Germany In Bahrain - October 2017

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Germany in

October 2017

A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month



THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Apple Sharma Contributors Charlie Holding, Behnaz Sanjana, Puja Tiwari Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan

contents

BAHRAIN THIS MONTH • GERMANY IN BAHRAIN • OCTOBER 2017

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Celebrating Stability

3

The Travel Connection

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Feel Intelligent Drive

5

Mind Your Language

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Fast and Faster

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Celebrations Galore

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Learn the Lingo

Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Randa Ghazi Howais

HE Alfred Simms-Protz, German Ambassador, hopes the new government in his home country will make for increased interest in the region.

Birgit Hobaugh talks about her experience of setting up a one-of-a-kind business assisting Bahrainis to find medical treatment in Germany.

Al Haddad Motors launches its brand-new luxury sedan and announces a strategic partnership with another industry giant.

Brush up on your German speaking skills at Berlitz, as it offers beginner, intermediate and advance courses.

Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

The third generation of Porsche’s successful SUV is brimming with potential, featuring newly developed engines, chassis, control concept and more connectivity.

Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2014 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

The Language Course Programme of the German Embassy in Bahrain offers first-class German lessons, introducing you to a new world of opportunities.

10

In-Sparational Travel

12

In Business Together

Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

German-based company, Vapiano, marks a milestone with lots to commemorate and double reasons to rejoice.

Germany is known across the world for its spas. BTM brings you the top five pampering destinations the country has to offer.

Bahrain and Germany have enjoyed many years of cordial relations and from culture to commerce there is no doubting the European nation’s influence on the island.

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request. Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

COMMERCIAL INDEX Al Haddad Motors:Mercedes........................................ BC Berlitz.............................................................................. 5 Farrell International Co.: German Skin Care Centre..... 12

www.bahrainthismonth.com

German Language Course............................................. IBC Suncity Ventures: Vapiano.............................................. 7

October 2017 1


germanyinbahrain

HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Celebrating Stability LIZ O’REILLY As he heads into his third year in post, German Ambassador HE Alfred Simms-Protz is hopeful the new government in his home country will make for increased interest in the region. Having arrived in July 2015, His Excellency says his aims were that of any ambassador – to build on relations and help increase investment between the two countries. But, pragmatically, he concedes: “That was my intent but I have to be honest and say I think I have just maintained the stable, friendly level but there has not been a dramatic increase in visits or investment. The chances for an ambassador to make a difference are limited; it depends on reciprocal visits. There are a number of factors that have limited that in the case of Bahrain. Particularly in the last six months our [German] politicians have been preoccupied with the elections that took place on September 24 and our foreign policy focus has been very much on Europe – areas such as the EU after Brexit and the issue of refugees as well as the Trans-Atlantic relationship. “Other than our Defence Minister, who came for the Manama Dialogue, there has not been a high-level visit for a while. I have been trying to get the Foreign Minister to come and I am hopeful that will happen in the not too distant future. 2 October 2017

However, recent news of a large-scale investment in the Kingdom by German company Armacell – which in May broke ground for a factory at Bahrain International Investment Park that, when completed in 2018, will produce a range of products, including high-density materials and elastomeric insulation for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems – is expected to excite increased investment interest. The project will create around 100 jobs with some workers coming from Germany, adding to the 500-strong local German community, and others being hired locally. His Excellency says: “I think German companies can find excellent opportunities here, because of the location as a gateway to Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region and we have been in discussions [with potential investors] in areas such as manufacturing, logistics, environmental technology, solar energy et cetera – the country is definitely an attractive investment proposition, on top of being the world’s number one destination for expats, as an international survey confirmed recently. “As in the case of Armacell, the location is important, particularly now with increased ease of border processing. Also, lower costs in comparison to the UAE, excellent infrastructure and the easy, liberal lifestyle give Bahrain the edge for both companies and their employees.”

The bilateral volume of trade stood at EUR359 million (BD158 million) last year, with Bahrain exporting EUR18.6 million (BD8.2 million) and importing EUR340.2 million (BD150 million) in items such as cars, machinery and pharmaceutical products. For the future, His Excellency is confident this can be increased as investment opportunities continue to grow. Moving forward, plans for the coming year include a major cultural event which is still in the pipeline but expected to be during the winter months. The embassy will also be celebrating German Unity Day on October 3 and the new – or old – Defence Minister, once named, is expected to travel to the island for the Manama Dialogue in December, which His Excellency says is always a useful event, providing an excellent opportunity for bilateral meetings on the margins, including with the host country Bahrain. In conclusion, His Excellency says Bahrain will continue to hold a special attraction for him even after his term as ambassador comes to an end, explaining: “I enjoy interacting with the people of Bahrain. They are very open, welcoming and friendly – that has been my experience from day one, and I truly appreciate that. Newcomers instantly feel at home in Bahrain, it’s so easy to live and work here. I also have to say I love the weather – even in July and August! Some people complain about the heat but I find it makes me feel alive!” www.bahrainthismonth.com


The Travel Connection very flexible with our offers. We see our company as a travel expert and consultant, and our customers receive a lot of information, recommendations and support when booking their leisure or business travel. We talk to our clients, who are mostly from Bahrain but also some from across the region, to find out their needs and to make their travel an unforgettable experience. Germany has a lot of different landscapes and there is a perfect destination for everyone. Our goal is it to share our experience and organise the perfect trip. Do you see the number of German visitors to Bahrain rising, falling or staying the same, and what do you feel could be done to bring in more tourists? I am a licensed tourist guide in Bahrain, and I welcome 1,000 German speaking tourists every year. Many are coming for just half a day by cruise ship in the winter season. The number of tourists staying in Bahrain for a few days is increasing, because those who are interested in the Arabic and GCC countries want to discover Bahrain as well. We are promoting the rich history, the traditions and culture as well as Bahrain’s citizens, who are so welcoming to their guests.

Birgit Hobaugh

Birgit Hobaugh tells Liz O’Reilly about her experience of setting up a one-of-a-kind business assisting Bahrainis to find medical treatment in Germany. You operate Bahraini German International Services, along with your partner Mohammed – what made you want to set up an operation in Bahrain? Mohammed Al Sharqi gave me the opportunity to become a businesswoman in a field where I could help patients needing to receive treatment abroad. Being a German national, I felt confident to offer the best quality services to our customers, since German healthcare is among the best in the world. Mohammed had offered services for Arabic patients, who received spa and rehabilitation treatment in the Czech Republic and it was a perfect idea to extend this to all medical fields in Germany. www.bahrainthismonth.com

When we applied for the CR [Company Registration] in 2003, the field of Health Tourism services was not available on the list of business opportunities and we became the first company with such a CR. Bahrainis had been travelling to Germany for medical treatment for a long time, but they always visited the same cities and doctors. My goal was and is to search for the specialist in the individual patient’s disease who can offer the correct diagnosis and offer treatment. Most patients have contacted many doctors before they talk to me and have been unable to find assistance. We have helped many patients in the almost 14 years since we opened. You expanded into the general tourism area, introducing Arabs to Germany and Germans to Bahrain – has this proved successful? Expanding your business field is very important in Bahrain and as a service company we are

How has your business coped and competed with the massive explosion in online travel booking? We are available for those who need support and information. And our service includes a lot more than booking engines can do. We are focusing on worldwide travel for groups, for example. Our Motorcycle Travel Group MTG is already working on the schedule for 2018, offering motorcycle trips. In the past four years we have organised 15 group tours, all starting from Munich, Germany. This region is a paradise for bike riders. Other than your business, what role do you play within the island’s German community – are there groups and activities? I like to bring our community together for different activities and by sending information through my database. With some other people, I am also welcoming new Germans moving to Bahrain, answering their first questions and introducing them to the community. October 2017 3


germanyinbahrain AL HADDAD MOTORS

Feel Intelligent Drive

This leading car dealership on the island launches its brand-new luxury sedan and announces a strategic partnership with another industry giant. Al Haddad Motors, the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the Kingdom, has unveiled the latest addition to the Mercedes-Benz family – the all new S-Class. During the launch, the company also made an exciting announcement about their newly joined partnership with Majestic Cars. This is the first-ever agreement where the authorised distributor has signed a corporate deal with Majestic Cars to carry a fleet of 20 S-Class, 8 E-Class and 1 GLS. Catering to the high-end customers in Bahrain, Majestic will be the only company to have the latest S-Class in its fleet. The S-Class comes with many new inventions and has been proven to be the most desired luxury vehicle in the world. Among the features of the S 450 are: • Intelligent Drive takes the vehicle to a new level of autonomous driving with driver assistance systems and substantially expanded functionality. • The latest ENERGIZING comfort control gives the driver total control over climate, lighting 4 October 2017

and musical atmosphere, and enables a specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of each customer. • The high-quality interior is created with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, featuring a new widescreen cockpit, and woodleather steering wheel as standard. • The model’s exterior is complemented with crystal-look tail lamps, a new radiator grille, MULTIBEAM LED headlights and three distinctive torches of light as an exclusive design element. • It comes with a V6 engine with a displacement of 2.996 and a rated torque of 270/367 (kW/hp). The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class retains its title as the undisputed leader of intelligence, power, performance and luxury. The top-of-therange model takes another big step towards autonomous driving and elevates Intelligent Drive to the next level. The new S-Class adds an additional layer of excellence by incorporating and enhancing a host of innovative driving assistance systems initially introduced in the previous model. These include the Active Steer Assist, which has been noticeably improved across its entire performance range, resulting in markedly enhanced customer benefits. The Active

Breaking Assist, which detects end-of-tailback situations without space for evasive action, triggers a warning as well as automatic emergency stopping when required. The Evasive Steering Assist supports the driver in taking evasive action when pedestrians are detected in the danger zone in front of the vehicle. With PRE-SAFE Sound, a short interference signal is triggered ahead of any collisions expected to produce a loud crash, in order to protect the eardrum and inner ear from high acoustic pressures. The new S-Class’ suspension control is further improved, as the stereo camera of the system now scans the road even more thoroughly, even in dusk and at speeds up to 180km/h. Another comfort enhancement is CURVE, the curve-tilting function available in the S-Class sedan for the first time. The body tilts to the inside of the turn by up to 2.65 degrees, thereby reducing the centrifugal forces perceived by the passengers. Seven new light-alloy wheels with diameters between 17 and 20 inches have been introduced on the new model. The front bumper with pronounced air intakes and sporty looks is also new. Mobile phones can be charged wirelessly and without a telephone holder. The Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound system with an output of 1,520 watts has been expanded with a speaker in the overhead control panel and two speakers in the sides. With 64 colours, the ambient lighting offers a wealth of individual settings that add a welcoming effect upon entering the cabin. Because the cockpit is fully digital, the driver can choose from three different display styles (Classic, Sporty and Progressive) and also configure the information and views relevant to them. The new S-Class will be available in six model variants in the GCC markets: Mercedes-Benz S 450, Mercedes-Benz S 560, Mercedes-Benz S 560 4MATIC, Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+, Mercedes-AMG S 65 and Mercedes-Maybach S 650. The Mercedes-Benz S 560 e, an upgraded plug-in hybrid variant, will be available later in the year. Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454. www.bahrainthismonth.com


Liked by more than 44,000,000! BERLITZ

Mind Your Language

Helped more than 44,000,00 around the world!

Planning to visit Oktoberfest? Brush up on your German speaking skills at this well-known language centre as it offers beginner, intermediate and advanced courses. If you are looking to study German at a proficiency level, renowned learning centre Berlitz should be your top choice. The centre provides an immersive experience with native teachers focusing on oral communication using a method developed by founder Maximilian D Berlitz – accelerating learning and building the key foundation for effective communication. Instructors use a conversational approach based on listening and speaking. Berlitz offers training in several languages, including French, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic and Russian, among others, through an extensive 10-level process. Instructions are available through various delivery platforms – face-to-face, virtual, online, mobile, study abroad and in any possible format. Each programme is custom-designed to fit the specific needs of clients or corporates, individuals, young students and children. Overcoming cultural differences, managing diversity and leveraging similarities for maximum performance are the three qualities that form the core of its foundations. Being a worldwide institution, Berlitz has more than 500 locations across the globe, and hires approximately 6,000 employees teaching over 50 dialects. In Bahrain, there are two centres – one in Manama and another in Budaiya. Consultations are available to help you decide on the best course of action, based on your needs.

call us on: +973 17827847

Call 17 694-233 or 17 827-847. www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2017 5


germanyinbahrain

BEHBEHANI BROTHERS: PORSCHE

Fast and Faster This marque’s new introduction is brimming with potential, featuring newly developed engines, chassis, control concept and more connectivity. Porsche is introducing the third generation of the brand’s successful SUV. A completely new development from the Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer, the Cayenne combines typical Porsche performance with excellent everyday practicality. Powerful turbo engines, a new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox and new chassis systems, alongside an innovative display and control concept with increased connectivity take both sportiness and comfort to the next level. There are two newly developed six-cylinder engines to choose from. The Cayenne’s 340hp (250kW), three-litre turbo engine delivers 40hp (29kW) more than the previous model. The 2.9litre V6 biturbo engine in the Cayenne S, which reaches speeds of up to 265km/h, brings it up to 440hp (324kW) – an increase of 20hp (15kW). Equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, the new Cayenne S accelerates from zero to 100km/h in less than five seconds. Based on the iconic 911 sports car, the brand’s SUV has been enhanced visually and features mixed tyres as well as rear-axle steering for the first time. On-road capabilities of the model are also further improved thanks to active all-wheel drive as standard, Porsche 6 October 2017

4D Chassis Control, three-chamber air suspension and the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) electronic roll stabilisation system. Despite its significantly extended range of standard equipment, the Cayenne S weighs up to 65kg less than its predecessor and remains perfectly suited to off-road use. The appearance of the Cayenne has been further enhanced in line with the Porsche Design DNA. The enlarged air intakes at the front are clear indicators of the increased performance. Meanwhile, the new horizontal light edges result in the SUV appearing wider and more athletic, even when stationary. The luggage compartment volume has been increased by 100 litres and now offers 770-litre capacity. The wheels are one inch larger in diameter, with wider tyres on the rear axle for the first time, emphasising the improved driving dynamics. The iconic Porsche lettering spans across the redesigned rear lights, which feature a three-dimensional design and end-to-end narrow strip of LEDs. The SUV’s default setting is the Onroad programme; however, four other modes activate the conditioning for mild off-road terrain: Mud, Gravel, Sand or Rocks. The drive, chassis and differential locks can be selected to adapt to the relevant scenario. The new Cayenne combines three chassis concepts in one new design: sports car, offroader and touring car. Mixed tyres which are now on wheels of at least 19 inches are a

characteristic sports car feature applied to the new models – improving stability and driving dynamics on bends. For the first time, the Cayenne is available with electric rear-axle steering – a system tried and tested both in the 911 and the Panamera – improving agility on bends and stability when changing lanes at high speeds. The reduced turning circle also makes everyday handling of the SUV easier. With its innovative Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB), the manufacturer is once again assuming a pioneering role in the development of high-performance brakes. This world first is available as an option for all Cayenne models and consists of a cast-iron disc with a tungstencarbide coating. Exclusive to Porsche, the brakes are also visually impressive, with callipers painted in white, while the surface of the discs develops a unique gloss level after bedding-in. Similarly to the 911 and the Panamera, the new body of the Cayenne also uses an intelligent combination of alloy and steel. One particular technical highlight is the innovative lithium-ion polymer starter battery, which alone accounts for a weight saving of 10kg over the predecessor model. The third generation of Porsche’s SUV models are available to order now, with first deliveries arriving in January 2018. Call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17 459-911. www.bahrainthismonth.com


SUNCITY VENTURES: VAPIANO

Celebrations Galore

Marking a milestone, this German-based company has lots to commemorate and double reasons to rejoice. This is a very special month for Vapiano, as it celebrates two different occasions. One, it’s the German national day and secondly, it’s the 15th anniversary of the opening of its very first restaurant in Germany. Exactly 15 years ago, Vapiano opened on October 22, 2002, in Hohe Bleichen, Germany, and took its initial steps towards success. Since then, it has expanded to 191 outlets in 32 countries on five continents, and has inspired thousands of guests with its authentic Italian cuisine. Vapiano has a unique concept where pastas, pizzas, antipasti and salads can be ordered directly from the chefs at the individual stations in the middle of the restaurant. The chefs prepare all the dishes to order in front of your eyes. Everyone can have their meals prepared to

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their own personal preference. Favourite dishes can be created, and then individually refined. The herb garden and the fresh herbs on the tables are not just for decoration, but to offer the special taste that every dish deserves. Diners can see how the pasta and sweets are freshly made each day in the glassed-in kitchen in the centre of the eatery. The pizza dough, sauces, dressings and pesto are all prepared in-house and guaranteed to be made of the finest ingredients. Vapiano combines the pleasure of enjoying good food and having it served the way you like it. It is located in City Centre Bahrain, and everyone is welcome to dine in. It launches a new special menu every two months, as it’s always keen to satisfy all tastes. Join the special celebrations as Vapiano wishes everyone a Happy National Day! Call 17 491-391.

October 2017 7


germanyinbahrain GERMAN EMBASSY

Learn the Lingo

HE Alfred Simms-Protz handing out the certificates to the advanced class students with their teacher

HE Alfred Simms-Protz with another class and their teachers

Speaking a new language can be fun and exciting and, if taught properly, can broaden your horizons, introducing you to a new world of opportunities.

8 October 2017

One of the main benefits of mastering a foreign lingo is that it opens up your world to new adventures and prospects. German is one such language. Why? It’s a no brainer, really. Amongst other compelling reasons, it is the most widely spoken native language in Europe – in Switzerland, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein as well as Germany itself. It’s also the lingo of a significant portion of the population in northern Italy, eastern

Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, eastern France, parts of Poland, the Czech Republic, Russia and Romania. It can give you a chance to access free education in Germany and it has a lot of similarities to English, so is easy to learn. The Language Course Programme of the German Embassy in Bahrain, located in Salmaniya, offers firstclass German lessons corresponding to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, running courses for children and adults. The courses were initiated in 2009, as the brainchild of Dr Hubert Lang, who was the ambassador at that time. There has been an impressive growth since then through the dedication and commitment of all those involved, particularly Stefanie Russell, the former course coordinator. Due to the growing interest in Bahrain to learn German, there are now 15 courses offered at any time, from beginner to advanced levels. Children’s lessons start from the age of 11. Having a reasonable knowledge of German can open new vistas for further education or business opportunities. Germany offers international students a diverse range of academic opportunities within top class accredited universities, teaching courses for state examinations and bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. A German university degree is recognised and respected by organisations around the world. More and more educational programmes are being offered in English, especially at the master’s level, which will suit you just fine if you have a working knowledge of the native tongue. This is especially a win-win situation, thanks to the very low tuition fees and affordable living expenses in Germany in relation to the EU average. All these reasons make it prudent for those contemplating speaking a vernacular lingo to seriously consider learning German. Apart from various courses for all ages, special packages can be arranged for school or university students. The teachers conducting the lessons for the embassy’s language courses are highly qualified holders of various teaching degrees and native German speakers. Upon successful completion of the curriculum, participants are issued a certificate at a gala ceremony held at the embassy. Students who have reached a certain level of proficiency in the dialect are able to take certified language examinations, held on the island, such as the internationally recognised Goethe Certificate. Call 17 745-277, visit www.manama.diplo.de or email gerembcourses@gmail.com www.bahrainthismonth.com



germanyinbahrain

In-Sparational Travel Germany is a country known across the world for its spas. Don’t book your next trip without our guide to our top five pampering destinations. Baden-Baden Located in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany, BadenBaden lies at the northwestern border of the Black Forest mountain range on the river Oos. The town’s springs were known to the Romans as aquae and the name Baden actually means bath or bathing. You can look forward to an exceptional thermal bath in springs of water sourced deep in the earth, while surrounded by the hills of the Black Forest. The city offers many options for sports enthusiasts; golf and tennis are both popular in the area and horse races take place each May, August and October at nearby Iffezheim. The countryside is ideal for hiking and mountain climbing and in the winter Baden-Baden is also a skiing destination.

Bad Kissingen This is a spa town in the Bavarian region of Lower Franconia and seat of the district Bad Kissingen. Situated to the south of the Rhön Mountains on the Franconian Saale River, it is one of the health resorts which became famous as a ‘Weltbad’ in the 19th century. The KissSalis Therme bathing centre is a highlight of the town. It was completed in 2004 and includes 10,000sq/ft of water surface which derives from the Schönborn springs. There are several music and entertainment festivals throughout the year, including the Kabarettherbst and the Kissinger Piano Olympics, both of which take place during the winter. And the town and surrounding area offer a wide range of sports from football to shooting.

Bad Homburg Part of the Frankfurt Rhein-Main urban area, this town is best known for its medically useful waters and spa and for its casino. The spa industry began with the discovery of the Elisabethenbrunnen (brunnen is German for well) in 1834. The first spa building and the first casino in Homburg were built in 1841-1842 by the brothers François and Louis Blanc, who later took over the Casino in Monte Carlo. As well as the world-renowned spa, the town boasts a triathlon week, cycle racing, a beautiful Christmas market and a range of events from poetry to castle concerts throughout the year.

Wiesbaden Wiesbaden is one of the oldest spa towns in Europe. Its name translates to “meadow baths”, making reference to the hot springs. It is internationally famous for its architecture, climate (also called the “Nice of the North”), and its hot springs. At one time the town boasted 26 hot springs; 14 of these are still flowing today. 10 October 2017

Bad Greisbach Located about 20 miles from Passau, the town is famous for its stunning views over the countryside of Bavaria. There are numerous hotels offering professional wellness teams. The thermal water of Bad Griesbach comes from a depth of more than 1,500 metres and is recognised as one of Europe’s most fluoride-rich sources of sodium hydrogen carbonate. Naturally heated, it is used to treat rheumatic and digestive disorders, among others. Bad Greisbach is also extremely popular with golfers, boasting no fewer than six 18-hole courses as well as a number of shorter learners’ courses.

Situated in central western Germany on the north bank of the Rhine, there is evidence of settlement at Wiesbaden going back to the Neolithic era. Each May, the town hosts an international arts festival, featuring music, dance, lectures, cabaret and more and, from the end of November until December 23, it is home to the Shooting Star Market with its massive decorations and 28-metre Christmas tree. www.bahrainthismonth.com


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germanyinbahrain GERMAN ROUND-UP

In Business Together Bahrain and Germany have enjoyed many years of cordial relations and from culture to commerce there is no doubting the European nation’s influence on the island.

BTEA at Seatrade Europe

The German presence is nowhere more obvious than in the motoring sector with manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes and Porsche having long-standing dealerships in the Kingdom through Euro Motors, Al Haddad Motors and Behbehani Brothers respectively. And though, as we have seen from Birgit’s testimony, many Bahrainis are happy to travel to partake of German medical expertise, there are also plenty of options to access this in Bahrain, such as the German Skin Care Centre, the German Orthopaedic Hospital and the German Medical Centre. German-headquartered international consultancy, Roland Berger, has a regional operation in the Kingdom and, as of 12 months ago, there were around 50 German companies which either have local offices or are engaged in projects here. Some of them may be surprising, such as popular restaurant chain Vapiano, which serves a much-loved Italian menu but is, in fact, German based. Others are more easily recognisable names including BASF, RMA, DHL, SMS Meer, Allianz Global Investors and Agility alongside the new arrival Armacell.

With an eye to increasing trade, a high-level delegation, led by HE Kamal bin Ahmed Mohamed, Minister of Transport and Telecommunications, and HE Khalid Al Rumaihi, chief executive of the Economic Development Board, visited the Transport Logistics exhibition held in Munich earlier this year. Their mission was to showcase the investment opportunities Bahrain offers in this important sector which accounts for seven per cent of GDP and provides 19,000 local jobs. Also this year, a delegation representing the island’s tourism sector attended ITB Berlin, the world’s biggest travel trade show, marketing the destination as a hub for meetings, conferences and events. In September, a delegation from the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority took part in the Seatrade Europe exhibition, held in Germany, to highlight cruise and yachting facilities in the Kingdom. And this month will see a German pavilion at the Bahrain International Defence Exhibition and Conference. For those engaged in bilateral relations, the Language Course Programme of the German Embassy promotes improved communications and there are various other options offered at specialist centres, including Berlitz, across the island. 12 October 2017

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Join our conversational language courses Join our conversational language courses &Žƌ ƌĞŐŝƐƚƌĂƚŝŽŶ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ Join our conversational language courses &Žƌ ƌĞŐŝƐƚƌĂƚŝŽŶ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ ŵďĂƐƐLJ ŽĨƚ ŚĞ &ĞĚĞƌĂů ZĞƉƵďůŝĐ ŽĨ 'ĞƌŵĂŶLJ͕ DĂŶĂŵĂ Join &Žƌ ƌĞŐŝƐƚƌĂƚŝŽŶ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ our conversational language courses ŵďĂƐƐLJ ŽĨƚ ŚĞ &ĞĚĞƌĂů ZĞƉƵďůŝĐ ŽĨ 'ĞƌŵĂŶLJ͕ DĂŶĂŵĂ WŚŽŶĞ͗ нϵϳϯ ϭϳϳ ϰϱ Ϯϳϳ͕ нϵϳϯ ϯϵϯϲ ϱϯϭϮ

ŵďĂƐƐLJ ŽĨƚ ŚĞ &ĞĚĞƌĂů ZĞƉƵďůŝĐ ŽĨ 'ĞƌŵĂŶLJ͕ DĂŶĂŵĂ &Žƌ ƌĞŐŝƐƚƌĂƚŝŽŶ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ WŚŽŶĞ͗ нϵϳϯ ϭϳϳ ϰϱ Ϯϳϳ͕ нϵϳϯ ϯϵϯϲ ϱϯϭϮ ŵĂŝů͗ ŐĞƌĞŵďĐŽƵƌƐĞƐΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ Žƌ ŝŶĨŽΛŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ WŚŽŶĞ͗ нϵϳϯ ϭϳϳ ϰϱ Ϯϳϳ͕ нϵϳϯ ϯϵϯϲ ϱϯϭϮ ŵĂŝů͗ ŐĞƌĞŵďĐŽƵƌƐĞƐΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ Žƌ ŝŶĨŽΛŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ &ĂĐĞŬ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬ'ĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ ŵďĂƐƐLJ ŽĨƚ ŚĞ &ĞĚĞƌĂů ZĞƉƵďůŝĐ ŽĨ 'ĞƌŵĂŶLJ͕ DĂŶĂŵĂ &ĂĐĞŬ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬ'ĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ ŵĂŝů͗ ŐĞƌĞŵďĐŽƵƌƐĞƐΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ Žƌ ŝŶĨŽΛŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ /ŶƐƚĂŐƌĂŵ͗ ŐĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ WŚŽŶĞ͗ нϵϳϯ ϭϳϳ ϰϱ Ϯϳϳ͕ нϵϳϯ ϯϵϯϲ ϱϯϭϮ /ŶƐƚĂŐƌĂŵ͗ ŐĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ &ĂĐĞŬ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬ'ĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ ŵĂŝů͗ ŐĞƌĞŵďĐŽƵƌƐĞƐΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ Žƌ ŝŶĨŽΛŵĂŶĂŵĂ͘ĚŝƉůŽ͘ĚĞ /ŶƐƚĂŐƌĂŵ͗ ŐĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ &ĂĐĞŬ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬ'ĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ /ŶƐƚĂŐƌĂŵ͗ ŐĞƌŵĂŶůĂŶŐƵĂŐĞďĂŚƌĂŝŶ


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