Y Magazine #506, February 8, 2018

‘My Hero’ goes viral

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12 BATCH OF BOEING 737 MAX

News: OMAN AIR GETS FIRST

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DESTINATION: Sifah TASTE TEST: Five Guys

YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

FEB 08 - 14 2018 / ISSUE 506 • WEEKLY

VISA

WISE?

PLUS!

EXPERTS DISCUSS SIX-MONTH VISA SUSPENSION

SOUL MATES

01

NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

26

MYSTIC MUSIC

28

FABULOUS FEB

38

EDITOR’S

NOTE COMPETITION Send in your answers for our ‘Movie contest’ and stand a chance to win two tickets of your choice from VOX.

THE BAROMETER GOING UP

GOLDEN NUMBERS The price of unique numbers will be going up in the coming weeks as about 200 people have registered to take part in the auctions. The prices of these phone numbers can range anywhere between RO200 and RO1,500.

GOING DOWN

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS Seventy illegal migrants were arrested while 81 were deported last week, the Royal Oman Police revealed.

Welcome to Y Magazine – your top guide to the best of Oman every week.

Fast forward

L

ast Sunday, I received at least 20 frantic phone calls from close friends, most of whom engineers working here in the Sultanate. Reason: The Ministry of Manpower has imposed a six-month ban on hiring expatriate workers in 87 job roles, including that of the engineers.

The decision states: “The decision temporarily prohibits hiring of expatriate manpower in private sector establishments for six months. Work permits issued before the date of implementation of this decision are exempted.”

Last week, Oman’s Council of Ministers said it was following up on the implementation of plans to provide 25,000 jobs to Omani citizens in various sectors in the next six months.

“The Council of Ministers is closely monitoring the progress of employment procedures on a weekly basis in order to get first-hand knowledge of what has been achieved and deal with any challenges that might obstruct implementation of plans,” a statement issued by the council said.

His Highness Sayyid Fahd Bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers, said providing employment to Omanis was a national duty.

He pointed out that Oman’s economy was capable of rising to the challenges but it required the regularisation of the labour market. “The government is working hard to achieve (its aims) so that the labour market can handle the requirements of each stage of development,” he said.

In our cover story this week, we talk to experts on the expatriate visa ban and how it will impact the economy.

Have a great week!

THIS WEEK… This week, Y headed to the beautiful beach in Sifah, explored new restaurants in Al Khoud and also indulged in a spot of retail therapy.

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JAN 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

03

contents

FEBRUARY 08 - 14 2018

Your Oman

This Week

08 Voice Of Oman

Alvin Thomas 10 News

South Indian superstar

Nivin Pauly launches Y

Magazine’s My Hero teaser 12 News

Oman Air gets first

batch of Boeing 737 Max

18 A class apart

International

photographers to

showcase their finest

works in Bait Al Zubair.

19 Movies

Kickboxer: Retaliation

to hit theatres today

Features 20

The great visa debate Will the new visa ban affect the economy or help Omanis find jobs?

26

Terry Fox run Students and parents take part in a 4k marathon to raise money for cancer.

20

19

10

Food and Drink 44 Food Feature

Soup it up

Cars and Adventures 32 Destination

Sifah 34 First Drive

Ford F-150 XLT 38 Y-Fi

Health gadgets

38

46 Taste Test

Five Guys

Health and Beauty 38 Fashion

Be my Valentine 41 Health

Ways to beat depression

44

38

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07

THE VOICE OF OMAN A LAZY MISTAKE OR A RASH ACT COULD PUT YOUR LIFE AS WELL AS THAT OF MANY OTHERS AT RISK. ALVIN THOMAS SOUNDS THE WARNING HORNS IN LIGHT OF THE NEW STIFF FINES AND TOUGH REGULATIONS

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: We asked: A six-month ban on hiring expat workers in certain sectors, including information technology, engineering, air traffic management and marketing, has been imposed by the Ministry of Manpower in Oman.

What are your thoughts?

ZAHID SAEED

N

ew year, new laws: It seems to be the case here in Oman. And as we witnessed the inception of new traffic laws last week – some of which are crucial to the well-being of those on the roads – the audience has been split in opinion.

Just to give you an idea – you know, in case you didn’t get the memo – the new laws include: All passengers in the car must wear their seatbelts, mandatory child seats must be installed, a new temporary licence system for new drivers and even a newly amended traffic fines system.

Now, the question arises: Is all this necessary in Oman? The answer is quite simple: Yes. Let’s focus on the most common of all offences to put things into context: drivers using mobile phones while driving. Previously it would cost you about RO10 if you were caught in the act. Now, however, it will set you back an additional RO5. Get caught a second time, and you’ll land in jail, too. If that doesn’t impel you to set your phone aside while driving, then I don’t know what will.

The severity and increment in the fines is something that applies across all the newly introduced penalties.

This goes to show that the real concern raised by the Royal Oman Police is how commuters are taking driving lightly. For many, the act of controlling a car is a mere task.

So, these fines can get… well… a bit annoying.

But it’s only when you start thinking about the bigger picture that you realise that your life – and even that of the person driving next to you – lies in your hands. One mistake can change the course of multiple lives.

And if you’re all right living with the guilt that your misjudgment landed someone in hospital, or even worse, the grave, then you can carry on gallivanting in your car and raking up fines.

Do keep in mind, however, that there exists a judiciary system in this country. And when it eventually catches up with you, there’s no way you’ll be spared for your negligence.

So, why not take a step and actually make a difference?

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It is a good move by the government to provide the citizens with the opportunities they were waiting for to step in and prove their determination to do good to themselves and the nation. Expatriates in these professions should welcome the citizens without prejudice and offer them the help they require to gain the required exposure and experience.

SRIRAM ARJUN

The six-month visa ban sounds good for the citizens, but not for the country at the moment.

The Omani economy is on its recovery path now, production has to intensify ànd development to accelerate.

At this juncture if development is curtailed it would hamper the progress of the nation. If employment of the citizens was the agenda then Omanisation percentages in each organisation could have been increased — but not a visa ban on prime sectors. The ban would stop many enterprises from hiring talented architects, brainy technocrats, efficient data base managers, etc. they desperately require. Definitely, this is not going to serve the intended purpose.

KATHRYN CHANG BARKER

Were there training programmes for each and all of these positions so that Omanis would be prepared? I am especially concerned about the category of airport workers.

DR ASHOK KUMAR G NAIR

The logic seems to be: if we can do with what is available, then do we need more? This can

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possibly lead to stagnation in development, and to avoid that companies will be forced to employ local manpower. This is a positive aspect as it makes companies look actively and find suitable local manpower. The need of the hour is for companies to do so. However, this can also create a situation wherein a company may be hard put to find employees and be forced to hold on unproductive labour as dispensing with them may lead to a void affecting production.

ADEEBA FATIMA

I think a temporary ban will yield short-term results, but fail to generate a long-lasting solution because the job in any field requires skill and experience rather than nationality.

SHAILLY SINGH

Oman is a growing economy and expatriates from many countries are contributing largely to the growth of the country. It may be a welcome step by the government to ban hiring expatriates in these skilled categories but when done with the single aim of promoting Omanis to get employment it appears to be a short-sighted decision and may harm the economy and work environment in the long run.

Upon banning skilled expatriate workers, employers may be forced to hire Omani youth who are yet to hone their skills. Certainly, the quality of work and timely delivery will be affected. Sometimes manning skilled position by unskilled, casual and untrained locals may be disastrous, especially in IT, engineering and air traffic management fields. What actually may help in such a situation is providing adequate training beforehand to the qualified youth and then deploying them in regular positions. This will make it comfortable for employers to replace expatriates with skilled Omanis without affecting work quality. We

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need to understand that expatriates are not a burden on Oman as it is viewed now. They are actually the backbone of the Omani economy. Omani youth need to show their willingness and dedication to work and expatriates should transfer knowledge, skills and practical approach to work to Omani workers.

Thus, a smooth replacement of workers without affecting work, may be one of the better ways to achieve higher Omanisation percentages.

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CRIMSON GEORGE ROHAM GHERYZ C. WONG was spotted with his favourite Y Magazine in Muscat

SEEMI SAHAR

I think that instead of introducing a new ban every now and then on expatriates, the government should give priority to improving education of the citizens. In a country where the school dropout rate is high, especially among men, it is important to make them realise that nothing can be achieved without education and only those societies progress where education is given importance. The problem here is that as soon as they graduate they want to become managers. They should realise that reaching the top is possible only after hard work and patience.

The more you work hard in life, the more you will be able to understand the value of success.

New Debate: According to the new traffic law, women will be allowed to drive taxis in Oman starting from March 1. What do you think about the move?

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FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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YOUR

OMAN

I

NEWS SOUTH INDIAN SUPERSTAR NIVIN PAULY LAUNCHES Y

MAGAZINE’S MY HERO TEASER

ndia’s young superstar Nivin Pauly on Monday launched the teaser of Y Magazine’s new show ‘My Hero’.

‘My Hero’ is a monthly video show hosted

by Y Magazine featuring some of the unsung heroes of Oman. Nivin Pauly, who is arguably the biggest sensation in South India has 4.6 million Facebook fans following. “We are indeed honoured to witness Nivin Pauly launching My Hero’s teaser. He is the biggest sensation in South India today,” said Nishad Padiyarath, Editor of Y Magazine.

“The concept of ‘My Hero’ is unique in many ways. This is the first show to feature unsung heroes of Oman and people whom we have never heard off but has done great things in this country. The show is about their incredible journey. I always believe that everyone has a story and My Hero is about them,”

Nishad explained.

Launching the teaser on his Facebook page, Nivin wrote: “Extremely happy to launch the teaser of #MyHero – a monthly show hosted

by Y Magazine featuring some of the unsung heroes of Oman. Best wishes Nishad Padiyarath.

Let this be a super-hit show!” Hasan al Lawati will host the show twice in a month at the iconic InterContinental Hotel.

EXPAT ARRESTED ON DRUG TRAFFICKING, ABUSE CHARGES

A

n Asian expat was arrested for possession of 63 illegal narcotic tablets, according to a statement issued by Royal Oman Police (ROP).

An ROP spokesman said: “The AntiNarcotics and Psychotropic Substances Department, led by the south Sharqiyah Police, arrested an Asian national with 63 tablets of narcotic drugs for the purpose of trafficking and abuse.”

The accused has been referred to the judicial authorities, who will continue the legal proceedings.

ROP calls on all citizens and residents to cooperate in combating the drug scourge and to inform the police of any information that helps to identify drug smugglers and drug traffickers by calling 9999, or call the free number of the Anti-Narcotics and Psychotropics Substances Department (1444) or going to the nearest police station.

STUDENTS’ DAY OUT

A

team of 104 students and 9 teachers of Indian School Darsait (ISD) were left in awe as they fulfilled their dream to witness the celebrated Republic Day Parade, last month, in the capital city of New Delhi in India.

The students also visited the famous Akshar Dham Swami Narayan Temple and various historical places such as Qutb Minar, India Gate, Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum and the Taj Mahal.

The convoy was able to witness some of the prestigious events such as the ‘Beating the Retreat’ at Vijay Chowk in front of the Rashtrapathi Bhavan on 28th January 2018, too.

“It is indeed an opportunity for these students who have only read about India’s heritage and culture as well as the freedom

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struggle through books to walk through the history of India, sacrifice of our freedom fighters and dedication of our Modern sculptures of New India when they visit these places and watch events of this magnitude,” said Dr. Sridevi P. Thashnath, the principal of ISD. “Education is not limited to the four walls of the classrooms but these kinds of tours are reallife learning experiences that every institution must provide to their students,” she added.

AUSTRALIA DAY

GALLERY

THE AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS GROUP OMAN (ABGO) COMMEMORATED ‘AUSTRALIA DAY’ IN THE SULTANATE, LAST WEEK.

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

011

YOUR

OMAN

S

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ CONVENTION IN OMAN

tudents of the Beacon School System in Oman will pit their wits against fellow students from five other countries at the annual Beaconhouse International Student Convention 2018 (BISC 2018), which will be held on February 20 and 21 at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex.

This mega international event, titled “Multiple literacies for a world of tomorrow”, offers an opportunity to Beaconhouse students from around the world to come together and give it their all to compete for glory and recognition.

This year is no different. The BISC 2018 will begin with a grand opening ceremony followed by an amazing array of sporting, art, science and cultural activities in which over 200 talented “beaconities” from Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Oman and Pakistan will participate and compete.

This is a great occasion for them to be a part of the global stage and truly shine as children of tomorrow.

Detailing the event, Mrs Zeba Masood, Principal of Beaconhouse School Muscat, thanked the Ministry of Education for its continuous support and endorsement.

She also expressed her appreciation towards supporting partners Pepsi, Delicio, McDonalds, Subway, Nabil Biscuit Factory, Al Maya International, Clouds Restaurant, Royal Pashmina and National Mineral Water.

The convention will be graced by Mrs Nasreen Kasuri, Chairperson of Beaconhouse Group, and Mr Kasim Kasuri, Chief Executive of Beaconhouse Group.

OMAN AIR GETS FIRST BATCH OF BOEING 737 MAX

O

man Air has announced several new routes, increased flights to the existing ones and future fleet additions as it welcomed the first of 30 Boeing 737 Max at Muscat International Airport on Sunday.

The airline will start flights to Istanbul in June, Casablanca in July and Moscow in October.

HE Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications and chairman of Oman Air, said: “I am delighted to witness the latest addition to the fleet. The Boeing 737 Max is the most efficient planes in the sky today. Oman Air has ordered 30 Max

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aircraft and this is the first delivery.”

Apart from starting operations to Istanbul in June, Casablanca in July and Moscow in October, Oman Air is contemplating increasing flights to the existing sectors.

Abdulaziz al Raisi, acting CEO of Oman Air, said: “We are planning 10 weekly flights to Milan and Paris. We are also planning daily flights to Guangzhou soon instead of the current four weekly flights.”

The national carrier is also assessing the viability of starting operations to Shanghai and Beijing. “We also plan to upgrade Cairo flights to an A330 aircraft instead of the current B737. Oman Air is assessing the possibilities of re-launching Beirut, Maldives and Singapore flights.”

ART ATTACK

GALLERY

SEVERAL PAINTINGS

BY STUDENTS FROM KALABHAVAN SCHOOL OF MUSIC & ARTS WERE DISPLAYED AT THE GRAND HALL IN THE AL FALAJ HOTEL. THE EXHIBITION WAS A PART OF THE INSTITUTE’S 12TH ANNUAL DAY CELEBRATIONS. OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDED DANCE AND MUSIC.

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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YOUR

HAUTE COUTURE

OMAN

SWAN INTERNATIONAL, A PIONEERING FASHION RETAILER OF ITALIAN BRANDS IN OMAN, PRESENTED THE LATEST COLLECTIONS FROM ITS PORTFOLIO OF LABELS.

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GALLERY

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

015

In a new series, we look for inspiration from a variety of influences around Oman, including its people, places and wildlife.

Today’s inspiration: Wrinkles should merely indicate where the smiles have been. - Mark Twain

Photo: Shaquel Al Balushi 016

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

YOUR

GT TRUMP CARD

OMAN

ALFARDAN MOTORS, THE OFFICIAL FERRARI IMPORTER IN OMAN, HOSTED AN EXCLUSIVE VIP LAUNCH EVENT FOR THE ALL-NEW FERRARI PORTOFINO - THE LATEST MODEL FROM THE ICONIC ITALIAN STABLES. WITH A 600HP 3.9-LITRE TURBO V8 UNDER THE HOOD, THE LUXURY SPORTS CONVERTIBLE CAN HIT THE 100KPH MARK IN A MERE 3.5 SECONDS AND CARRY ON TO HIT 320KPH BEFORE IT TOUCHES THE RED LINE.

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THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE

WORLD-CLASS

photos displayed at Bait Al Zubair

International photographers will showcase their finest works in Bait Al Zubair from February 5 to 22. The event, organised by the Photography Society of Oman, comes as part of Muscat Festival 2018 events. The gallery will feature awarded clicks from the International Photography Competition (SQUARE 2017).

Door of the museum will be open for art lovers every day from 9:30am to 6pm, except Friday.

WHAT TO DO. WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

F E B R U A R Y The man whom Yehudi Menuhin called the “best and most perfect violinist”, and the woman who became prima ballerina of the Bolshoi and a shining Étoile of Teatro alla Scala bring music and movement together in a supreme expression of beauty.

United on stage as they are in life, Vadim Repin and Svetlana Zakharova combine the grace of ballet and the inspiration of the violin with supreme artistry in soul-soaring performances on February 7 and 8 at 7pm at the Royal Opera House Muscat.

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ON STAGE

WEEK

FEB 12

The International Food Industry Expo will provide an international and local food and drink market, helping hundreds of companies showcase their wares. Buyers and decision makers across the whole industry, from grocery, wholesale and specialty retail to food industry and manufacturing, will uncover the hottest trends, latest product launches and the industry’s vision for the future. Experts will provide key business information about Latin American, Asian, Gulf, African and European countries.

“With the help of our global import and export trade data you can identify actual buyers, suppliers, importers, exporters, quantity, price and many other details,” said a spokesperson for the expo.

FEB 08

THIS

INTERNATIONAL FOOD EXPO

FEB

08

MOVIES MOVIES FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TIMES, GO TO: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net VOX Cinemas: oman.voxcinemas.com Star Cinema: Tel +968 24791641

it on himself by making a uterus out of a football bladder and filling goat’s blood in it. He would roam around the whole day wearing the bladder to check the absorption rate of the sanitary napkins made by him.

Kickboxer: Retaliation Cast: Alain Moussi, Christopher Lambert and Jean-Claude Van Damme

O

ne year after the events of Kickboxer: Vengeance, Kurt Sloan has vowed never to return to Thailand. However, while gearing up for an MMA title shot, he finds himself sedated and forced back into Thailand, this time in prison.

He is there because the ones responsible want him to face a 6’8” 400lbs beast named Mongkut and in return for the fight Kurt will get

$2mn and his freedom back. At first Kurt refuses, so a bounty is placed on his head as a way to force him into facing Mongkut. Kurt soon learns he has no choice but to undergo his most rigorous training yet under some unexpected mentors in order to face Mongkut in the hope of regaining his freedom.

Oman release: February 8

Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar and Sonam Kapoor

A biopic on Tamil Nadu activist Arunachalam Muruganantham whose mission was to provide sanitary napkins to poor women of rural areas who would use rag cloths or leaves during periods.

After getting no fruitful support from his family or a medical college he approached to try out his product, he decided to test

Cast: Pranav Mohanlal, Siddique and Jagapathi Babu

After the death of her husband and child, Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester fortune, constructs of an enormous mansion with hundreds of rooms. To an outsider, it looks like a monstrous monument to a disturbed woman’s madness. But Sarah’s actually building a prison, an asylum for hundreds of vengeful ghosts — and the most terrifying among them have a score to settle with the Winchesters. San Francisco psychiatrist Eric Price (Jason Clarke) is dispatched to the estate, and he learns that Sara’s obsession might not be so insane, after all.

Director Jeethu Joseph’s protagonist Aadhi is a tailor-made character for debutant Pranav Mohanlal. Aadhithya Mohan aka Aadhi (Pranav) is a gentle, compassionate youngster. His mother Rosy (Lena) is a progressive woman who eloped with Aadhi’s father Mohan Varma (Siddique), a Hindu, when she was just 18 years old.

She is one of those liberal mothers who pressures her son into finding a girlfriend for himself. She even musters up a supportive tone when Aadhi says he would prefer marrying a Muslim girl over a Christian one to bring communal harmony into the family.

Aadhi represents the liberal society of Kerala which is unaffected by the growing culture of moral policing, communal and political violence. In this context, one could have expected a mention of Kerala’s favourite diet, parotta and beef curry, a sort of political stand taken by several Malayalam filmmakers ever since ‘beef politics’ has intensified its position in the national discourse — but Jethu’s priority is something more gripping.

Pranav’s performance in action sequences is the mainstay of the film. Shot in real locations, including the crowded KR Market in Bengaluru, Pranav draws applause for his Parkour skills. Only in the final action sequence does he get to say his very first punch line in the film. Jeethu leaves us with the frozen image of Pranav jumping off the building. And we exit the cinema hall knowing that Pranav has the abilities to make a soft-landing in the world of cinema.

Oman release: February 8

Oman release: February 8

Oman release: February 8

Winchester Cast: Helen Mirren, Jason Clarke and Sarah Snook

!

PadMan

Aadhi

N WI

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION Who is the producer of Padman?

LAST WEEK’S WINNER Radhakrishnan G

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FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

019

BAN TO

Balance?

THE VISA FREEZE OPENS THE DOOR TO 50,000 OMANI JOB SEEKERS, BUT DOES THE BAN TARGET THE RIGHT JOBS AND WILL IT MAKE THE DESIRED IMPACT ON THE MARKET AND THE ECONOMY? ALVIN THOMAS SEEKS TO FIND THE ANSWERS FROM EXPERTS

S

unday the 28th (January) was supposed to be another runof-the-mill day for the residents of Oman. Most of them were at work – but little did they know what was in store for them. Not so long after the day commenced, residents of the country began receiving texts from their peers asking them to take a look at a newly issued decree.

It came as a shocker for many. The headlines read something like this: ‘Oman to temporarily stop issuing expat visas for 10 professions’.

Not knowing what was going on, several expatriate workers began calling up their employers and friends to get clarification.

But the news was self-explanatory: Expatriates working in 10 professions wouldn’t be issued visas in the private sector for a period of six months.

It wasn’t until noon, though, that the law was clarified: expatriates who were currently working with employment visas wouldn’t be affected by this law and, furthermore, that it would only apply to fresh foreigner job seekers.

Many – including some Omanis – heaved a sigh of relief after the clarification.

“Take my worst nightmare and put it in my real life – that’s what I felt when I saw the news floating around the internet,” narrates Timothy, a mechanical engineer working with a contracting company in the oil and gas industry.

“My contract with the company is up for review and renewal in March, and I thought I’d be on the streets after that,” he tells. He can only look back and laugh about it now as he tells us that he was emotionally torn when he saw the news.

“I’ve been working in this company for 25 years now, so asking me to leave would have been like asking me to rip my life in Oman away,” he adds.

Thankfully, Timothy, and the 1.69-million-odd expat workers in the country are safe… for now.

According to the ministerial decision taken by Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser Al Bakri, the Minister of Manpower, the licences for recruitment of expat manpower in 10 professions – translating to 87 categories –

were banned for a period of six months.

The decision took effect from the day of its publication in the Official Gazette.

However, the decision does not apply to establishments owned by employers wholly devoted to management of their establishments which are registered with the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development and insured with the Public Authority for Social Insurance.

The professions that are banned fall under these sectors: information systems, sales, marketing, administration, human resources, insurance, media, airports, engineering and technical professions.

But the job categories that have been flagged include: Information and Technology 1. Information security specialist 2. Geographic information system specialist 3. Electronic computer networks 4. Programmed machines maintenance – electronic 5. Electronic calculator maintenance 6. Graphic designer 7. Electronic surveillance – equipment assembly 8. Electronics technician – telecom 9. Electronics technician – control instrument 10. Electronics technician – medical equipment 11. Electronics technician broadcast 12. Electronic technician – programmed machines 13. Electronic technician – computer networks 14. Computer programmer 15. Computer engineer 16. Computer operator Accounting and finance 1. Bank notes and money changer 2. Bank notes technician 3. Account auditing technician 4. General accounting technician 5. Cost account technician 6. Cost accountant 7. Insurance collector Marketing and sales 1. Sales specialist 2. Storekeeper 3. Commercial agent 4. Commercial manager 5. Procurement logistics specialist Administration and human resources 1. Business administration specialist 2. Public relation specialist 3. Human resources specialist 4. Administrative director Insurance 1. Insurance agent - general 2. Real estate insurance agent 3. Cargo insurance agent 4. Life insurance agent 5. Vehicle insurance agent 6. Factory insurance agent Information/media professions 1. Media specialist 2. Page maker 3. Paper pulp machine operator 4. Bookbinding machine operator

5. Decorative books operator 6. Calendar operator 7. Paper dyeing machine operators 8. Bill printing machine operator 9. Cylinder press operator 10. Rotating press operator 11. Offset printing machine operator 12. Colour press operator 13. Palnographic press operator 14. Paper folder machine operator 15. Paper coating machine operator 16. Advertising agent Medical professions 1. Male nurse 2. Pharmacist assistant 3. Medical coordinator Airport professions 1. Aviation guiding officer 2. Ground steward 3. Ticket controller 4. Airplane takeoff supervisor 5. Air traffic controller 6. Aircraft landing supervisor 7. Passenger transport supervisor 8. Land guide Engineering professions 1. Architect 2. General survey engineer 3. Civil engineer 4. Electronic engineer 5. Electronics engineer 6. Mechanical engineer 7. Project engineer Technical professions 1. Building technician/ building controller 2. Electronic technician 3. Road technician/ road controller 4. Mechanical technician 5. Soil mechanics

laboratory technician 6. Steam turbine technician 7. Construction materials lab technician 8. Gas network extension technician 9. Construction technician 10. Transformer technician 11. Station technician 12. Electrical technician 13. Heat operations technician 14. Maintenance technician 15. Chemical technician Hailing the efforts of the government in an interview with Y is Tawfiq al Lawati, member of the Majlis al Shura. He says: “We have to look at this from all perspectives. There are about 50,000 Omanis looking for jobs currently. And so far, the sole provider of jobs – since 2011 – has been the government sector.

“So, the impact from the private sector has

been quite low. And if you look at this case, the jobs that are on the list are those where the number of working Omanis is low or those that they don’t prefer to work in.

“This has created an imbalance in the job market and it is time for the private sector to step in and support the government.”

But getting the Omanis on board to work for private companies is not that easy.

He explains that effort must be put in to motivate these youngsters to work in private firms.

His words stand true as the percentage of Omanis working in the private sector stood at a paltry 12.35 (per cent) by the end of 2016. This reflected to only 209,620 Omanis working in private firms, while the expat workforce in private companies stood at a staggering 1,697,671.

The expat figure in Oman is primarily dominated by three Asian countries: Indians at 669,882; Bangladeshis 590,170 and Pakistanis 220,112.

“The issue is that the salaries and pensions in private companies are less, and the work timings are a lot higher. But we need to take steps to show the people that there is great potential to grow within a private firm,” he says, adding that the government is doing its “level best to help balance the situation”.

“Despite all this, however, this is not a long-term solution. We need to find a more sustainable strategy that we can implement on a regular basis.

“For that, the government needs to work with the private sector as partners. Give them targets to fulfil, for instance. And when they do complete it, we must reward them.”

He then elucidates: “Those companies that are serious with their targets must be protected and compensated so that they can keep developing and moving forward.”

To further comprehend Tawfiq’s point, we ask him why there is a growing consensus of companies

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hiring expats than Omanis. To that, he says: “There is an argument that private sector companies want to improve the productivity of Omani workforce. And for that, we’ll need to provide proper training.

“To accomplish Oman’s ‘Vision 2020’ we need to invest in development and diversification of talent. And for that, we must train the youth of Oman. And if that’s the case, then we will definitely achieve an equillibrium in this job market,” he tells us.

His views stand in line with the government’s goal to provide 25,000 jobs to Omanis.

“Sufficient jobs will be generated in the public sector. Employment will be created in a variety of sectors, notably in oil and gas, finance, insurance, logistics and mining.

The jobs will include those in special economic zones (SEZs),” Al Bakri told media personnel in December 2017, before going on to warn companies in the private sector “to strictly comply with the nation’s Omanisation policy”.

Meanwhile, prominent social worker PM Jabir is also lauding the efforts of the government to promote Omanisation.

“The government is doing a great job to help the citizens grow their careers and also to find jobs for those unemployed. In recent times, Omanis have also shown that they are more than capable of working in private sector offices efficiently.

“While this means that expats are no longer needed for these jobs, they can always look for new ventures back in their

hometowns or forage into newer lands.

“Migration is a continuous process.”

The award-winning social worker adds: “Before the people of India came to the Gulf (the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, etc.), they travelled to countries such as Sri Lanka, Singapore and even parts of Latin America in search of jobs. So, if the market here is saturated, it’s best that we look for newer opportunities.”

While many are in support of the ban, there are sceptics who are raising questions about how this will impact the economy of the country.

One Omani businessman (who wishes to remain anonymous) in charge of a contracting company that takes care of several telecom projects in Oman thinks that the ban will hamper the smooth operation of those firms undertaking specialised tasks within the country.

“Our company primarily caters to clients, and we use expat workers to fulfil jobs relating to surveying, civil engineering and even electronics engineers. We require the staff to have five to 10 years of experience on the field.

“And that’s where the problem is: Most young Omani applicants come straight from college with little or no work experience. And because of that, we’re forced to look for expensive Omani engineers or go for the alternatives from India and Pakistan.

“Don’t forget that the clients want the work done for the same amount of money – or less. So, it’s now up to us to get the best for our business.”

Zubair*, the chief executive officer of a leading printing press in Oman, also expresses his frustration, saying: “The media industry has definitely taken a hit here. We are not going to receive visas for 16 job titles – and it’s going to hurt our business.

“In the past, we would look to hire young Omanis for page making, press operators and so on. But they just never stayed, and after we would provide them with training, they would switch jobs to another field.

“And our efforts to advertise for Omanis also never bore fruit. They don’t want these entrylevel jobs. In contrast, I only need to pay RO250 for a page maker in my press, and they are happy with it. But if an Omani wants to work in that position for that pay, I would only be happy to give him or her a job.”

Other concerns were also raised

by Shashwar al Balushi, the head of Tanfeedh labour market lab and the chief executive officer of the Oman Society of Contractors. In an interview with Y, he tells: “If the job seekers are available to take junior positions and be trained for their role, then that is fine.

“But for certain tasks we need specialised and experienced people – and that’s why we outsource work and bring in expatriates who fit the criteria.

I’VE BEEN WORKING IN THIS COMPANY FOR 25 YEARS NOW, SO ASKING ME TO LEAVE WOULD HAVE BEEN LIKE ASKING ME TO RIP MY LIFE IN OMAN AWAY

“In case of the construction industry, there is a demand by the client that the workforce must consist of specialised staff that have over 10 to 12 years of experience.

“This isn’t a problem for those that are already in place and working on a contract, but if a new contract is issued or if a contract is terminated, then the contractors will have a hard time sourcing a new and specialised team.

“What happens next is that the employer will have to go to the ministry and try to avail an exception to get approvals to procure new visas for expats.

“In all, it’s a hassle,” he tells, before going on to express his frustration: “If the government wanted to get more jobs for Omanis, they should have approached us and sat down for a discussion.

“We need to know how many job seekers are there and based on that we can make necessary arrangements to work through this period. I’m still waiting to see the number of unemployed members who have registered.

“But in all, I feel that this has been created to micro-manage the hiring of workers in different sectors because they can now say who can be hired and who cannot.

“Most of the times, laws are implemented based on social reasoning, and I fail to see the logic behind this move.

“For instance, to hire an engineer, he or she must have a proper degree. And an engineer becomes a real engineer after the person has gained experience for at least five years.

“This is a very important criterion. Even if you wanted to attempt an engineering board examination, you need to have four to five years of engineering training.

“To become a foreman, you need to have two to four years of experience. And it’s a job I don’t see Omanis wanting to opt for. So, then how can one learn and grow in their career?”

The CEO adds: “The same goes for a technician. So, at the end of the day, we need to ask whether the right professions were targeted with this visa suspension, and we need to sit down to see if this will make the right impact on our job market and, above all, Oman’s economy. Because to grow, we cannot simply restrict the market; these youngsters will actually benefit from working with experienced workers.” ■

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MARATHON OF HOPE TWENTY-THREE OF THE 1000-STRONG CROWD OF STUDENTS, TEACHERS AND PARENTS WHO TURNED UP AT TAISM FOR THE TERRY FOX RUN SAY IT WITH HAIR. ALVIN THOMAS JOINS THE RUN OF COURAGE

“Ordinary people are heroes because of what they do.” That was the very belief that drove the motivated organisers and participants of the annual Terry Fox Run as they entered the 11th year of its existence in Oman.

And it was the folk – which included students, teachers and even parents – who were partaking in the marathon that were determined to make a change on the day. The event was held in honour of Terry Fox who had lost his leg to cancer and – despite all odds – raised money for cancer research during an arduous cross-Canada run in 1980.

The strong-minded individuals, some of whom had shaved and donated their hair to be converted to wigs for the cancer patients in need, ran the course drawn on the premises of The American International School Muscat (TAISM).

It wasn’t a full marathon but the 4km-long course was challenging for the several students across all age groups.

“Everybody at TAISM comes from around the world, and we all love Oman. So, it’s a way for us to give back to this country that we call home. And we get to help the children in Oman with leukemia,” said Laura MacDonald, the organiser of the event and a health teacher at TAISM. There were close to 1,000 participants, and a total sum of RO5,500 was raised. The donations will go to leukemia research in Oman.

“Giving back and helping is the right way to do.

In addition, it teaches the students how to be better people and what it is to be a good person,” Laura added.

Twenty-three participants donated their hair to

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GIVING BACK AND HELPING IS THE RIGHT WAY TO DO. IN ADDITION, IT TEACHES THE STUDENTS HOW TO BE BETTER PEOPLE AND WHAT IT IS TO BE A GOOD PERSON

cancer patients in need of a wig.

Dominique was one of the parents who had donated her hair. She explained: “I prepared myself one year before. Some members of my family and friends suffered from cancer a lot and I want to be with them. I can do it and I will continue to do it with all my heart.”

“I suffered from breast cancer four years ago. I was undergoing treatment for two years,” Igle Barrios, who had just bravely fought breast cancer, said.

“I came out of it, and it was my family and friends who supported me throughout the whole process,” she added, before breaking into tears.

But it isn’t just the lives of survivors that Terry Fox touched. Laura pointed out: “When I was four years old, Terry ran through my hometown in Canada. He changed what my view of a hero looks like. Now I know that ordinary people are heroes because of what they do.

“When Terry had cancer, he didn’t give up. And when he lost his leg, he became a bigger person. So, our students can really learn from that.

“We have a theme every year, and this year it was ‘Courage’. We focused on the courageous stories within our own communities, and how you deal with life’s challenges with that mindset.

The run was also a chance for older and younger students to team up and be buddies. “The sight of the elder students holding the hands of the younger students and motivating them to keep going was a common sight,” Laura exclaimed.

“Everyone should learn from this and become a stronger person.

They can then give this hope and strength to others,” said Badar al Mamari from TAISM. “So, this is one event that brings us all together and it helps us feel like a family.”

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A happy couple draws each other like the two ends of a magnet,” goes a saying. And we’re back at our game of seeking out the most perfectly matched husband and wife team in Oman as we approach Valentine’s Day. If you and your partner think that you’ve still got the spark, then we want to hear from you.

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve just got together or have been married for 20 years. The most important thing is that you’ve got the right recipe for love and the best ingredients for an exciting life together.

We will be giving the couples a chance to test their compatibility in front of an audience with a live quiz show. But to qualify for the finals, you must prove your love for your partner to us.

And here’s how you can do that: Interested participants are requested to write in 50 words or less why they think that they are soulmates. Keep in mind that we are looking for the most crazy, funny, romantic answers.

The short stories must be sent to us at editor@yoman.com.

The last date for entry is February 11, 2018 – and the event will be hosted on February 15.

Ten finalists chosen from the entries will answer a series of questions about their spouses to prove how well they know each other.

If you think

that you know your husband or wife well, this is your chance to show them in the most romantic of ways – and win some dream prizes.

In association with Golden Tulip Seeb Hotel, we’ve got some exciting prize vouchers up for grabs too.

“The Valentine’s season is upon us and that means it’s time for us to begin hunting for the best matched couple with our much-awaited ‘Y’ We Are Soulmates competition. It’s a quite quirky show wherein contestants can show us how much they love each other. Mind you, it’s not easy, though. To win the competition, you’d have to have a deep understanding of your partner,” says Nishad Padiyarath, Y’s editor.

We’ll publish the best entries and invite 10 couples to the exciting final. Good luck!

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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M

ystic

Music

Sufi music lovers in Muscat are treated to a feast of devotion and passion.

Hasan Al Lawati joins the swaying, clapping crowd 028

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I

t was an entrancing spiritual adventure that lasted for four mystic, ecstatic nights when musicians from four countries converged on Muscat to leave the crowds spellbound with their soulful performances.

The Bait Al Zubair First Festival for Sufi Music commenced at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa on Monday (January 29) with Iranian band Salar Aghili treating the crowd to a feast of Persian classics and Sufi poems.

The ensemble was led by Salar Aghili of Iran’s National Orchestra, who was joined onstage by young Mirmahur Aghili, Mohammedreza Eskandari, Sahab Torbati, Harir Shariatzadeh, Alireza Daryae, Hossein Mahmoudimajd and Ali Kheshtinejad.

The outdoor venue was packed with Iranian expats who came to support and enjoy a night of Persian heritage and culture.

Omani Sufi band Al Zawya sung popular Arabic poems on the second day of the festival. Mohammed Musa Al Balushi, leader of the group, says spiritual connection with our souls is “an advanced human skill”.

He adds: “The human soul has a language that surpasses familiar words and terminologies. This language pours out in a form of emotions and travels in a parade of imagination. And nothing is more capable than music to express this language… through music we can connect with our inner soul in an efficient manner,” he says.

The band consisted of 13 Omanis from Muscat and North Al Batinah Governorates.

“The group includes talented singers and people who are interested in spiritual pursuits,” he explains.

“The festival is well organised, and that’s something Bait Al Zubair is known for. Happy to see a large turnout which was a mix of different nationalities,” Al Balushi adds.

Oman is known to be open to different cultures and forms of art. Sufi music has been alive and thriving

in the Sultanate in the form of Al Malid which contains traditional Sufi elements.

Al Balushi, however, says there is no such thing as Sufi music, but rather “a good utilisation of music to send Sufi senses and sentimental messages”.

Explaining the lyrics, the young singer or ‘munshid’ says most Sufi words are about praising God. “We pray to God for a better life and afterlife, mention his names (Al Asma Al Husna) in addition to highlighting emotions that believers feel like eagerness and love to their creator,” he says, adding that some lyrics seek to invoke the best of morals and a life of faith.”

The third night hosted the popular Fareed Ayaz Qawwal band from Pakistan.

Despite the absence of the lead singer, the band enthralled the audience with songs in Punjabi, Urdu, Arabic and other languages.

Abu Muhammad, brother of Fareed Ayaz, tells the Y magazine that Sufism is all about “loving others and being loved.”

They have performed in many countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and North America.

The festival concluded on Thursday with the performance of the Ibn Arabi Moroccan band.

Sufism, known as tasawwuf in the Arabic-speaking world, is a form of Islamic mysticism that emphasises introspection and spiritual closeness with God. Sufi practice focuses on the renunciation of worldly things, purification of the soul and the mystical contemplation of God’s nature.

The event was part of Bait Al Zubair Foundation’s initiatives to promote the Sultanate’s rich culture in the performing arts. ■

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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GRAB IT BEFORE IT’S GONE GET YOUR FREE COPY OF Y AT THE FOLLOWING DISTRIBUTION POINTS… Capital Region Azaiba • Amara

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Hotel Muscat • Jawharat Al Shatti Complex • Kaya Skin Clinic • Muscat Eye Laser Center • Oasis By The Sea • Second Cup • Starbucks • VLCC Wellness Sifah • Sifawy Boutique Hotel SQU • Diplomatic Club • College of

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Head Office Other Regions Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • LuLu Hypermarket Nizwa • University of Nizwa Sohar • Centrepoint (Splash) • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Markets • Ooredoo • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port and Freezone • Sohar University

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Adventures

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Cars

Y- F i

Gaming

INVINCIBLE WARRIOR

The humble F-150 trades its tawdry roots for luxury and power – and we can’t seem to get enough of it. This is the coolest truck we’ve ever tested at Y. – P34

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&

CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D E S T I N AT I O N C a r s

P o s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y- F i

Gaming

Destination

SIFAH

NOTHING MUCH FOR SIGHT-SEEING, BUT IF YOU SET OUT EARLY YOU COULD MARVEL AT THE MIRACLE IN THE MORNING SKIES AND LISTEN TO THE MUSIC BELTED OUT BY BIRDS AS SPARKLING WATERS AND PURE SANDS TICKLE YOUR FEET. SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI TAKES A BEACH WALK 032

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

are most favoured by us photographers.

The unblemished yellow sky was worth the early wake-up and the untainted chirps from crickets and other birds were detoxifying. Of course all of this was possible only because others were still sleeping. Human interference will almost certainly dole down these sounds from the background.

So, if you were to go there, say, at the weekend, you’d be let down by the commotion in the vicinity.

There’s not much

TRAVEL GUIDE

O

ver the last five years or so Sifah has turned out to be something of a tourist spot. And it isn’t all that surprising. With its serene familyfriendly beach, tranquil waters and cordial residents, it wasn’t long before tourists began flocking to the place for camping and other activities.

But there’s a side to it that is often neglected, thanks to the renovated beach at Jebel Sifah: the beach adjacent to the village. Of course, owing to the residents and other families in the vicinity, it’s not all that mysterious, although people are hushhush about it.

So, that’s precisely where I aimed to go this week.

I began the journey in the early hours of the morning in the hopes of catching the first rays of the sun – and it wouldn’t have been past 5am by the time I set up all the gear at my spot.

There were some other Omani campers who had the same idea as I did. Still, keeping them far away from the frames of my camera, I began clicking the sun just as it was rising.

Early morning shoots – the “golden hour”, as we call it –

HOW TO GET THERE From Muscat, take the road to Al Bustan road and then the exit that leads to Qantab.

In about 10km, you will have to take the first exit from the

to see at the Sifah, so you’ll most certainly be inclined to do a bit of exploring on the beach.

The uncontaminated sands accompanied by the clean sea water touching your feet ever so softly makes for a feeling that is so intense and powerful, yet indescribable with mere words.

It’s one of those episodes that you must experience than being told about.

That’s the reason that I would like to recommend everyone to head there – at least once. And what’s better is that once you’re done with sightseeing, you can simply hop into your car and head to Wadi Kabir for breakfast. Ah! Life is blissful.

roundabout to Al Khiran. Continue on the road until you come across the village of Al Khiran and then Sifah.

GPS location of Sifah: 23°26’58.9”N; 58°46’51.5”E

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&

FIRST DRIVE

CARS ADVENTURES

A

F O R D F - 1 5 0 X LT

Solidly built with pleasantly luxurious interior, the truck is brilliantly simple but brutally powerful. So charming and irresistible that Alvin Thomas almost bought one while on a test drive

n American truck with a V8 engine and a cab in the back doesn’t seem like a recipe that would normally fare well with the audience in the Sultanate.

However, despite all its oddities, it’s one of the best-selling class of vehicles in Oman and elsewhere in the GCC. While this tones down cash-crunch and dwindling car sales talks in the region, there’s no doubt that the reason for its success is the residents’ fondness of the humble pickup truck.

But don’t be fooled: The American truck revels in a rather interesting market segment in this country.

People use them as lifestyle vehicles more so than for their functionality – and that’s what makes my tester Ford F-150 even more desirable by people of all spectrums.

Then again, there’s no denying that there are strong cues Ford puts in its truck to set it apart from the competing trucks from Japan and even Europe.

That’s also why the Ford F-150 is the best-selling

034

FEB 01 - 07 / ISSUE 505

truck of all time, and the F-Series the second bestselling car… in the world.

So, hopping into the truck (quite literally) gives you a sense of entitlement; something your average sedan cannot offer. The F-150 ticks all the right boxes too: It’s large, tall and very muscular.

While all of that makes for the perfect highway bully, it’s still gracious to look at. Dare I say: You can actually form a bond with this car.

Its design, for instance, is amiable. The C-shaped lights upfront may be large, but there are no sharp LEDs (in the base variant) to pierce through the retinas of passersby on the road. And even the fog lamps on the steel bumper is understated.

The grille, for obvious purposes, is gaping to allow for maximum cooling of the engine inside. My tester came with a black plastic grille, but you can obviously equip yours with in-your-face chrome, if need be.

The side profile, again, is nothing far from low-key.

Everything is as you’d expect it to be in a truck. The panels are all hefty, thick and contoured for best effect, and even panel gaps are kept to a minimum.

Our decently specced “XLT” model also came fitted with the “FX4” package, which, apart from a wealth of mechanical additions, also came with “4X4” badging on the sides.

The rear is where things get interesting. The XLT ‘SuperCrew’ variant provides adequate space for cargo – it’s a pickup after all. The bed volume stands at 1,500 litres, which is the well within, if not better than, the industry standards.

The interior of the F-150 is a nice place to be.

There’s none of that plebian-ness that is usually associated with American trucks. Sure, you get to see a lot of plastic on the panels in the base variant,

but Ford will chuck in soft-padding on the doors and centre console on other models.

My tester came fitted with soft and comfortable fabric seats that were supportive in sharp corners. The driver side seat was automated, which was a nice touch, but all other seats had to be manually operated (I’m not complaining, though).

Even the bone-stock F-150 imported to Oman comes equipped with SYNC3. At 4.2 inches, the accompanying screen lacks real estate and touch functionality, but it’s still fairly useful. The reverse camera feature, for instance, is a blessing in disguise. You can zoom into the screen to make sure that you aren’t flattening your neighbours cat.

Destination

P o s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y- F i

Gaming

CARS

Ford F-150 XLT Specifications: Engine: 5.0-litre V8 Transmission: Six-speed automatic Horsepower: 385hp Torque: 525Nm Top speed: 160kph (limited) Four-wheel drive Goodyear off-road tyres Differential lock Reverse Camera ‘FX4’ package Cruise control Electrical power steering Steering-mounted controls 4.2-inch infotainment screen SYNC3 system Drive mode selector 1,500l cargo bed 5-tonnes towing capacity 8-way power adjustable seats Dynamic Hitch Assist

The centre console takes you back to the And joy of joys, it’s a brilliant motor. It good old days, too. The buttons are all cranks out 385hp and 525Nm of torque, large and chunky, and everything is where and is mated to a potent six-speed automatic you’d expect it to be. The knobs that gearbox. Higher variants (Platinum, Raptor, control your audio and a/c functions are and so on) can be had with a 10-speed sizeable, while the other buttons gearbox.

ROCKS, WADI STONES AND During normal driving (when the are well-labelled and easy to use DESERTS POSE LITTLE TO knob is at ‘2H’), power is sent to the rear while driving.

NO CHALLENGE FOR THE wheels only. This, coupled with the light Mind you: Those buttons TRUCK. AND THANKS TO rear end, means that you’ll be incurring and knobs have nothing on the THE ADDITION OF THE “FX4” some wheel spinning action during steering wheel in this truck. It’s OFF-ROAD PACKAGE, MY normal driving. But the traction control large, thick-rimmed and has 20 TESTER ALSO RECEIVED functions fitted to it (!) Ford really should keep you stable if it detects slip OFF-ROAD SUSPENSION, in corners. went all out when crafting the A REAR LOCKING interior of the truck.

Slamming the throttle will make way DIFFERENTIAL AND SKID for some Hollywood-style burnouts and But, then we move on to the PLATES FOR UNDERBODY smoking tyres. But, given that the F-150 largest component in the truck: PROTECTION Its engine. While Ford’s marketing weighs in at 3,000kg, I would advise you team gallivants from country to not to attempt a burnout – unless you’re country pushing buyers to opt for the marginally frugal an oil baron with a hefty wallet for new tyres. And it Ecoboost V6 motor, the engineers still managed to cram won’t be cheap either: My tester came fitted with 285/65 in the 5.0-litre V8 into the XLT. Goodyear Wrangler off-road ready tyres.

The F-150 is brisk, no doubt.

With just a hint

of drama (i.e. if you can keep the ponies intact with no wheel spin), you can launch the truck from 0 to 100kph in about 6.5 seconds.

It’s smooth on the road too and lacks the floatiness associated with trucks of this size, but after spending time offroad, I concluded that the F-150 is even better suited on rough terrain.

Despite its long wheelbase, rocks, wadi stones and sand pose little to no challenge for the truck. And thanks to the addition of the “FX4” off-road package, my tester also received off-road suspension, a rear locking differential and skid plates for underbody protection. Ford also seems to have tweaked the differential to be able to cope with loose rocks.

The dedicated suspension system does increase body roll, though. Steering the F-150 isn’t an ordeal, courtesy its light steering. Not much feedback is translated to the driver on the road but is fairly intuitive while scaling rocks.

After a day in the F-150, however, I couldn’t help but be bowled over by its charm. Heck, I wanted to buy one – but only to be told that it’s a hassle to procure a licence to own a truck.

Even in base form (like my tester), the F-150 is a refined vehicle, with none of the usual drawbacks – that is seen on similar vehicles – making it to the final product.

Its value is undeniable, making it a formidable alternative to, say, an SUV. And all of that, wrapped in this form factor, is only going to help Ford continue write its success story and, above all, carry forward its winning formula.

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CARS ADVENTURES PICTURE PERFECT

The beautiful marble quarry and its lake in Ruskeala, Russia is breathtakingly divine.

1. Take a dip in the marble lake 2. Indulge in a night of star gazing 3. Camp in the beautiful forests 4. Try bungee jumping in the mountains 5. Trek up the rocks of Ruskeala

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Destination

Cars

Y-Fi

Gaming

POSTCARDS FROM

Alvin Thomas recommends

RUSKEALA, KARELIA, RUSSIA T

here’s a common misconception that the greatest places to visit in Russia are Moscow and Saint Petersburg (which we covered last week). But, do keep in mind that Russia is the largest country in the world and that you’d have to dig deep to explore the many fascinating and adventurous spots the country has.

That’s exactly what I did after my trip to the beautiful city of Saint Petersburg.

Situated towards the north-western region of Russia, Ruskeala is one of the country’s most picturesque locations. To be honest, there’s a touch of Scandinavia in this region than anything else.

While scavenging for photos, all I could think to myself was how much the woods belonged in a (real) postcard or a movie. Heck, the lack of cell phone connection and internet only made me think about settling there - perhaps into a wooden cabin with only a bed and a blanket. Photos really don’t do justice to the locale.

Lakes, waterfalls, century-old trees and giant rocks galore, there’s just so much to like about Ruskeala. And since it is close to the village of Sortavala, you’re also treated to a stream of villagers who scavenge the forest for animals (Shh! Don’t tell PETA),wood and fresh water.

Not far from the settlement, there are marble quarries which were discovered in the late 16th Century. Most of them have now been shut down and turned into ponds.

There’s a marble lake in the vicinity that’s absolutely breathtaking to look at. I was also lucky to have camped the night there in an effort to reconnect with nature - and I couldn’t have been any happier the day after. There’s something eerily satisfying about gazing at the stars and drawing simulations - in your mind - of the several stars and galaxies wandering around the universe.

Ruskeala instilled in me a sense of appreciation towards the workings of the universe. It’s not something I often experience, but I guess strange things do happen when your mind wanders beyond the ends of the earth.

Coming back down to earth, I was then able to explore the Ruskeala Mountain Park.

There were plenty of options to trek and even camp for the night. I was able to catch the skies (literally) light up at night. I couldn’t be sure if it was the aurora borealis, but it was nothing short of a heavenly experience.

The moment was short-lived, however, as tourists from around the world tend to flock the area. Ruskeala is now an international tourist route that starts from Norway and ends in Russia.

YELLO W AND GREEN AUTUM TREES N FORE IN ST, KA R E L IA

IN A Z IP L IN E T OU R IS T ON UARRY MARBLE Q

My favourite place Despite all hiccups, my time at the Ruskeala Mountain Park was the highlight of my trip. It’s the perfect spot for self-contemplation and meditation. Think about it as a shortcut to detox your mind and soul. The night skies — especially when lit up in green — is magical. Daredevils can also try bungee jumping from one of the tall mountains.

Highlights

Ruskealais a rural locality within the Karelia region of Russia, and is known for the mountain park. It’s a man-made “natural” landscape that is now teeming with wildlife and greenery. But that’s pretty much it; there are no museums, art galleries or expensive opera houses. It’s one of those places you visit with your friends to enjoy the coziness of living in a forest. However, keep in mind that temperatures in this region are extreme. At the time of my visit, the temperatures stood at -12°C, and if you’re planning on a visit there, it’s best to prepare yourself with layers of protection.

Lowlights

The weather: As I stated earlier, it can get very chilly. Apart from that, the obvious lack of amenities like toilets and restaurants can also hamper the experience.

Souvenirs There’s a souvenir shop in Ruskeala that allows you to make your own clay pots. Of course, if you’re happy with your effort, you can take it home.

Getting there If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can fly to Saint Petersburg and take a train to Sortavala.

From there, there are several buses and taxis that can ferry you to Ruskeala. Once in Russia, the whole trip should take you about eight hours.

Where to stay

IL L U M IN A T E D CAVE RUSKE IN T H E ALA. S ETTLE MENT

Hostel Lampo is a great location for people to reside in. Albeit, Ruskeala is a small town, so people reside in the neighbouring town of Sortavala. Most of the hotels and residences look like they were built during the pre-Soviet era (which probably is the case) but they’re modern inside.

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Destination

Cars

Gaming

Y-FI

GOOD SPORT

Alvin Thomas sports four top gadgets — from muscle simulator to smartphone, thermometer and headphones — that could get you off the sofa and sweat it out: better engaged, more discreet and smartly connected

POWERDOT Injuries are part and parcel of sports. There’s only so much abuse one’s body can take before the muscles – and other tissues and organs – give in. And if muscle is the one bearing the brunt of the force, then it’s inevitable that you’ll end up injuring yourself. But that’s where the PowerDot comes in handy: it uses electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) to activate the muscle fibres so that you can get stronger and recover faster. It works via an app on your phone (duh!), which lets you control your workouts. You can even target a specific muscle using the pods. Buy this gadget for RO148 from powerdot.co.uk

PERSONALISED LISTENING

JACK OF ALL TRADES

Technology is revolutionising the way we do things – and let’s face it: listening to music has only become easier thanks to the invention of compact headphones.

But – apart from sound quality – not much has changed since then… until now. This gadget, Nuraphones, is one of the most innovative headphones you can currently buy. It can automatically learn and adapt to one’s hearing and personalise the sound accordingly. To accomplish that, it has a self-learning engine that measures your hearing (in about a minute or so) by monitoring optoacoustic emissions and then using it to sonically adapt the sound to match your hearing. Gimmick? We think not. Available at nuraphone.com for RO153.9

Toilet paper, military radio systems, minicomputers and phones: These are just a list of things the folks at Nokia have – at some point in their 153 years of existence – specialised in. Of course, today, they’re known for producing smartphones, but hear this: the company is now rolling out a “connected” thermometer. Like every other thermometer in the planet, the Nokia Health Thermo helps you keep track of your body temperature. But there’s more to it than that. The device comes with 16 infrared sensors that can take up to 4,000 measurements for an accurate reading. What’s more is that you can also keep tab of all the different readings you’ve taken in the Nokia Health app. Buy it from health.nokia.com for RO48.8

POWER PACKED

EDITOR’S PICK

ALL RIGHT! SO, THIS ISN’T A HEALTH GADGET BUT THE HUAWEI P10 GREENERY DEFINITELY LOOKS LIKE IT BELONGS IN THE HANDS OF A HEALTH-CONSCIOUS HIPPIE. THE DEVICE COMES WITH A LIGHT GREEN METAL BACK THAT GIVES IT A DISTINCT LOOK. BUT DON’T FOR A SECOND THINK THAT THIS LIMITED-EDITION GADGET IS ALL SHOW AND NO GO. IT COMES PACKING A LARGE 1080P 5.1-INCH WIDE DISPLAY, A HUAWEI KIRIN 960 CHIPSET THAT IS POWERED BY AN OCTA-CORE CPU, AND A MALI-G71 MP8 GPU. YOU ALSO GET THE BELLS AND WHISTLES OF THE STANDARD VARIANT – LIKE THE ULTRA-FAST FINGERPRINT SCANNER AND LEICA 20-MEGAPIXEL MONOCHROME AND 12-MEGAPIXEL RGB DUAL-CAMERAS WITH F2.2 APERTURE. JUST LOOKING AT THIS THING MAKES OUR HEART BEAT FASTER – AND THAT’S A GOOD THING, RIGHT? BUY IT FOR ABOUT RO184 FROM SHARAFDG

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Top Game Releases of February 2018

After braving a round of horror and delivering knockout blows, Alvin Thomas sets out to hunt monsters to define the boundaries of good, great and phenomenal gameplay in February THE INPATIENT We’ve been impatient to play The Inpatient (got the pun?) ever since the day developer Supermassive Games and publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment revealed their plans to release a psychological horror prequel to the much-loved Until Dawn series. The result is a virtual-reality game that not only showcases slick graphics but also an intriguing storyline.

Yes, it suffers from the usual VR effect, by which we mean that the game is too short and the controls can get a bit tricky.

Nevertheless, it’s a great game to indulge in – and perhaps even freak yourself out with.

EA SPORTS UFC 3

quite accommodating to mistakes. Albeit, it’s the greatness of the in-game characters that sets this apart from other titles like WWE 2K18. Buy this game because it’s good and not because you follow MMA.

MONSTER HUNTER: WORLD There are good games and then there are great games. Monster Hunter: World is neither; in fact, it’s what we would term a phenomenal game. The story is simple: it focusses on a hunter that is tasked to hunt down and trap or kill monsters that roam the face of earth. And while it’s a recipe that has been hackneyed, it works very well here, and more so thanks to the truly striking graphical interface. The game ekes out the processing power of the PC and console to produce truly unbelievable images on the screen. And it had us asking ourselves if we were indeed playing the best adventure game ever made. To answer that, however, we’d have to wait until we finish playing it.

We’re usually not enthralled by games featuring wrestlers or MMA stars, but UFC 3 is too good a game to ignore. Dare we say: It’s the best fighting/sports game we’ve played in a really long time. During our time behind the gamepad, we found the controls to be as smooth as butter and the physics engine to be JULY FEB 03 08 - 09 14 / ISSUE 506 327

039

HEALTH& BEAUTY THE RED-HOT VALENTINE

It’s that time of year when everything around you is red and draped with hearts. This year, impress your loved one with impeccable fashion, like this elegant yet edgy red leather dress from Barbour

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

k o o L e h

aran K e tin hris C , t ry tree esto s o h h g s e hi rmy h a t e o t H end e look. ram h g g hi th the to get n Insta m Fro s you tine o is help w Chr o Foll

T t Ge Follow tradition, yet be distinctive.

This ruffled red dress from F&F is a perfect glamorous wear for a special night out. Shop this today for RO12 and be the flawless fashion valentine!

Match your bag with your shoes, but with a little twist.

After all, fashion is all about your personal styling.

This studded black shoulder bag from H&M is unique and sure will add the edge to your ensemble. Buy it for RO12.

For all those who want to add some ‘floral-love’ to their ensemble, this half-sleeved, closed-neck floral red dress from New Look is the one for you.

Shop it now for RO8.

Valentine’s Day is all about love.

For a fashion lover like you, why not spell it out in the most fashion forward way? Pick up these cool ‘Amore’ earrings from H&M for RO5.

When your shoes and bag match, shouldn’t your eyewear match too?

This super slick ‘cat-eye’ sunglass from ZARA is so fashionable that we can’t resist. Available for RO11.

Muscat still has a chill in the winds. If you are planning for an outdoor dinner, you need a scarf. Why not this black scarf matching your accessories with faux pearls from ZARA? Available for RO15.

There is always something very elegant about heels.

They not only make you look taller, but look leaner and give your walk a class. Buy these platform sandals from ZARA for RO28.

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

T

hough everyday is perfect to profess your love to your beloved ones, a special day to celebrate that affection makes it even more special.

Whether you are heading out for a brunch or dinner, look ravishing and in all Valentine’s Day galore. Here are a few beauty products that can instantly give you that Valentine’s Day glam. ➊ MAC Studio fix foundation After you moisturise and prime, lay a smooth base with MAC’s Studio fix foundation. It gives you flawless skin for those Instagram pictures, and it stays put without caking or creasing for hours. Easy on the skin and well bendable, this foundation is a favourite for many beauty gurus and makeup lovers. ➋ Chelsea Beautique: Eyebrow kit The year 2017 was one for the eyebrows. There were numerous trends, including the split eyebrows and the wavy eyebrows. We think 2018 will also bring in more such animated trends. However, what’s still in fashion are the thick, well-sculpted brows which give that needed spark to your entire face and glam up the ensemble. For those looking for the perfect browkit that will give you perfect arches as well as quick to apply, Chelsea Beautique has the right product for you.

Available in various shades, so choose the one you prefer and sculpt away.

THE VALENTINE

LOOK

Five fabulous products to make you look stunning on Valentine’s Day 042

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➌ Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Big Shot Dramatic lining of the eyes is out; simple and fresh eyes are in. Keeping your eye makeup to the minimum will give your face a refreshed look and will make your lips stand out. Coat your lashes with Maybelline’s Volum’ Express Colossal Big Shot Mascara to give your lashes the extra volume that will make up for the eyeliner and the eye-shadow. No need for fake lashes, or dramatic eye-shadow; just a coating of Maybelline mascara can elevate your eye look. ➍ Stunna Lip Paint We can’t stress enough on how much we love ‘Bad Gal’ RiRi’s Stunna Lip Paint. This universal red lipstick is beautiful, even on the lip and has the ability to boost the glam factor. Un-smudged for eight hours straight, this lip paint is the product you need in your vanity. The smooth formula glides along the curves of your lips for equal coat and stays put while you eat, drink and enjoy your night out. Fenty Beauty does have various shades in its collection, however for the Valentine’s Day look, we choose the vivid Stunna lip paint. ➎ Bobby Brown: Shimmer Brick Compact The demand for highlighters is growing everyday and brands are rolling out innovative products almost every week. We expect 2018 will also be a year of glittering glamour. Bobby Brown’s Shimmer Brick Compact in the shade Rose is a sleek set of shimmering shades that will give your cheek bones the right highlight and complement the dramatic red lips. The compact is perfect for daytime as well as night time wear, thanks to its stunning and illuminating natural shades.

Beauty

HEALTH

Fashion

Dealing

WITH DEPRESSION

Feeling fed up for an hour or being sad for a day is just normal, but if the low mood stays for days, it’s then depression that requires serious attention. Alvin Thomas tries to fix the mental mess

E

motions are a part of life. The feelings of happiness, sadness and ecstasy are a few of the several that we as humans go through now and then. These feelings are often linked to an event and are known to dissipate over the course of day or in a few days. But then there are those – often feelings of overwhelming sadness and selfloathing – that do not, and it’s something that must be taken seriously.

This mental illness is called ‘depression’ and at any given point more than 300 million people are affected by it. Clinically, a person is diagnosed with depression when the individual is experiencing a period of sadness. This also causes a loss of interest in things that used to bring happiness or pleasure.

If untreated, depression can lead to serious complications that could put one’s life at risk.

Late in 2017 (November), singer Lil Peep was found dead in his apartment following a drug overdose that stemmed from depression. That was also the case when Linkin Park vocalist Chester Bennington committed suicide by hanging following his long stint with depression.

“But, there’s always a way out,” says life coach Aaron Matthew Prince.

“It starts with facing your worst fears and sharing it with someone you trust. This will help you learn more about your depression and that will aid in fighting it.

“The next step is to act towards fixing your mental health. This involves you visiting your doctor – preferably a therapist. Your doctor may suggest you medicines to cope with your illness but it takes more than medicines to fight for clarity,” he adds.

As per helpguide.org, there are five methods to begin treating depression: ● Learn as much as you can about your depression. It’s important to determine whether your depression symptoms are due to an underlying medical condition. If so, that condition will need to be treated first. ● It takes time to find the right treatment. It might take some trial and error to find the treatment and support that works best for you. For example, if you decide to pursue therapy it may take a few attempts to find a therapist that you really click with. ● Don’t rely on medications alone.

Although medication can relieve the symptoms of depression, it is not usually suitable for long-term use. Other treatments, including exercise and therapy, can be just as effective as medication, often even more so, but don't come with unwanted side effects. If you do decide to try medication, remember that medication works best when you make healthy lifestyle changes as well. ● Get social support. The more you cultivate your social connections, the more protected you are from depression. If you are feeling stuck, don’t hesitate to talk to trusted family members or friends, or seek out new connections at a depression support group, for example. ● Treatment takes time and commitment. All of these depression treatments take time, and sometimes it might feel overwhelming or frustratingly slow. That is normal. Recovery usually has its ups and downs.

If you think that you’re undergoing depression, then try seeking help at the Whispers of Serenity Clinic or the Al Harub Medical Centre.

Next week, we will take a look at how we can make lifestyle changes to treat depression.

FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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FOOD DRINK

Trend

New Restaurant

SOUP IT UP

A hot bowl of soup can be handy when you’re in dire need of a quick and refreshing starter to your supper.

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Reviews

SOUP Special A steaming pot of soup with the right seasoning and spices is a great way to warm up, but when time is short there are short cuts that don’t sacrifice taste

A

steaming bowl of savoury soup is the perfect comfort food when the wind is howling and the temperatures continue to hover in the low 20s. It’s the right time to cozy up and enjoy the warmth of being inside while indulging in some of your favourite flavours.

The rich, hearty tastes and textures of a soup result from the seasonings, spices and melding of different ingredients while it slowly simmers to perfection.

However, when there’s no time for lots of prep and cooking, there are shortcuts that don’t sacrifice taste.

For example, when time is short, a can of beans can give you a head start. The robust mixture of black beans, corn, hominy and kidney beans in a slightly spicy, chililime accented tomato sauce is just right in recipes that boast Tex-Mex flavours like this Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Just add a few pantry staples and some sauteed chicken for a warming pot of soup in about half an hour.

For more quick and easy recipes for the season, visit readsalads.com.

Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe courtesy of Dinner, Dishes and Desserts on behalf of READ Salads Servings: 6 Ingredients: § 2 tsp olive oil § 1/2kg chicken breast cut into 1/2-inch cubes § 1 small onion, finely chopped § 2 cloves garlic, minced § 1 can (280g) enchilada sauce § 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken stock § 1 can (280g) diced tomatoes with green chilis § 2 cans (425g each) READ Southwestern Bean Salad § salt, to taste § pepper, to taste § crispy tortilla strips (optional) § shredded cheddar cheese (optional) § diced avocado (optional)

over a medium-high heat. Add chicken and onion. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until chicken is browned and onions are soft, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. § Stir in enchilada sauce, chicken stock, tomatoes and bean salad. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve with tortilla strips, cheese and avocado, if desired.

Method: § In a large saucepan or a Dutch oven, heat olive oil

Source: Family Features FEB 08 - 14 / ISSUE 506

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FOOD DRINK

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

REVIEWS

Mid et k Mar Info Box FIVE GUYS

Muscat Grand Mall Opening Hours: Closes at 1am Lunch for two: RO15.23 Contact: 24480508

FIVE GUYS

Verdict : 9/10 SERVICE 9/10 FOOD 7/10 AMBIENCE Fast and tasty but a little loud.

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

MATTHEW HERBST REDISCOVERS THE TRUTH: IT’S HARD TO BEAT A BIG BURGER DRIPPING WITH MELTED CHEESE AND TOPPED WITH DELICIOUS FILLINGS, WITH DELECTABLE CHERRY MILKSHAKE TO WASH IT DOWN AND THE BEST BUDDY TO CATCH UP WITH

M

y fine-tuned taste buds were excited when I got given the opportunity to write a Taste Test for Y again. Of course I was going to include my trusted taste tester and colleague Neal Bowden from Merge 104.8. He had just returned from a trip abroad and couldn’t think of a better way to catch up with a good friend. This is when two guys decided that Five Guys was definitely the way forward to fill our grumbling tummies.

Neal is the one who is always in the know about new eateries around town and I still stand to date that he is a bad influence on my waistline because of his good taste in food. In saying that I didn’t hesitate when he suggested to eat there.

With huge hungry eyes, Neal explained how to place the order and that a list of sauces and extras were free. I had to seriously stop myself from overloading my BIG cheese burger for fear it will end up a soggy mess. He also advised that small chips were more than enough as they overloaded the little cup — in other words you’d probably find the equivalent at the bottom of the brown paper bag. On that thought I imagined that large fries would be good for not one but five guys so settled for the small.

I loaded the BIG CHEESE burger with BBQ sauce, ketchup, mayo, relish, pickle, tomato and mushroom. It was sure to be a soggy mess, but I was ready for it. After all I was starving. Neal isn’t much of a cheese fan so had a BIG BURGER with onion, tomato and ketchup. Sensible. Both

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crumb in sight and looked satisfied with his choice.

The cajun fries were spiced just right —not too salty and with the right crispy consistency.

Neal was absolutely correct regarding the NEAL WAS ABSOLUTELY CORRECT amount of fries, there were loads and I couldn’t REGARDING THE AMOUNT OF finish my small cup. Neal having a bottomless pit FRIES, THERE WERE LOADS AND I COULDN’T FINISH MY SMALL CUP of a stomach assisted me on the quest to finish the small fries. I must add though that if you do have a nut allergy that FIVE GUYS would be a bad choice for you as they use peanut oil to prepare the food with. So take note of their branded potato bags and boxes of oil they have stacked in the restaurant. Alternatively check if they have nut free options but I don’t think it would be safe though.

We washed down our burgers and fries with the delicious cherry milkshake. It was so delicious that I was tempted to order another but knew that this time round I wasn’t wearing sweatpants to cater for the stretch and that I would be awfully with little cajun fries. I was advised to taste the cherry milkshake and because we both love cherry embarrassed if my trouser buttons had to pop drinks of all sorts I didn’t hesitate to request one. off. So with my stomach at a comfortable level, I We took a seat and we were surrounded by food dismissed the idea. reviews framed on the walls of what looked like I must say that Five Guys is absolutely worth a mum’s red and white kitchen from the eighties. going to and it will leave your taste buds wanting Seated around were all sorts of age groups and more. It’s is a tad on the pricey side, but then again families and the fact that it was so busy was worth it even as a once-in-a-while treat. I highly promising albeit a little loud. recommend it and will be heading there again Not sure how the system worked I left it to Neal soon myself. Spot on Five Guys. to know if and when our order was ready and he explained that if you were to be hungrier than Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see hungry you could scoop up free peanuts while reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com waiting. How generous! Not that I required any nuts with the sizeable meal that arrived quite promptly.

I unwrapped a huge burger dripping with melted cheese, an almost sloppy bun due to the amount of sauces and fillings I asked to have loaded on. Every bite was as succulent as it looked and it was cooked to perfection. It reminded me of the burgers I used to have as a child at a local roadhouse (road diners famous in the eighties) in Johannesburg, South Africa but bigger and far tastier.

Neal ate his burger quickly, not leaving a single

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End of Year RO 500,000 (1 winner) Minimum balance R0 30,000

Zeinah Draw Omani Women’s Day RO 5,000 each (20 winners) Minimum balance R0 1,000

National Day RO 3,000 each (48 winners) Minimum balance R0 1,000

Monthly RO 1,000 each (10 winners) Minimum balance R0 100

Monthly RO 100 each (40 winners) Minimum balance R0 50

Monthly RO 100 each (40 winners) Minimum balance R0 10

zeinah

Children’s account

Shababi

Regional Prizes Monthly RO 10,000 each (10 winners) Minimum balance R0 10,000

al jawhar Privilege banking Monthly RO 20,000 each (10 winners) Minimum balance R0 30,000

asalah Priority banking Eid Al Fitr RO 2,000 each (50 winners) Minimum balance R0 1,000

Celebration Festival Prizes

Monthly RO 500 each per month for a year (10 winners) Transfer a minimum salary amount of RO 500 to bank muscat

Salary Transfer

Terms & Conditions apply: Valid till 31st December 2018 – al mazyona savings account does not offer interest - Interest bearing savings account available separately. For interest rates please contact the branches. Please refer to the Bank’s website for eligibility criteria www.bankmuscat.com/al-mazyona