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DR. BRIAN ETEMAD, ESQ From a Doctorate in Law to building a multi-billion-dirham Empire The Four 2021 Networking Trends Every CIO Needs to Know |1|
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All-New Land Rover Defender
Pearl of the Orient Pulau Penang
Sandbank Picnics to Sunset Escapades
Ten Work/ Workplace Predictions for 2021
EDITOR’S LETTER
EDITOR'S NOTE GLOBAL REPRESENTATIVES
FEBRUARY VIBES After going through a reset phase in January, now is the time to have a growth mindset that is all about shifting your priorities that brings you success, reflects your interests, passions and brings you satisfaction. Having a strategy and a long term goal leads to enhancing the skills that are needed to make things work for you. People with a growth mindset constantly improve themselves, welcome criticism and explore areas for improvement.
ASIA PACIFIC:
Fozia Fareen Melbourne, Austalia editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA:
Shereen Shabnam Dubai, UAE editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com EUROPE:
Leila A. Paris, France editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com USA:
S. Danish San Francisco, USA trendingbusinessinsights@outlook.com CANADA:
Siew Lin Vancouver, Canada trendingbusinessinsights@outlook.com
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In this issue we bring you a host of articles that include ideas for travel, accessories you can enjoy, the latest cars from our Motoring team and of course being in Oceania means we are featuring the latest yachts now that we have time to explore the many island destinations that are still open for tourism. February brings hope for many who have started the year fresh with a new sense of energy in the new year. Our global team have brought some interesting ideas for watches, gadgets and stories that we hope inspires you in your daily life. We hope you enjoy the current issue and we look forward to working on the March issue. We pray the coming months bring even better things that makes 2021 more hopeful and even successful. Fozia Fareen Editor In Chief editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com
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DR. BRIAN ETEMAD, ESQ From a Doctorate in Law to building a multi-billion-dirham Empire The Four 2021 Networking Trends Every CIO Needs to Know |1|
All-New Land Rover Defender
Pearl of the Orient Pulau Penang
Award Winning Hospitality Grand Park Kodhipparu
Ten Work/ Workplace Predictions for 2021
Trending Business Insights
MANAGING DIRECTOR Nishrat Nazeen EDITOR IN CHIEF Fozia Fareen FEATURES EDITOR Shereen Shabnam ART DIRECTOR Verna Muerong
BUSINESS AND LIFESTYLE UPDATES (Publishing House) Registered No. RCBS2018I11862 P.O Box 9179 Nadi
Fiji Islands (t) +679 999 9913 (e) editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com (w) www.trendingbusinessinsights.com |2 7|
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CONTENTS 06
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Ericsson: Smart Home Privacy UAE Financial Services Regulators Should Continue the Drive to Foster Financial Innovations Amid the Increased Adoption of Digital Banking Channels
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Zoodmall jordan announces strategic partnership with hyperpay
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Celebrate your love story in extraordinary style
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Forever Innovative: Riva 88’ Folgore
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Project Triton - Heesen Creates A Timeless New Classic, Designed To Cruise The Globe And Explore New Horizons
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Driven by vision
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Absolute Elegance: The 40M Sunreef Explorer
What is your personal brand?
The four 2021 networking Trends every cio needs to know
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How do we practise water stewardship through our wardrobes?
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Top 5G Core (5Gc) And Mobile Network Predictions For 2021
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Ten work/workplace Predictions for 2021
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Grohe Design Series 2021
Fortinet Extends Availability Of Free Selfpaced NSE Cybersecurity Training Courses To Further Build Industry’s Workforce
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63
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Turkish Airlines Achieved The Highest “Diamond” Status In The Health And Safety Review Conducted By Apex And Simpliflying
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The Legend in your Home
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The Elegent Collection
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Les Toupies By Henry Jacques
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Dedicated Ferrari Showroom in Abu Dhabi
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The Land Of Breathtaking Beauty: Taiwan
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A Connected, Confident, and Exciting Ride: Nissan Altima 2020
Pearl Of The Orient: Penang Malaysia
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Powerful performance in a sporty Sedan: Audi A4
The Lion City
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An Icon Returns: All-New Land Rover Defender
Western Furniture
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Unrivalled Performance: The 2020 Sierra
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Sleek and Sophisticated: Honda ACCORD EX-L TURBO 2020
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Business Ethics
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Dubai based Artist, Kim Oberoi’s Series “Meditation” is now represented by Context Art Gallery Deals On Meals At Malak Al Tawouk Sandbank Picnics to Sunset Escapades: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa Anker products for everyday use
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MAIN INTERVIEW
DRIVEN BY A VISION From a Doctorate in Law to building a multi-billion-dirham Empire
Dr. Brian Etemad Esq.
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By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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aving strategic vision led conversations with the charming and highly energised Dr. Brian Etemad Esq., a licensed US Attorney from New York and the dynamic CEO of the award winning Tamleek Real Estate Co. has always been a delight over the last few years. Steve Jobs once said, "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." You can tell Dr. Brian thrives in his industry because he loves every bit of what he does and he does it well. Our recent discussions centred on Dr. Brian Etemad, Esq. and his determination to cement his business ventures across eleven cities using his real estate knowledge and rich experience across continents for developing and investing within the residential, commercial and hospitality sectors. Dubai remains one of the top global cities on Dr. Brian's list with high infrastructure investment, excellent connectivity and profitable prospects in the real estate market. He is optimistic of the resilience and further growth of Dubai’s burgeoning real estate market “because it is a safe and secure metropolis that is now haven for millions of residents. The city offers expats a great lifestyle to live and reside within a safe and welcoming society under the visionary leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime
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MAIN INTERVIEW
Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This gives investors the peace of mind and confidence to invest in the city. Dr. Brian is proud to be part of Dubai's incredible journey of success by following the values of the country's leaders. Taking the real estate route as his career choice is a score for Dr. Brian whose extensive international experience with top realtors such as Christies, Hamptons and DTZ Singapore and developers such as Emaar set the foundation for his success. Having a legal background is an added advantage when dealing with highly complicated contracts and gives developers the peace of mind of having Dr. Brian's insights into both the real estate industry and the legalities that go with the property and real estate deals. His success as a Real Estate Guru has certainly created a stir in real estate circles with high-profile achievements in a relatively short time frame. On the personal front, Dr. Brian remains a gentle and spiritual soul who has not let the success of this professional achievements change him. He certainly brightens our mood each time we meet him. He is extremely philanthropic and provides regular financial support to 200 orphans in India and is one of very few CEO’s I know who asks about you, your family and your life before conducting business. In the last few years, he has started every conversation asking about my goals and plans before getting to the agenda of the day. This is the soul of how business is done in Dubai traditionally and I am glad Dr. Brian continues the tradition of putting people first.
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It is these admirable qualities in him as a CEO and his work ethics that has led to so many successes for Dr. Brian in a such a short time span, coupled with Tamleek Real Estate Company Co’s gamut of in-house services and an impressive investment, development, retail and e-commerce portfolio around the globe as a diversified conglomerate. Young leaders like Dr. Brian with a strong business plan play an integral part in the region's economy. With his ability to react to global financial challenges and his diverse expertise, Dr Brian is well placed to protect investors and lead them towards a prosperous and vibrant future. Trending Business Insights
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MANAGEMENT
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL BRAND? By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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he person you become over time is a result of the environment you grew up in and often people who are around you the most influence your personality.
with real authentic passion that translates into all aspects of the life of the influencer and not just for one perfect Instagram post that gets selected over thirty of the same images.
Nowadays family, friends, colleagues and even brands judge you by the way you present yourself in social and personal situations. Hence there is a pressure to aspire to become the type of person you feel you would respect or want to be with.
The sad reality is that by the time the search for that perfect picture ends, the magical moment is gone and the experience is not real anymore and results in mental roadblocks towards a more productive and long-term personal growth.
The best way to determine your personal brand is to look around at your role models that you like to listen to, emulate and admire. Over years of interviewing Heads of States, Royal families, CEOs, Prime Ministers, I have discovered that role models tend to be parents or world leaders who inspire change that has brought them fame and success in their respective careers.
The challenge thus lies in taking bold steps to develop a personal brand that brings out the best of what you see in your role models, teachers and people you admire. Often, engaging with a mentor helps in guiding and shaping your personal brand.
Every individual aspires towards being different and having a unique identity that would eventually become their personal brand. Most companies do regular staff assessments and have a staff development culture where they find the strengths and attributes of members of the team that make them stand out. . When addressing the need to develop their personal brand, many people these days look towards social media influencers who often become overnight successes with bought followers and likes. The youth who intellectually are not able to connect the dots and cave in to the pressure to feel wanted hence face classic delusions. There are very few people who can really influence and this only comes
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Successful people reflect on their sense of self and observe habits and actions they relate to and respect. The best option naturally is to be with people who have similar values. Hence if you are looking for authenticity and want to be true to yourself, then emulating someone else from a medium like Instagram where everything is posted for effect may result in disappointment especially when realization sets in that the image is staged and doctored and may not reflect the reality of the situation projected. Enhancing your personal brand with improvements within your comfort zone and taking actions that reflect your values results in a meaningful and fulfilling lifestyle plus it helps in creating an authentic personal brand that makes you the person you want to be.
ALISTER BREDEE AND “A CAT HAS NINE LIVES VIRTUAL DETOX PROGRAM”
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he pandemic has made people more aware of health and wellness than before focusing on the need for detox. Hence, we get to know Alister Bredee and his journey towards creating a programme that balances mind, body and spirit. After a career spanning many years in the Middle-East, Alister Bredee decided to re-train in psychotherapy and hypnotherapy. He graduated in 1984 but quickly found the tools that he had learned were often inadequate. He started a long journey to find more and better ways. This voyage took him first to homeopathy and then to Applied Kinesiology. In 1988 he enrolled in a Holistic Medicine Programme at Howell College with a campus at London’s Regent’s College and another at Sherborne in Dorset. The Course involved residency at Sir Anton Jayasuriya;’s “Medicina Alternativa” in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He graduated as a D. HH (U.K.) M.D. (Sri Lanka) as well as a Clinical Nutritionist in 1992. He established a practice in Harley Street and then the prestigious Hale Clinic, again close to Regent’s Park before moving to Dublin. The book” A Cat Has Nine Lives” emerged in 2016; with the idea of providing an easy to follow “Detoxification Program”. He wrote the book on Koh Samui where he has been working as a Wellness Consultant to several “Detox Resorts” since 2007. He uses the book as the backbone to his own “Detox” program; this is a journey that balances mind, body and spirit. “A Cat Has Nine Lives” as the title suggests has nine parts. These are nine steps to wellness. As far as the participant is concerned some of these steps are essential and some not. There is a general introduction entitled “The Basics”, which establishes the guidelines. To quote the father of Medicine, Hippocrates, “Leave your drugs in the chemist’s pot if you can cure your patient with food.” In the past clients would come jetting into Koh Samui. Stay in a comfortable hotel and enjoy a program designed specifically for their needs. This cost money and consumed valuable time. But then along came Sars-2-Covid 19. Thailand closed down as did most of the world and the luxury detox on idyllic Samui was no longer possible. Alister enthuses, “We had to re-think or sink. The answer was the Cat Has Nine Lives Virtual Detox Program. We designed a program, especially for you to enjoy thanks to the progress in computer-based communications technology. something you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home.
This substantially slashed costs There is no need for an expensive airfare or pricey hotel.” This is a journey that all can afford. Sessions are on line and eating programs come in the form of convenient sachets by way of the Amrita Detox or by carefully designed menus that you can make up yourself. Alister Bredee trained in the Meridian Energy Therapies under Dr. Tam Llewellyn. He became the Administrator for the Irish Association for Applied Meridian Techniques (IAAMT). He also worked with Today’s Therapist Magazine, where he taught EFT and other Meridian Energy based techniques to therapists in the UK and Ireland. He introduced his own variant which he called AMBIT (Alister’s Meridian Based Integrative Therapy) which he presented at the first ACEP Conference in Europe and later at the second Conference at Lady Margaret Hall, part of Oxford University. Thus, he is experienced in Meridian Energy work along with Holistic Health and Clinical Nutrition. The Basic 5 Day Detox which includes a free copy of Ä Cat Has Nine Lives” starts from only $33.00 whilst add on components are reasonably priced, too. Want to know more? We can arrange a cost-free call via What’s App, Line or Zoom. To find the best way of designing a Cat Has Nine Lives Virtual Detox Program especially for you. To schedule your “No Strings” phone call” E-mail alisterbredee@gmail.com or message +66 847814718
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SPOTLIGHT
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HOW DO WE PRACTISE WATER STEWARDSHIP THROUGH OUR WARDROBES?
t is no surprise that a large amount of our plastic waste ends up in the ocean. Most of us are now all too familiar with most of the early research, which has been focused on larger plastics found on beaches and floating on the surface of our oceans, less visible, however, are the more pervasive plastic bits that have spread into virtually every crevice on Earth, from the deepest sea trenches to the highest alpine mountains. These are called microplastics, a term that refers to plastic particles that measure less than five millimetres. Some microplastics are even so tiny they are part of the dust that blows around the planet, high in the atmosphere. Shockingly, our clothes are unfortunately one of the largest sources of primary microplastics and are released when we wash synthetic clothing, such as items made from acrylic, nylon and polyester. These fibres detach from our clothes when we clean them in our washing machines and go into the wastewater and as the fibres are so small, many pass-through filtration processes and make their way into our oceans. As cited by The Fashion Revolution, around 50% of our clothing is made from plastic and up to 700,000 fibres can come off our synthetic clothes in a typical wash. As a result, if the fashion industry continues as it is, by 2050, 22 million tonnes of microfibres will enter our oceans.
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What does this mean for our oceans? Much of the plastic that is in the ocean, in terms of the number of pieces, is not in the form of whole products like cups or straws that we so readily think of, but instead broken-down shreds of plastic, and it is having a devastating effect on our marine life. Microplastics are accumulating in the food chain and being ingested by all sorts of marine wildlife. Studies have found that microplastics disrupt reproductive systems, stunt growth, diminish appetite, cause tissue inflammation and liver damage, and alter feeding behaviour. A recent study found around 73% of fish caught had microplastics in their stomachs. Even the animals that live in the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the ocean, are eating microfibres. However, let's not also forget about us! A new study in the journal Environmental Science and Technology says it's possible that humans may be consuming anywhere from 39,000 to 52,000 microplastic particles a year. With added estimates of how much microplastic might be inhaled, that number is more than 74,000. Worldwide, there are now vigorous efforts to reduce the use of key products that end up in the oceans, items such as plastic cups, shopping bags and bans on straws. However, as we seek solutions to the overall issue of plastic pollution, we must now educate ourselves and recognize
the role of microplastics, the deadly invisible plastic that our clothing is unfortunately a major part. So what can we do? It might seem like there’s an easy solution to the problem of our clothes shedding plastic: Just buy natural fibres one may say, or indeed fewer clothes overall. However, it shouldn't be so limiting to be environmentally conscious or indeed associated with a higher cost, after all, often synthetic clothing is affordable clothing. For a solution to be doable, it needs to be accessible for all, therefore it has to be more systemic. There are two key things that could make a huge impact. Firstly, our washing machines need to be designed to reduce emissions of fibres to the environment and secondly, textile manufacturers need to design fabrics that shed less. The fashion industry needs to take responsibility for minimising future microfibre releases. Brands can have the most impact if they take microfibre release into consideration at the design and manufacturing stages. Designers should consider several criteria in order to minimise the environmental impact of a synthetic garment. Consumers can then be more mindful. Ultimately, we need change at the ground level up and we must play our part to educate ourselves and champion the cause. Trending Business Insights | 13 |
SELF-DEVELOPMENT
TEN WORK/WORKPLACE PREDICTIONS FOR 2021 By Ryan Anderson Vice President – Global Insights and Research, Herman Miller
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Remote working becomes distributed working – For the past year, most of us have been working, which is working outside of the offices. But as more offices reopen, it’s unlikely that everyone will simply head back to the office each day. What’s most likely is distributed working, which refers to how individuals and teams work across many locations (including the office) becomes the norm. Since many organizations have learned that their workers can, in fact, be trusted to be productive in almost any location, expect that workers will have the freedom to when and where they’d like for the forseeable future.
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Offices reopen, but with more breathing room (phew!) – You know what’s not very popular during a pandemic? Sitting three feet from someone else trying to do their work. And guess what? It wasn’t very popular before the pandemic either. As distributed working becomes more normalized, expect the pressure to “densify” office floors with lots of small desks to be reduced – and for offices to gain some metaphorical and literal breathing room in the future.
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Workplace wellness takes on a new meaning – Whereas physical ergonomics has always mattered to those with bad backs, eye strain, or carpel tunnel, the world is beginning to realize just how critical our places of work are to our cognitive and social health as well. Look for organizations to place a renewed emphasis on the workplace as a destination for socialization and culture building, along with quiet areas to focus and escape stress.
Facilities meets marketing – As employers offer people more autonomy to choose when and where they’d like to work, the office will increasingly be viewed as an “on-demand” resource. To better support positive employee experiences and ensure a good return on real estate investments, facilities teams will dial up the desirability of their spaces, focusing on understanding employee needs and offering positive experiences to keep employees happy and healthy.
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Power to the people! End-user control becomes a priority – Since peoples’ work patterns have so drastically shifted in 2020, the tasks of designing future spaces can no longer easily be based upon past behaviors. As a means of embracing this uncertainty, and ensuring future flexibility, spaces will be designed to maximize end-user control, putting the power to adapt it in the hands of the employees with furniture, technology and even architecture that can be easily changed.
Fewer meetings; more chatting – collaboration technologies offer teams several ways to interact – posting in Teams or Slack channels, chatting via instant messaging, or in video meetings – and most of us have had enough video meetings to last us a long while. As teams become more comfortable with asynchronous collaboration (connecting at different times throughout the day rather than having everyone meeting simultaneously) and as reopened offices allow for more informal dialogue, our video fatigue will finally be remedied.
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“Tier 2” cities start to pop – Big cities are awesome, but they’re also expensive and difficult to navigate for those commuting in from more affordable suburbs. As distributed working becomes more common, expect people to migrate towards more affordable locations that offer bigcity amenities, which will provide new economic growth opportunities for these “tier 2” cities. Barbeque in Austin, anyone?
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Work from home experiences get better – While most people enjoy the chance to work from home a few days a week, most of us didn’t enjoy being forced into exclusively working from home with little preparation. Look for those WFH experiences to improve as employers provide high-quality ergonomic seating, sit-to-stand desks, and critical technologies to employees for their homes. Reopened offices and coworking spaces will provide additional options for workers, and the reopening of schools will lessen the need for employees to simultaneously juggle working and parenting.
Outdoor work (and bringing the outdoors in) accelerate – One of the silver linings of working through a global pandemic is that many people rediscovered the physical, mental and emotional benefits of being outside. Look for both individuals and organizations to embrace outdoor working as a regular work experience and for the interior design of spaces to be inspired or mimic the great outdoors (what’s known as “biophilic” design). Coworking comes to your block – The first wave of coworking may have had a few things wrong. Most spaces were located in the central business district of big cities and assumed that people would come in each day to work in an open environment with people from many companies. Instead, look for future coworking spaces to be located in residential centers, providing people the opportunity to escape down the road for an hour or a day when they need a time of focus or team interactions with nearby colleagues.
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SUSTAINABILITY
GROHE DESIGN SERIES 2021
Insights from GROHE around the new importance of Hygiene
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n the course of its continuing efforts to support the design community, GROHE held the first 2021 edition of its GROHE Design Series event virtually, tackling the new Hygiene focus in the Hospitality sector, as well as the shift in consumer behavior around Health and Wellbeing, ending with a spotlight on sustainability in MENA. The Digital Dialogue between Renu Misra, Leader, MENA, LIXIL EMENA, Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design EMENA, and Catherine Belbin, Editor and Editorial Consultant, was moderated by Yeliz Olcay, Regional Specification Manager at GROHE MENA. Leading architects, interior designers, and media attended the event, and interacted with the speakers during the live session. HEALTH & WELLBEING IN THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR The first session of the event covered the new Hygiene focus that emerged in the Hospitality sector as a result of travel restrictions and safety measures imposed in many countries around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though consumers’ needs and the way they plan their traveling journeys have changed, they are still eager to travel and are looking for spaces that they trust are maintaining the best hygiene standards. It is therefore a must for the sector to adapt to the shift in consumer behavior to remain resilient in the face of these challenges. When it comes to hotels in specific, there are many sensitive areas that are considered public, like spas and gyms where the chances of encountering people are high, which might cause hotel guests to start avoiding these areas, while still wanting to have access to the wellbeing experiences that many hotels offer. This is where GROHE’s touchless products and technologies can help make a difference. “Public sectors such as hotels, food preparation, catering, and high-traffic are very sensitive areas with stringent requirements when it comes to hygiene especially in sanitary facilities and washing areas. With the increased demand for hygiene, we are experiencing right now and in order to minimize the risk of spreading germs and also cross-contamination, we need to reduce contact with any surface as much as we can. As a sanitary brand we are developing solutions for quite a while now to answer this consumer demand: An example are our touchless-control faucets, like the GROHE Essence E. Touchless products are not new but the sensor technology allows for example an extra hygienic hand washing routine without touching the faucet and also reduces water consumption, as the water flow automatically shuts off when the hands are removed from the sensor. On top, GROHE design quality ensures that the long service life and functionality of our products is not affected by heavy use” explained Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design EMENA. THE EFFECT OF URBANIZATION ON HEALTH & WELLBEING Moving on to the second topic, the speakers discussed how global trends of seismic scale – namely urbanization – are creating shifts in consumer behavior that is driving technological development. “Today consumers are fundamentally changing how they define and use their living spaces. Consumers are creating new living spaces that blend and redefine the kitchen and the living room, the bath and the bedroom – bathroom and kitchen products become furnishing items.
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They have risen from passive consumption to taking control over the creation of their living spaces while seeking simplicity and intelligent product solutions” said Renu Misra, Leader, MENA, LIXIL EMENA. “Now, more than ever, product innovation and design depend on an empathetic understanding of these trends as consumers are inclined to choose integrated solutions over single products to create spaces that enhance their health and wellbeing” she added. SUSTAINABILITY AND CREATING BETTER HOMES FOR EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE IN THE MENA The focus of the last session was on sustainability and GROHE’s efforts in working towards LIXIL’s vision of creating better homes for everyone, everywhere. Besides quality, technology and design, sustainability is one of the four GROHE brand values and it is deeply anchored in the brand’s strategy. GROHE committed itself in its "principles and guidelines for sustainability" to continuously improving all products, processes, and services in terms of protecting the environment and conserving resources. Since then, GROHE has set new industry standards, applying its 360-degree sustainability approach and in the past ten years alone, more than 490 design and innovation awards as well two recognitions at the German Sustainability Award 2021 have confirmed GROHE's success. “I firmly believe that the MENA region and the UAE, in particular, embrace the sustainability movement and welcomes the new products such as those from GROHE, that contribute to both their own wellbeing as that of the planet. People are aware of the need to minimize their carbon footprint and are open to new concepts and ways to do this, from buying a shower that uses less water to choosing to live in a custom-designed green residential community” said Catherine Belbin, Design Editor. The floor was open for attendees to share their questions with the speakers resulting in an exchange of information and insights about the future of health and wellbeing and how a brand like GROHE can play an important role in shaping the evolution of the Hospitality sector as well as others by offering technologies and products that cater to the ever-changing consumer needs. Yeliz Olcay, closed the event by thanking the speakers and attendees for taking part in the Digital Dialogue, and asking them to stay tuned for future mores sessions of GROHE Design Series in 2021.
TECHNOLOGY
ERICSSON: SMART HOME PRIVACY: How to avoid ‘data paparazzi’ The paparazzi are known for often taking covert photographs of celebrities and selling them to tabloids or gossip magazines. In a similar vein, could the increasing number of smart, connected devices coming into our lives start acting like covert “data paparazzi”? And what can we do to avoid it? Find out here. Today, our devices collect and forward information to all sorts of external parties: our home security alarm provider, our electricity supplier, our fitness watch vendor, our car manufacturer, and so on. Smart assistants listen to our voice commands and take that information to the internet to execute our orders. But smart devices go beyond the obvious too – they can be anything from a connected toaster to a washing machine, sewing machine, or a toothbrush! Data from one device may not be a problem, but combining data from several devices could create a pattern that may reveal unwanted information about a user or a business. And with more devices coming into homes, concerns around the way personal data is managed, controlled and used by devices and organizations are increasingly being raised. Each new device may introduce a new security risk, if not properly managed through its life cycle. The security risks must be handled by all actors in the value chain, including the device owner, regardless if devices are used by consumers, industries, or smart cities. So what will be important to think about to ensure that users benefit and get value from devices and their related services, but avoid adding security issues? Should we risk unintentionally becoming surrounded by data paparazzi with their viewfinder aimed at us?
15 connected devices. Some devices, like a connected car or smart meter, are connected by default and typically managed by the company the user is a customer of. They typically rely on cellular connectivity. For many other devices, the users themselves select and provide the connectivity, often Wi-Fi or cellular, and are personally responsible for the management of the devices. Above all, the network infrastructure and devices need to be secure. It’s important for us all that we can trust how our devices operate and handle data. It will also be important to ensure device security through the life cycle of the devices. With the fast growth and wide of range of smart and connected devices from different brands – that come with different user interfaces and functions – it might be cumbersome to keep all devices up to date in terms of firmware and security status, for example, from the day the device is purchased until its recycled. However, this is a key requirement for enabling a secure and trustworthy IoT environment. GDPR and similar efforts have raised more attention to privacy from the general public. As people become more informed and want to know how their devices and information are used and managed, there will be an increased need for tools that enable identifying, verifying, and controlling the data the devices are collecting and sharing. THE DATA PAPARAZZI PROBLEM Let’s now go into some issues that celebrities have to deal with, regarding paparazzi and stalkers, and how similar situations can also occur in the IoT world. We’ll also reveal if similar mitigation strategies can work for both regular, and data paparazzi.
In this blog post, we’ll bring some light on to what these factors mean for the device owner and what can be done to confront it.
INFORMATION AVAILABILITY While the saying goes that “all publicity is good publicity”, many celebrities wouldn’t agree. They want to be in control of the information shared about them, to build a relevant public image but avoid revealing private relations, unattractive personal habits, or similar.
SMART DEVICES AND PRIVACY: THE BIG PICTURE Many of us already interact with at least 3 to 5 devices daily – a smartphone or even two, a smart watch, a tablet PC, a work laptop, and maybe a smart TV. One estimate is that by 2030, each of us will own
The same thinking is behind IoT security; information that’s needed to complete the intended tasks of an IoT device should be made available, while the rest of the information should be kept private. However, for IoT there’s often a more fine-grained approach as the information made
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available should in many cases only be made available to a restricted group of observers on a need-to-know basis. THE STALKER PROBLEM Many celebrities might also have to deal with stalkers – individuals who are overly interested in them and may try to gain as much information about them as possible, even using illegal means. In the IoT space, the same phenomenon could happen to the average Joe. A smart home that doesn’t restrict access to the information it generates, can easily become a lucrative target for an attacker; the information generated by the home can be used to gather different information about the inhabitants, which could later be leveraged to commit a cyber attack. Information about when various appliances are used, such as when doors are opened, lights are switched on/off, energy consumption fluctuates, can be a real treasure trove. This also means that potential attackers might not skip a house just because there’s some security applied, rather the security needs to be good enough that it deters attackers from trying, or stops them in their tracks. MITIGATION STRATEGIES Celebrities tend to take precautions to hinder paparazzi and stalkers from invading their privacy. This can be in the form of living in gated communities, or at least having access control to their property, through walls and gates for example. They might also apply surveillance measures such as motion sensors and surveillance cameras, and even security measures such as guards or guard dogs. When moving about in public, they might have a security guard with them to keep interested parties at least at arm's length. The same things need to be considered in the IoT world. For example, in smart homes, access to the internal network and the data generated and stored there should be controlled and protected, monitoring should be applied to pick up on suspicious behavior, and reactive security measures, such as blocking and logging, should be taken when a breach is detected. What has been normal for celebrities should now also become the standard for anyone in an IoT environment. When it comes to privacy, active measures should be taken to maintain it. While this might sound scary – and without proper actions it would be – it’s not something that’s difficult to achieve. Rather it’s about having the right mindset and recognizing that security needs to be built in and considered more and more in the connected world, even for private citizens. WHAT TO PROTECT? IoT is very much about the data generated and consumed by IoT devices. At first, this data may be seen as producing no risk, but even simple data in a certain context may be sensitive. For example: • Power consumption data recorded by a smart meter can provide a lot of information about what’s happening in a home. For example, based on the power consumption profile of TVs, switching on the TV will be visible from the data and if it’s possible to match the time the TV is turned on with the TV guide, that will provide a good indication as to what people at home are watching. • Any competent smart lock manufacturer will make sure that the communication with the lock is encrypted and its integrity protected. However, this might not be enough; by observing the traffic generated by a smart lock, one could potentially deduce whether the lock has been opened from the inside or the outside and thereby predict if
there’s anyone in the house at any given moment. Other data generated by a smart home, including power consumption and light switch data, can be used to improve the prediction. • It’s inevitable that, at some point, an electric device will reach the end of its lifetime and will need to be disposed of. If the information stored on the device isn’t properly removed, a hacker who retrieves the device from a waste bin or who purchases it from a second hand store could dig out data or credentials, as well as information about the services the device has been connected to. This is information that could be used to spy on the owner in a more efficient way, or even control or modify other devices belonging to the owner from the backend. The question therefore shouldn’t be, “what do I need to protect?”, rather, “what don’t I need to protect?”, meaning “what do I actually need to share?”. HOW TO AVOID UNAUTHORIZED USE OF PRIVATE DATA There’s no silver bullet solution to this problem and the complexity is proportional to the number of devices and services that we as individuals interact with. Applying the best security practices is the responsibility of many entities. Device manufacturers and service providers need to provide secure devices/services, with proper control and maintenance for future proof device security. But there are some rules of thumb that each of us can follow to minimize security and privacy issues related to our devices. By following these recommendations, one can build a system that will withstand a great deal of malicious intent, and deter the vast majority of attackers and opportunists. A few highly skilled and well-connected groups or individuals might be able to get past even the most secure systems, often through social engineering and phishing, that is, human weakness, rather than by technical security exploits. However, with the effort required, “average Joe” is maybe not the typical target. End-user responsibilities include selecting suitable and secure solutions, and installing and configuring them in a secure way. Welldesigned products should make this a relatively easy task, but it can also be done with the help of professionals. Furthermore, there are initiatives such as the Finnish Cybersecurity Label providing security labels for IoT devices, which aim to help consumers select products for which security has been verified. Another important thing is to remember to update the software of the device. And based on statistics regarding how a system’s security most often fails, a crucial task for the end user is to remember to change the default password of all and any devices that are installed. WHAT CAN I DO AS A DEVICE OWNER? • Check whether the device manufacturer/service provider offers firmware/software upgrades in case of security issues. • Consider what data is generated and how it’s used and stored, for example, locally and/or in the cloud. • Check user terms and conditions to find out how data is used. • Remember to change the default device password. • Remember to keep device software up to date. • Remember to wipe the device before recycling. And remember to consider the trustworthiness of a device and its services before purchase! Trending Business Insights | 19 |
FINANCE UAE Financial Services Regulators Should Continue the Drive to Foster Financial Innovations Amid the Increased Adoption of Digital Banking Channels
Mobile banking usage has increased by over 65 percent in the UAE during the ongoing pandemic, says new BCG report
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igital influence in banking was already well underway prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, and a new report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) sheds light on how recent events have accelerated this further across the segment. The report, titled ‘The Regulator’s Dilemma: Financial Innovation Within a Regulatory Paradigm,’ details how tech giants’ success in raising standards concerning online experiences has driven increased consumer demands for digital banking services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As online services witness an uptake amongst UAE customers, banking is fast becoming digital. As per the report’s findings, the use of digital banking channels has increased significantly across the UAE during the pandemic, with 42 percent more customers using online banking and 65 percent more using their respective banks’ mobile app more often. This year, consumer expectations have shifted to include simpler interfaces and journeys, digital-first experiences, datadriven personalized offerings, and frictionless, on-demand access to information and services. Moreover, the pandemic has further pushed these trends, propelling financial institutions to move from a digital as a choice to a digital as the only choice approach. “COVID-19 and subsequent events that took place have increased consumers’ already ravenous appetite for digital financial services. Like many other nations across the region and wider world, this applies to the UAE as well,” said Harold Haddad, Managing Director and Partner, BCG Middle East. “Consumer demands have grown with Apple, Google, Facebook, Netflix, and other leading tech influencers simultaneously elevating the quality of digital interactions and online experiences – transcending industries to implicate banking too. As banks and financial technology (fintech) firms strive to accommodate customers with progressively sophisticated solutions, regulators are poised to take on a more important role in the coming period.” The report highlights that regulators are not alone, and emphasizes the need to orchestrate across a set of actors. Regulators are one of six main actors in the national fintech ecosystem, with the others being education and research institutions, venture capital funds, startup incubators and accelerators, public institutions, and incumbent banks. At present, UAE regulators have taken steps towards fostering fintech innovations. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) makes use of a regulatory sandbox which allows testing of fintech solutions within a controlled environment, employing evaluation criteria such as level of innovation, consumer benefit, and testing readiness and scenarios among those most widely adopted. Furthermore, the Central Bank of the UAE has recently rolled out its stored value facility (SVF) regulations, regulating, licensing and supervising SVF providers including e-wallet solutions. Looking ahead, how successfully regulators steer the ever-evolving sector will depend on how well they understand and support new aspects of fintech innovation, cybersecurity, and consumer privacy and security. In the Middle East, operational fintech’s have grown from 30 in 2008 to more than 200 today, and these firms, together with traditional banks, are working relentlessly to ride the current wave of digital momentum. Because they are developing and adopting the latest digital technologies at an unprecedented pace, regulators need to proactively build their fintech agenda or else they’ll be struggling to keep up. “The ultimate objective from a regulator standpoint is to maintain the financial sector’s stability while protecting consumers from inequitable, deceptive, or abusive activities,” said Haytham Yassine, Principal, BCG Middle East. “We have seen from numerous studies
Haytham Yassine, Principal, BCG
Harold Haddad,
Managing Director and Partner, BCG
that economies that foster innovation in financial services open doors for digital advancement and economic growth. Regulators in the UAE should build on the country’s fintech momentum and further drive their regulatory agenda to foster financial innovations amid the increased adoption of digital banking channels.” BCG has identified four areas where UAE regulators can take proactive measures to support innovation while preserving stability: • Revamp regulatory frameworks to foster fintechs: Regulators can continue building on their momentum in this space and move licensing from entity-focused to activity-centric, focusing for example on issuing electronic money, providing payment services, and offering crypto-exchange, among other activities. At the same time, they can use a risk-based approach to mandate initial capital requirements for licensed fintechs. • Set up innovation sandboxes to safely test new ideas, products, and services: In these conceptual, controlled environments, fintechs can try out new ideas within pre-defined parameters. In addition to encouraging innovation while maintaining control over regulation and supervision, these will show where new or revised regulations may be required. ADGM’s RegLab and DFSA’s Innovation Testing License (ITL) are prime examples of the impact such initiatives can help drive. • Encourage banks to collaborate via open banking: Sharing and leveraging customer-permissioned data by banks with third-party developers and firms means they can build applications and services together. In jurisdictions without open banking, regulators have set up virtual innovation zones to simulate the concept. ADGM launched the FinTech Digital Lab for banks, startups, tech companies, regulators, and others to collaborate, pilot, and validate new offerings. Wider access to financial data will also open up new opportunities. • Build up cyber resilience: Regulators should set up dedicated cybersecurity functions, proactively develop related strategies, and bring together public and private entities to share strategic and technical cyber practices and learnings. “Rather than working in isolation, regulators in the UAE should proactively pull in and work with the broader fintech ecosystem to make the national fintech agenda as effective as possible and foster innovation,” added Haddad, Managing Director and Partner, BCG Middle East. “Consumer demands for digital will continue to increase, and regulators can help lead the charge by innovating and transforming financial services.” Trending Business Insights | 21 |
BUSINESS
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ZOODMALL JORDAN ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH HYPERPAY MENA e-commerce set to rise to a USD 28.5 Billion market size by 2022
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oodMall, the fastest growing B2C cross-border e-commerce marketplace app, operating in Central Asia and the Middle East, announced a new strategic partnership in Jordan with MENA region’s leading payment gateway, HyperPay, to offer customers a convenient and secure online payment experience at checkout when completing a purchase on the ZoodMall Application. Recent studies confirm that the e-commerce sector in the Middle East and North Africa region is on the verge of distinct levels of continuous growth during the coming period, coinciding with the increasing demand among consumers for electronic payment options, and the awareness of merchants of the need to enhance their electronic presence during the Corona virus pandemic. Trade in e-commerce platforms is expected to reach USD 28.5 billion in 2022, which is over 3.5 times the current trade volume and nearly 7% of total retail sales. “The vibrant e-commerce market has witnessed an unprecedented increase during the pandemic period with the volume of e-commerce in the Middle East and North Africa region currently about $ 8.3 billion. With our vision and determination to continually expand our customer experience, ZoodMall recently partnered with HyperPay. This affiliation will enable our Jordanian customers to make payments online, using Debit and Credit Cards with ultimate flexibility, security and ease and will be the stepping stone to roll out ZoodPay “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) payment options towards Local purchases including three easy instalment plans of up to 60 days without incurring interest charges.” said Mohammad Al Yousef , ZoodMall Jordan’s Country Manager “We look forward to a long-term partnership with ZoodMall Jordan, and help our new partners grow their presence in the Jordanian eCommerce market as well as unlock their full potential by enabling fast and secure online payment acceptance.” said Mohammed Lutfi, Business Development Manager at HyperPay.
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JEWELERY
CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE STORY IN EXTRAORDINARY STYLE New unique pieces from Mouawad express timeless emotions
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ith their endless sparkle, diamonds symbolize never-ending love like no other gem. This theme of love is celebrated in the new Love Story collection of unique diamond-set jewelry from Mouawad, with each item featuring one magnificent central diamond set in harmony with its surrounding white diamonds. The Love's Embrace ring, for example, evokes the positive emotions of love through the eternal sparkle of its stunning 9.60 carat round brilliant white diamond, while the Let Love Reign ring is a tribute to the power of love, evoked by the beauty of the central 38.05 carat pear-cut diamond. For yellow diamond lovers, the Forget Me Not ring features a magnificent 28.56 carat round brilliant fancy yellow diamond, while the New Dawn ring symbolizes the joyous emotions of love through the splendor of its central 16.72 carat brilliant fancy vivid yellow diamond, and the Perfect Love ring celebrates the union of two souls through the sparkle of its central 27.63 carat fancy yellow diamond. For a token of love that is a little different, the Forever Mine earrings feature a 20.06 carat and 20.08 carat fancy yellow diamond, emitting a dazzling warmth that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding 3.33 carat of white diamonds. Exceptional diamonds, whether internally flawless in the Love of My Life ring or flawless in the Pure Emotion and Soul of Harmony rings form part of this collection, offering stories of love as extraordinary as your own.
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Gold/Cabochon Ring by Dreamboule in 18K Rose Gold with White Diamonds and White Mother of Pearl ($10,800). Gold/Cabochon Ring by Dreamboule in 18K Rose Gold with White Diamonds and White Mother of Pearl ($4,800)
Big Bang Stars by Dreamboule in 18K White Gold with White Diamonds ($35,800)
Star Studs by Alessa Jewelry in 18K White Gold with Colourless Diamonds ($995). Kinetic Earring by Alessa Jewelry in 18K White Gold with Colourless Diamonds ($9,995)
'OUT OF THIS WORLD' FINE JEWELLERY CREATIONS FOR SPACE DAY The Space Day themed selection includes leading jewellery brands Alessa Jewelry, Dreamboule and Terzihan.
Equilibrium Earring by Alessa Jewelry in 18K White Gold with Black Diamonds and Colourless Diamonds ($4,495). Spectrum Bracelet by Alessa Jewelry in 18K White Gold with Colourless Diamonds ($5,076). Shield Ring by Alessa Jewelry in White Gold with White Diamonds ($8,495)
Fizzy Hoops with Black Enamel by Terzihan in 18k Rose Gold with Diamonds and Black Natural Enamel ($2,000). Ronde Half Moon Pendant by Terzihan in 18k Rose and White Gold with VS Clarity Diamonds ($2,450). Ronde Black Branches Ring by Terzihan in 18k Rose Gold with Black Diamonds ($1,800) Trending Business Insights | 25 |
YACHT
YACHT
FOREVER INNOVATIVE RIVA 88’ FOLGORE Edited By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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he new Riva sport-fly, an exciting combination of innovative vision and legendary style is a product of collaboration between Officina Italiana Design, the firm headed by Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta that designs the entire Riva range, the Product Strategy Committee led by Piero Ferrari and Ferretti Group’s Engineering Department. Only Riva has the history, inventiveness, appeal and inspiration to create a boat that anticipates the future but is permeated by the evocative mood of tradition. The production and creative capacity of the shipyard, which has continued to maintain its stability and vitality in 2020, has been exploited to the full to realise a sport-fly of dazzling beauty, a groundbreaking mixture of style, technology and innovative materials. The 26.92 m (88.4 ft) long and 6.31 m (20.8 ft) wide Riva 88’ Folgore introduces novelties in the exterior and interior design, in the ergonomics, and in the materials used, combining them with the classic hallmarks of Riva’s legendary history. Built from composite materials, with carbon fiber reinforcements in the superstructure, Riva 88’ Folgore is entirely focused on efficiency, with a design developed specifically to embrace materials like marble, crystal glass and stainless steel, but without affecting performance. Turning to the design, the course set by Officina Italiana Design with the Dolceriva continues to hold true: the new design of the hull windows, reminiscent of a black brushstroke along the silver side of the yacht, rises towards the deck and meets an original and innovative hull-deck coupling system, where the stern area makes space for a steel-edged air intake. The iconic mahogany and steel detailing, combined with carbon fiber elements, epitomises the perfect balance between past and present that has typified Riva boats in recent years. This is the merit of a sophisticated functional design, as can be seen in various elements, including the navigation lights framed in polished stainless steel, or the continuous aquamarine waterline. The walkway handrails are also carbon fiber and | 26 | Trending Business Insights
steel, with a section on the starboard side that also acts as the handle for the access door to the interior. Making this boat even more unique is the innovative windscreen, manufactured with spherical crystals that result in a slight counter-curvature, a detail that looks set to become a Riva hallmark. Another innovative style feature is the glass roof in the superstructure, which swings open both towards the stern and the bow, to allow fresh air in either when cruising or at anchor. Under the roof is a slatted structure that separates the interior and exterior spaces if desired. The standard solution is a fixed roof.The first unit has a Shark Grey hull with Bright Black detailing, classic colours in the Riva tradition of recent years. This first Riva 88’ Folgore unit is fitted with a pair of MTU 16V 2000 M96L engines rated 2,638 mhp, for a top speed of 39 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots. The standard propulsion solution is a pair of MTU 16V 2000 M96 engines rated 2,435 mhp, which drive the yacht to a top speed of 36 knots and a cruising speed of 30 knots.
INNOVATIVE AND GLAMOUROUS THE NEW OASIS 40M Edited By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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enetti showed for the first time Oasis 40M, the revolutionary yacht with exterior lines by UK firm RWD and sophisticated interiors by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture in New York.
In its 40 metres, Oasis 40M offers a new take on the concept of a lifestyle yacht. The exteriors show the beach house as an elegant lounge on the biggest pool ever, the sea. The interiors’ glamorous soul welcomes guests into spacious interiors that feature an elegant and sophisticated design. Recently delivered to American owner Tim Ciasulli, represented by US broker Merle Wood & Associates, Oasis 40M was given its debut to a restricted audience of lucky friends at the Azimut|Benetti Group annual press conference, set against the evocative backdrop of Portofino. Oasis 40M is a revolutionary 40-metre with a 385 GT and is made entirely of fibreglass. Addressing a modern clientele with a dynamic and casual lifestyle, the Oasis 40M has the look of an adventurous yacht but at the same time it shows an unexpectedly glamorous side that reveals an oasis inspired by the idea of well-being and total independence from the rest of the world. RWD’s UK designers, who worked on the project with Benetti, created a beach area that’s never been seen before in the category, with a one-of-akind pool for yachts this size, appropriately called the Infinity Pool. Just a few steps from the sea, it is set in a big space clad entirely in teak, with side wings that open out to extend the floor space, turning the beach area into a huge lounge and terrace overlooking the water and designed to experience the life at sea in a completely new way. Another bonus in design, construction and engineering of Oasis 40M is
the wheelhouse that represents one of the most important innovations. Designed as a multifunctional space, it’s not just a helm station but a new area where Captain, Owner and guest can enjoy the cruise and decide the course from new a new point of view. Thanks to a futuristically designed steering position with a panoramic view, the space can accommodate six people all seated. This space also features full-height windows and huge spaces, making a comfortable area for guests. The exterior lines designed by the famous UK firm RWD are a perfect synthesis of Italian elegance and classic British lines, thanks to which guests can enjoy an unprecedented atmosphere of freedom and intense intimacy with the sea. The interiors - exuding relaxed and informal comfort – were designed by the New York firm Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture. Featuring an excellent hull efficiency supplemented by a vertical bow, the yacht’s top speed is 18 knots. At 11 knots it consumes just over 100 l/h, with a range greater than the necessary to cross the Atlantic. The Main and Upper Deck have large windows enabling natural light to be used as a design element. This characteristic and the unconventional layout of the spacious interiors are intended to underscore a desire for symbiosis with nature. The three external decks are designed to guarantee a strong sense of continuity between exterior and interior spaces thanks to the prevalent use of pale materials and colours. The yacht has 4 decks with 5 cabins for 10 guests and 4 cabins for 7 crew members included the comfy Captain’s cabin located on the Upper Deck close to the wheelhouse. Equipped with two MAN V12, Oasis 40M is a yacht for owners who are not in a rush and want to enjoy the cruise. Trending Business Insights | 27 |
YACHT
PROJECT TRITON Heesen Creates A Timeless New Classic, Designed To Cruise The Globe And Explore New Horizons Edited By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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eesen builds some of the finest yachts with exceptional standards of engineering, outstanding technology and meticulous attention to detail. Research and innovation are part of the Heesen DNA, with the company continually investing in R&D and new technologies. Specialising in truly bespoke design, each Heesan yacht is custom-built to the highest standards of luxury and performance to reflect her owner’s individuality and currently, Heesen is thrilled to reveal Project Triton, the second in its coveted 50-metre Steel Class. An on-spec build from Heesen’s bold and successful business model, she is scheduled to undergo sea trials and will then become available to purchase; raring and ready to cruise by a lucky owner soon. At 50 metres, Project Triton is a true blue water motor yacht, designed to provide access to far-flung and remote destinations, with a transoceanic range of 3,800 miles. This gives ultimate freedom for owners looking to cross the Atlantic, or whip around the Mediterranean without stopping for fuel. Powered by two MTU 8V4000 M63 main engines and featuring a full-displacement steel hull, she reaches a top speed of 15 knots, with a cruising speed of 12 knots. Internationally renowned designer Clifford Denn penned her exterior lines, creating an elegant profile characterised by
flowing curves with elements inspired by classic car design including Austin Healey, Old Porsche and Alfa Spider. Born to turn-heads, her flared bulbous bow and majestic profile won’t go unnoticed off the coast of the South of France, or in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. A 68-square-metre sun deck complete with Jacuzzi, al fresco dining area and sun loungers promise the best of the yachting lifestyle. For entertaining, guests are welcomed to the 78-square-metre aft deck, an area complemented by the indoor-outdoor sky lounge. The tender and toys are conveniently stored on the fore deck and guests can enjoy the chic beach club with wellness area at the back. British studio Reymond Langton has created a contemporary interior, using cool tones and pastel shades to create a linear and clean environment. The sophisticated yet relaxed design offers a tranquil and peaceful ambience in which to retreat to and unwind, while exploring the exciting outdoor life at sea. Blending practicality with luxurious detail, the layout of Project Triton has been optimised to deliver spacious interior volume, while remaining under the 500GT threshold. Ten guests sleep in five large suites, with the master on the main deck forward and the four large guest cabins on the lower deck. Built and engineered by Heesen’s in-house team of experts, Triton is of the highest Dutch quality standards. A peerless combination of the best of building and the best of design.
Trending Business Insights | 29 |
YACHT
ABSOLUTE ELEGANCE THE 40M SUNREEF EXPLORER Edited By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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unreef Yachts are cruising worldwide and considered to be the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of luxury sailing and power multihulls. Each custom-made yacht is designed in great detail for the most demanding customers and delivers the best in comfort, style and safety. The company is now the world leader in the design and construction of large, customized luxury catamarans and have recently introduced the 40M Sunreef Explorer. The 40M Sunreef Explorer is a versatile multihull craft dedicated to discovering new horizons. Her propulsion options allow for transoceanic range and solid performance in rough seas. Blending elegance and modern technology, the 40M Sunreef Explorer can be heavily customized to match ambitious navigation plans. The extended aft deck houses a launching crane, a 7m tender, two jet skis and storage for a variety of water toys. With the hydraulic aft platform lowered, guests can enjoy a full-beam private beach. The superyacht’s 13,34m beam provides for immense living areas totaling
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654m² with accommodation spread across three decks. Custom features available for this concept include a playroom with a self-leveling pool table, a steam room or a master suite with a private fold-out balcony. Alfresco relaxation areas include a large sun lounge with a spa pool surrounded by oversized sunpads and a bar as well as a vast bow terrace. With Sunreef Yachts, every yacht boasts high-performance sailing, luxurious accommodation, vast living spaces, extravagant and innovative design features.
LUXURY AND OPULENCE
THE ALL-NEW PEARL 62
Edited By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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ounded in 1998 with the aim of designing a range of luxury motor yachts offering voluminous interiors, combined with opulence and design excellence, Pearl Yachts is one of the UK’s most prominent shipyards. The new 18.6m PEARL 62 is the latest addition to Pearl Yachts growing fleet of ocean-going yachts designed in collaboration with Bill Dixon and Kelly Hoppen MBE. The Pearl 62, with its sporty looks, top performance and four comfortable guest cabins (plus crew cabin or jet-ski garage) is unique in its size range and is sure to please owners who are looking for a yacht that is fun to use with friends and family, with or without crew. Industry leading Pearl’s comprehensive 5 years warranty completes this unique offer on the market. Starting aft, the yacht can be fitted with an optional bathing platform that also glides outwards to become a terrace on the sea. The transom has a builtin bench that can be used as seating or as a passageway if a tender is stowed on the platform and it lifts to reveal a jet ski garage that can alternatively be fitted as a crew cabin. The bathing platform has runners so that launching a jet ski from the garage is a breeze. Starboard steps lead to the aft cockpit where there is a large table with banquette seating. The glass doors leading to the saloon slide all the way sideways and a window slides down so that the cockpit opens onto the saloon to become a large indoor/outdoor space. Kelly Hoppen proposes four interior style themes: Modern, Studio, Taupe and Luxury so that owners can personalise the yacht to suit their taste.
area and a living area next to the indoor helm station. A second stairway leads down to the VIP and the twin cabins. Side decks lead to the foredeck where guests will find a large seating area complete with foldaway table that disappears into the seating and sun pads with adjustable backrests. There are plenty of drinks holders and lockers and the area can be fitted with an optional Bedouin style canopy. The full-length flybridge is accessed via a staircase on the starboard side of the aft cockpit. This large and versatile space has a helm station with joystick controls and Garmin touch screens with controls for everything from the yacht’s anchor to its Fusion entertainment system. Next to the helms there is comfortable seating that can convert to become sun pads. A hardtop with an opening central section is optional but a wet bar with a cool box, sink and BBQ grill is standard. An icemaker and fridge can be added if owners desire. Across from the wet bar there is banquette seating and a dining table for eight. The Pearl 62 has four guest cabins. The full beam owners’ cabin is accessed via a private stairway and features a large, centrally placed bed, a desk, a reading corner and his and hers closets. Long hull windows mean that owners can enjoy the view even lying down. Two twin cabins can both convert to doubles. The port side twin has direct access to a bathroom that is shared with the starboard twin. The VIP cabin is fore and has a large, centrally placed bed, a dressing table, his and hers storage and an en-suite with a walk-in shower. All cabins and bathrooms enjoy excellent light and views through Pearl’s signature hull windows. Volvo IPS propulsion gives the Pearl 62 optimal performance and efficiency characteristics while joystick controls with dynamic positioning system and an integrated Garmin touch-screen display make helming and accessing all of the yacht’s systems easy and intuitive.
The saloon has large glazed areas that sweep upwards so that the interiors are bathed in natural light. Starting aft, there is a fully equipped galley with Miele appliances, a private stairway leading to the owners’ cabin, a dining Trending Business Insights | 31 |
IT
THE FOUR 2021 NETWORKING TRENDS EVERY CIO NEEDS TO KNOW By: Partha Narasimhan, CTO of Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company
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e enter 2021 in a very different place from where we were at the start of 2020. The role of networking and more broadly, the IT function, has more often become the hero – and sometimes the scorn – of business continuity and resilience in the face of the pandemic. As CIOs soak up the praise or take their lumps, they must now look to the horizon and define their approach and strategy in a post-pandemic world. Aruba has identified four major trends that CIOs now face that can make or break an organization’s IT program: • The rise of the hybrid workforce and how that will evolve during and after the pandemic • The changing role of network security integrated across the fabric of the network • Graduating from uptime networking metrics to user satisfaction metrics, examining networking holistically as part of the broader IT technology stack • Staying the course in implementing automation in networking operations, despite challenges posed by the LAN, WAN and Cloud
THE HYBRID WORKFORCE IS HERE TO STAY
Despite recent advances in vaccines for COVID-19, many roles may still not fully return to the office until late 2021, and in many cases, not at all. After speaking with CIOs from across the country, what is clear is that some amount of remote working will remain after the pandemic exits. That admission portends profound changes for physical office spaces, corporate culture, connectivity, and networking. What many organizations thought would be temporary remote setups to “flatten the curve” of the pandemic infection rate, have evolved to form the hybrid workforce of the future, where employees will work from home, the office, or anywhere else – wherever they have a secure and reliable connection. For IT, this crisis has presented enormous challenges, but there is a silver lining. CEOs and their boards of directors have come to recognize the impact that IT can have on the business, including how fast change can be implemented, even under such stressful circumstances.
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Now, CEOs and their boards are thinking about lessons learned from the pandemic to make networking, security, and the overall IT programs they oversee more flexible and dynamic.
minimizing risk. The goal of network control goes hand-in-hand with business agility. By applying the appropriate security measures, CIOs can better facilitate this increasingly dynamic IT environment.
As a result, IT has a seat at the table in pushing forward ambitious forms of digital transformation, even accelerating existing planned transitions, emboldened with how the workforce has adapted to what has become known as the “new normal.”
Ultimately, CIOs want insights beyond the network itself and into availability and performance applications that the users and business leaders care about. They are not as interested in how esoteric aspects of the network are performing, but rather, they’re more concerned about whether a specific user had a poor Zoom experience.
SECURITY MUST BE VIEWED DYNAMICALLY – FROM ENDPOINTS, TO THE EDGE, TO THE CLOUD
STAYING THE COURSE NETWORK OPERATIONS
With the maturation of the cloud and the growth of edge networking with its myriad endpoints – all accelerated by the explosion of IoT – how security is defined and implemented is now becoming part of the network architecture, and not some bolted-on component of the enterprise IT environment. With the rise of remote working and the hybrid work environment, CSOs and CIOs are clamoring for a connected security approach. When looking at network design principles of the past, security experts essentially started with a policy and then designed a network topology that in turn satisfied policy, which meant that topology and policy were tightly coupled. That dynamic is drastically changing. Networking solutions have evolved to offer significant degrees of separation, where policy gets programmed when and where it is needed, and only when and where it is needed. Zero Trust network architecture solutions will remain a core piece of effective security with traditional IT workloads moving out of the Edge into either the cloud or SaaS environment. The vacuum left behind is eventually going to be replaced by OT/IoT specific workloads at the Edge. Furthermore, with the implementation of 5G, the networking architecture must contend with multi-access edge compute (MEC) workloads – both private and public - all the more requiring dynamic approaches to security policy that must evolve beyond the user-centric workflows that Zero Trust is primarily optimized for today.
END-USER SATISFACTION IS KING
Key IT metrics are also evolving. It’s no longer sufficient to just keep the network infrastructure up and running. The metric du jour is user satisfaction which, from the CIO standpoint, is tied to employee productivity that can ultimately impact business profitability. Networking and security teams are now focused on dynamic experiences that end-users want and expect with the services and applications they choose to use for improved productivity. Instead of asking just what kind of devices are connecting to the network, they are also required to focus on maintaining flexibility and agility while
ON AUTOMATION
IN
Tied to understanding the needs and experience of end users is the maturation of network automation. But automation progress is not equal across the entire networking paradigm. In the data center, which is a more controlled environment when compared to the WAN or LAN, adoption is farther along. Changes in a data center are driven mostly in a naturally hierarchical structure and is thus easier to understand and manage through automation scripts. The Edge (both LAN and WAN), on the other hand, is a more chaotic environment because changes are triggered by factors that are not totally within IT’s control – namely human and device behavior patterns that are constantly changing. There is a big need for leveraging AI and machine learning models to sense changes as soon as they occur and respond to the ones that seem persistent, even if for a short period of time. The maturity of deployed solutions that provide this learning component of automation at the Edge will improve significantly in 2021. There will also be significant progress in combining these with APIs and other automation tools that will deliver on the promised efficiencies and insights that IT leaders crave. The pandemic has also heightened the interest in networking automation at the Edge among CIOs and IT leaders. According to a recent survey of 2,400 IT decision makers across the globe, 35% plan to increase their investment in in AI-based networking, as they seek more agile, automated infrastructures for hybrid work environments.
MAKING 2021 A SUCCESS
In 2020, businesses and the economy were rescued by a raft of communication technologies developed over the past 40 years, ranging from security, cloud connectivity, to managed and supported applications over the network. Now in 2021, the four trends outlined here can provide CIOs and IT leaders with the tools to be better equipped for navigating the unpredictability of today and beyond. They empower IT leaders from the top down to strategically position IT as the crucial function businesses need to successfully maneuver whatever the future holds, from pandemics to accelerating shifts in work culture trends and environments.
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IT
TOP 5G CORE (5GC) AND MOBILE NETWORK PREDICTIONS FOR 2021 Mobile Operators Transition Core Networks to 5G Core (5GC) By: Amr Alashaal, Regional Vice President - Middle East at A10 Networks Contain your excitement …..5G is coming (again)! Wait….wasn’t 5G launched over two years ago? Well, yes. For those not familiar with the nuances of 5G technology, 5GC (core or standalone) takes 5G deployment to the next level and replaces the 4G packet core with a new, cloud-native core using containers and following 3GPP specifications (release 15). This is somewhat separate from the market-by-market launch that most operators publicize, and the activity is less visible to the casual subscriber. We recently sponsored a 5G security survey to understand the extent of mobile operator 5G core deployment. It was a global survey of 115 service providers that included mobile operators as well as fixed broadband providers. We asked several questions about the timing and extent of 5G core deployment and adoption and where the functions A10 Networks provides will fit in. So, given that research, what do I see for 2021?
2021 PREDICTION – OVER HALF OF MOBILE OPERATORS WILL HAVE LAUNCHED 5GC (STANDALONE) BY THE END OF 2021
Most mobile operators that have launched 5G have chosen what’s called a “non-standalone” implementation. That is a hybrid of
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4G and 5G that allows mobile operators to offer much of the 5G capabilities to their subscribers while still leveraging existing investment in their 4G packet core. Operators are eager to take advantage of the benefits of 5GC (standalone) - greater service agility and lower costs. The survey revealed that operators are committed to 5GC (SA or standalone) implementation, with 93 percent of mobile operators implementing within a three-year window and investing in multiple 5G security options.
2021 PREDICTION – A HALF A BILLION MOBILE SUBSCRIBERS GLOBALLY WILL BE USING 5G BY EOY 2021
Mobile operators also see rapid adoption of 5G over the next three years by subscribers as 5G deployment accelerates. Most operators said that within five years, at least 25 percent of their traffic would be carried via 5G – with 40 percent of operators predicting that most of their traffic would be carried by 5G. This is consistent with the recent Ericsson Mobility Report that forecasts 56 percent of total mobile data traffic will be 5G by 2026. That’s a significant leap from today where almost half of operators report they have no traffic on 5G core at all. For 2021, 9 percent of operators say that most of their traffic will be on 5Gwith 70 percent predicting less than 50 percent will be 5G.
2021 PREDICTION – THREE-QUARTERS OF MOBILE OPERATORS WILL HAVE WHITTLED DOWN THEIR 3G TRAFFIC TO 25% OR LESS
It’s really hard for mobile operators to get rid of old technology. 3G still exists in most mobile networks despite rapid 5G deployment. This is a combination of subscribers that won’t give up their older handsets, specific geographic areas, such as rural areas, that have legacy equipment and regulatory and industry practices that require a lengthy process for “sunsetting” older technologies. In North America, AT&T shutdown of 3G is expected in 2022; Verizon in 2021. For example, today, only 13 percent of mobile operators surveyed have managed to eliminate support of 3G. By 2025, most operators (60 percent) said that they will no longer support 3G. That means that by 2025, 40 percent of operators will still carry 3G traffic. This also increases concerns around 5G security, since older technologies have multiple security vulnerabilities that will still be present in these multi-generational networks.
2021 PREDICTION – IN NORTH AMERICA, 2G WILL FINALLY BE GONE – NOT SO IN EUROPE
By the end of 2021, all major mobile operators will have shut down their 2G networks. In Europe, however, the shutdown has been complicated by the use of 2G in smart meters and eCall modems in cars that initiate a call to send information, such as the location of the accident, to emergency services. 2021 Prediction – Mobile Operators will Build More Relationships with Cloud Providers for Mobile Edge Compute (MEC) Services According to a BPI report commissioned by A10 Networks, nearly all mobile operators state that mobile edge compute (MEC) is
a vital part of their 5G deployment plans and most are actively deploying or will deploy within the next year or so. IDC forecasts 50 percent of all new infrastructure deployments (enterprise as well as service provider) will be at the edge by 2023. I believe that mobile service providers will also jump on the advantages of mobile edge compute, but take a more measured, strategic approach to their use of MEC, at least in the near term. By 2025, we see most mobile operators will have deployed 5G (standalone) combined with MEC and will direct up to 25 percent of their traffic through these nodes. Operators will also use strategic partners for their enterprise customers that want the lower latency that a mobile edge compute service provides. 2021 Prediction – In 2021, DDoS Detection and Mitigation will Become the Top Security Investment Priority for MEC networks It’s already going in that direction now. DDoS attacks are getting more frequent, intense and most are smaller in size, making them harder to detect. The average attack size is only 12 Gbps, with most attacks being under 5 Gbps. A10’s The State of DDoS Weapons Report, Q2 2020 shows 10M available DDoS weapons. The Heavy Reading 5G Security Report shows that small DDoS attacks are the primary reason for investment priority for MEC. And with MEC capacity as low as 600 Mbps, mobile service providers and their new 5G enterprise customers are at substantial risk for these common DDoS attacks. Those are the predictions for 2021. Overall, in spite of the pandemic, we believe that demand for 5G services will be strong and that subscribers will continue to find more value and use cases from the growing 5G capability.
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IT FORTINET EXTENDS AVAILABILITY OF FREE SELFPACED NSE CYBERSECURITY TRAINING COURSES TO FURTHER BUILD INDUSTRY’S WORKFORCE
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In Response to Widening Cybersecurity Skills Gap and Strong Demand, Fortinet to Continue Offering Entire Catalogue of Self-paced Network Security Expert Training at No Cost for the Foreseeable Future
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ortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), a global leader in broad, integrated and automated cybersecurity solutions, today announced that all self-paced advanced security training courses will remain free beyond 2021. Fortinet is committed to developing a diverse cybersecurity workforce by continuing to offer free security training for anyone around the world. Rob Rashotte, Vice President, Global Training & Technical Field Enablement at Fortinet said, “With over 800,000 registrations for our free training offerings in 2020, it has become clear that Fortinet’s NSE training is fulfilling a huge need for all levels of security professionals. As such we are committed to continue offering the entire catalogue of selfpaced Network Security Expert training at no cost until we see the skills gap trend reverse. Together with our ecosystem of academic and commercial training providers as well as government and NGO partnerships, we will continue to provide the industry with a diverse, equitable and inclusive pipeline of security professionals.” FORTINET’S FREE TRAINING INITIATIVE PROVIDES LEARNERS WITH THE FOLLOWING: • Access to more than 30 free security courses: These courses are on topics ranging from secure SD-WAN to operational technology (OT) security to cloud security with more courses expected to be added throughout the year. Additionally, pre-recorded lab demos by cybersecurity experts are available for on-demand viewing. • Preparation for NSE Certification exams: Most of the free courses are from the official curriculum for the Fortinet NSE Certification Program. Fortinet’s Certification Program is an eight-level program that has issued more than half a million certifications. • Continuing professional credits: Through a partnership with (ISC)2, individuals can use their free training completion – as well as any NSE training course – to gain Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits for CISSP and other (ISC)2 designations. Learners earn one credit for every hour of NSE Training Institute training they do with Fortinet.
INCREASING ACCESS TO CYBERSECURITY KNOWLEDGE As the pandemic led to the exponential increase of teleworkers, the need for securing remote networks and users became a top priority for organizations. IT teams already challenged with finding security professionals due to the skills gap were faced with an even greater need for expertise to securely transition to a remote workforce. One way Fortinet responded to this need was by opening its entire Network Security Expert (NSE) Training Institute catalogue of self-paced courses free of charge in April 2020. In doing so, Fortinet provided IT and security professionals the opportunity to learn new skills, reskill or upskill their security knowledge. Since opening these courses to the public, there have been more than 800,000 registrations. Through the course of the year, Fortinet saw an increase in registrations for its cyber awareness training – consisting of the NSE Certification Program’s training levels 1-3 – its mid-levels 4-6 designed for a technical audience and levels 7-8 for advanced expertise. As the need for enterprise-wide cybersecurity awareness has become such a critical priority for so many organizations, Fortinet also introduced the free Information Security Awareness and Training service. The service leverages the NSE level 1 training and packages it together with a library of awareness assets and administration tools. The service provides organizations with a low barrier, zero cost solution to get started on an enterprise-wide cybersecurity awareness program for all employees. A MORE DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE CYBER WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE NSE Training Institute partners with global leaders like the World Economic Forum, academic institutions and nonprofits to deliver cyber training to students, veterans, women, minorities and other untapped resources. NSE Training Institute’s extensive ecosystem of public and private partnerships further enables Fortinet to address the skills gap by increasing the access and reach of its award-winning NSE training curriculum.
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AVIATION
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TURKISH AIRLINES ACHIEVED THE HIGHEST “DIAMOND” STATUS IN THE HEALTH AND SAFETY REVIEW CONDUCTED BY APEX AND SIMPLIFLYING
s the airline that flies to the most international destinations in the world, Turkish Airlines also managed to become one of the busiest airlines during the pandemic period that has been plaguing the globe since last year. With its extra guidelines for safe travel and comprehensive hygiene precautions due to pandemic, the flag carrier airline has been awarded the highest “Diamond” status by APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association) Health Safety powered by SimpliFlying. Analyzed in three categories named Gold, Platinum and Diamond according to the hygiene precautions and preventative measures taken by airlines in the face of the ongoing pandemic, the online audit was conducted with 10 categories and 75 touchpoints in mind as the answers about the health and hygiene precautions were entered with concrete indicators by the participants. Reviewed alongside other airlines, Turkish Airlines achieved the Diamond status which symbolizes the highest health and safety level, thus maintaining its unparalleled service approach and quality in these extraordinary times. Meticulously implementing comprehensive precautions and newly developed changes since the start of the pandemic in order to continue providing a healthy and safe travel experience for its passengers, Turkish Airlines achieved the Diamond status with numerous criteria such as touch-free check-in process, implementation of social distancing, temperature measuring at entrances, Covid-19 test service at the airport, extra hygiene precautions, in-flight social distancing, hygiene expert cabin crews appointed in flights and hygiene kits offered to passengers.
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As the pandemic and its effects are still present around the globe, the precautions may differ from time to time due to rapidly changing conditions. But since the fight against the pandemic requires continuity and commitment, the precautions and measures taken by the airlines in the report will be reviewed every three months to check on the continuity of their statuses. On the results, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, M. İlker Aycı stated: “We continue to meticulously implement the comprehensive hygiene precautions in order to ensure that our passengers can travel in health and safety during the pandemic. We provided comfort and reassurance for our passengers with our Hygiene Expert cabin crews appointed in our flights and hygiene kits offered to all of our passengers, along with all the precautions taken in airports and in our aircrafts. We are glad that our guidelines for safe travel have achieved the highest “Diamond” status. We will continue to work selflessly to provide the best possible travel experience for our passengers.” In his statement on the matter APEX CEO Dr. Joe Leader said: “Turkish Airlines consistently has provided incredible passengers experience now topped by Diamond level certified, hospital-grade health safety for its customers. From the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic forward, Turkish Airlines has demonstrated a step-by-step customer health safety plan as expansive as its 127 country route-map. APEX applauds the incredible commitment and diligence by Turkish Airlines for passenger safety worldwide.”
ETIHAD CARGO REPORTS 50% Y-O-Y RISE IN PHARMA SHIPMENTS
E
tihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Aviation Group, has reported a 50 per cent year-on-year rise in pharma shipments under its specialised PharmaLife product.
The launch of the Abu Dhabi-based Hope Consortium towards the end of 2020 has contributed to the end of year increase and is expected to support Etihad Cargo’s pharmaceutical shipment growth through 2021.
The double-digit annual growth comes as the carrier marks its second anniversary of achieving and operating IATA CEIV certification for pharmaceutical and life science logistics (IATA CEIV Pharma), in conjunction with its hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport and Etihad Airport Services – one of only 24 such certified carriers worldwide.
“Etihad Cargo’s successful role in the Hope Consortium serves as a significant endorsement of our PharmaLife product, which was the first in the region to attain the IATA CEIV Pharma certification for excellence of product transportation in the sector,” Drew added. “During December millions of doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine were carried on a chartered Etihad Cargo Boeing 777-300ER, with additional shipments scheduled.”
Etihad Cargo currently operates across more than 1,050 IATA CEIV Pharma/GDP certified trade lands which ensure the integrity of products during transportation. Driven largely from a demand for both CRT (+15 to +25°C) and COL (+2 to +8°C) segments, Etihad Cargo has also received strong growth for ERT (+2 to +25°C) shipments, launched towards the end of 2020. “Etihad Cargo has substantial expertise in the global transportation of temperature controlled and time-sensitive pharmaceutical products, including vaccines, operating to stringent manufacturers' requirements,” explained Martin Drew, Senior Vice President Sales and Cargo, Etihad Aviation Group. “The IATA CEIV certification has reaffirmed the carrier’s strength in this sector and strengthened partner trust to deliver a quality product solution across 54 pharma stations with dedicated experts available for advice.”
A member of IATA’s Time and Temperature Working Group, Etihad Cargo is planning to boost its global pharma sector credentials through an ongoing education programme which has already reached a worldwide audience of over 600 professionals through 30 webinars. “This programme will continue throughout 2021 as Etihad Cargo simultaneously builds its network of certified pharmaceutical trade lanes that meet consistent standards and assure product integrity,” added Drew. “Additional enhancements this year include the introduction of thermal blankets, cool dollies and digital e-booking for pharma products, as well as securing co-operation with Pharma.Aero, the powerful cross-industry collaboration for pharma shippers, CEIV certified cargo communities, airport operators and other air cargo industry stakeholders.”
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fragrances LES TOUPIES CHAPTER I: MR H & MRS Y This first pair of flacons was created to match a pair of exquisite fragrances: Mr H & Mrs Y. These signature perfumes are dear to Henry Jacques and epitomise French elegance – encompassing grace, a style, an effortless beauty. Mr H & Mrs Y tell a life story and also represent a love story, so it is natural that they should be presented as a couple: woman and man; feminine and masculine; softer and stronger. With one flacon slightly larger than the other, synergies appear; the curves of one seeming to respond to the other. The scents are timeless and universal, with a real distinction to their style.
LES TOUPIES BY HENRY JACQUES A Striking Trilogy of Limited Edition Haute Parfumerie Masterpieces is complete With the recent launch of Les Toupies 3, Haute Parfumerie Henry Jacques completed its trilogy of masterpieces. A highly limited collection of three ‘couples’ enveloped in romance, Les Toupies represent the quintessence of the Maison’s art of Great Perfumery, rare and delicate essences presented in flacons worthy of holding only the most precious fragrances. The story behind Les Toupies, or Spinning Tops, is one of our earliest dreams, the flacon a memory of a childhood fantasy that brings us great joy, and a playful expression of emotions and storytelling. Years in the making, strong in form yet delicate in detail, the precious crystal containers are made entirely by hand, painstakingly crafted into complex patterns of planes and angles, faceted like gemstones in order to capture and reflect the light, and evoke the character of the fragrance within.
Mr H: Cedar Leaf, Geranium, Sandalwood, Tobacco, Amber and Patchouli… Mrs Y: Ylang-Ylang, Rose Damascenia, Jasmine, Iris – Wild Lily of the Valley and Tonka Bean…
LES TOUPIES CHAPTER II: NO.16 DE HJ & NO. 81 DE HJ With the second couple, two new characters add another dimension to this magical story of life and romance. Inventive, evocative and avantgarde, No.16 & No.81 are deeply rooted in the values of classical Haute Parfumerie and yet unconstrained by traditional rules. They are modern perfumes – a new kind of artistic expression, rather than a quest into past. As the light plays across the boldly architectural forms of the flacons, their silhouettes appear almost futuristic, their edges and angles playing off each other like an infinity mirror. No.16: Gardenia, Ylang-Ylang, Rose de Mai Centifolia , Florentine Iris , Ambrette Seed White Musk and Vetiver… No.81: Hesperidia Notes, Bergamot, Grapefruit, Dehen el Oudh, Ginger; Musk, Sandalwood and Tonka Bean…
LES TOUPIES CHAPTER III: FANFAN & GALILEO Fanfan & Galileo are the third and final perfumes in the limited edition Les Toupies series, the most curved and rounded Toupies of them all, and perhaps the most playful of all as well! There is a certain swing to their personality, a natural marriage of exuberance and intimate emotions, a dreamt romance. Galileo is filled with strength and poetry, European with a yearning for the many pleasures of life; Fanfan is soft, with a rare intensity and complex layers, a Parisian perfume by nature, as graceful as it is unpretentious. Galileo: Lavender, Mandarin, Geranium, Patchouli, Myrrh, Benzoin, Oak Moss, Tobacco, Amber… Fanfan: Saffron, Lavender, Geranium, Sandalwood, Rose Damascenia, Cedar Wood, Leather, Amber...
And like that, the story comes to an end.. One pair of flacons after another, one pair of fragrances after another, weaving a captivating tale of life and romance. Specially created for those with a passion for art and historic French craftsmanship, and a deep affinity for the mystical beauty of fragrance, Les Toupies represents nothing short of a technical and artistic breakthrough for Great Perfumery.
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ADD A MAGICAL VELVET TOUCH TO 2021 WITH THE FINEST FRAGRANT OILS FROM LOOTAH
LOOTAH – the UAE’s leading contemporary perfumery and aroma trend-setter – invites you to bring the beauty, magic and magnificence of fragrant oils into your home this January, with a stunning selection of hidden treasures available to buy online or in-store. Each fragrant oil is a scented work of art that tells its own story – taking pride of place in an exquisitely crafted, beautifully scented, light-grey box, made from luxurious velvet material, with golden metallic impressions, and engraved with LOOTAH’s bespoke patterns. From the natural allure of ‘White Musk’ and the sweet-smelling splendour of ‘Dihn Al Oud Hindi’, to the sandalwood warmth of ‘Ayoon Al Maha’ and the floral tenderness of ‘Bu Sultan’ – LOOTAH’s array of fragrant oils is as wonderfully diverse as it is completely captivating. With options starting from AED 200, there’s a precious oil to amaze the senses of every fragrance-lover.
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TRAVEL
THE LAND OF BREATHTAKING BEAUTY
TAIWAN W
ith rich cultural diversity and traditions as varied as it’s beautiful natural landscape alongside tall towers and a thriving business environment, Taiwan is full of surprises for visitors. My visit began with a tour of the Taipei 101, architecturally created guided with Feng Shui principles as a symbol of the evolution of technology and Asian tradition with traditional design elements, works of art and modern treatments. It comes with Indoor Observation decks plus a premium multi-level shopping mall adjoining the tower with hundreds of stores, restaurants and clubs. The journey continued with visits to Chiayi, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake and beyond wandering through cultural attractions, lakes, hillside
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By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
stations, tropical forests and sampling a wide variety of cuisine including ample choice of halal delicacies. Taiwan offers the gamut of different cuisines and I enjoyed the Chinese, Indian, Moroccan, Japanese dishes alongside the traditional local specialties like Tainan milkfish and desert dumplings in restaurants and night markets in between sight seeing and shopping. A visit to Taiwanese temples is a must for people watching as they gather to worship, enjoy local festivities nearby and to peruse the local art house often found in each city. Highlight of the visit was the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated each year on the 15th day of the first lunar month to mark the grand
finale of the Chinese New Year celebrations. This first full moon day of the New Year symbolizes the coming of the spring. People usually celebrate this festival by enjoying family dinner together, eating Yuanxiao (glutinous rice dumpling), carrying paper lanterns, and solving the riddles on the lanterns. At the Taiwan Lantern Festival in Chiayi, I found the grand celebration with music, dance, light shows, 4D visual effects and the grand lanterns all around me magical. My Taiwanese friends said they sometimes write their wishes on the sky lanterns because it is believed as the lantern fly into the sky; it is a way to pass on your wishes to gods above. A visit to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum was a delight in Chiayi County. The museum is set on 70 hectares of land next to a large scenic lake with gardens. It has an unmatched collection of e artifacts and priceless treasures from distant places. Another attraction located in Qigu District, Tainan is the Qigu Salt Mountain set close to Qigu Lagoon, the largest inland lake in Taiwan, which is rich in ecological resources and the habitat for
winter migratory birds-black-faced spoonbills. There are a number of recreational activities like go-karting, antique machines exhibition and the Doo-doo trains making it an interesting Tainan tourist spot for visitors of all ages. Other enjoyable excursions included exploring the Sicao Mangrove Preserve and the Taijiang National Park with ecological and cultural landscape alongside culture and history. The Alishan National Scenic Area was also memorable. Another breath taking experience was of course Taiwan’s largest Lake, the Sun Moon Lake located in the mountains of Nantou. I took a late afternoon boat tour and thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. The area around the lake is home to tribes and scenic views. Leaving Taiwan was not easy especially from the Sun Moon Lake. From the UAE, getting to Taiwan was fairly easy on Emirates Airlines, which flies to direct to Taipei daily. The city is a great starting point to get to the other popular tourist spots.
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TRAVEL
PEARL OF THE ORIENT
Penang Malaysia By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
D
uring my nine years in Malaysia, Penang was the most popular local exotic holiday destination we used to head to for a dose of cultural sights and natural scenery.
Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is famous for its many soft sandy beaches and viewed as the food capital of Malaysia. As students, we used to spend most of our time trying street food in hawker stalls and exploring night markets with local delicacies which on the weekends was popular among residents of Penang and visitors to the Island. Penang is also popular because of the palm fringed sandy beaches of Tanjung Bungah, fishing villages, the Snake Temple, the vibrant Georgetown area with heritage houses, small shop houses, old British colonial buildings and the Tropical Spice Garden. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, many of the old derelict buildings are being restored to their former grandeur, offering even more places to visit on the island. We love staying on the Batu Ferringhi Beach when we visit Penang as it offers a long stretch of shoreline ideal for swimming and the hotels are in abundance to suit every budget. Tanjung Bungah is another popular option for tourists. Penang is an island that leaves you wanting to stay longer because of the historical sites, sandy beaches, night markets and so much more.
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PERFECT PORTUGAL By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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hen I look back at my time in Portugal, what comes to mind is the medieval castles, palaces, hilltop castles, picturesque cobblestone villages, bustling towns and great food.
My favourite time was sitting in the open-air cafes, watching the locals while enjoying freshly baked bread, delicious fried sardines served with sauces of your choice, olives, a wide variety of cheeses and the best potato dishes that I have never been able to emulate in my kitchen. If you like desserts as much as I do, indulge in an egg custard tart from the many cafes around the city. As a foodie, I found the Mercado da Ribeira a haven, in particular the local produce in the food hall with a wide variety of cuisine to suit different tastes. Portugal is idyllic and has a bountiful coastline, fertile countryside, scenic vineyards and some of the best markets to wander through. I was lucky enough to venture outside the city in search of ceramics one year and loved the true beauty of Portugal. The country has biking and hiking trails with pristine scenery, olive trees, all the beautiful colours of nature, historic villages, riverside cafes, beaches with calm blue seas, boating, surfing and kayaking areas along the meandering Rio Guadiana, country fairs and music fests all along the coast.
In Lisbon, I recommend taking the vintage retro streetcars to explore the city’s narrow streets and normally unseen streets. Take the historic Alfama tour which takes you through Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood. There are walking tours, rail tours and private day trips offered by local agents who know the city best. The museums and Aquarium tours and the Tagus River sunset cruise leaves you with a really great feeling afterwards and the cruise is one of the most relaxing activities you can do in Portugal. I flew to Lisbon with Emirates and stayed in the town square which was a perfect place to wander around in the evenings.
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TRAVEL
THE LION CITY SINGAPORE
By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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ingapore was my favorite cosmopolitan city for weekend visits during my nine years in Kuala Lumpur. As students took the overnight train and ventured the streets for culinary experiences trying hawker food, Indian food, seafood, scrumptious Chinese cuisine and strolled through the lovely hiking trails or enjoy the beaches in the South. As a working adult, not much has changed when I visit Singapore except that the city now has more world class exhibitions and even more attractions than ever before. With a strong Malaysian, Indian, Chinese, Arab and Western cultures merged into one society, there is plenty of activities to suit every taste. The strength of the city lies in the melting pot of cultures and the most efficient and widespread public transport systems that makes it easier to explore. I particularly enjoy staying on the Sentosa Island and then use it as a base to go on walking trails, Botanic Gardens and for retail therapy. My Singaporean friends love Orchard Rd so we generally walk down the street but later head to local neighbourhoods for independent designers, quirky art galleries, Chinatown, vibrant night markets and of course no visit is complete without a visit to the museums and the science centre.
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The MacRitchie Reservoir Park is a lush city park with an eightkilometer treetop hike, bridges suspended high above the forest floor and has flying lemurs, monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards and owls. Top of my list is the Singaporean Zoo, the Tiger Balm and the Botanic Gardens, the Marina Bay Sands area, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Pulau Ubin Island, Little India and of course Chinatown to get a sense of Chinese culture within the city and enjoy the craft shops, restaurants and other bargains. If you like architecture, visit the Thian Hock Keng Temple. Enjoy music outdoors as well as the Singapore Symphony Orchestra hosts various free concerts at different venues around the country. I flew to Singapore directly with Emirates Airlines. It is a great Asian city to visit and you need at least five days to a week to be able to explore all the attractions.
INDULGENT ESCAPE: GRAMADO
By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
O
ne of the most memorable trips I have taken as a motoring enthusiast was to Gramado, a tiny mountain resort that has the Hollywood Car Museum and a place for super car driving experiences. The town is like a Swiss mountain village with boutiques selling avant-garde glasswork, gourmet chocolate and has some of the best local clothes and shoe designers.
CUISINE
For food lovers, Gramado is a town that arouses all of your senses. The smell of chocolate and fondue is all around and the gastronomic experiences at cafes with restaurants along the streets that specialize in fondue. The city's strong European influence can be seen in several traditional local dishes, but delicious Brazilian-inspired favorites can also be found throughout this destination.
Hollywood Dream Cars Museum
Italian and German recipes, brought to the city by its European colonists and founders, are the most popular of the city's diverse options. I had my best Italian meal in Gramado.
ARCHITECTURE
Most of the architecture comes from Bavarian inspiration with a lot of timber-framing and hotels are decked out like Swiss chalets with an Alpine vibe. The city is a delight to explore with building designs that are head turners.
LAGO NEGRO
One of my favourite stops was the manmade lake Negro with pine trees grown from seedlings from Germany's Black Forest. A great place to walk and explore nature and visitors can enjoy the paddle boats as well. The walk around the lake is memorable and a must if you are in the area.
HOLLYWOOD DREAM CARS MUSEUM
One of my first stops in Gramado was the Hollywood Dream Cars Museum with a collection of some very interesting vintage and rare cars, memorabilia from the past with period music andan eclectic atmosphere. Visitors can step back in time as this collection explores the golden age of both the automobile and the movie industry.
The museum showcases cars dating from the 1920s to 1960s that have been restored and polished to perfection. I enjoyed adding some retro props to my attire for some nostalgic pictures during my tour. It is the most fun I have had in a car related journey I took in an exotic location. Gramado is definitely a place I would love to go back to try more super car experiences, have more fun at the car museum and for a dose of chocolate treats along the way.
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art
& design
Western Furniture
THE ART LIVING INSPIRED BY REFLEX ANGELO
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Living is an art form that evolves you as an individual. Your home is a reflection of your persona and you must portray it in the best possible way. Western Furniture is here to inspire you with a gamut of home dĂŠcor ideas for your bedroom and living room. Reflex Angelo furnishings are the outcome of a harmonious blend of technology, design, research, and tradition.
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art
& design
Dubai based Artist, Kim Oberoi’s Series “Meditation” is now represented by Context Art Gallery The “Meditation” series inspired by botanical art is now available on multiple platforms courtesy Context Art Gallery
K
im Oberoi is an Indian born contemporary artist based in Dubai, her experiences have passionately led her as a painter with an extensive international portfolio of exhibits including, UAE, Germany & China.
Kim is largely a self-taught painter; her dedication to her craft has successfully seen her work represented globally. Her latest accomplishment includes her series on Botanical arts curated by Context Art Gallery, which is listed with "Artsy", "Koonessofficial", "_artsail_", "artmajeur", "wdwlls"; Kim’s work will be displayed in all the platforms. “This series started in 2019 and is currently ongoing, I use watercolors, coffee and acrylics as my mediums for this set of works. This series draws inspiration from botanical art and is a result of meditative and energy-healing practices, which leads to a calmness that allows space for creativity to grow and brings about clarity in vision. It is nature that I connect with at this stage and the gratitude I have experienced towards the elements of the environment that gives this series it’s name “Meditation” says Kim Oberoi Context Art Gallery is an international art gallery specialized in contemporary art. The gallery is dedicated to the promotion of established and contemporary artists, with a special focus on abstract, non-figurative art, photography and sculpture. In a time when fast communication and media have a direct impact upon our lives, the gallery concentrates on the online representation and art selling, as well as on pop-up exhibitions and the participation in selected European art fairs. We are collaborating with various art galleries, art institutions, interior designer and concept stores worldwide, aiming to create multiple opportunities for our artists and offer best art advisory services for our art collectors.
RESTAURANTS
DEALS ON MEALS AT MALAK AL TAWOUK Malak al Tawouk has introduced a range of tasty meals with scrumptious new sandwiches at attractive prices, offering customers great value for money. Customers can get their favourite sandwiches or burgers with fries and drink starting AED 30 only. To make the Malak al Tawouk visit more exciting, sandwich lovers can enjoy four newly introduced sandwiches in Arabic bread: soujouk, makanek, kabab and chicken liver and in a much bigger size. The Deals on Meals offer is available at Malak Al Tawouk's five branches in Dubai & Sharjah for dine-in or for orders through the mobile app or delivery number 600500961. Abu Dhabi: (Khalifa City only)Home delivery will be available from 11:00am to 2:00am daily. Orders can be made by calling 600500961 or through the mobile App.
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THE RETREAT PALM DUBAI UNVEILS HEALTHY AFTERNOON TEA FEATURING VEGAN, KETO, AND PALEO-FRIENDLY MENU Revel in picturesque views while sipping signature coffee and tea blends and enjoying healthy snacks and desserts
Spend quality time with your friends while relishing the beautiful views of Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline, over a Healthy Afternoon Tea at The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel.
For bookings and more information, visit theretreatpalmdubai.com, call +971(0) 4 524 7777 or send a WhatsApp message to +971(0) 50 263 0765.
Guests can choose from the curated menu of delectable yet guilt-free snacks and desserts featuring Vegan, Keto, and Paleo-Friendly dishes complemented with the hotel’s signature coffee and tea blends. The Vegan menu includes tomato shells filled with guacamole, vegan berry treats and more. Those who are on Keto diet can enjoy coconutpoached pulled chicken in tomato cup, superfood cashew cheesecake, to name a few; while some of the Paleo-friendly options are Atlantic smoked salmon with sundried tomato and cottage cheese on paleo bread, and paleo cupcakes and cookies, among others.
T&C: Rates are inclusive of 7% municipality fee, 10% service charge and 5% VAT. Children ages six to 12 will avail 50% discount while kids aged five and below dine for free of charge. A 24-hour advance booking is required.
The Healthy Afternoon Tea also offers a unique selection of coffee and tea blends including charcoal cappuccino, beetroot latte, matcha tea or latte, and rice milk karak chai, and more. Priced at AED165 / per person from Sunday to Wednesday and AED185/ per person from Thursday to Saturday, The Retreat Palm Dubai’s Healthy Afternoon Tea is available from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Save and savour this offer with your gal pals as the hotel has a 2+1 offer until March 31.
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HOTELS
Sandbank Picnics to Sunset Escapades
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
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By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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fter a period of not travelling for nearly a year, heading to Maldives was indeed a treat and a few days at the awardwinning Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa brought so many memorable moments.
The resort is home to an exquisite collection of accommodation options from elegant deluxe rooms to charming cottages and indulging water bungalows and villas. We stayed in a chalet right on the beach with an open-air bathroom that in itself was exquisite. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has five dining venues and two bars, offering a diverse selection of cuisines that range from authentic Thai or Indian, savory Chinese and Caribbean-inspired meals, to favored Mediterranean picks. The Resort also features Sea Salt, a seaside open-air seafood restaurant, where we had an amazing meal during sunset. The sandbank picnic, sunset dinner and the lunch in the sea while our feet stayed submerged in the water were all memorable experiences we will not forget for years. On our last night, we went for a Maldivian buffet right on the beach with entertainment from the hotel staff that left us mesmerised and while the more adventurous diners had a great night dancing under the stars while enjoying the freshly grilled seafood from the dinner.
During our stay, we tried the award-winning Shine Spa for Sheraton, located on its very own island and offers a generous treatment menu to restore balance to body and mind. I selected a massage that restored my energy and had we ready for more island adventures on offer at the resort. The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa also invites guests to participate in the coral-fragment plantation activity in an effort to promote reef habitats and generate new coral. The resort has teamed up with Reefscapers, a coral propagation organization appointed by the Maldivian Government as custodians of the coral colonies in the Gulhi Falhu lagoon which was slated to be destroyed as part of a reclamation project. The activity is led by experts and offers a hands-on experience to participants while also providing an alternative business to the 250 inhabitants whose sole previous source of employment was fishing. Another activity we enjoyed was the weaving workshops where we learnt to weave gorgeous headbands, hats and bracelets from palm tree leaves. The activity is a favourite amongst guests of all ages but in particular kids who prefer making cute leaf animals they can play with. My favourite was getting up for yoga by the beach early morning to start the day, just before indulging in breakfast. The boat ride to watch dolphins was memorable as we watched dolphins playfully chasing each other in the sea. Sailing back to the resort during sunset was definitely a value add to the boat ride. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is definitely a resort I would go back to in a heartbeat for a relaxing and chilled out holiday.
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GADGETS
ANKER PRODUCTS FOR EVERYDAY USE Anker Innovations, committed to delivering outstanding value, continuous innovation, and exceptional products has selected a set of products that makes our life at home easier during isolation, work from home and during festive occasions.Gifting gadgets from Anker for special occasions satisfies different personalities with different tastes as products range from Bluetooth speakers,
headphones, security cameras, smart scales to powerbanks and chargers. The products below make our life more musical, ease household chores, keep us secured, keep the communication devices fully charged and we can enjoy a state-of-the-art cinema experience in the comfort of our home.
EUFY HOMEVAC S11 GO Suitable for delicate surfaces, eufy HomeVac S11 Go comes equipped with a 120AW suction power, stier filter system detachable battery and a 2-in-1 crevice tool to deep clean carpets to hard floors. The innovative technological features in the eufy HomeVac S11 Go include a washable high-efficiency filter that ensures minimal maintenance and improved performance plus the device can be detached to empty the dustbin in seconds. Increased efficiency also includes dust-tight containment for reduced air pollution. The eufy HomeVac S11 Go’s long crevice tool can be used to suck up crumbs and dirt in any corner or hard-to-reach areas and the advanced 5-tier filtration system safeguards and maximizes the motor performance. The long-lasting detachable battery offers up to 40 minutes of cleaning time and the max-mode provides 8 minutes of fierce and focused cleaning when tackling the deepest dust and debris. With eufy HomeVac S11 Go, whether an impossibly tight space or a delicate surface, or the AC vent grill at a height there is an attachment suitable for any cleaning scenario. Available on Amazon.ae and all Electronics Retails stores.
NEBULA APOLLO POCKET PROJECTOR Nebula Apollo Smart Pocket Projector is a new generation pocket cinema in a compact, mobile and soda-can size cubical design. Powered by Android 7.1 Nebula Apollo Hosts loads of capabilities such as Google Assistant, remarkable clarity with Sharp 200 ANSI lumen image, improved 360o audio and In-built video & movie streaming apps like Netflix, Youtube, Amazon Prime it is the perfect entertainment partner. Nebula Apollo provides 4-hours of video playtime with single full charge and offers big 360o sound with a 6W speaker. Nebula Apollo offers an advanced entertainment experience, anytime, anywhere with your loved ones Stream via mobile or inbuilt apps. Available on Amazon.ae and all Electronics Retails stores.
EUFY SECURITY INDOOR CAM 2K AND INDOOR CAM 2K PAN & TILT Anker’s eufy Indoor Cam 2K and Indoor Cam 2K Pan & Tilt helps keep an eye on your pets and children while you are at work, on your elderly relatives living remotely and your home even at night when intruders can be a threat to the safety and security of loved ones. It helps detect unusual activity and records movements in picture perfect 2K clarity. The Indoor cameras are triggered by movement by unknown faces or pets/children’s movements in no go zone areas and users receive an alert instantly. With eufy Cam Pan & Tilt, when movement is detected, the camera will automatically pan and tilt 360o to follow the actions and record the entire movement while it gives you the instant alert and allows a two-way audio communication. Both cameras work with voice control and are compatible with Apple Homekit, Google Home Assistant and Alexa. You can know more about this product through videos on Anker MEA Youtube Channel. Available on Amazon.ae and all Electronics Retails stores. | 56 | Trending Business Insights
ANKER PREMIUM 60W 5-PORT DESKTOP CHARGER The Anker 5 Port desktop charger comes with one 30W Power Delivery Port for Apple MacBook, Nexus 5X/6P, and 4 PowerIQ Ports for iPhone, iPad, and More that intelligently recognizes your device to boost charging speeds up to 2.4A per port. When working from home, the entire family have access to simultaneous charging for everyone from just one wall outlet. With advanced safety features like surge protection, temperature control, and more, you can charge devices with total peace of mind. Available on Amazon.ae and all Electronics Retails stores.
SOUNDCORE LIBERTY AIR 2 Listen to your favourite songs using Soundcore Liberty Air 2. The true wireless in-ear headphones come with four built-in microphones with uplink noise cancellation and filters out ambient noises. Environmental noises are reduced by 60% to 95% to ensure crystal-clear diamond enhanced sound with twice the amount of bass. The HearID technology maps hearing sensitivity at multiple frequencies and intelligently analyzes results for a truly personalized listening experience. For convenience, the one-Step Pairing ensures automatic connection to your device. The earbuds allow for 7 hours of playtime but the charging case provides a longer battery life of 28 hours on the go. Liberty Air 2 can also recharge its power through wireless chargers. With a comfortable fit and the IPX5 (Splash Proof), Liberty Air 2 gives freedom from messy wired headphones speak about comfort and ease of using and offers the convenience of listening to music by the pool, during morning walks or while cooking and relaxing. Available on Amazon.ae and all Electronics Retails stores.
ANKER POWERCORE 10000 PD+PIQ2.0 Stay charged all day with the smallest, yet high capacity 10000mAh portable charger with Power Delivery. Power IQ2.0 technology makes it fully compatible with Qualcomm Quick Charge, providing a high-speed charging experience to all QC devices. Charge your mobile devices at an optimized speed via the USB-A port. Your USB-C phones, tablets, and more get a full-speed charge from the Power Delivery port at the same time. The MultiProtect safety system and high-quality battery cells ensure complete protection for you and your devices with enough power to charge even high-power devices like tablets. Available on Amazon.ae and all Electronics Retails stores.
ROBOVAC G10 HYBRID Cleaning is made effortless as RoboVac takes on dust-busting around your home s with multiple cleaning modes and auto-clean scheduling. The intelligent RoboVac G10 Hybrid operates quietly and comes with Smart Dynamic Navigation, cleaning report cards, Wi-Fi, voice control and 2-in-1 sweep and mop for a sparkling clean. The self-charging RoboVac may be ultra-slim, but it’s packed with a 3-point cleaning system consisting of a suction inlet, rolling-brush and side-brush. This lean cleaning Machine boasts 2000Pa of superior suction power clearing dirt, dust, and crumbs. The Super-Slim 2.85� body effortlessly glides under furniture and into hard to reach areas. Users can give instructions by voice or using your phone via the EufyHome app, Amazon Alexa or the Google Assistant. Post sales, eufy also provides 12 Months Warranty, friendly and easyto-reach support. It is available in all leading electronic stores and amazon.ae. Trending Business Insights | 57 |
ACCESSORIES Quadro Mezzoscafo
THE LEGEND IN YOUR HOME The most sought-after furniture and decorations characterized by inimitable refinement of Riva Yachts, the legendary shipyard. It offers the perfect style both for yacht owners and sea lovers to refresh the beach or lake house with original pieces, with the recognizable aquamarina touch and the timeless elegance of mahogany and steel.
Set 2 Tazzine espresso Tavolo Aquarama Riva Piatto Steering Wheel
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Posacenere Svuotatasche
Set 12 sottobicchieri
Sgabello Aquarama Riva Candela
Multi-Purpose Balancing Holder
Multi-Purpose Balancing Holder
Cushion Trending Business Insights | 59 |
WATCHES
THE ELEGANT COLLECTION By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
We bring you a selection of new timepieces that successfully blend watchmaking with elegance perfect for personal use and for gifts.
BOVET
Amadéo Fleurier Complications - Virtuoso V Introduced to the BOVET collections in 2015, Virtuoso V was the first timepiece powered by the Virtuoso II caliber to feature additional complications. These were a jumping hour paired with retrograde minutes. Five years later, the Maison's artisan watchmakers and dial-makers have joined forces to give it a new face. The watchmakers worked on displaying all the information giving way to greater classicism, which enhances the artistic crafts and exemplary finishes of all the components. The dial-makers created a new face where readability of the hour and minute displays is increased thanks to its elegant blue lacquered guilloché. It contrasts subtly with the rest of the surface, which is entirely hand-engraved with the emblematic “Fleurisanne” motif that has symbolised the true supremacy of BOVET's craftsmen in terms of decorative arts for almost two centuries. The Virtuoso V integrates two complications that are difficult to combine: jumping hours and retrograde minutes. This timepiece belongs to the Fleurier Complications Collection and is fitted with the patented Amadeo convertible case, allowing it to be transformed into a reversible wristwatch, a table clock, or a pocket watch, without the need for a single tool.
CORUM
AC-One 38 Automatic
Counting on the popularity of the earlier AC-One models, the AC-One 38 Automatic has a much smaller case diameter of 38mm. While adhering strictly to the design codes of the AC-One, the case of the AC-One 38 was given a slight makeover in order to make it more curvaceous than its masculine counterpart. Together with the creation of a shapelier and svelte silhouette for the AC-One 38, Corum had to redesign its signature Corum-decorated micro-rotor for the CO 082 automatic movement used to power this new ladies’ timepiece, in order to fit the size of its case. This watch has a power reserve of 42 hours and is water resistant up to 50 meters. The AC-One 38 Automatic is presented either with a Titanium grade 2 or 5N 18k rose case. Its dauphine-style hands are partially skeletonized and filled with white superluminova. The white dial, decorated with three-dimensional “Grenadier fendu” finishing, is paired with white rubber straps for a crisp and chic look. There are 72 round VS-grade diamonds set around the bezel. Sporty, practical and elegant at the same time, the AC-One 38 is incredibly versatile and will be the perfect companion for the stylish, upbeat and outdoor-loving woman, be it at work, a glamourous evening, or while enjoying a luxurious weekend getaway at sea.
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KALPA KALPARISMA
Kalpa Kalparisma, Kalpa Donna and Kalpa Piccola
The Kalpa collection was one of the very first women’s collections created by Parmigiani Fleurier. This standard-setting series of watches has evolved into a number of sub-brands including: Kalpa Kalparisma, Kalpa Donna and Kalpa Piccola. The stunning newcomer in this collection – the Kalpa Kalparisma with white gold snow setting, is set to dazzle fine watch-loving ladies from the region, with its unabashed sense of style and glamorous, bejeweled magnetism packed in its svelte rectangular casing. The lustrous diamond coated dial is set with 714 diamonds that give the watch a snow-clad face, where the delta shaped hands show through clearly. The 18-ct white gold case is also set with 665 diamonds, making this a veritable gem of fine watchmaking wizardry. To add to its evident charms, the Kalpa Kalparisma with white gold snow setting, comes with a Hermes black alligator strap with and 18-ct white gold pin setting and is powered by the PF342 automatic winding movement.
OMEGA
NATO STRAPS One of the defining traits of a modern OMEGA watch is the ability to add your own personality through the brand’s extensive collection of NATO straps. In time for summer, another six new styles have been introduced to the range, offering yet more colour and character for watch fans to wear. Each of the new straps has been crafted with a 3-stripe look in two contrasting tones. There are bright combinations for beach towel days, or simpler colours for city sophistication. As always, the easy-to-swap design means you can play with the image of your watch as little or as often as you choose. Attention to detail is another attribute that makes these NATO straps feel typically OMEGA. In keeping with the brand’s commitment to quality, the straps are made from polyamide nylon fabric, renowned for its durability and strength. Precise stainless steel buckles and fitted keepers add sleek touches of finesse, while the OMEGA icon engraved on the buckle provides an unmistakable link to the famous Swiss watchmaker.
PARMIGIANI FLEURIER Tonda 1950 Double Rainbow Flying Tourbillon Parmigiani Fleurier presents its new creation: the Tonda 1950 Double Rainbow Flying Tourbillon, driven by the ultra-thin PF517 movement and featuring a double gradient of extraordinary colours. This haute horlogerie timepiece represents a fine example of Parmigiani Fleurier's skill in marrying the arts of watchmaking and jewellery. The dial set with white diamonds on the Tonda 1950 Flying Tourbillon Double Rainbow is adorned with a crescent of aventurine within a gradient of coloured stones. This colour progression represents a mirror image of the stones set on the bezel and setting of these stones reveal the painstaking and meticulous work by the craftspeople. The ultra-thin PF517 movement, comprising a platinum micro-rotor and flying tourbillon, was developed following in-depth studies conducted by the Manufacture's master watchmakers. To keep the piece as slim as possible, the decision was taken to integrate the calibre in the movement's main plate. The rose gold case and red Hermès leather strap or the rose gold bracelet perfectly complement the spectacular array of colours created by the tourbillon.
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MOTORING
Dedicated Ferrari Showroom in Abu Dhabi
Premier Motors hosts a Special Display of the SF90 Spider
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ecently we ventured to the Premier Motors, the official Ferrari dealer in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi for a special preview of the first dedicated showroom in the UAE’s capital for the Prancing Horse brand incorporating its latest corporate identity guidelines. The showroom now spans nearly 2,000 square metres, over two levels. The interior reflects the new Ferrari global corporate identity, offering a luxurious atmosphere and ensuring a warm welcome and immersive experience into the Ferrari lifestyle. The ground floor of the showroom features a main display area, which accommodates the entire Ferrari range, sitting alongside a spacious client area, where guests can relax in a luxurious lounge with a private coffee bar and a community feel. The Configurator Room is equipped with state-of the art technology and a selection of leather, exterior paint and other options and materials. Ferrari Approved, the Prancing Horse’s pre-owned certification programme, is also offered through the showroom where a selection of unique pre-owned cars are on show, each having gone through a rigorous preparation process including 190 checks and two-year warranty to ensure world-class quality and performance. Pre-owned Ferrari models are highly sought-after, offering high residual values and timeless designs The showroom featured a special display and the UAE unveiling of Maranello’s latest marvel, the Spider version of the SF90 Stradale - the SF90 Spider, marking the first reveal of the car outside Europe. The car which was unveiled internationally during a dedicated digital event just over a month ago held pride of place in the Abu Dhabi showroom bringing Italian supercar excellence to the UAE. Not only is the car the Prancing Horse’s first production plug-in hybrid spider, | 62 | Trending Business Insights
but the SF90 Spider also sets new benchmarks for performance, innovation and the thrill of driving, not only for the marque’s range, but for the entire sports car sector. The new convertible has the same extreme supercar specification and record-breaking performance as the SF90 Stradale, yet also adds further excitement and versatility to the mix, thanks to latest iteration of Ferrari’s signature Retractable Hard Top architecture which first debuted on a mid-rear engined berlinetta in 2011. The SF90 Spider thus represents a fundamental revision of the supercar concept that makes it the ideal car for owners that demand the very pinnacle of Ferrari technology, but still want to experience the joy of open-top driving. The SF90 is available for UAE customers to book with a starting price of AED 2,068,000/- prior to customisation.
A Connected, Confident, and Exciting Ride
Nissan Altima 2020
By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
N
issan’s popular mid-size sedan, Altima continues to impress in the mid-size sedan category with a better design and offering an advanced package of safety and driverassistance technologies that include pedestrian detection for the automatic emergency braking, rear automatic braking, rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, lane departure warning and a blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. Other notable features that stood out during the drive was the lanecentering steering and adaptive cruise control that allows semiautonomous driving and a 360-degree camera system for those who prefer to add more option to the basic model. The new model has added driver convenience features such as the forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, keyless access with push-button start, an eight-way power driver’s seat and an 8-inch dashboard touchscreen to make the cabin experience perfect. You can tailor how you stay connected via Apple or Android or plug in and access your compatible phone. The Nissan Door to Door Navigation offers seamless routing to your destination. Although it is sold as a mid-size sedan, the premium Altima interior is large and spacious with ample room in the back seat for kids or for shopping. On long drives, redesigned Zero Gravity seats help reduce fatigue, while
standard 8-way power adjustments help you find your ideal position. The Altima also has a spacious trunk. Music lovers will enjoy the Bose Premium Audio System tailored to the unique interior acoustics of your Altima. This was useful for my inter Emirates journey while I was testing the Altima. The new Altima takes a comprehensive approach to safety that guides the engineering and development of every car and is a winner in my books for fuel economy. Compared with the previous-generation Altima's 3.5-liter V6 engine, the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo requires less space in the engine bay. The integrated exhaust manifold in the cylinder head contributes to the compact engine packaging, improves turbo response and enables the catalytic converter to heat up quickly for lower emissions. Overall, the car’s exhilarating style, performance and affordability will ensure it is always in demand and it is one of the region’s most popular product lines.
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MOTORING
POWERFUL PERFORMANCE IN A SPORTY SEDAN: AUDI A4 By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
O
ne of my favourite road trips this year has been between Dubai and Khor Fakkan in the new Scuba Blue Audi A4 sedan that is now even tauter and sportier with a new design language and an enhanced interior look and feel. With multiple stops in between the two Emirates, the comfort and convenience inside the cabin made the journey memorable. FIRST IMPRESSIONS The new Audi A4 embraces prestige with a new design language that gives it a sportier look. Having a large MMI touch display with an operating experience similar to the smartphone helped with the long journey, especially when using the navigation. We did a few photoshoots along the way and having a vibrant blue A4 against the natural backdrops resulted in some stunning imagery. EXTERIOR DESIGN The sporty look of the A4 certainly turned heads in the smaller towns we came across during the journey as the new model looks even more dynamic and sophisticated, thanks to the new design highlights. The Single-frame grille is now broader and flatter; horizontal lines emphasize the width at the front and rear. The side view is defined by the distinctive muscles above the fenders and the lower set shoulder line in between. They form strong contours above the wheels and make the quattro genes outwardly visible. INTERIOR LOOK AND FEEL The center of the instrument panel is slightly tilted towards the driver for convenience. The large MMI touch display is the control center for the new operating system. The driver can operate the 12.3-inch display with full HD resolution using the multifunction steering wheel with a choice of three views. With its new MMI system, user experience similar to a contemporary smartphone. Its graphics are deliberately clean and cut-down; the menu structure with its tight hierarchies is tailored to user expectations and facilitates ease of use. The navigation in the Audi A4 is now even more versatile and more user-friendly. The ambient lighting package adds
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highlights to the interior in the dark. ENGINE & CAPABILITY Audi offers the A4 model line with four turbocharged engines in the Middle East. Their power outputs range from 110 kW (150 hp) to 260 kW (354 hp). The Audi S4 comes with the 3.0 TFSI engine; the turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine has an output of 260 kW (354 hp) and produces a hefty torque of 500 Nm from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. The V6 accelerates the S4 TFSI Sedan from zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds on the way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h. The sporty version is the Audi S4 with an eight-speed tiptronic and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. , There is a limited Audi A4 quattro edition with 100 units available in the GCC region offering a lot of additional features and equipment for customers such as 19� Audi Sport wheels, Full LED headlights, S line exterior and interior. The special edition is equipped with S Sport Seats in Alcantara and can be upgraded to the optional Fine Nappa Leather seats with red contrast stitching. It features the 45 TFSI quattro S tronic engine (245hp) and also has the additional sports suspension on board. The special edition is equipped with a lot of extra assistance systems. OVERALL THOUGHTS The A4 was certainly pleasant to drive out of Dubai and in the small mountains in the East Coast with the enhanced Drive Assist features. It was comfortable in the spacious cabin for four passengers and we had enough boot space to accommodate our dive equipment and luggage for a short trip. The A4 Sport 4S TFSI Quattro S Tronic model with extra options that I drove is retailing at AED 257,600/-.
THE UNIQUE OPEN-TOP TRACK CAR BY SQUADRA CORSE
LAMBORGHINI SC20
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amborghini Squadra Corse presents the SC20, a unique specimen of an open-top track car type-approved for road use. The SC20 is the second one-off engineered by the motorsport department and designed by Centro Stile in Sant’Agata Bolognese: the car was created following the customer’s wishes, who was involved in the project from the very first drawings by Lamborghini’s designers. The carbon fiber body was polished and slicked down by hand by the Lamborghini aerodynamic engineers to deliver optimal airflow for both performance and the cockpit’s occupants, ensuring comfortable openair driving even at high speeds. The pronounced front splitter is framed by two fins and the air intakes on the front hood are inspired by those of the Huracán GT3 EVO, while the sculpted body sides reflect the solutions adopted on the Essenza SCV12. The muscular rear is topped by a large carbon fiber wing that can be set in three different positions: Low, Medium and High Load. The SC20 features exclusive details starting from the body colors on a Bianco Fu (white) base, created for the customer, on which the Blu Cepheus (blue) livery stands out. The same shade is found in the interior, alternating with Nero Cosmus (black) and Bianco Leda (white). The most significant element of the passenger compartment is the visible carbon fiber used for the dashboard cover, rear wall, door panels, center console and steering wheel trim, in addition to the monocoque. Carbon fiber is also used for the shells of the seats upholstered in Alcantara and leather. The door handles on the other hand, are machined from solid aluminum. Lastly, the air vents are created using 3D printing
technology at the Sant’Agata Bolognese factory. Its engine is based on Lamborghini’s flagship V12: the 6,498 cm3 aspirated twelve-cylinder that delivers 770 CV at 8,500 rpm and develops 720 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. It is managed through the optimized seven-speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) gearbox. The power is discharged to the ground by the four-wheel drive system with central electronic differential, and the Pirelli PZero Corsa tires are mounted on single-nut aluminum rims, 20 inches in front and 21 inches at the rear.
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MOTORING
An Icon Returns
All-New Land Rover Defender By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
A
mongst the most passionate of off-road enthusiasts globally, no other vehicle has the legendary status of the Land Rover Defender. My childhood memories of river splashing in the Fiji Islands in robust Defenders of the past to feeling the adrenaline rush bashing the desert dunes of the Middle East over the last 20 years, Land Rover has always made me feel at home wherever I travelled to because of its nomadic DNA that I very much relate to as an expat and an avid traveller. In the UAE, there are six models to choose from – Defender, S, SE, HSE, First Edition or Defender X. The New Defender is available in 90 and 110 body designs, with up to six seats in the 90 and the option of five, six or 5+2 seating in the 110. The Four Accessory Packs offered (Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban) gives the buyers choices for specially selected enhancements.
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FIRST IMPRESSIONS The new Defender combines over seven decades of innovation. While fans of the iconic 4X4 were initially cynical given the change in the exterior design language, driving it recently across the Northern Emirates made me feel that it is just as capable on the dunes, navigating the wadis or driving it to the mountain peaks. The Defender has certainly caught the attention of fellow Jury of International car Awards and captured hearts of adventurers globally. In the past, the hardy Defenders were trusted modes of transport across UAE’s tough desert landscape with their legendary all-terrain capability. My drive in the new Defender proved that the DNA of the new model savours the legacy of the Defender family and remains tougher than ever under the softer looking edgier hood while offering the driver new levels of comfort and driveability. The legendary Land
Rover 4x4 capabilities, superior ride, revolutionary design, innovative technology and safety features continue to impress.
INTERIOR LOOK AND FEEL There is an emphasis on simplicity and practicality in the new Defender. Among the innovative features is the Configurable Terrain Response allowing experienced off-roaders to fine-tune individual vehicle settings to perfectly suit the conditions, while inexperienced drivers can let the system detect the most appropriate vehicle settings for the terrain, using the intelligent ‘Auto’ function. Land Rover’s advanced 3D Surround Camera system, ClearSight Ground View technology helps drivers take full advantage of the Defender’s all-conquering capability by showing the area usually hidden by the bonnet, directly ahead of the front wheels, on the central touchscreen. This was useful on our drive in Ras Al Khaimah. The high-definition Interactive Driver Display offers a wide range of relevant information, entertainment and driver assistance data, including full-screen 3D map-view navigation, phone and media. The Dynamic route assistance proposed alternative routes on our way back as faster ones became available.
As the most capable and tough vehicle needs robust tyres, Land Rover Defender is equipped with 815mm diameter tyres as standard. They improve ground clearance, off-road geometry and traction with increased sidewall depth making the vehicle less prone to punctures and withstand damage.
I loved the fact that USB points or 12V power sockets are available on every row. A loadspace plug socket mounted in the loadspace side wall, allowing passengers to power multiple devices.
ENGINE & CAPABILITY
EXTERIOR DESIGN At first sight I was not sure of the new design but the distinctive silhouette and the modern take grew on me especially when I looked back at my interview with the Designer at the Dubai Motor Show, who pointed to the familiar Defender trademarks that meet the needs for the 21st century. The new Defender still has solid shoulders and powerful squaredoff wheel arches that communicate the vehicle’s purposeful stance. From behind, the vehicle looks modern and yet details like the sidehinged rear tailgate with externally mounted full-size spare wheel and characterful tail lights all point to Defender’s distinctive nature.
There is a choice of advanced engines to ensure the vehicle has the power and control to navigate any environment. There are two 4-cylinder diesels, a D200 or D240. And two petrols, a 4-cylinder P300 or a powerful 6-cylinder P400, each optimised for specific attributes to cater for all needs. It also boasts All Wheel Drive, Twinspeed Transfer Box, Terrain Response and Electronic Air Suspension with Adaptive Dynamics.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
The original Series and Defender models have long been relied upon by a diverse group of motorists to stand up to the region’s testing terrain. The best way to feel the toughness of the new defender is by heading to Al Tayer Motors showrooms for a test drive. Starting price, inclusive of VAT, of the Defender 90 is AED 229,000 and Defender 110 is AED 244,230.
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MOTORING
Unrivalled Performance
The 2020 Sierra By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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available Adaptive Ride Control suspension system, which ensures exceptional stability, safety and ride quality. It provides continuous ride damping through sophisticated sensors that monitor road conditions and chassis response in real time, enabling adjustments to active dampers every two milliseconds.
ne of the most fun test drives for me last month was the allnew 2020 GMC Sierra HD. Designed to meet the needs of the modern full-size truck owner and featuring class-leading towing capabilities, the new GMC Sierra is bigger and stronger than ever and the smartest yet to wear the nameplate.
Another technological innovation in the 2020 GMC Sierra is the Dynamic Fuel Management system which reduces fuel consumption. The segment-first technology can detect when the Sierra is cruising on the highway and shuts down the required number of cylinders to optimize fuel consumption.
Known for its remarkable performance, the GMC Sierra also offers the world’s first MultiPro Tailgate, standard on Denali and AT4 and for 2020 available on the SLE and Elevation trims. With six unique functions and positions offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation and easy access to items in the box, giving customers more functionality and versatility from their truck.
The cylinder de-activation technology means the power benefits of a V-8 engine and fuel economy of a much smaller unit depending on the driving condition. Dynamic Fuel Management is available on 5.3L V-8 and 6.2L V-8 engines in the 2020 Sierra Double and Crew Cab models.
We usually see trucks as hardy vehicles without the convenience of drive assist systems but the various connectivity and convenience technologies in the 2020 Sierra is certainly welcome. It boasts Adaptive Cruise Control, which can automatically regulate its speed in respect to the vehicle in front, without any driver input for enhanced safety. The system features a high-mounted camera to monitor the road ahead, and stops when it detects an impending collision. My drive was mainly around the city areas of Dubai so the segmentfirst Rear Camera Mirror, with the available dual-function interior rearview mirror and camera view display provided an unobstructed wide view all around with the ability to tilt or zoom the view for greater flexibility and safety. Supplementing the unprecedented visibility is the 2020 Sierra’s | 68 | Trending Business Insights
Given the demands of the modern truck-buyer, the Sierra features a host of connectivity technologies such as the enhanced GMC Infotainment System that incorporates Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The GMC Infotainment System incorporates a higher resolution touchscreen, advanced personalization features, and voice recognition functionality that was easy to use. The 2020 Sierra HD also harnesses the power of technology to deliver an unrivalled trailering experience. Featuring class-leading camera views, it includes a segment-first transparent trailer view to virtually see through a trailer in tow. A 15-inch-diagonal head-up display projects useful trailering information, including vehicle speed, navigation information and an inclinometer display for the road grade. Overall, whether in LD or HD guise, the 2020 GMC Sierra is not only one of the most powerful full-size pickup trucks in its class, it is also one of the smartest when it comes to leveraging technology to improve performance across the board.
Sleek and Sophisticated
Honda ACCORD EX-L TURBO 2020 By Shereen Shabnam International Writer
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e recently did city drives with the new 2020 Honda Accord, a 10th-generation mid-size family sedan that emerges distinctively muscular and stylish from all its previous generations and boasts a new turbocharged engine, a sleek and sophisticated exterior, exciting design features and 18-inch alloy wheels that made our drive experience exciting at every turn.
EXTERIOR FEATURES The new 2020 Honda Accord has a distinctive and refined muscular stance integrated with twin exhaust pipes with an elegant chrome finish projecting a powerful and assertive presence on the road. The aerodynamically honed profile makes the car looks sleek while the bold grille, powerful LED headlights and razor-sharp Alloy Wheels adds to its stunning aesthetics.
no obstructions. The dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats with electronic parking brake, HUD (head-up display), and automatic brake hold function made our drive around the city more enjoyable.
TECHNOLOGY With the latest safety features for optimal protection, we experienced quality and comfortable drives all week with the new Accord. The lane keeping assist system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, multi-angle rear view camera offered convenience on highways and was perfect for our outstation drive to Sharjah. The wireless phone charger keeps the space clutter-free and the Active Noise Cancellation feature creates a quiet space so we could just relax and enjoy the drive.
THE PERFORMANCE Packed with power, the new turbocharged engines gives the Accord the power and economy to match its looks. Buyers can choose between a powerful and refined 247 hp VTEC Turbo or an efficient yet strong 198 hp VTEC Turbo, both featuring Earth Dreams Technology for the perfect balance of performance and economy. The 2.0l engine is equipped with a slick 10 AT and 1.5l with a smooth CVT automatic
INTERIOR ELEMENTS
OVERALL IMPRESSION
The Accord interiors are covered with high-quality soft-touch materials and a beautiful wood finish that gives it a clean and elegant layout. The front seats are remarkably spacious and rear-seat passengers have abundant space as well for comfort.
We enjoyed options such as driver-assistance, automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control and much more during our drive. The 2020 Accord is not only the best-driving family sedan, it’s also one of the best-equipped choices in its class, making it an easy recommendation for today’s car shoppers.
The new 8" Display Audio with touch-screen is now perched on the dash, making it easy for all the passengers to view the screen with
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NEWS Turkish Airlines launches “TK Extra Care”, a new hygiene programme in collaboration with Dr. Oz. Turkish Airlines, flying to more countries than any other airline, launched a new hygiene programme “TK Extra Care”, which highlights new protective hygiene measures, in collaboration with the global carrier’s ambassador Dr. Mehmet Oz, the producer and host of the world-renowned “The Dr. Oz Show.” The announcement of the new animated in-flight video comes at a time when health and safety is a top consideration on travelers’ checklists. Inspired by the airline’s ongoing dedication to its passengers’ well-being, the three-minute video follows Dr. Oz through the travel experience passengers should expect when flying with the global airline today. From the moment Dr. Oz checks-in for his flight to when he arrives at his destination, viewers will not only be reminded of the airline’s hygiene protocols necessary for a safe flying experience, but will have full assurance that Turkey’s flag carrier is enforcing a higher level of protection for every stage of the journey that goes above and beyond industry standards.
IATA Welcomes the Opening of a New Terminal at Bahrain International Airport The International Air Transport Association (IATA) welcomes the opening of the new terminal at Bahrain International Airport. “The opening of the new terminal at Bahrain International Airport is not only an important milestone in the development of Bahrain International Airport as a regional hub but also welcome news for the industry during this difficult time. The new terminal will provide vital capacity and capabilities to cargo operators shipping essential vaccines and PPE equipment immediately, and open the door for increased connectivity once passenger traffic starts to pick up. Aviation is a key pillar of Bahrain’s economy—this has been strengthened today, taking the country one step closer to achieving its Economic Vision 2030 to establish the Kingdom as an aviation center in the region. We congratulate all involved in this significant infrastructure project,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East. The 210,000sq m terminal, which is four times the size of the existing facility, increases the airport’s capacity to 14 million passengers a year, having handled around 9 million in 2019.
Maldives achieved the Safe Travels Stamp, granted by World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has recognized the effort’s of Maldives in implementing enhanced health and safety measures, in line with the WTTC global Safe Travels protocols, and creating a safe, gradual plan by rebuilding confidence among travellers and ensuring a coordinated approach in restarting our Tourism industry. Maldives achieved the Safe Travels Stamp, which is endorsed by the World Tourism Organization and more than 200 travel companies. The objective of the Safe Travel Stamp is to provide confidence to travellers and re-establish consumer confidence in Travel & Tourism and ensure travellers of enhanced standards of hygiene are in place and the assurance that they can once again experience ‘Safe Travels’. It is the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene stamp for Travel & Tourism, designed to address COVID-19 and similar outbreaks. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) also embraced the WTTC Safe Travels stamp, which have the safety and hygiene of travellers as their top priority. Since the launch of the stamp, major destinations around the world have signed up to the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene stamp.
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Dubai based Artist, Zak Zorro’s single ‘Jeeta Raha’ crosses 1 million views within 24 hours of release Zakeer Hussain popularly known as ‘Zak Zorro’ released his latest music video ‘Jeeta Raha’ on December 20, 2020 a song dedicated to fathers as a tribute to the unconditional love and constant sacrifices they make for their children’s happiness and wellbeing. The music video seems to have struck an emotional chord with viewers and has gone viral raking up over a million views in under 24 hours of its release. Although not new to the million views club (Zak’s previous music videos ‘Teri Yaad Mey’ and ‘Taqdeeron ke Khilone’ have crossed over 2 million and 1 million views respectively) Jeeta Raha holds a very special place in Zakeer’s heart as he lost his beloved father earlier in the year. The Jeeta Raha music video has been shot with a Dubai based cast and crew completely in the UAE with special sets created at Icon Art Production’s Studio in Dubai. It has been directed by Sajjad Delafrooz , renowned for his roles as the main villain of popular Bollywood Film ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif as well as one of the most watched web series from India ‘Special Ops’
Canvio® Portable Storage now with new applications and designs
The Canvio® portable storage Series from Toshiba Gulf FZE is designed to meet the evolving needs for storage solutions suited for a broad range of users, including multi-platform users, gamers, business professionals, outdoor photographers and students. Canvio FlexTM is the new USB-C® portable storage designed for PCs/Mac® computers/iPad Pro® mobile digital devices/Tablets for cross platform compatibility. The Canvio GamingTM portable storage is designed for game consoles and gaming PCs, users will be able to expand their game library easier than ever with the ability to carry up to 100 games3 (4TB) in a stylish portable case designed for popular gaming consoles and PC game systems2. Canvio GamingTM features a firmware-customized “Always-On” mode to support responsive gameplay. The next generation models of Canvio® Advance and Canvio ReadyTM come in a distinctive new design that deliver portability, storage capacity, and broad capability for your PC, a great option for simple but reliable storage. Canvio® Advance features a unique textured design with new colors that helps content creators and photographers protect their content on the go. With portable storage, using with both auto backup, and data security software, users will be able to take life anywhere.
Kioxia Corporation leads with memory solutions product portfolio Kioxia Corporation, the world leader in memory solutions recently showcased “KIOXIA” branded consumer products, including microSD/SD memory cards, USB memory and SSDs at the Toshiba Gulf FZE's Gitex stand.With its comprehensive portfolio of microSD/SD memory cards, USB memory and SSDs, Kioxia offers consumer products that are specifically designed for end-users to store their digital way of life wherever and whenever they want. Kioxia’s consumer products are mainly focused and optimized for use with smartphones, tablets and PCs, digital cameras and more.Santosh Varghese, Vice President, Toshiba Gulf FZE said, "We will be marketing Kioxa products in MEA region (including South Africa). A sense of continuity and top of mind brand recall amongst our desired stakeholders is what we endeavour to establish primarily. We have had a history of building great brands over the past few decades and we are confident that in a short time, Kioxia's brand equity will echo that narrative." Kioxia puts great emphasis on retaining the same excellent quality, performance and reliability standards, that consumers are used to from the formerly known Toshiba Memory product line-up; dedicated to the development and production of innovative class-leading flash storage solutions that meets the ever-changing customer demands. Under its new name, Kioxia is highly innovation-focused and nimbler than ever before to deliver exciting, new flash technology, and more choice in product line up for customers to benefit from Kioxia’s memory solutions. Kioxia’s mission is to create an uplifting experience and change the world by evolving “memory”.
FINAL WORD
BUSINESS ETHICS By Nishrat Nazeen
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usiness Ethics in the new age means having a commitment to doing business that makes us accountable and responsible to act responsibly in our day-to-day activities. Companies strive to continuously improve and strengthen business practices, with a focus on dealing with partners, clients and stakeholders with transparency and integrity. Business must always set a high standard of fairness and ensure that every action by every member of staff is accountable. With intelligent technology being at the forefront of everything we do, it adds an extra layer of responsibility that we conduct ourselves responsibly in every project we take on. Every business today must have a code of ethics that pays homage to encouraging a society that is built on driving positive
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change through CSR initiatives that focusses on enhancing knowledge, creativity and keeps in mind elements like health and safety, climate change and sustainability. The Human resource departments of corporations have a duty to empower teams and be inclusive to all kinds of talents from different backgrounds. Every corporate organisation should have a new employee initiation document that highlights the company ethics and integrity based out the mission and vision of the organisation. With more emoplyees working from home due to the pandemic, employee trust and corporate ethics is more important than ever as more and more employees have limited access to senior staff on ground during the work day to guide them to do business ethically and responsibly.
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