall.
Eight MENA countries now rank among the top 21 global retail growth markets. THOSE WHO ASSOCIATE THE Middle East and North Africa with oil and antiquities may have to re-evaluate their perceptions, for there can be no doubt that shopping is now one of the region’s main economic drivers. Eight countries in the MENA region are among the Global Retail Development Index’s (GRDI) top 21 markets – Kuwait (2), Saudi Arabia (4), UAE (7), Tunisia (11), Egypt (13), Morocco (15), Turkey (18) and Algeria (21), and most of these countries have increased in attractiveness from last year’s index, according to a study by management consulting firm AT Kearney. Smaller countries represent increasingly attractive opportunities for international retail expansion. Coupled with fiscal stimuli in some MENA markets and the region’s rich oil supply, the region appears poised for fast recovery from the global turbulence and its retail market has proven resilient. Retail sales are rising, driven by higher disposable incomes, urban population growth, a strengthening middle class and infrastructure investments. “The attractiveness of the MENA retail markets provides ample opportunities for regional as well as global retailers,” said Martin Fabel, Partner, AT Kearney Middle East. “Our research stresses that establishing operations in a portfolio of countries both small and large offers the best path to global success for retailers.” In addition to Kuwait, the continued strength of the UAE and Saudi Arabia places these markets among top 10 most attractive retail destinations globally. This high rank highlights the abundant opportunities for further in-country expansion and the ability to leverage regional experiences across the Gulf. As part of this year’s GRDI, AT Kearney also surveyed 60 retail executives globally to identify emerging competitive trends and confirm the GRDI rankings. The study revealed that expansion is also on the agenda for many emerging market retailers – 92 per cent of respondents indicated they are looking to expand beyond their home market, with most expecting to expand into the BRIC countries. Even though the UAE has moved slightly from fourth to seventh place in this year’s GRDI, it is the only Middle East destination mentioned by the surveyed retail executives as an expansion destination. “The UAE has been a hot spot for several years and is now entering the next level of maturity,” added Dan Starta, Partner and Managing Director, AT Kearney Middle East. “Retailers are looking to build on their stronghold in the UAE to diversify their portfolio across the region and will continue to actively invest in the attractive markets of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Retail investors should build on global best practices and lessons learned in the region, but understanding the unique differences of each country will be critical.”
AT KEARNEY GLOBAL RETAIL DEVELOPMENT INDEX, 2010 Country
China Kuwait India Saudi Arabia Brazil Chile United Arab Emirates Uruguay Peru Russia Tunisia Albania Egypt Vietnam Morocco Indonesia Malaysia Turkey Bulgaria Macedonia Algeria Philippines Dominican Republic South Africa Mexico Colombia El Salvador Romania Bosnia and Herzegovina Guatemala
2010 Rank
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
2009 Rank
3 N/A 1 5 8 7 4 N/A 18 2 14 N/A 15 6 19 22 10 20 21 N/A 11 25 N/A N/A 12 28 29 23 N/A N/A
Change
+2 N/A -2 +1 +3 +1 -3 N/A +9 -8 +3 N/A +2 -8 +4 +6 -7 +2 +2 N/A -10 +3 N/A N/A -13 +2 +2 -5 N/A N/A
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 45
HUMAN RESOURCES
Plugging the brain drain Investing in human capital is vital for improved productivity and staff retention. THE FAILURE TO RETAIN employees results in a departure of knowledge from the business that is crucial for any organisation’s development. If it is to live its values then the imparting and the creation of the desired knowledge to support these values is critical. This process, ‘knowledge management’, involves the combination of data and IT processing capacity and the creative and innovative capacity of human beings. There is a huge amount to be gained from the humanistic element of knowledge management and employees are a major asset due to their intellectual capital. Organisations must take an active stance towards knowledge management to ensure that not only employees attain and use the knowledge, but also the source of the knowledge becomes known and accessible across the entire organisation. Where an organisation successfully manages this approach to knowledge management, then the impact of turnover of these employees to the organisation will be significant. Chang and Wang (A Framework for Understanding Differences in Labour Turnover and Human Capital Investment, 1995) argue that the value that is gleaned from the knowledge, skills and the experience of an employee and what importance this plays to the development of the organisation is recognised as human capital. This theory suggests that an investment in human capital, in terms of training and development, increases staff productivity and competitive advantage over time – but staff retention is just as critical if the organisation is to see a return on that investment. Harris (Finding and Keeping Great Employees 2000) suggests that organisations will have to make the choice that they create the environment where knowledge from human capital can prosper, or they continue to lose individual knowledge that is developed during the length of the employee’s service. The annual CIPD report for learning and development identified that in 2010, the most effective identified methods – with an increase of eight per cent increase over the previous year – involved attributes of knowledge sharing, principally in-house development programmes, and effective coaching from line managers. On-job training was seen also to be consistently effective allowing employees to engage in human interaction and practically apply skills and knowledge supported by the previous two mentioned methods. 46 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Geoff Spratt.
The fourth most effective training and learning delivery method refers to job rotation, secondment and shadowing, all of which require effective internal coaches and mentors to increase the opportunity of effective implementation and constructive feedback. To see how this can affect the bottom line of the organisation, it becomes a little easier to see the impact if you consider the fact that if an organisation loses it – what are the implications? Labour turnover can attribute to an organisation’s inability to maintain competitive advantage. Davies (How to Boost Staff retention 2001) suggests that firstly there is the cost of having to recruit new employees into the organisation and the subsequent training costs that follow. These could perhaps be described as ‘hard’ costs to the business, which are easier to measure. The ‘soft’ costs are incurred through a loss in productivity resulting from a partly skilled (less knowledgeable) workforce. This, in turn, creates additional pressures on the remaining employees within the organisation, causing it to be stretched even further. These additional pressures on employees can contribute to their decision to remain or not to remain with the organisation, potentially increasing the risk of loss of knowledge even further. According to Pfeffer (Competitive Advantage Through People, 1994) it is this sequence of labour turnover and the impact that it has on the organisation that makes it necessary to look at the whole employment cycle and identify which practises cultivate organisational ‘culture and capabilities’ to result in improved retention and so assist the competitive edge of the organisation. As markets become more diverse and even more competitive, these factors are being eroded and are making it more difficult for organisations to maintain their position. Identifying that organisation culture and capabilities and how people are managed and developed, are becoming more pivotal in sustaining a competitive advantage. Geoff Spratt, CEO, Human Minds.
Clocking in
istock
New research suggests six months is the maximum time you can leave gaps on your CV. RESEARCH FROM THE INSTITUTE of Leadership & Management (ILM) has revealed that recently redundant workers only have a six-month window to get back to work before the stigma of being unemployed kicks in. ’Bouncing back – attitudes to unemployment’, based on a survey of 1,007 managers, shows that unemployment doesn’t initially carry the shame that those losing their jobs might fear. An over-riding 84 per cent of managers responding said the employment status of applicants is irrelevant as they don’t consider it an indicator of ability or performance in the current climate of redundancies. However, after six months out of work, the picture changes, with over a quarter (28 per cent) of employers becoming less likely to hire someone they consider to be long-term unemployed. With more people chasing fewer jobs, this limited shelf-life will come as a concern to anyone recently made redundant. The research identified a number of positive initiatives individuals can undertake to boost their employability including: t studying for a relevant vocational or academic qualification; t keeping up-to-date with industry developments; t undertaking voluntary work; Unfortunately, those considering jetting off to escape the doom and gloom should think twice, as taking a gap year to go travelling or volunteering overseas were rated as unattractive to potential employers. Penny de Valk, Chief Executive of ILM, who commissioned the research, said unemployment isn’t necessarily an indicator of ability, especially in the current climate when hundreds of talented individuals are being made redundant through no fault of their own. “The good news is that most employers will treat unemployed applicants exactly the same as other candidates,” she said. “But the research shows that it is important for job seekers to try and get back to work as quickly as possible. They should use their time not only job hunting, but finding ways to put themselves in front of the competition. The most effective way for job seekers to boost their future employment prospects is to play to their strengths, freshen up their knowledge and skills and keep up-to-date with developments in their sector.” Richard Osborn from Lincolnshire, UK, was made redundant from a manufacturing firm in March this year. He says: “It is a tough jobs market; you have to really sell yourself to get noticed now. Although it is difficult it is vital to remain positive and remember that the knockbacks are due to the hundreds of people all applying for the same vacancy, not because you can’t do the job. It is a hard slog but I am confident that I will get back into employment soon.” ILM launched a free support package to help unemployed managers get back to work – i-l-m.com/freesupport
Free to out of work managers, it includes: t practical help with getting a job through CV support, letter writing and interview techniques; t an online resource (Harvard Manage Mentor) of 42 learning modules on skills such as budgeting, negotiation, strategic thinking and innovation; t a free subscription to Edge magazine, packed full of information and advice for managers. ILM is the UK’s leading organisation for leadership and management; over half a million of the 4.5 million practising managers in the UK have gained an ILM qualification in the last eight years and 30,000 are members, committed to their own continuing professional development. Backed by an in-depth programme of thought leadership research, ILM operates internationally, being managed by the City & Guilds Group office in Dubai. The office offers support to ILM centres; they vary from training centres like the College of North Atlantic – Qatar, to large organisations such as Etihad Airways, DASCAM, EMAAR, NBAD, Bahrain Petroleum Company, and aim to improve leadership and management skills, knowledge and outputs across all sectors.
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 47
RELOCATION
Return to base
istock
Advance planning helps ease the challenges of returning to the UK.
MOST OF US KNOW that moving house can be exhausting. But moving house and country simultaneously can make the process doubly traumatic, as there will be innumerable other aspects to consider, ranging from the simple change of address for correspondence, to the more problematic issues of dealing with education needs of children, family healthcare needs, letting hassles, removal companies, membership clubs and legal matters. If you are coming, or returning, to the UK after many years overseas, spare a final thought for one issue you cannot possibly afford to forget, although many do – the tax implications. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is often one of the biggest issues for expats. Someone who has been non resident for several years will usually be exempt from CGT, but before coming to the UK, it’s sensible to consider the potential effects of CGT on you personally. We usually recommend this is done 12-18 months prior to arrival, in an ideal world, due to the way the UK tax rules work. If you have offshore bank accounts, these need to be reviewed as well. They can be maintained after UK arrival, but the interest received from the accounts must be declared to the UK tax authorities through self assessment and tax returns. Whilst being overseas, you may have accumulated reserves of cash, and it’s important to be able to draw on funds for expenses during the transitional period. A lot of people who have lived abroad for long periods may be detached from the UK’s increasingly high cost of living, which covers everything from accommodation and travel through to entertainment and leisure. It’s well worth finding an adviser who can provide you with guidance. 48 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Every re-locator has different needs and motivations of course. If you are coming to the UK for retirement, it is important to consider your future outgoings. You will need to sit down and work out how much capital you have, especially where you need to generate income to achieve a desired standard of living. Those coming to the UK for employment will face a different set of issues. Whilst you may regard this move as a ‘return home’ the UK could be a strange and unfamiliar place, especially for children who have spent a large proportion, if not the entire lives, overseas. It is worth trying to involve children in the relocation process, making sure that much of their favourite belongings get packed to help smooth the cross-over, and start investigating the new local area. The National Health Service (NHS) website provides details of local doctors and dentists so you can sign up for medical care. Researching schools (if you have children) before your departure will be important as it seems now that the popular schools can be disappointingly over-subscribed. League tables give a snapshot of performance, whilst OFSTED league tables provide a fuller picture, and this information can be found online (ofsted.gov.uk). If you are returning to a home that was let out during your absence, make sure you give your tenant sufficient notice so that the house is vacated well before your return, and allow more time for cleaning and possible redecoration before you move in. You may also need to inform your mortgage lender and insurer of your change of residential status, as well as establish contact with your local authority for Council Tax purposes. Don’t forget other expenses too, such as the annual TV licence.
Most importantly, in returning or coming to the UK, individuals will need to register with HM Revenue & Customs in order that they are properly taxed. This will provide HMRC with sufficient information to determine this, but extreme care should be taken as questions raised can sometimes cause problems. It is worth considering opening a current account as soon as possible to deal with day to day expenses, as individuals who have been away for a while may encounter problems because they lack a credit record. A bank account or credit card held in the UK will give a foothold and to improve your credit record, it is worthwhile asking your local Council to put you on the electoral role. These are some of the many issues to be considered prior to relocating. Ultimately, special attention should be paid to your tax/financial position and if at all possible, certainly 12 months in advance of your move and not whilst you are waiting for you visa to be cancelled. Trevor Wilkes.
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Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve landed that dream job abroad â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but what about your partner? Research consistently shows that the most common reason for early return from an overseas assignment is partner or family dissatisfaction which is very costly for the company and for the expatriates themselves in terms of career advancement. The challenges faced by the partner are often greater than those faced by the employee, who may be supported more carefully by the systems structures and social network within the corporate environment. DBM Arabian Gulf, as part of DBM, the global human resource company, provides support for organisations and individuals throughout the Gulf. Its Partner Career Support Programme, provides the transferring partner, with an individual flexible programme and career coach to assist them with job search, CV support, networking and local business and market trends to assist the individual to find a role and move on with their career as quickly as possible.
Trevor Wilkes, CEO, The Fry Group. ad-lavadesign-paths.pdf
KEEPING PARTNERS HAPPY
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LIFESTYLE
The Yas Hotel’s infinity pool in Abu Dhabi.
Capital lifestyles Offering the best quality of life in the region, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are ranked in the top half of the global Mercer Index. ABU DHABI AND DUBAI continue to occupy the highest ranks in the GCC in Mercer’s global Quality of Living worldwide survey, which was released this summer. With Dubai coming 75th, and Abu Dhabi taking 83rd spot, they are the stand-out cities regionally, someway ahead of Oman (100), Doha (110), Bahrain (111), Kuwait (122), Riyadh (158) and Jeddah (159). Bassam Gazal, who heads Mercer’s survey practice across the Middle East, said: “The Abu Dhabi and Dubai governments have invested a lot of time and money to improve the quality of living in both cities and it’s only natural that they harvest the fruits of their hard work.” This year’s ranking also identifies the cities with the best eco-ranking based on water availability and drinkability, waste removal, quality of sewage systems, air pollution and traffic congestion – and for the most environmentally sound place to live, head to Calgary, the report suggests. In this category, the regional placings were shuffled, with Muscat (48) taking top spot, and Dubai and Abu Dhabi jointly
occupying the 65th place, followed by Manama (80), Doha (85), Kuwait City (88), Riyadh (114) and Jeddah (130). Globally, Vienna retains the overall first place, with Zurich and Geneva second and third respectively, while Vancouver and Auckland remained joint fourth. Baghdad (221) propped up the table, given its lack of security and stability, though its index score has increased slightly (from 14.4 to 14.7 in 2010). Mercer conducts the ranking to help governments and multinational companies compensate employees fairly when placing them on international assignments. To ensure expatriates are compensated appropriately and an adequate hardship allowance is included in their benefits package, companies seek a clear picture of the quality of living in these cities. The rankings are based on a point-scoring index. Cities are ranked against New York as the base city, with an index score of 100. Mercer’s Quality of Living index list was revised and now covers 221 cities compared to 215 last year, which means direct trend comparison will not be possible until 2011. The new BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 51
LIFESTYLE
selection includes prominent capital and other major cities from across the world currently available in Mercer’s database and better reflects where companies are sending their expatriate employees in the current business environment. This year’s chosen cities now have a better coverage, especially for Middle Eastern, African and Central Asian cities. Slagin Parakatil, Senior Researcher at Mercer, said: “As the world economy becomes more globalised, cities beyond the traditional financial centres are emerging as attractive places in which to expand or establish a business. Cities in many emerging markets, such as in the Middle East or Asia, have seen a significant influx of foreign companies and their expatriate employees in recent years.”
CANADA SCORES HIGHLY Canadian cities still dominate the top of the index with Vancouver (4) retaining the top spot, followed by Ottawa (14), Toronto (16) and Montreal (21). Calgary ranks 28 on the overall quality of living ranking. Honolulu (31) is the city in the US with the highest quality of living, followed by San Francisco (32) and Boston (37). Chicago and Washington shared 45th spot and New York came 49th. Newly added cities Philadelphia and Dallas were ranked 55th and 61st respectively. In Central and South America, Point-à-Pitre, capital of Guadeloupe and new to the index this year, ranks the highest
for quality of living at 62. San Juan in Puerto Rico follows at 72 and Buenos Aires at 78. Havana (192) and Port-au-Prince (213) are the lowest-ranking cities in the region. Mr Parakatil commented: “Quality of living remained stable in North American cities. However, in South and Central America a general decline is witnessed mostly due to political instability, economic woes and energy shortages in certain countries. High levels of crime also remain a major problem in many of the region’s cities.” Canadian and US cities are strongly represented at the top of the eco-city ranking, both for this region and globally. Calgary grabs the top spot globally with a score of 145.7, closely followed by Honolulu (score 145.1) in second. Ottawa is in third position with a score of 139.9 and Minneapolis follows in sixth place (score 137.8). The highest-ranking Central and South American city is again Pointe-à-Pitre (49), followed by San Juan (69) and Montevideo (70).
EASTERN EUROPE ON THE RISE Europe has 16 cities amongst the world’s top 25 cities for quality of living. Vienna retains the highest ranking both for the region and globally and is followed by Zurich (2), Geneva (3) and Düsseldorf (6). The lowest-ranking Western European cities are Leipzig (64) and Athens (75). In the UK, London is the highestranking city at 39, followed by newcomer to the list Aberdeen
(53), Birmingham (55), Glasgow (57) and Belfast (63). Levels of quality of living continue to improve in Eastern Europe, with most index scores increasing slightly. Prague is the highest-ranking city at 70 and its index score increased from 93.9 to 94.8 in 2010. Budapest follows in position 73 and Ljubljana in 77. In the eco-city index, Nordic cities fare particularly well with Helsinki (3) the highest-ranked in the region, followed by Copenhagen (8) and Oslo in joint ninth place with Stockholm. “Nordic cities do particularly well because the modern parts of most of them have been designed with potential environmental impacts in mind,” said Mr Parakatil. Aberdeen (19) is the highest-ranking UK eco-city, followed by Belfast (30), Glasgow (47), London (63) and Birmingham (64).
Gulfpics
Singapore Tourism Board
Top to bottom: Singapore; Vancouver, Canada; Lake Geneva.
SINGAPORE FIRST IN ASIA Auckland (4) retains its position as the highest-ranking city for quality of living in the region. Sydney follows at 10, Wellington at 12, Melbourne at 18 and Perth at 21. At 26, Canberra is new to the index. Singapore remains the highest-ranking Asian city at 28, followed by Japanese cities Tokyo (40), Kobe and Yokohama (both at 41), Osaka (51) and Nagoya (57). The region’s lowest-ranking cities are Dhaka in Bangladesh (206) and two cities new to the list – Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan (209) and Dushanbe in Tajikistan (210). Mr Parakatil commented: “Quality of living declined in a few countries in Asia between the start of 2009 and 2010. Increasing threats of violence and terrorism, coupled with natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons and cyclones have had a negative impact on the quality of living in Asian cities. This may result in higher hardship allowances for expatriates sent to these countries.” With a score of 138.9, Wellington (5) is the highest-ranking eco-city in the region followed by Adelaide (7), Kobe (9), Perth (12) and Auckland (13). Dhaka in Bangladesh (220) ranks lowest with a score of 30.9. BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 53
Link up with the BBG and Dubai Golf for special opportunities. THE BRITISH BUSINESS GROUP and Dubai Golf met last year to discuss synergies between the two organisations and to produce a joint golf related product to complement the new Golf Focus Group within the BBG’s portfolio of specific focus groups. From survey information received it was apparent that our members wanted more sports related networking events and it was decided to start with golf. We now have great pleasure in announcing a brand new monthly event created from our partnership ‘Business Through Golf’. The BBG recognises the importance that the game of golf, arguably the only business sport in the world, plays in today’s business environment and more importantly the role it plays in ‘doing business’. ‘Business Through Golf’ is intended to do just that – bridge cultures, countries and continents and to unite the active business communities within the UAE. Each ‘Business Through Golf” event has four components, and you don’t need to be a golfer to participate! They are: t " beginners’ golf clinic for up to 30 people. This will be FOC covered by sponsorship to encourage businessmen, and women, to take up the game. t " social Par 3 event for up to 36 players (no handicap is required). This is a fun event which novice golfers can participate in and meet golfers of similar ability.
Gulfpics
SPORTS
Business on par
t "O advanced 18-hole competition for up to 100 players. A handicap is required for this event and formats which change from month-to-month. t " social-networking function at the club following the golf activities for all participants as well as those members who’d like to attend even if they didn’t play golf.
EVENT NOTES r Each event will be open to members of the BBG, invited guests and other business councils and groups in Dubai. r For each event, a joint invitation will be sent by The BBG & Dubai Golf inviting members of various other officially recognised business groups to participate. r For each event the following elements will be sponsored – the beginners’ golf clinic, a welcome drink and a selection of hot & cold canapés. r A fee will be applicable for players participating in the ‘social Par 3 event’ and the ‘advanced 18-hole competition’. This fee will be discounted to all participants.
54 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
r A cash beverage bar will be in operation following the welcome drink. Invitations have already been initiated with a number of significant business groups and I’m delighted to announce the reaction was tremendously positive, reflected in a great turnout at our first event on 21 March at Emirates Golf Club. Julian Danby, Commercial Manager for Dubai Golf along with our Director of Focus Groups, David Burns, have played a key role in initiating the relationship between The BBG and Dubai Golf and we look forward to what we envisage being a successful partnership in assisting you do business.
CULTURE
GREAT EXPLORATIONS
Copyright © 2010 Alexander Maitland / Pitt Rivers Museum, University of Oxford Individual contributions copyright © the individual authors 2010
A year-long exhibition and a unique collection of essays and photographs marks 100 years since the birth of arguably the greatest 20th century explorer, Sir Wilfred Thesiger.
Wilfred Thesiger in the sands. 56 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Top to bottom: Wilfred Thesiger’s party setting out from the Awash Station, Ethiopia, at the start of his 1933-4 expedition; the gallery in Jahili Fort in Al Ain, UAE, recently restored with a permanent display of Wilfred Thesiger’s photographs. Photography by Trsten Seidel, 2008.
SIR WILFRED THESIGER, LEGENDARY explorer, travel writer and photographer, was in the words of Sir David Attenborough, “one of the very few people who in our time could be out on the pedestal of the great explorers of the 18th and 19th centuries.” To mark the centenary of Thesiger’s birth (June 3, 1910) the University of Oxford, of which Thesiger is a distinguished alumnus, has opened a year-long exhibition at the Pitt Rivers Museum which showcases some of the best examples of Thesiger’s vast legacy of photographs in Africa. Thesiger dedicated his life to exploration and spent 70 years living and travelling in remote corners of the world. He documented this extraordinary life in more than 40,000 photographs, almost half of these taken in Africa. Although he is more immediately known for his groundbreaking explorations in Arabia that resulted in the seminal books, Arabian Sands and The Marsh Arabs, Thesiger had a lifelong bond with Africa, the land where he was born and lived until he was nine years old, and to which he would return and spend 50 years exploring. Writing of his childhood in what was then Abyssinia, now Ethiopia, Thesiger said: “I
am certain that the first nine years of my life have influenced everything that followed.” And it was in the bordering country of Kenya that Thesiger intended to see his long life out, remarking in 1994, “It is here, among those whose lives I share today, that I hope to end my days.” His desire did not see fruition and having outlived dear companions, Thesiger reluctantly returned to England aged 84 and lived in Surrey until his death in 2003 aged 93. Accompanying the Pitt Rivers exhibition is the publication of two new books by Motivate Publishing – a centenary edition of the classic Arabian Sands and Thesiger in Africa. The latter features contributions from Thesiger’s friend and biographer, Alexander Maitland, and Sir David Attenborough amongst others. The book features around 200 photographs from Thesiger’s personal archive, many of them unpublished, and a collection of essays which describe, in his unique manner, the fascinating time he spent travelling tens of thousands of kilometres either on foot, or by traditional four-legged transport, across his favourite continent. Wilfred Thesiger in Africa: A Centenary Exhibition runs at the Pitt RIvers Museum, Oxford, until June 2011.
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 57
CULTURE
“ONE OF THE VERY FEW PEOPLE WHO IN OUR TIME COULD BE OUT ON THE PEDESTAL OF THE GREAT EXPLORERS OF THE 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES”
Top to bottom: Thesiger with members of his 1933 to 34 Awash Expedition party, Ethiopia, March 1934. Photographer unknown; Sand dunes in the Empty Quarter of southern Arabia, with Thesiger’s travelling companion Salim bin Kabina carrying fodder for his camel, 1948. 58 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Clockwise from left: Wilfred Thesiger with Lawi and other Samburu companions at his home in Maralal, Kenya. Photograph by Alistair Morrison; Thesiger during the second crossing of the Empty Quarter in 1948; The Duke of Gloucester’s delegation for the coronation of Emperor Haile Selassie. Thesiger is in the fourth row, third from left, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, November 1930. Photographer unknown.
“I AM CERTAIN THAT THE FIRST NINE YEARS OF MY LIFE HAVE INFLUENCED EVERYTHING THAT FOLLOWED.”
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 59
PENSIONS
Pension transfers
New UK pension regulations allow for the transfer of UK-accrued pensions out of the country tax free. Guernsey.
IF YOU HAVE EVER worked in the UK and now live outside of Britain (or wish eventually to retire abroad), and have a pension from working in the UK, changes to existing regulations now permit the transfer of your entire fund of UK-accrued pension benefits out of the country tax free. By effecting the transfer through leading pension trustees in Guernsey, there are very significant benefits, such as: t No UK tax liability is incurred when your pension funds are drawn down, so long as you are no longer a UK resident. t No Guernsey tax is payable on the fund as it grows and no Guernsey taxes fall due on payment of lump sums, drawdown or on death. t On death the funds, if in draw down, can continue to be paid to dependants or are paid in full to your nominated beneficiaries, or failing that to your estate and with good planning will not attract Inheritance Tax. This is not the case with pensions remaining onshore within the jurisdiction of HMRC. t Unlike the UK where there is currently a limit on pension values of Dhs9.67 million, there will be no limit imposed once you have transferred abroad. t Most onshore pension schemes require the purchase of an inflexible annuity which once purchased results in the loss of the fund upon death. With the transfer of the pension fund offshore there is no requirement to purchase an annuity and you may invest, use or withdraw the fund with great flexibility.You personally can choose how to invest your fund, which may include the purchase of commercial and residential property. t You do not have to wait until 60 or 65 to receive the benefits (normally associated with most UK pensions). From the age of 50 (55 from 2010) you can access up to 25 per cent of your fund tax free and if you wish commence drawing down the 60 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
remainder of your pension fund. You must commence draw down by age 75. t You may take a 25 per cent loan from the fund prior to taking benefit. All loans must be repaid before benefit commences. t In the event of a sudden critical illness an immediate transfer offshore ensures the preservation of funds for beneficiaries which would on death have been lost had they remained onshore and may also allow accelerated benefit to be paid. Earlier pension regulation was very restrictive. On retirement, you only received up to 25 per cent of your fund as a tax-free lump sum; the balance received monthly, taxed at UK rates, had to buy an annuity. On death only 50 per cent of the pension income went to a window, with the capital lost. As an example, a 65-year-old man with a Dhs1.1 million pension pot could buy an RPI-linked annuity providing only Dhs43,820 per year with all capital lost on his death. On 6 April 2006 (what is now known as ‘A’ Day) a far-reaching pension reform came into effect. HM Revenue and Customs introduced “QROPS” (Qualifying Regognised Overseas Pension Schemes) legislation, which now simplifies pension transfers to both expatriates and those who wish eventually to retire outside the UK. By setting up an HMRC approved Pension Trust offshore all of the above can be achieved. If you are concerned that you have a UK pension with all its inherent disadvantages whilst you are an expatriate, a non-UK domicile or simply someone intending to retire outside of the UK, please understand the potential benefits of exercising this opportunity. It is one that may not forever remain open, given that pensions’ legislation has a horrible habit, especially under the current UK Government’s regime, of being altered. So, seek sound and experienced advice from qualified QROPS specialists. Christopher Coleridge Cole, Head of Corporate Services, Globaleye Group.
TRAVEL virginexperiencedays.co.uk
Britain on a roll
VISITBRITAIN, THE UK’S TOURISM authority, is focusing its 2010 marketing campaign on a ‘Dynamic Britain’ theme in a bid to attract younger travellers from the Middle East. The ‘Dynamic Britain’ theme highlights contemporary Britain with a very quirky and at times irreverent look and feel aimed at the young and the young at heart. The campaign capitalises on the appeal of popular culture and the creative industries, which include music, fashion, sport and film. VisitBritain aims to raise awareness of its latest tourism offerings under the ‘Dynamic Britain’ theme, from celebrity tours 62 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
to coasteering, through the launch of a number of promotions and incentives. “With an estimated 65 per cent of the Middle East region’s population under the age of 30, we are seeing an increase in demand for exciting adventures and unique experiences from our visiting Middle Eastern guests,” said Carol Maddison, Manager, VisitBritain UAE. “We are shifting our focus and implementing more creative, fresh and exciting incentives to appeal to the Middle East’s youth market, and to coincide with the promotion of our major upcoming events which include
VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint
Visitors can enjoy a 60-minute boat ride on The Falkirk Wheel – the world’s only rotating boat lift. It is considered to be a modern engineering marvel, designed to re-connect the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal in Scotland. Opposite page: Sphereing in Scotland.
the Ryder Cup in October this year, and the London 2012 Olympics,” added Maddison. Earlier this month, VisitBritain, together with British Airways, launched its viral campaign as part of the ‘Dynamic Britain’ theme. Visitors can try their luck online with a ‘Get to Know Britain’ game, where they have the chance of winning a trip for two to Britain. For those looking to spot their favourite film stars, London offers Middle East guests with the popular Celebrity Walking Tour. Home to the stars and subject of a major film of the same
name, Notting Hill has a worldwide reputation for attracting London’s visiting and resident celebrities. A knowledgeable guide takes guests on a fascinating tour of Notting Hill’s famous sights, taking in celebrity homes, film locations, music landmarks and much more. As Olympic 2012 fever starts to sweep London, visiting guests can take a peek at how plans are coming along for the games venues on informative guided walking tours. Led by experienced and knowledgeable tour guides, the weekly Olympic walks take visitors along the Lower River Lee Valley and through the Olympic Park. Some of the other exciting activities that make up ‘Dynamic Britain’ include coasteering in Wales. Middle East guests can experience this unique adventure sport with the exhilaration of sea level traversing, rock climbing and cliff jumping and swimming into sea caves. It’s a coastal exploration along the wild and beautiful Pembrokeshire coast. In England, located in the North Lakes and home to Bassenthwaite Ospreys, travellers from the region can visit the highest ‘Go Ape’ course in the country, at 360 metres above sea level, and get a thrill from riding a zip slide through skies, over water and through England’s only true mountain forest. While in Hertfordshire, brave guests can experience life as a ‘Big Cat Keeper’ by helping with the daily routine, which includes cleaning out, maintaining the enclosures, preparing the food and then finally feeding the lions, tigers or cheetahs by hand. This is a great opportunity for regional travellers to get up close with some of the most beautiful and powerful big cats. In Scotland, sphereing is becoming popular with tourists, who strap themselves into a 12-foot PVC transparent inflatable balls which bounce down the Perthshire hillside. Guests roll down the Perthshire countryside at up to 30mph to the bottom of the valley. VisitBritain UAE is also working with regional partners in promoting tours around major UK films, which includes James Bond, Sherlock Holmes, Alice in Wonderland and Robin Hood. BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 63
TRAVEL
explosion
Cultural
Britain is about to erupt with a plethora of exhibitions, concerts and festivals.
ICELAND HAS ENSURED THAT 2010 will be remembered as the year of the volcano, and with exquisite timing, Volcano: Turner to Warhol – the first exhibition to explore the human perception of volcanoes and artistic outpourings during the last 500 years – will be held at Compton Verney in Warwickshire between 24 July 24 and 31 October. Warhol’s Vesuvius will be shown alongside paintings by JMW Turner, Joseph Wright of Derby, and works from Compton Verney’s permanent collection of Neapolitan art. These include Vesuvius Erupting at Night by Volaire and a David Allen portrait of Sir William and Lady Hamilton in their Naples home overlooking the active volcano. This painting will be shown alongside the volcano-obsessed Hamilton’s (1776 to 79) publication Campi Phlegraei (Fields of Fire) illustrated by Pierre Fabris, whose works revealed the shocking beauty of volcanoes and revolutionised our way of seeing them. Paintings of Icelandic volcanoes never shown before in the UK feature together with images of Mount Fuji in Japan by 64 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Hiroshige. Volcanoes in Hawaii and South America also feature, along with Michael Sandle’s drawings of the 1981 eruption of Mount St Helens. The art gallery at Compton Verney, a Grade 1 listed Robert Adam mansion set in 50 hectares (120 acres) of parkland, has six permanent collections and a changing exhibition programme. It is open Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays 11am to 5pm. Admission, including entry to the gallery and the grounds, costs Dhs44 for adults, Dhs33 for concessions, Dhs11 for children over five and Dhs100 for a family ticket. Those with an eye for the arts will always be spoilt for choice in London, and this season the capital has some interesting stay-and-view offers. Visitors staying two nights at the Rubens Hotel beside Buckingham Palace this summer will receive tickets to visit the palace’s State Rooms and the Royal Mews, as well as free admission to the Art & Love exhibition in the Queen’s Gallery.
This page, top to bottom: Art from The Beatles Story exhibition, Liverpool; a singer from the Twinwood Festival. Opposite page: Andy Warhol’s Vesuvius.
The State Rooms contain a special exhibition of The Queen’s Year, with ceremonial robes, gifts, uniforms and jewellery, as well as archive photography and film that show the many and varied aspects of the Queen’s work. The Art & Love exhibition, bringing together more than 400 items from the Royal Collection, focuses on the love of Queen Victoria for Prince Albert and their enthusiasm for collecting works of art. The Royal Mews is a working stables that houses the golden Coronation Coach. The hotel’s summer offer, available between 27 July 27 to 29 October, includes two nights in a room guaranteed to be overlooking the Royal Mews, full English breakfast, tickets to the State Rooms, Queen’s Gallery and Royal Mews and a traditional afternoon tea in the hotel lounge. Prices start at Dhs1,216 per night. Staying in London, the newly restored gothic castle known as Strawberry Hill – arguably Britain’s finest example of Georgian Gothic Revival architecture – will re-open in September. It is, and was, listed as one of the most endangered heritage sites by the World Monument Fund and the extensive Dhs50 million restoration programme has taken two years to complete. The castle was created between 1747 and 1792 by historian, writer and collector Horace Walpole, the youngest son of Sir Robert Walpole, Britain’s first Prime Minister. It was built on the banks of the River Thames in Twickenham to the west of London. Strawberry Hill’s Long Gallery, based on Henry VII’s Chapel in Westminster Abbey, has a fan-vaulted ceiling and walls hung with crimson damask. The library has pointed-arched bookcases and a painted ceiling and was the first Gothic Revival library created in the world. Walpole housed his collections of coins, enamels and miniatures in a star-ceilinged Tribune which he based on the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. Strawberry Hill houses an archive of resources, museum, café and education centre. It will be open Saturday to Wednesday from noon to 4.30pm from 25 September until 23 December, and 2 April to 30 October 2011, and the Dhs44 admission price includes an audio-guide and booklet. History lovers should also check out The Florence Nightingale Museum, which re-opened on 12 May, the birth date of the ‘Lady of the Lamp’. It tells the story of the woman behind the legend as well as how modern nursing began. BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 65
TRAVEL
Strawberry Hill.
The museum, which has been redeveloped at a cost of a Dhs7.8 million, is on the south banks of the Thames, in the grounds of St Thomas’ Hospital where Florence established her first Nightingale Training School for Nurses. Its three pavilions focus on her Victorian childhood, her work in the Crimean War and her later years as a campaigner for health reform. The museum also celebrates the profession of nursing and explores Nightingale’s legacy to today’s nursing practice. Exhibits include the writing slate she used as a child, the medicine chest she took to the Crimean War, a rare Register of Nurses which lists the women who served under her in the military hospitals in Turkey and the Crimean, and her pet little owl Athena, which travelled everywhere in her pocket. Director Caroline Worthington says: “The new museum is a very fitting tribute to someone who has contributed so much to modern-day nursing. Florence has inspired so many men and women to join a profession which we all rely on and it is fascinating to see that the issues she tackled, such as hospital hygiene, caring for soldiers and the training of nurses, are still hugely relevant today.” The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm from 12 May, admission Dhs32 for adults, Dhs26 for children under 15 and concessions, Dhs89 for a family ticket. Out of ‘the smoke’, England’s provinces are firing on all cylinders, with all manner of creative events and activities. MAC, Birmingham’s original arts centre re-opened on 1 May after a two-year Dhs33 million refurbishment and the new development includes a major new contemporary art gallery. The opening exhibition for the gallery is Plug In, exploring the icons of Birmingham’s industrial heritage through the eyes of regional artists. The exhibition will include works by photographer Vanley Burke and documentary photographs by Stuart Whipps of the last days of the MG Rover car plant in Longbridge, Birmingham. The building now has two theatres, a cinema, a gallery and other exhibition spaces, performance studios, dance and drama rehearsal spaces, music rooms, a media studio, studios for pottery, textiles, jewellery, sculpture and painting, a community learning area, bar and café. The new MAC offers theatre performances, music, comedy, plays for children, dance, literature and poetry events, as well as family shows, films and
66 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
Top to bottom: Strawberry Hill interior; Henry VIII painting by Holbein. Bottom left: a display from the Florence Nightingale Museum.
GCC VISITORS FLOCK TO IRELAND The GCC is the fastest growing market for inbound tourism to Ireland, with a 52.78 per cent increase in applications in March 2010 over the same month in 2009. Little wonder then, that Tourism Ireland was out in force promoting the country at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) exhibition, following the high annual rise in visa applications from the region. Simon Gregory, Director of all markets for Tourism Ireland, attributes the growth to increased connectivity and growing awareness of the breadth of holidays available. “Ireland truly has something for everyone, from culture and luxury boutique hotels, to self catering and activity holidays,” he said.
free exhibitions. MAC is open daily from 9am to11pm; the Gallery is open from noon to 8pm Tuesday to Saturday, and 11am to 4pm Sunday. Admission is free. Art in Action is one of the longest-running art and craft festivals in the UK. Artists in many disciplines set up their studios in the grounds of Waterperry House near Oxford. The festival offers visitors the opportunity to meet the artists and observe the creative process at first hand. This year’s festival will include a marquee showcasing international art, with work from Turkey, India, Spain, the USA, Russia, Thailand, China, Australia and Zimbabwe. The artists work across a number of disciplines including stone-carving, marbelling, jewellery, miniature boxes and textiles. There will also be practical classes by some of the UK’s finest art schools and guilds, in an eclectic range of subjects from Glassware by Graham Muir.
mosaic-making for three to seven-year-olds to Japanese-style book-making for the over-16s. The festival (10am to 5.30pm daily) also includes a craft market and music, dance and drama. Visitors will be able to take guided tours of the Waterperry Gardens and the frescoes on the walls of Waterperry House that were finished in 2006. Tickets on the day cost Dhs27 for adults, Dhs27 for children aged nine to 17, and under-nines free. There can be few more arresting sights – certainly when you’re driving along the M5 on a beautiful blue-sky day – than seeing 150 hot-air balloons in all shapes and sizes gliding effortlessly overhead. Once again, The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, recognised as one of the UK’s top five outdoor events, will be brightening up the south-west skyline between August 12 and 15. During the ‘Nightglows’ at 9.30pm on Thursdays and Saturdays, the balloons are tethered in the main arena and light up in sequence to music. As if that’s not enough of a spectacle, the RAF’s Red Arrows aerobatic team will perform at 4.30pm on 15 August before the Fiesta’s finale of a mass balloon ascent at 6pm, as always, weather permitting. More than 250 trade stands, local and international food stalls, a funfair and other entertainment complete the festival, and it’s little wonder that this free event attracts around half a million people to the hills of the Ashton Court estate on the edge of the city. Keeping with the elevated theme, Twinwood Festival incorporating the Glenn Miller Festival of Swing, Jazz and Jive, takes place every year at Twinwood Airfield, in Bedfordshire, from where the legendary composer Glenn Miller took his last flight. Now in its ninth year, the festival offers music from orchestras, bands and artists performing the great hits from the Big Band and Jive era through to Rock ‘n’ Roll. There are four stages, six dance floors, all-day dance lessons and workshops, vintage vehicles, World War Two air displays, vintage fashion, late-night entertainment venues, dance displays, museums, a traders’ village and campsites. The bands this year include an orchestra BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 67
TRAVEL
NEW HOTELS IN NORTH AND SOUTH The Royal Hotel in the centre of Hull on the North East coast of England has recently been refurbished at a cost of Dhs8.3 million. The historic railway hotel was built in 1851 and is a significant Victorian building. Queen Victoria visited the hotel and it is where the poet Philip Larkin wrote Friday Night at the Royal Station Hull. The hotel, now part of the Focus group, has been carefully restored to combine the splendour of Victorian times with the comforts of modern living. The grand foyer, lounge and bar have been renovated and the bedrooms modernised. There are nine meeting rooms offering flexible space and the hotel can hold events for up to 400 people. The 09/10 Clipper Round the World race started at Hull last year and the fleet is scheduled to return to the city on 17 July after sailing 35,000 nautical miles. The hotel is next to Hull railway station and near St Stephens shopping and cinema complex, the Hull Truck Theatre and the town centre. The Hull Marina and the award-winning aquarium, The Deep, are both within walking distance. hotels-hull.co.uk.
led by Glenn’s nephew, John Mille, Peter Donegan and The Lonnie Donegan Band, the Syd Lawrence Orchestra and the Jive Aces. During World War Two, Glenn Miller was based at Milton Ernest Hall near Twinwood. Much of his music was recorded in the nearby Co-Partners Hall in Bedford. On 27 August, 1944 Miller and his USAAF band performed a concert for the aircrews at RAF Twinwood Airfield using two trailers next to the Control Tower as a stage. In December that year he took off from Twinwood with two others in a small, single-engine aircraft, en route to Paris to lead his orchestra. Sadly, he was never seen again. Twinwood Festival incorporating the Glenn Miller Festival of Swing, Jazz and Jive runs from 28 to 30 August. Pre-booked tickets cost from Dhs125 for one day to Dhs312 for all three days. The festival site includes the Glenn Miller Museum which is open on Sundays from 2 May to 17 October. Further north, Liverpool is to stage On The Waterfront weekends in July and August to celebrate Liverpool, the River Mersey and its UNESCO World Heritage waterfront. The first weekend on 16 to 18 July will explore war and peace with events celebrating John Lennon and Picasso. Both men were heavily influenced by the issues of war and peace in their work and lives. Events will connect with the Picasso: Peace and Freedom exhibition at Tate Liverpool and the White Feather: 68 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
In May, hotelier and restaurateur Mark Fuller and his business partner Andy Taylor opened The Sanctum on the Green hotel, restaurant, bar and gallery in Berkshire.The new venture features nine bedrooms, a pavilion style marquee and an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. The restaurant, under head chef Fredrik Bohlin, will serve modern British cuisine. The décor includes dark velvets and an art deco setting of mirrored columns and glassbeaded wallpaper. Paintings by Andrew Hewkin will hang on the walls. The pavilion marquee, by a private lawn, will be open for functions for up to 120 people and will be licensed for weddings. Fuller and Taylor have already opened Inn on the Green in Cookham and Sanctum Soho in central London. The village of Cookham Dean is in the Thames Valley, 25 minutes from Heathrow Airport, and 55km (34 miles) from central London. sanctumonthegreen.com.
the Spirit of Lennon exhibition at The Beatles Story at the Albert Dock. Bringing the city’s cultural curtain down a little later will be The John Lennon Tribute Season running from 9 October to 9 December, marking the musical legend’s birthday on the opening day (he would have been 70 this year). Those who love their anniversary stats will be interested to know it’s 50 years since the Beatles formed, and 40 years since they split up. Events include Lennon Remembered, a tribute concert at the 11,000-seat Echo Arena, a birthday celebration at the Cavern Club, a Lennon-inspired international poetry competition, a film festival, a lecture programme and visual art exhibitions at Liverpool John Moores University. White Feather: Spirit of Lennon, an exhibition about life with John by his son Julian and former wife Cynthia, has also been specially extended until the end of the year. White Feather: the Spirit of Lennon charts the singer’s emotional family story and the exhibition is illustrated with family photos, personal postcards and the Lennons’ unseen collection of memorabilia, including Paul McCartney’s handwritten lyrics for Hey Jude which was composed for John’s son Julian, John Lennon’s Honda ‘monkey bike’ motorbike which he rode with Julian, and an electric guitar with inscribed plaque reading ‘To Julian from Daddy, Christmas 1973’.
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CELEBRATIONS
Britain’s best The British Business Group recently celebrated winning the prestigious Daily Telegraph’s Award for Best British Business Club in the world at the new Meydan Hotel, which overlooks the World Cup horse racing track, home of winners.
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Social networking Members socialised and networked at a reception held at The Sanctuary club in the Atlantis Hotel.
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New members
The BBG extends a warm welcome to the following who have joined in recent months. A.T. Generators FZC PO Box 9099, Sharjah Tel: 06-5570560 Fax: 06-5570935 www.atgenerators.com Nominee: Ali Abdelmajeed Al Tamimi General Manager Mob: 050-2759259 Ali.t@atgen.ae Alternate: Dalya Majeed Jasim Mob: 050-9635470 Ali.t@atgen.ae Specialised in generator sales, rentals, services and after market services, performing power projects. Our products include diesel generators ranging from 9-2000 kVA, includes open and enclosed generator sets from different international brands powered by Perkins, Cummis, Duetz. Soundproof canopies, mobile lighting towers, control panels, automatic transfer switch panels (or ATS). Electrical appliances, synchronizing panels and spare parts.
Access Made Safe PO Box 114547, Abu Dhabi Tel: 04-3331145 Fax: 04-3330697 www.ams-gcc.com
Consultants specialised in TQM, especially in aeronautical industry, airline or MRO Service Companies. Assume to implement and follow up quality management systems and their continual improvement, working with several companies all over Europe, Africa and Middle East. Capable of managing internal audits, conducting ambitious projects, in transversal mode, in line with the strategic objectives of the companies. Experienced in the use of TQM facilities (Analysis, Diagrams, FMECA’s, etc.), and in related software, to improve companies’ performance. Moreover, AeroGlobe has developed a concept called “reflexive concept”© which is built on two parts: “Inbound” services©, bringing the expertise of a highly experienced Task Force to succeed in qualifications and “Outbound” services©: bringing European companies to ME market.
Barclays Capital (Barclays Wealth) PO Box 506674, Dubai Tel: 04-3652960 Fax: 04-3652995 Nominee: Roderick Ian Sampson Director Mob: 050-4524865 rod.sampson@barcap.com
corporate meeting facilities, the Bonnington offers you the last word in luxury hospitality, backed by a century of experience and tradition. Check out the Bonnington online or blog, or connect to us on Facebook or Twitter.
Brains at Work PO Box 122607, Dubai Tel: 04-3124343 Fax: 04-3124344 www.brains-atwork.com Nominee: Deen Mohammed Ashraf Owner Mob: 050-7956360 deen.ashraf@brains-atwork.com operations@brains-atwork.com Alternate: Arnaz Sapna Ashraf Mob: 050-7754373 Brains at Work is a young, dynamic and successful company headquartered in Dubai. Primary services include hotel procurement/ venue search, conference and meetings management, event management, team building & training, executive placements and marketing representations. Business principles are based on a strong foundation of trust and transparency ensuring successful relations and long-term partnerships. Every assignment is undertaken with a personal commitment and a passion for perfection with client partner’s objectives. By offering a comprehensive range of services, clients and partners benefit by working with one professional company that understands them effectively, aligns thoughts as well as strategies and delivers. Our client testimonials support our claim to fame.
Nominee: Derek Alfred Lewis Managing Director & CEO Mob: 050-1533550 dal@ams-gcc.com
Bonnington Hotel & Residence JLT
Alternate: Philip Lewis Dir, Operations & Contracts Mob: 050-1529991 phil@ams-gcc.com
Nominee: Rebecca Irene Brinkmann Sales Executive Mob: 050-4516375 rebecca@bonningtonhotel.com
Additional: Patrick Alan Ralph Director, Bus. Dev’t & Marketing Mob: 050-7086764 pr@ams-gcc.com
Alternate: Vincent Easton Manager, Business Development Mob: 050-8869405 vincent@bonningtontower.com
Causeway Middle East FZ LLC
Supply of scaffolding products and services. Contract scaffolding and installation services. Supply and provision of scaffolding personnel. Quality scaffold training providers. Specialist design & technical engineering services. Sales, hire and lease of quality system materials. Third-party access scaffolding safety and inspection services.
The Bonnington Jumeirah Lakes Towers – Dubai, located in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers along Sheikh Zayed Road just opposite Dubai Marina, is a five-star hotel with 208, all nonsmoking, rooms and suites, 272 luxurious serviced hotel apartments, six restaurants and bars, four conference suites, a leisure deck on the 11th floor with infinity pool, state-of-the-art gym, pool bar, Jacuzzi, steam, sauna as well as hairdressing salons for ladies and gentlemen. The Bonnington is Dubai’s only European family owned and operated five-star hotel and offers a chic residential address to all who walk through her doors. Whether you are a guest enjoying five-star hotel services, a resident in one of the luxurious serviced residences, or a business client using
Nominee: Paul J Madeira Chief Operating Officer paul.madeira@causeway.com
Aero-Globe International Ltd PO Box 42423, Dubai www.aero-globe.com Nominee: Jean-Louis Abou Managing Director Mob: 050-1548070 Jla@aero-globe.com
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PO Box 37246, UAE Tel: 04-3560447 Fax: 04-3996998 www.bonningtontower.com
PO Box 500843, Dubai Tel: 04-4342119 Fax: 04-4342118 www.causeway.com
Alternate: Philip Michael Auguste Sales Representative Mob: 055-9240492 phil.auguste@causeway.com Suppliers of software solutions to the entire construction industry supply chain. Whether you are a local contractor, a professional service firm or a major contractor, we have software solutions that will help you achieve your business goals – helping you to win more profitable work, manage cost and
reduce risk through the use of innovative industry specific software solutions.
Deutsche Bank PO Box 504902, Dubai Tel: 04-4283973 Fax: 04-4283942 www.db.com
the art office towers, R&D and industrial zones, educational institutions, luxury apartments, villas, hotels, healthcare and a full range of lifestyle facilities which translate into a dynamic ’integrated’ community where people can work, live and play.
Eco Cem Consult FZE Nominee: Paul Bell Regional COO Mob: 056-505515627 paul.bell@db.com Alternate: Mike Alan Cowley Regional Dir, M.East & Africa Mob: 050-5515627 mike.cowley@db.com
PO Box 1611, Fujairah Tel: 07-2046475 Fax: 07-2041010 www.ecocemconsult.ae Nominee: Michael Rees Managing Director Mob: 050-4333621 m.rees@ecocemconsult.ae Alternate: Linda Rees
Additional: Andrew Stuart Leamon Regional Dir, M. East & Africa Mob: 050-6528675 andrew.leamon@db.com Leading global corporate and investment bank, with a strong private clients franchise. Launched new UAE Commercial banking branch in Abu Dhabi.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority PO Box 6009, Dubai Tel: 04-5015555 Fax: 04-5015151 www.dso.ae
Eco Cem Consult provides services to improve the environment. Eco Cem Consult is a specialist industrial ecology company that takes advantage of the unique opportunities in the cement industry to use waste in an environmentally safe and responsible manner. Eco Cem Consult in the UAE is owned and managed by Lafarge, a world leader in building materials with sustainability as a core value. Eco Cem Consult is backed by the experience of Lafarge operating in 76 countries, treating and co-processing over seven million tonnes of waste a year.
Nominee: Mohammad Khalifa Qasqoos Associate Director, Sales Mob: 050-8698877 mqasqoos@dso.ae
Emrill Services
Alternate: Ray Milhem Chief Technology Officer Mob: 056-6031212 rmilhem@dso.ae
Nominee: Geoff Shewry Managing Director Mob: 050-7089522 geoff.shewry@emrill.com
Additional: Heike Bernhardt Manager, Commercial Sales Mob: 050-6816570 hbernhardt@dso.ae
Alternate: Ben Churchill Director, Dubai Mob: 050-6316487 ben.churchill@emrill.com
Additional: Mohammed Alzubi Director, Tech Investments Mob: 050-9500898 malzubi@dso.ae
Additional: Alan Macmillan Director, Abu Dhabi Mob: 050-6554208 alan.macmillan@emrill.com
Dubai Silicon Oasis Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), a 100 per cent owned entity by the Government of Dubai, is the region’s leading technology hub. In addition to a state of the art infrastructure, onsite R&D facilities, and Rochester Institute of Technology; DSO offers first-class business support and full free zone benefits creating the perfect environment for technology to thrive. As a result DSO has become the destination of choice for a wide range of cutting edge technology players such as Fujitsu, Philips, Western Digital and many more. Strategically located in Dubai on Emirates Road by Al Ain Road Interchange, DSO’s community spans over 7.2 square kilometers of state of
Emrill has been providing Integrated Facilities Management Solutions in the United Arab Emirates since 2002 and is one of the largest facilities management companies in the region with a turnover in excess of Dhs200 million and directly employing over 3,500 staff. Emrill provide the full range of Asset and Facilities Management services that are aligned to meet the needs of developers from concept to operation and building occupiers whatever their business may be. We provide a range of innovative solutions specifically tailored to meet client needs aimed at supporting master developments through to residential communities, industrial and office complex, our solutions include: t Consultancy t Infrastructure
PO Box 38083, Dubai Tel: 04-3089610 Fax: 04-3204969 www.emrill.com
t Community Solutions t Residential Solutions t Corporate Solutions t Retail Solutions t Hospitality Solutions t Service Solutions t Healthcare Solutions.
gammaHRC PO Box 49042, Dubai Tel: 04-3325540 Fax: 04-3325541 www.gammaHRC.com Nominee: Martin Peter Ashdown Managing Consultant Mob: 050-5523677 martin.ashdown@gammaHRC.com Alternate: Gail Nicola Ashdown Managing Consultant Mob: 050-5505798 gail.ashdown@gammaHRC.com gammaHRC helps clients achieve their business plans through their people. We provide HR consultancy services tailored to clients’ specific needs and do not sell “off the shelf” solutions. We focus on adding the maximum value to clients through understanding their business, enabling the delivery of a personalised range of HR service options that fit the type and stage of development of a client’s business. Our aim is for clients to consider gammaHRC as a partner not just another service provider. Our consultants are highly experienced Chartered HR professionals with extensive international exposure in multicultural environments. Their competence across the widest range of HR disciplines was developed in MNCs, energy, financial services and public/ healthcare sectors working in Europe, the Far East and the Middle East and this provides a broad foundation of experience for consultancy.
Graint PO Box 473533, Dubai Tel: 04-8135535 Fax: 04-8135565 www.graint.info Nominee: Gillan Ide Business Dev’t Manager Mob: 055-4546939 idegillan@hotmail.com Alternate: Michael Ghattas Creative Director Mob: 055-9988099 michaelghattas@graint.info Graint is a concept-driven visual communication company that concentrates its energy on creating and sustaining creative visual solutions for our clients, through a unique programme that follows the creativity, design and branding process. Working across the globe we have developed individually stylized highly and functional art that visually communicates the messages our clients want to portray to existing and potential customers. The team at Graint is derived from many different cultures and professional backgrounds which aids the success the company has had
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in delivering diverse projects effectively and efficiently, leading to tremendous loyalty from our existing clients. We will work with you to develop your company visually, through the look and feel of your company’s profile, the environment of your offices, retail units or exhibitions stands, a complete rebrand and much more. Achieving the market exposure you desires can also be accomplished through a partnership with graint to increase your client base and brand recognition through innovative PR and multimedia advertisement. For more information on the company, please visit or website www.graint.info or contact Business Development Manager Gillan Ide on 04-813 5535 ex6635.
Haworth Middle East PO Box 262103, Dubai Tel: 04-8865713 Fax: 04-8865714 www.haworth-europe.com Nominee: Mathew John Hollis Business Dev’t Director, Middle East & Africa Mob: 050-5549561 mathew.hollis@haworth.com Alternate: Bernard Mouawad Managing Director Mob: 050-6448141 bernard.mouawad@haworth.com Our design point of view brings relevance and meaning to clients around the world with a full range of thoughtful and integrated solutions. From architectural elements to freestanding furniture, our design teams honour discrete levels of integration throughout our product development process. This purposeful approach allows our many product solutions to be great alone, yet effortlessly work together ensuring holistic environments can be created and endlessly adapt as needs change. Our design and engineering teams are enriched and influenced by the work of scientists and external designers. They meaningfully align product development, space considerations, and social science to ensure the solutions we design and manufacture reflect our unique design point of view. Only Haworth combines global knowledge and research with design integration to create highly sustainable, organic workspaces.
Holborn Assets
Holborn Assets was formed in 1999 and has established an enviable reputation of providing excellent service and advice. Our advisors are well qualified, have the best technical knowledge and specialise in pensions and effective retirement planning, wealth and estate management, savings and money management, education planning, life insurance, medical and critical illness cover. Holborn also have specialists in corporate services for group risk, medical, life, corporate pensions, company formations and business services.
Human Minds Consultancy JLT PO Box , Dubai Tel: 04-4473522 Fax: 04-4473521 www.humanminds.com Nominee: Geoff Spratt CEO, UAE Mob: 050-4816127 gs@humanminds.com Alternate: Sabiha Kazi Chief Operating Officer Mob: 050-6340547 sabiha@humanminds.com Welcome to the UAE’s latest and freshest approach to HR and leadership development. Here at Human Minds, we want to keep it simple, we want to make it fun and we want to see companies get a return on their investment. Human Minds is all about a new way of learning. By living our values of being open, inviting and eager to listen, we make sure that our team understands the intricacies of your business, ensuring you get the best HR and people development solution each and every time. A whole new world of learning opportunities, ones which inspire, challenge, develop and awaken your minds to help you grow yourselves and your teams from great people into superstars. We pride ourselves on developing and delivering effective HR services, executive coaching and innovative training solutions to enable every company to maximize its potential and productivity.
Inspectorate International Limited PO Box 49400, Dubai Tel: 04-2852666 Fax: 04-2844451 www.inspectorate.com
Inspectorate is one of the world’s leading inspection and testing organisations. Our independent inspection and testing services are delivered at key trading locations across the world and we have more than 6,000 experienced members of staff, including geologists, master mariners and chemists. We believe every contract is unique and we pride ourselves on offering a personalised service in the very locations in which our clients operate, including new and emerging markets. With origins dating back over 150 years, Inspectorate has built, and continues to maintain an outstanding reputation for independence and technical excellence within the oil, gas and petrochemical industries. Inspectorate provides world class service and support at every major loading, discharge and STS location. With over 6,000 staff in 125 locations, we are able to provide reliable quality and quantity determination, along with the local and global industry knowledge.
Intagulf FZCO PO Box 18086, Dubai Tel: 04-8860671 Fax: 04-8860672 Nominee: Mark Rogers Managing Director Mob: 050-6531209 mark@intagulf.ae Alternate: Victoria Nash Sales & marketing Executive Mob: 050-2110092 victoria@intagulf.ae Intagulf is an “Independent Wine and Spirit Merchant” based in Jebel Ali Free Zone. Established in 2002, Intagulf represents over 50 wineries, mostly family owned, sourcing 500 wines from all major producing regions and countries, for airlines, airports, travel retail and diplomatic customers, as well as wholesalers, hotels and retailers across the Gulf. Wines are imported directly in reefer containers, and in temperature controlled storage in Intagulf’s own facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone. They are then distributed temperature controlled, guaranteeing quality. We take care of all logistics ourselves. All wines are tasted and chosen independently by the team, and give excellent quality for the price points. We are proud of our wine knowledge and are a learning company. All front line staff are WSET (Wine and Spirit Education Trust) trained, and enjoy passing this knowledge on in training courses to a number of our key customers.
PO Box 333851, Dubai Tel: 04-3369880 Fax: 04-3369961 www.holbornassets.com
Nominee: Neil Foster Regional manager Mob: 050-6508470 Neil.Foster@inspectorate.com
Nominee: Paul David Dummett Financial Consultant Mob: 056-1037996 pauld@holbornassets.com
Alternate: Craig Ronald Stanbury Finance Manager Mob: 050-5532942 Craig.Stanbury@inspectorate.ae
Just Wills Al Wasiyya JLT
Alternate: Steve Gregory Managing Partner Mob: 050-7451190 steve@holbornassets.com
Additional: Allen William Aitken Bus. Devt & Mktg Mgr UAE Mob: 050-5570384 allen.aitken@inspectorate.ae
Nominee: Mohammad Marria Managing Director Mob: 050-2567121 mohammad@just-wills.net
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PO Box 75671, Dubai Tel: 04-4487179 Fax: 04-3328810 www.just-wills.net
Just Wills was the first company launched in the UAE for the sole purpose of offering Will Drafting Services for all expats. Due to our commitment in this particular field we are now registered on the Dubai Government website as an approved Will Writing Company for expats. Many people living here in the UAE are not familiar with the local laws. When someone dies there can be problems with the distribution of the estate and as the laws here are not clear the importance of having a registered Will becomes even more important. We at Just Wills understand the importance and hence we offer a full end-to-end service.
Kwintessential Arabia PO Box 282164, Dubai Tel: 04-3326914 Fax: 04-3326913 www.kwintessential.ae
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customer expectations by ensuring quality and excellence in every aspect of the business. Our comprehensive portfolio of services includes: tGeneral air and sea freight tExports and imports tConsolidations services tMultimodal sea-air and air-air operations tDoor to door services tCustoms clearance tWarehousing and distribution tPart and full charters tExhibitions cargo handling.
Liberty Logistics
Linklaters
PO Box 8845, Dubai Tel: 04-2831188 Fax: 04-2831166 www.libertylogistics.ae
PO Box 506516, Dubai Tel: 04-3695800 Fax: 04-3695801 www.Linklaters.com
Nominee: Mohin Satyapal Jassal General Manager Mob: 050-6260530 mohin@libertylogistics.ae
Nominee: James Alexander Webb Chief Operating Officer James.webb@linklaters.com Alternate: Anne Mairis Office Manager anne.mairis@linklaters.com
Alternate: Sainath Natarajan Commercial Manager Mob: 050-4629033 sainath@libertylogistics.ae
Nominee: Kamran Hussain Director kamran@kwintessential.ae Alternate: Asif Afzal Director asif@kwintessential.ae
company serve the UAE and further afield. All services fall under the umbrella of language and culture and include cultural awareness training, document translation, interpreting, multilingual conferences, desk top publishing, website design and CMS. With international offices the company offers a truly global reach in terms of coverage, languages and services.
3:13:21 PM
Additional: Neil Payne Director neil@kwintessential.ae Kwintessential Arabia are specialists in crosscultural communication. The Dubai-based
One of the leading premium global law firms, undertaking the most important and challenging assignments for the world’s leading companies, financial institutions and governments, helping them to achieve their objectives by solving their most complex and important legal issues.
Liberty Logistics is a member of the Dubai-based Liberty Investment Company, which is the holding company for the group. Established in 2001, in Dubai, Liberty Logistics L.L.C. is a professionally managed company with qualified and experienced multilingual staff. We are fully equipped to provide speedy, efficient and economical solutions for all logistics requirements. The company offers personalised services and strives to exceed
Maverick People PO Box 500617, Dubai Tel: 04-4370175 Fax: 04-4290330 www.maverickpeople.com
With a difference
We specialise in: ● UAE Companies Law and Commercial Agreements ● UAE and International Litigation ● Intellectual Property Registration and Protection ● Property Law
2/F.,Union National Bank Bldg., Dubai. Tel: 3553146, Fax: 355 3106
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www.trenchlaw.com
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Nominee: Jo Baines Mob: 050-8599170 jo@maverickpeople.com Maverick People is a niche Human Resources and Management Consulting firm, specialist in banking and finance industries. We are dynamic, experienced and from a variety of international backgrounds. We provide first class solutions to both our clients and contenders at an executive level and our combined backgrounds give both the client and the contender certainty that they are dealing with professionals every step of the way. Our organisation draws from the strength of international partners who are specialists in their particular field and are committed to working alongside us. Our ‘modus operandi’ is one of consultation and delivery. We only take on assignments we can deliver on and only work with qualified clients.
Mulverhill Associates PO Box 31303, Dubai Tel: 04-3199235 www.mulverhillassociates.com Nominee: Jonathan Hall Managing Director Mob: 050-6455831 jonathan.hall@mulverhillassociates.com Founded by Jonathan Hall, former Executive Director of Abraaj Capital, Mulverhill Associates is an investment and consulting firm based in Dubai focused on the Middle East and North Africa region. Mulverhill provides services including origination, evaluation, structuring and execution of investments and business opportunities within MENA, and represents buyers, sellers and companies expanding in the region seeking expert assistance and guidance.
Offshore Marine Services PO Box 283352, Dubai Tel: 04-3219681 Fax: 04-3219683 www.omsae.com Nominee: Steve Taylor General Manager Mob: 050-4598656 steve.taylor@omsae.com Recruitment, Manning and Marine Consultancy.
OKKU PO Box 211905, Dubai Tel: 04-5018777 Fax: 04-5018785 www.okkudubai.com Nominee: Markus Alexandre Thesleff Founder Mob: 050-4528747 markus@okkudubai.com Alternate: Ramzy Abdul-Majeed Founder Mob: 050-6564039 ramzy@okkudubai.com
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Okku Luxury Japanese restaurant and lounge. Smart, sophisticated and glamorous – welcome to the world of Okku! Introducing a new style of luxury Japanese cuisine to the Middle East dining scene, Okku caters to discerning fish and meat lovers as well as vegetarians alike. With cutting edge service, style and design combined with a see-and-be-seen atmosphere, the multiaward winning restaurant and lounge has elevated the Dubai restaurant scene to a whole new level. Nestled in the über-luxe, five-star, The Monarch Dubai Hotel at the iconic address of One Sheikh Zayed Road, Okku attracts the world’s jet-setters. Born in Dubai, the city where East and West perfectly fuse, Okku is the first location of the ultra chic brand with global aspirations.
Olive Group FZ LLC PO Box 502356, Dubai Tel: 04-3912935 Fax: 04-3688165 www.olivegroup.com Nominee: David St George Chairman info@olivegroup.com
Each direction enables our clients to enhance their business, improve their costs, cashflow and their customers, as well as be more advanced than the competition. At Quintica, we don’t see problems; we see opportunities to discover, to create and to explore innovative solutions and experiences.
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneer PO Box 16897, Dubai Tel: 04-8120600 Fax: 04-8838495 www.rbauction.com Nominee: Steve Barritt General Manager Mob: 050-6509540 sbarritt@rbauction.com Alternate: Mark Grennell Manager, Sales Additional: Sarah Lloyd Marketing Officer Mob: 056-6831956 slloyd@rbauction.com
Saint-Gobain Gyproc Middle-East FZE Alternate: Christopher St George Chairman info@olivegroup.com
PO Box 261107, Dubai Tel: +971800-gyproc Fax: 04-8837005 www.gyproc.ae
Additional: Gavin Mark Mayhew Chief Executive Officer info@olivegroup.com
Nominee: Craig Stephen Chambers Managing Director Mob: 050-5594891 craig.chambers@saint-gobain.com
One&Only Resorts PO Box 37252, Dubai Tel: 04-3999999 Fax: 04-3999998 www.oneandonlyroyalmirage.ae Nominee: Scott Alexander le Roi Director, Sales & Marketing salesmarket@oneandonlyroyalmirage.ae
Quintica / Eaton Group UK PO Box 505107, Dubai Tel: 04-4267303 Fax: 04-4267302 www.quintica.net Nominee: Leena Louise Hinnawi Business Consultant Mob: 050-4253177 leena.hinnawi@quintica.com Alternate: Stefan Honigsberg Client Services Manager Mob: 055 8695417 stefan.honigsberg@quintica.com The Quintica Group is a division of the holding company of Eton Group UK, which for the past five years has been the fastest growing systems integrator in the market. At Quintica, we have developed our business based on four core divisions of service whose objective is to deliver business to global standards. Our four focused divisions are education, professional services, technology and managed services.
Alternate: Mark Philip Rapley Sales Director Mob: 050-5596335 mark.rapley@saint-gobain.com Saint-Gobain has been represented in the UAE for six years, originally established as BPB Middle East FZE now widely known as Saint-Gobain Gyproc Middle East, providing products for use in the construction of lightweight internal wall partitions and ceiling linings. In April 2010, the company inaugurated their first manufacturing facility in the region capable of producing the complete range of Gyproc plasterboard products. In addition they supply a variety of accessory products including Gypframe metal components, Gyproc screws, Gyproc ProTop jointing compound and Gyproc tapes.
Stretch Ceilings Ltd Br PO Box 263055, Dubai Tel: 04-4421211 Fax: 04-4229534 www.stretchceilings.ae Nominee: Elliot John Barron Sales Executive Mob: 050-9891510 elliot.barron@stretchceilings.ae Alternate: Steve Savage Director of Sales – Groups steve.savage@stretchceilings.co.uk
Specialist Services Holdings Limited PO Box: 2752, Dubai Tel: 04-3472646 Fax: 04-3472148 www.specserve.com Nominee: Ian Rogers Chief Executive Officer Mob: 050-6547272 ianrogers@specserve.com Alternate: David Smith Manager, Sales & Marketing Mob: 050-6134248 david@specserve.com
The Charter Company ME FZE is well established in the region as a supplier of VVIP aircraft for charter and lease. The company also offers cargo, logistics and air ambulance solutions into hostile areas.
The First Group LLC PO Box 191672, Dubai Tel: 04-4097500 Fax: 04-4097600 www.thefirstgroup.com Nominee: Mark Richard Tolner Chief Financial Officer Mob: 050-6401527 marktolner@thefirstgroup.com
standMASTER FZ LLC PO Box 37570, Dubai Tel: 04-8846051 Fax: 04-8841393 www.standmasteruae.com Nominee: Julie Shore Partner Mob: 050-4963536 julie@standmasteruae.com Alternate: Mark Shore Partner Mob: 050-5386051 mark@standmasteruae.com With over 20 years’ experience in exhibition management in the UK, Middle East, Africa, Eurasia, India and Russia. 2009 was seen as the start-up year for standMASTER to establish an exhibition company in Dubai, and has quickly established itself as a major force within the exhibition market. standMASTER offers clients individual and personal services hallmarked by quality proactively and competence. Clients benefit from standMASTER is flexible, committed and careful working methods using their particular competence and local know-how. standMASTER deliberately position themselves as a supplier for the discriminating client. standMASTER provide exhibition stand design and build services. The value add of the standMASTER offering is its knowledge and expertise, competitive rates and focus. standMASTER’s decision to focus on superb customer service was made because our market surveys suggest this is a gap within the market.
The Charter Company ME FZE PO Box 371360, Dubai Tel: 04-7017399 Fax: 04-7017398 www.thechartercompany.ae Nominee: Christopher Neil Turnbull President Mob: 050-9941179 neil.t@thechartercompany.ae Alternate: Zaheer Imitaz Choudary Vice President Mob: 050-4442973 zaheer.c@thechartercompany.ae
Alternate: Arron Gareth Shepherd Executive Assistant Manager Mob: 050-6516685 arronshepherd@thefirstgroup.com Additional: Deborah Ebdon-Thomson Admin & Events Co-ordinator Mob: 050-4517213 deborahebdon@thefirstgroup.com TAC Europe and its specialist operating division, technology Project Services (TPS) provide technical recruitment solutions across a wide range of industries and source staff for skilled and semi- skilled vacancies on behalf of more than 250 of the world’s most respected organisations every day. By actively managing our pre-qualified candidate database and deploying our specialist knowledge of the disciplines and markets within which we operate, we are able to source the best contracts permanent staff and project teams for our clients. We form part of one of the world’s largest recruitment groups, which includes TAC Worldwide, Advantage Glodal, FSS, Strategic and Crone Corkhill.
Tourism Ireland PO Box 262746, Dubai Tel: 04-8137863 Fax: 04-8137814 www.discoverireland.com Nominee: Amanda Burns General Manager Mob: 055-5390137 aburns@tourismireland.com Alternate: Aisling Louise McDermott Marketing Manager Mob: 055-5174007 amcdermott@tourismireland.com Tourism Ireland is responsible for marketing Ireland overseas. The principal objectives of the company are to increase tourism to Ireland and to support Northern Ireland in realising its tourism potential. The team at Tourism Ireland, which consists of 160 staff, devises and delivers world-class marketing programmes in 23 markets globally. Tourism Ireland works in close co-operation with industry partners in Ireland
as well as the overseas travel trade, on-line operators, media and air and sea carriers to encourage consumers to holiday in Ireland. In 2009 Tourism Ireland established an Asia-Hub in the UAE with responsibility for emerging markets in the Middle East and Asia, with representatives in the GCC, India, China and Japan.
Vintage Holdings Limited PO Box 54749, Dubai Tel: 04-2990875 Fax: 04-2990876 Nominee: Suresh Rajagopalan Managing Director Mob: 050-6251967 sureshr@vinhl.ae Alternate: Scott David Rigler General Manager Mob: 050-6403308 scottr@vinhl.ae A company owned on behalf of Marlon Abela, the younger son of Albert P Abela, whose family business has operated in the region and globally for over 50 years, with over 70,000 employees in 43 countries. Major Shareholders Managers Fine and Executive of Chef Middle East (formerly Foods), an importer and distributor of premium foods products to the hotel and restaurant business in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Oman. Currently undertaking studies to take Chef into Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Engaged in growing and diversifying Vintage, by acquisition, to become the premium food service operator of choice in the region. Affiliated to MARC (Marlon Abela Restaurant Corporation), with fine dining restaurants in the UK and the USA, with a view to franchising relevant restaurant concepts and/or operating directly in the UAE and other prime locations throughout the region. By association with MFW (MARC Fine wines & champagnes), we have supplied fine wines into the local market via the designated distributors in the UAE.
Virtuzone Freezone PO Box 487177, Dubai/Fujairah Tel: 04-4486406 Fax: 04-4486405 www.vz.ae Nominee: Neil Petch Chairman neil.petch@vz.ae Alternate: Stuart Donald Client Services Manager stuart.donald@vz.ae Additional: Ulrika Christoffersen Client Services Director ulrika.christoffersen@vz.ae
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NEW MEMBERS
Virtuzone is the first truly virtual Freezone licensing entity in the UAE. We offer a unique opportunity to create your business from any worldwide location, with the added benefit of being able to obtain a UAE residence visa for up to three years.
NEW INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Abdul Wahab Al-Halabi PO Box 53629, Dubai Tel: 04-5114500 Nominee: Abdul Wahab Al-Halabi Chief Operating Officer Mob: 050-6564110 mail@halabi.co.uk
CHANGES TO EXSISTING MEMBERS Alamo + National Car Rental PO Box 34190, Dubai Tel: 04-3355447 Fax: 04-3355041 www.alamo-me.com / www.national-me.com Alternate: Kevin Sheepwash Regional Sales Manager kevin.sheepwash@national-me.com
American Hospital PO Box 5566, Dubai Tel: 04-3367777 Fax: 04-3358395 www.ahdubai.com Nominee: Dalia Gamil Director, Sales & Marketing dgamil@ahdubai.com
Anna Smeaton PO Box 506501, Dubai Nominee: Anna Smeaton Mob: 050-5596818 anna.smeaton@morganstanley.com
Alternate: Santosh Marathe Chief Financial Officer smarathe@ahdubai.com
Barclays Bank PLC
PO Box 75850, Dubai
PO Box 1891, Dubai Tel: 04-4382333 Fax: 04-4355932 www.barclays.ae
Nominee: Brad Douglas Mob: 050-2591972 braddouglas2@gmail.com
Nominee: Fergus McDonald Managing Director fergus.mcdonald@barclays.com
Brad Douglas
Damion Lock PO Box 502903, Dubai Nominee: Damion Lock Mob: 050-6404510 damion.lock@gmail.com
Jacqueline Ratcliffe PO Box 215327, Dubai www.regesterlarkin.com Nominee: Jacqueline Ratcliffe Consultant Mobile No. 050-4410943 jratcliffe@regesterlarkin.com
Munro Deysel PO Box 124000, Dubai Tel: 04-2946500 Fax: 04-2946700 www.gib-uae.com Nominee: Munro Deysel Mob: 050-6681737 munro@gib-uae.ae
Ramsey T Assal PO Box 76112, Dubai Tel No. 04-8865000 Fax: 04-8864626
BI Worldwide Middle East FZ-LLC PO Box 502259, Dubai Tel: 04-3748146 Fax: 04-3688063 www.eu.biworldwide.com Alternate: Tarun Patel Client Services Manager Mob: 055-8021553 tarun.patel@ae.biworldwide.com
Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP PO Box 9498, Dubai Tel: 04-3826100 Fax: 04-3329215 www.curtis.com Alternate: Jeanine Turell Associate Mob: 050-2057574 jturell@curtis.com
Daimler Middle East & Levant FZE
Alternate: Lisa Richards Marketing Consultant lisa.richards@davinci.ae
DPD UAE L.L.C PO Box 290, Dubai Tel: 04-5091555 Fax: 04-3409522 www.dpd.com Nominee: Emanuil N. Stoimenos CEO Middle East and S.Asia Mob: 050-6871323 emanuil.stoimenos@laposte.net
Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority PO Box 491. Dubai Tel: 04-2995555 Fax: 04-2027766 www.dafza.ae Nominee: Ibrahim Ahli Director, Marketing iahli@dafza.ae
Emaar Hospitality Group LLC PO Box 9440, Dubai Tel: 04-3673392 Fax: 04-3673699 www.emaar.com Alternate: Jason Harding General Manager JHarding@thepalace-dubai.com
Flying Colour.com PO Box 84059, Dubai Tel: 04-3370033 Fax: 04-3372315 www.flyingcolour.com Nominee: Samudi Rathnayaka Executive Business Consultant sam@flyingcolour.com
GAC Logistics PO Box 17041, Dubai Tel: 04-8818090 Fax: 04-8818687 www.gacworld.com Nominee: Philip Showering General Manager, Logistics Mob: 050-6543283 phil.showering@gacworld.com
GMC Clinics PO Box 11962, Dubai Tel: 04-3446937 Fax: 04-3446937 www.groupgmc.com
PO Box 17880, Dubai Tel: 04-8833200 Fax: 04-8833201 www.mideast.daimler.com
Alternate: Helen Johns General Practitioner helen.johns@groupgmc.com
Alternate: Leigh Cleaver Head â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Corporate Sales Leigh.Cleaver@daimler.com
Hadef & Partners PO Box 37172, Dubai Tel: 04-4292999 Fax: 04-4292888 www.hadalaw.com
daVinci Marketing Nominee: Ramsey T Assal Mob: 050-7081625 ramsey.assal@gmail.com
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PO Box 215146, Dubai Tel: 04-3901997 Fax: 04-3904501 www.davinci.ae
Alternate: Reema Ashrat Lawyer r.ashrat@hadefpartners.com
Hay Group Middle East PO Box 30987, Dubai Tel: 04-7059534 Fax: 04-3247395 www.haygroup.com
Alternate: Leanne Hamilton Corporate Marketing Manager leanneh@elr.ae
Meed Limited
Sarah Anthony PO Box 502221, Dubai Nominee: Sarah Anthony Mob: 050-4508818 sarah@sarahanthony.com
Alternate: Vinod Nair Associate Director vinod.nair@haygroup.com
PO Box 25960, Dubai Tel: 04-3900045 Fax: 04-3688025 www.meed.com
Intergence Systems Middle East FZ-LLC
Alternate: Richard Thompson Editorial Director richard.thompson@emap-me.com
PO Box 54227, Dubai Tel: 04-3438002 Fax: 04-3438004 www.sherwoodsproperty.com
Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai
Alternate: David Schuin Commercial Manager davids@gvabrooklands.com
PO Box 502734, Dubai Tel: 04-4345879 Fax: 04-341735 www.intergence.com Alternate: Chris Carter-Jones Business Development Manager, Rehabilitation Unit ccarter-jones@intergence.com
International Aeradio (Emirates) LLC PO Box 9197, Dubai Tel: 04-4033600 Fax: 04 4033601 www.ial-uae.com
PO Box 32733, Dubai Tel: 04-3366000 Fax: 04-3366626 www.moevenpick-burdubai.com
Simon Andrew Moyes Nominee: Robert Barker General Manager Mob: 050-5508457 robert.barker@moevenpick.com Alternate: Nicolas Pezout Executive Assistant Manager Mob: 050-5527673 nicolas.pezout@moevenpick.com
Alternate: Aroop Takyar General Manager Aroop.Takyar@ial-uae.com
Motivate Publishing – Platinum
Jashanmal National Co. LLC
PO Box 2331, Dubai Tel: 04-2824060 Fax: 04-2824436
PO Box 1545, Dubai Tel: 04-2666633 Fax: 04-2629597 www.jashanmal.ae Nominee: Tony Jashanmal Group Director Mob: 055-4825674 tony@jashanmal.net
Khaleej Times PO Box 11243, Dubai Tel: 04-3383535 Fax: 04-3382568 www.khaleejtimes.com Alternate: Mark Carroll Director, Sales & Marketing Mob: 050-1890266 mark@khaleejtimes.com
Lloyds TSB Bank plc PO Box 3766, Dubai Tel: 04-3422000 Fax: 04-3422660 www.lloydstsb.ae Alternate: Colin Barclay Risk Director Mob: 050-1898459 colin.barclay@lloydstsb.ae
Maritime & Mercantile International LLC PO Box 122199, Dubai Tel: 04-4259000 Fax: 04-3686300 www.mmidubai.com
Sherwoods Independent Property Consultants
Alternate: Anthony Milne G.M. – Group Sales Mob: 050-5581379 anthony@motivate.ae
Parsons Brinkerhoff (Middle East) Ltd PO Box: 4512, Dubai Tel: 04-4497209 Fax: 04-3353992 www.pbworld.com Nominee: Peter Smith Market Sector Dir, Buildings & Infrastructure Mob: 050-4437564 smithpete@pbworld.com Alternate: Dan Tobin Regional Commercial Director Mob: 050-5584638 tobind@pbworld.com
R Douglas Dowie PO Box 72361, Dubai Nominee: R. Douglas Dowie Mobile No. 056-555489 dowie@emirates.net.ae
SAB Media – Platinum
PO Box 502387, Dubai Tel: 04-3902476 Fax: 04-3908246 Nominee: Simon Andrew Moyes Senior Consultant, Acoustics Mob: 056-1033959 smoyes@smwllc.com
The Monarch Dubai PO Box 125511, Dubai Tel: 04-5018888 Fax: 04-5018899 www.themonarchdubai.com Alternate: Nina Hahn Asst. Director of Events Sales Hahn@themonarchdubai.com
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort And Spa PO Box 24880, Dubai Tel: 04-3993333 Fax: 04-3990000 www.westin.com / www.dubaiminaseyahi.com Nominee: Gavin Maloney Director, Sales & Marketing gavin.maloney@westin.com Alternate: Maxime Braun Assistant Director, Sales maxime.braun@westin.com
Thomson Reuters PO Box 1426, Dubai Tel: 04-3918300 Fax: 04-3918334 www.thomsonreuters.com Alternate: Michael Rautmann Head of Mktg, M.East & Africa Mob: 050-6320429 Michael.Rautmann@thomsonreuters.com
TNT (UAE) LLC
PO Box 502590, Dubai Tel: 04-3642900 Fax: 04-3697593
PO Box 15321, Dubai Tel: 04-42955519 Fax: 04-2949615 www.tnt.com
Nominee: Neil Isaacson Grp Head, Business Devt neil.isaacson@sab-holding.com
Nominee: Mark Woodcock Sales, Marketing & Comm’l Director mark.woodcock@tnt.com
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NEW MEMBERS
UBS AG
British Council
PO Box 4530, Dubai Tel: 04-2240044 Fax: 04-2220006 www.ubs.com
PO Box 1636, Dubai Tel: 04-3370109 Fax: 04-3370703 www.britishcouncil.org/me.htm
Nominee: Roger Leitner roger.leitner@ubs.com
Additional: David Hopkinson david.hopkinson@ae.britishcouncil.org
Xerox Emirates
Chapman Freeborn
PO Box 6195, Dubai Tel: 04-3525885 Fax: 04-3070220 www.xeroxuae.com
PO Box 54619, Dubai Tel: 04-2997029 Fax: 04-2997032 www.chapman-freeborn.com
Alternate: Sarvesh Anand Financial Controller Mob: 050-6599853 sarvesh.anand@xerox.ae
Additional: Catherine Buchanan Manager, Charter Sales Mob: 050-6341860 Catherine.buchanan@chapman-freeborn.com
Emaar Hospitality Group LLC ADDITIONALS TO BUSINESS MEMBERS ABB Industries (L.L.C.) PO Box 11070, Dubai Tel: 04-3147500 Fax: 04-3401531 www.abb.com Additional: Karen Wilds Region Comms & Mktg Head Mob: 050-6360927 karen.wilds@ae.abb.com
AstraZeneca FZ LLC PO Box 27614 Tel: 04-3624888 Fax: 04-3624899 www.astrazeneca.com Additional: Mehtap Arslan Director Human Resources Mob: 050-6504057 mehtap.arslan@astrazeneca.com
Bluehaus LLC PO Box 49439, Dubai Tel: 04-3416200 Fax: 04-3416217 www.bluehaus.ae Additional: Sandy Stirling Manager, Business Development emma@bluehaus.ae
Boyden Middle East (A.G.R.S.) PO Box 35499, Dubai Tel: 04-2826868 Fax: 04-2828171 www.boydenme.com Additional: Stefan Hart Director Mob: 050-1016477 s.hart@boydenme.com Additional: Matthew Lewis Director Mob: 050-4264835 m.lewis@boydenme.com
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PO Box 9440, Dubai Tel: 04-3673392 Fax: 04-3673699 www.emaar.com Additional: Edwin Edwards General Manager EEdwards@theaddress.com
Emirates â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Platinum PO Box 686, Dubai Tel: 04-7082020 Fax: 04-2864130 Additional: Salem Obaidalla Commercial Operations Europe and Russian Federation salem.obaidalla@emirates.com Additional: Yousuf Ahmad Al Rahmani Cargo Hub Operation Controller Mob: 050-6535888 s257364@emirates.com
Emirates NBD PO Box 506710, Dubai Tel: 04-3032856 Fax: 04-3254298 www.nbd.com Additional: Alan Kerr Head of Investment Banking and Project Finance Mob: 050-4526619 alankerr@emiratesbank.com
Gardiner & Theobald International Ltd. PO Box 24476, Dubai Tel: 04-3458518 Fax: 04-3459548 www.Gardiner.com Additional: Amber Waheed Manager, Corporate Communications a.waheed@gardinermiddleeast.com
Additional: Julian Unsworth VP, Private Wealth Mgnt Mob: 050-7027329 junsworth@globaleye.com Additional: Scott Balsdon VP, Wealth Mgnt Mob: 050-5062947 sbalsdon@globaleye.com Additional: Rania Guesdon VP, Wealth Mgnt Mob: 050-8407144 rguesdon@globaleye.com
Hay Group PO Box 30987, Dubai Tel: 04-7059534 Fax: 04-3247395 www.haygroup.com Additional: Nick Bell Senior Consultant nick.bell@haygroup.com
HBJ Gateley Wareing PO Box 213241, Dubai Tel: 04-3219999 Fax: 04-3219911 www.hbj-gw.com Additional: Jane Bertenshaw Solicitor jbertenshaw@hbj-gw.com
INCE & CO (Dubai Branch) PO Box 123004, Dubai Tel: 04-3598982 Fax: 04-3590023 www.incelaw.com Additional: Paul Constantine Samothrakis Solicitor Mob: 050-7089741 pavlo.samothrakis@incelaw.com
International House Dubai PO Box 72066, Dubai Tel: 04-3213121 Fax: 04-3213555 www.ihdubai.com Additional: Sarah Grant Manager, Business Development sarah.ihdubai@knet.ae
Knowledge Network (K-Net) PO Box 72066, Dubai Tel: 04-3435343 Fax: 04-3213555 www.knet.ae Additional: Matthew Laubengayer Manager, Business Development matthew@knet.ae
Globaleye
Lloyds TSB Bank plc
PO Box 24592, Dubai Tel: 04-3489330 Fax: 04-3489331 www.globaleye.com
PO Box 3766, Dubai Tel: 04-3422000 Fax: 04-3422660 www.lloydstsb.ae
Additional: Paul Keaveney Relationship Manager Mob: 050-4569758 paul.keaveney@lloydstsb.ae Additional: Mark Sorrell Head of Credit Mob: 056-6816733 mark.sorrell@lloydstsb.ae
RFIB ME (Robert Fleming Insurance Brokers) PO Box 506670, Dubai Tel: 04-3755541 Fax: 04-4289208 www.rfib.co.uk Additional: Stephen Hart Director Mob: 050-4585337 stephen.hart@rfib.ae
Additional: Peter Robinson Business Development Mob: 050-6543402 peter.robinson@lloydstsb.ae
Rigidal Industries LLC
Maritime & Mercantile International LLC
Additional: Christopher Mitchell Intl Business Dev’t Manager Mob: 056-6818237 chris.mitchell@rigidal.com
PO Box 70, Dubai Tel: 04-4245000 Fax: 04-3686300 www.mmidubai.com Additional: Tina Schultz Marketing Manager, Emirates Leisure Retail tinas@elr.ae
Meed Limited PO Box 25960, Dubai Tel: 04-3900045 Fax: 04-3688025 www.meed.com Additional: Ed James ed.james@emap-me.com
Omnia Dubai PO Box 500475, Dubai Tel: 04-3671414 Fax: 04-3672522 www.omnia.ae Additional: Caroline Lyster Account Manager caroline.lyster@omnia.ae
Parsons Brinckerhoff (Middle East) Ltd PO Box 4512, Dubai Tel: 04-4497209 Fax: 04-3353992 www.pbworld.com Additional: Richard Silvester Technical Dir. – Rail Systems Mob: 050-5581728 silvester.richard@pbworld.com
Pinsent Masons LLP PO Box 115580, Dubai Tel: 04-3739700 Fax: 04-3739701 www.pinsentmasons.com Additional: David Bowman Associate Mob: 050-5579184 david.bowman@pinsentmasons.com
PO Box 60493, Dubai Tel: 04-8854232 Fax: 04-8854223 www.rigidal.com
Seven Tides PO Box 211508, Dubai Tel: 04-4281570 Fax: 04-4281571 www.seventides.com Additional: Michael Nugent General Manager Mob: 055-4003380 michael.nugent@moevenpick.com
Transguard Group LLC PO Box 22630, Dubai Tel: 04-2995774 Fax: 04-2995664 www.transguardgroup.com Additional: Lynne McMurray Chief Operating Officer Mob: 050-9007112 lynne.mcmurray@transguardgroup.net Additional: Mike Callender Managing Director, Macair Mob: 056-6812724 mike.callender@transguardgroup.net
NEW NON-RESIDENT BUSINESS BCL Legal Limited PO Box M2 5NT, UK Tel: +44-1618197475 Fax: +44-8452410931 www.bcllegal.com Nominee: James Batt Managing Director Mob: +44-7803624338 jamesbatt@bcllegal.com Alternate: Victoria Clark Director Mob: +44-77807060624 vickyclark@bcllegal.com BCL Legal is one of the largest legal recruitment businesses in the UK. We
provide recruitment services to private practice law firms and businesses. Clients include Eversheds LLP, DLA Piper LLP as well as businesses across various sectors–Astrazeneca, BAE systems, Nike, Taylor Wimpey, Bovis Land lease and Phones 4U are amongst our clients.
Cruxton Travel Tel: +44-2084268444 Fax: +44-2084268777 www.cruxton.com Nominee: Muslim Kanji CEO, UAE Mob: +44-7802226157 bbg@cruxton.com UK-based Cruxton Travel has for 24 years, specialised in business travel/hotels and private clients like banks’ private clients wealth management, where the key is cost effective solutions and value for money. We remain as concierge with you as our client all the way and not just only until you ‘click’. Whether it is your chairman or mother-in-law coming from the UK to UAE and/or beyond say Australia, South Africa or Hong Kong, simply send us an email at bbg@ cruxton.com for a deal. Save up to 50 per cent on our worldwide hotels and car hire portfolio. Remember, we are UK-based and use GBP as base currency, offering even more savings.
Jacobs International Holdings Inc. PO Box 3135, Abu Dhabi Tel: 02-4088400 Fax: 02-4471262 www.jacobs.com Nominee: Steven Rayner Director Mob: 050-6405905 steven.rayner@jacobs.com Alternate: Paul James Noble Divisional Director Mob: 050-6676531 paul.noble@jacobs.com Proposing Entity: Jacobs International Holdings Inc. (JIHI) JIHI is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jacobs (NYSE: JEC), headquartered in Pasadena, California – a 56,000-person strong international engineering and construction company providing a full spectrum of professional and field services, with annual revenues of nearly $11 billion generated by offices worldwide. Our services include consulting, engineering, procurement, construction, construction management, operations and maintenance on projects of all sizes from small projects to major capital programme management. We offer the integrated solutions our clients need to plan, design, construct, maintain and operate a facility – providing continuity of service and smooth transition across each phase of a project. We organise and manage projects from inception through execution, to operation – tailoring our services to the specific requirements of individual projects and clients.
BRITAIN IN BUSINESS | 81
MEMBER OFFERS
BBG offers
Join the BBG and you’ll open the door to a range of business and leisure offers.
Shaken, not stirred – Ian Fleming alledgedly wrote this famous James Bond phrase at the Duke’s Bar, a cosy hideaway in the Dukes Hotel in St. James’ Park in Central London.
BOOK INTO DUKES HOTEL The BBG has secured an exclusive offer at the Dukes Hotel for members who are travelling to Central London on business or leisure. Mid-Week Package: Room rate are £195 (Dhs1,075)+VAT per night, which include guaranteed upgrade from Dukes to Classic rooms and a 20 per cent discount in the hotel restaurant or on room service. The Weekend Package: A minimum 2 nights stay on Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday has a room rate of £195 (Dhs1,075)+VAT per night, which includes a guaranteed upgrade from Dukes to Classic room, 20 per cent discount in the hotel restaurant or on room service, and a bottle of champagne and canapés in the room on arrival. Both offers are valid until 31 December 2010 with the exception of a few black out dates. Please quote BBG offer when booking. Contact: +44 207 318 6585.
FREE ADS IN THE TIMES AND THE SUNDAY TIMES The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers offer BBG members an opportunity to advertise for free upon subscription to the newspaper. 82 | BRITAIN IN BUSINESS
t For every Daily Package subscription (Dhs 2,900) a BBG member is entitled to three, quarter-page coloured advertisements worth Dhs9,547 each. t The ad can be placed in any edition of the newspaper within the year of the subscription period. t Artwork/design subject to approval by SAB Media. t Two weeks’ prior notice should be given to SAB Media. Contact bbgdubai@britbiz-uae.com or the BBG office on (04) 3970303.
SIGN UP AND JOIN SIRIUS All new members joining the BBG are eligible for a Silver Sirius card from the Jumeirah Group. Current Silver Sirius card holders will be upgraded to a Gold Card. Contact: jumeirah.com/Sirius/ About-The-Program1/Member-privilages/Silver/.
FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO GULF BUSINESS All UAE-based BBG members and new members will receive a complimentary subscription to Gulf Business. All BBG members also have the opportunity to enroll in the Motivate Book Club where members receive a 25 per cent discount on the cover price of over 200 books. Contact: booksarabia.com or books@motivate.ae.