Y Magazine #569, May 16, 2019

Wonders of worship STUNNING MASJIDS OF THE MUSLIM WORLD Y’s 2019 Ramadan Car Guide

CATCH THE LATEST UPDATES ONLY ON

DRIVE AWAY WITH A DEAL!

LATEST VISA BAN FOR 10 News: EXPATS ANNOUNCED

WWW.Y-OMAN.COM

DESTINATION: Barka Souq TASTE TEST: Paparazzi YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

MAY 16 - 22 2019 / ISSUE 569 • WEEKLY

ACTS OF

Kindness

PLUS!

WHILE MORE PREVALENT DURING THE HOLY MONTH, SELFLESS ACTS DONE IN SERVICE OF OTHERS SHOULDN’T BE LIMITED ONLY TO RAMADAN. TEAM Y INTRODUCES YOU TO THOSE HUMBLE HEROES IN OMAN WHOSE YEAR-ROUND ACTS OF KINDNESS SHOW HOW JUST A LITTLE CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY CAN GO A VERY LONG WAY.

FASHION: CUSTOM RAMADAN COUTURE 01 NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

40

POSTCARD: PARIS, FRANCE

36

YUMMY OMAN: GET GRILLING!

44

EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

IN THIS ISSUE…

H

ow much effort does it take to be a light in a dark world? It’s hard to avoid the cliché as we scroll through the daily news, switching off and tuning out the trials and suffering of our fellow brothers and sisters around the world.

But we here at Team Y say it doesn’t take much to make a difference and, as the adage goes, changes really do start at home.

How can we expect to see on a global scale, that which we aren’t willing to expend the small effort towards in our daily lives – mutual understanding, respect, and peace? We’ve been given this one Earth to share, and we’re all in it together.

That’s why, in the spirit of Ramadan, Team Y set forth a challenge – a call-to-action to the everyday heroes, unsung changemakers, and champions of the human spirit in search of those small acts of kindness that are making all the difference in the lives of all those in the Sultanate.

So, we’re hitting the streets to find them and sing their praises in this week’s very special cover feature that heralds the triumph of the good in all of us. Flip to Page 18 to read on and feel uplifted!

Also in this issue, we take you to the Sultanate’s oasis heartland and into traditional Omani summer homes to sample nature’s bounty that make the region’s agricultural offerings so unique. Plus, we kick off our annual Y Ramadan Car Guide with some of the season’s best promotions; explore the vibrant bustling Ramadan night market in the Barka Souq over in our Destination pages; showcase a taste of Ramadan couture in Fashion, and, bring you some our favourite summer grilling recipes that will have you firing up the barbecue for iftar!

Until next week, happy reading!

Team Y EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi

PHOTOGRAPHER Shaquel al Balushi

ADMIN MANAGER Yousef al Harrassi

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan

REPORTER Hassan al Lawati ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

MANAGER – DIGITAL MEDIA SALES Umair Mehmood

Cover image for illustrative purposes only. Source: Shutterstock FOLLOW US ON:

@ytabloid /ytabloid

/ytabloid ymagazine

www.y-oman.com /ymagazine

Y Magazine is published by SABCO Press, Publishing & Advertising LLC / Y is a SABCO Media product.

Acting General Manager Salim al Amri We’d love to hear your news and views. For editorial enquiries, please info@y-oman.com email Want to read Y on the go?

Scan our digital issue here: Download any QR reader from iTunes or Google Play to read Y on the go

Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman.

MAY 16 -22 / ISSUE 569

03

contents MAY

Your Oman

16

-

22

This Week

08 Voice Of Oman

Mohammed al Kindi 10 News

Latest visa ban for

expats announced

12 News

SalamAir settles Saudi air dispute

10

16 Flavours of Ramadan

Break your fast with

family and loved

ones over a

sumptuous iftar menu

at the Grand Hyatt Muscat!

17 Movies Kelly Clarkson and

Nick Jonas lend their star-power vocals to the animated

feel-good flick ‘UglyDolls’.

17

Cars and Adventures 27 Y’s 2019 Ramadan

Car Guide

2019

34 Destination

Barka Souq 38 Y-Fi

Groundbreaking gadgets

Health and Beauty 40 Fashion

Ramadan nights

Features 18

Acts of kindness The world could use a little more kindness and small everyday actions add up to a more caring world. This Ramadan, we meet some humble residents of Oman who are doing just that.

22

Wonders of worship The Holy Month is a time spent in prayer.

In celebration, we’ve rounded up some of the world’s most iconic and beautiful masjids.

24

An Omani harvest We head to the interiors to sample the Sultanate’s rich agricultural bounty.

Food and Drink 44 Yummy Oman

Cookin’ with fire 46 Taste Test Paparazzi

42 Beauty

Summer shimmer

with Huda Beauty

38

40

NEXT ISSUE...

FEATURES / COFFEE WITH Y / NEWS / MOVIES / EVENTS / BEAUTY / DESTINATION / TRAVEL / FASHION / FIRST DRIVE

44

brity ch and the latest celeve got at w to ts tis ar e th we’ From ate hits of the week, gossip, to your ultim from the pulse of the music your superstar dose Radio Oman 100.9 FM world, with Virgin

Fashion on-fleek

stating: “He’s here and he’s perfect!” A spokesperson for the Kardashian-West’s said that the baby was born on Thursday, May 9 and is the couple’s second son. We can’t wait to see what they’ll name him!

Demi staging a come-back?

It seems rapper Cardi B. is always makin’ money moves. Having just released her second season fashion collection through her online retail store ‘Fashion Nova’, the entire collection sold out in just 24 hours, earning Miss Cardi a cool $1 million USD. Her début collection hit the online market in November 2018, with Cardi describing her new fashion line as ‘pretty, elegant, and beautiful’. Any thoughts on that folks?

Beckham, banned Football superstar David Beckham has been handed a six-month driving ban after being caught using his mobile phone while behind the wheel. The ban comes after a November 2018 incident where Beckham was reported by a witness to be looking at his phone in his lap while driving.

Beckham defended himself by saying he has no recollection of the day in question of the incident, but he’s been ordered to pay $1,200 USD in court costs and fines. Safety first David!

Kim K baby watch!

After debunking recent rumours that Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s baby had already been born, Kim K. has just confirmed over Twitter that the couple have indeed welcomed their fourth child, a baby boy, via surrogate, 06

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

Demi Lovato just announced that she’s hired music industry star-maker Scooter Braun as her new manager. Credited as the man who discovered Justin Bieber, Scooter’s launched the careers of Carly Rae Jepsen, and represents major pop stars such as Ariana Grande. After posting a pic of her and Scooter to Instagram, Lovato wrote: “Dreams came true today for me. I officially have a new manager, and not just any new manager but the one-and-only Scooter Braun. Couldn’t be happier, inspired, and excited to begin this next chapter with you.” Here’s to a new chapter Demi, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store!

Rock and fashion royalty unite Rihanna has just dropped the bombshell that she’s launching her own fashion house with fashion brand LVMH, Louis Vuitton – the world’s largest luxury group, and the company has just confirmed it. Fenty will be a standalone fashion house, with the first products from the new company – which till now has focused on beauty and cosmetics – being unveiled in a few weeks.

About the collaboration, Rihanna said: “Designing a line like this with LVMH is an incredibly special moment for us.”

Hats off Ri-Ri!

New music from Carly Carly Rae Jepsen has just released her new single ‘Too Much’, from her highly-anticipated new album which comes out May 17.

It’s her fifth single off the album to hit the airwaves and is an emotive synth-pop track that’s both chill and the most mature we’ve heard Carly yet as re-designs herself from simple pop to a complex sound that’s been years in the making.

A superstar collab Justin Bieber and Ed Sheeran have dropped their brand-new collaborative single called ‘I Don’t Care’. This is their first team-up since 2015’s ‘Love Yourself’. A day after the song came out, they also teased fans with a trailer from its upcoming music video. Jumping on the summer vibe train, both Ed and the Biebs have taken advantage of the feel-good vibes that afro-beats add to this track as they sing about not wanting to be at a party.

Miss Madge nails it Madonna and Swae Lee have teamed up on a new single called ‘Crave’. This latest musical offering comes hot on the heels of Madge’s collaboration with Maluma on the tracks ‘Medellin’ and ‘I Rise’. It’s reported that Swae Lee – from the group Rae Sremmurd jumped at the chance to work with the Queen of Pop. Madonna’s newest album ‘Madame X’ is set to be released on June 14.

Be sure to keep it locked to Virgin Radio Oman 100.9 FM, and don’t miss your Tea Time with Maya Noise, daily on Chad in the Morning.

Ramadan Giveaways InterContinental Muscat The InterContinental® Muscat, built in the 1970s, was the first international hotel to rise in Oman. The hotel sits on a prime beachside location on acres of palm-filled gardens between the Al Hajjar Mountains and the green-blue waters of the Indian Ocean. This five-star resort is located in the heart of the city’s residential, government, and diplomatic quarters. The hotel’s Palm Beach Club boasts a tennis court, a 25-metre Olympic-size pool, a leisure pool, a fully-equipped fitness centre,

Sundus Rotana Comfort, convenience, and modern elegance come together at Sundus Rotana, a contemporary upscale hotel conveniently located minutes away from the Muscat International Airport and the new Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre. At Sundus Rotana Muscat, exclusive arrangements have been

Crowne Plaza Sohar

WE’VE ROUNDED UP THE SEASON’S BEST OFFERS TO MAKE YOUR NEXT IFTAR OR SOHOUR ALL THE MORE MEMORABLE!

sauna, Jacuzzi, and easy access to the beach. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, the InterContinental® Muscat continues to remain the choice for the most sophisticated travellr. This Holy Month of Ramadan enjoy their extensive iftar buffet with a wide variety of Arabic cuisine including kunafa, shawarma, Omani shuwa, saj bread stations, barbeque and live cooking stations, a selection of Ramadan juices, and other international dishes at Musandam Café Terrace & Restaurant.

This Ramadan, your iftar could be the start of an amazing weekend or great family getaway. Dine and get a chance to win weekly raffle prizes. For inquires, call (+968) 9137-3243 or book via OpenTable.

prepared for the Holy Month of Ramadan with room rates starting at RO35 and an authentic iftar and suhoor experiences.

Get your chance to win an iftar voucher for 2 people and experience an Oriental ambience offering un-rivalled service and hospitality at Sundus Rotana Muscat.

To win:

● Post a picture of your favourite iftar meal or your favourite Sundus Rotana experience. ● Tag and like Sundus Rotana’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Embark on a unique journey this Ramadan with Sundus Rotana Muscat’s traditional and international iftar specialties. For more information, call (+968) 2451-1877, or e-mail ginger.sundus@rotana.com.

Planning to have a weekend retreat for you and your loved ones like never before?

The Crowne Plaza Sohar, surrounded by beautifully-manicured gardens and a luxurious retreat is a short distance away from Oman’s key commercial hub. Set on an elevated landscape, this non-smoking hotel offers 126 modern well-equipped rooms.

The Crowne Plaza Sohar is a blissful retreat for families, couples, and business travelers alike, with a prime business location of Crowne Plaza Sohar close to the UAE border,

dinner. To enter, post a picture on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter (or all Cool off at the highest five-star resort in the three) of yourself or Middle East. Journey past date plantations and the your surroundings dramatic Al Hajar Mountain range to reach our featuring the current majestic hideaway. Escape the summer heat and temperature. The post soak up centuries of beauty and wellness. Indulge with the most likes, in sumptuous flavours high above it all, savouring comments, and shares all your favourites. Embark in a journey for all the will be the winner. senses.

Don’t forget to include the below hashtags Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is giving away as well as tagging our a one-night stay for two inclusive of breakfast and social media profiles.

just 9 km away from Oman’s commercial area and 2 km away from Sohar Airport (OHS).

For a chance to win a one-night stay for two people at the Crowne Plaza Sohar, simply answer the following question: How many rooms are at Crowne Plaza Sohar?

Email your answer, including your name and phone number, to editor@y-oman.com to enter!

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

#AnantaraJabalAkhdar #BeatTheHeat #ChillOnTheCliff #YMagazine MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

07

THE VOICE OF OMAN HIS EXCELLENCY MOHAMMED AL KINDI, A MEMBER OF THE MAJLIS A’SHURA, TALKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF THE HOLY MONTH

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: Ramadan is a time for generosity and giving unto others.

But should such acts of kindness be limited to such special occasions only? Tell us how giving back has made a difference in your life.

PRAMOD SHENDE

T

he Holy Month of Ramadan is one of the most important months of the year for a Muslim. Not only is it one of fasting and prayer, it’s also one that highlights the importance of being charitable and generally taking up a gentle and generous attitude towards daily tasks.

But what makes Ramadan so special is how everything we apply to our daily lives aside from the fast – the Zakat, the prayer and even the acts of kindness – is how it can all be applied to our daily lives.

It needn’t be restricted to the Holy Month alone.

Zakat, for example, is a very important part of being a Muslim. It teaches us to take 2.5 per cent of our wealth over the course of the year and distribute it to the needy in society.

Not only will this help the people who receive charity, it will also provide them with a better mindset about the people of the country – and it can be practised beyond just the one month of the year.

There are several people in Oman that help the poor to get back on their feet and help put food on their tables, though; the key is to not show the world the acts you do.

We need to believe in doing things with a clear conscience so that we can be rewarded by Allah. After all, Allah watches over everything we do – and that’s all that matters at the end of the day.

A good deed here will earn you rewards far more than you can ever imagine. And the Holy Month should be one during which you realise that you have come back on track, especially if you’ve strayed off and have lost your focus.

08

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

Ramadan is a heart-warming month during which people indulge in acts of giving and generosity. Many individuals as well as communities actively work to distribute necessities for those in need, including food and clothing.

But such acts of kindness should not be limited to special occasions; they should be continued throughout the year as giving back what you get from society is an act of kindness. It’s really made a difference in my life because it influences the giver more than the receiver and has correlations with enhanced mental, emotional and physical well-being. It has many benefits including increased happiness and a healthy heart. It slows down the ageing process. Friends – incorporate small acts of kindness in your everyday lives and notice the ripple effects. Ramadan Kareem!

JASON NORONHA

‘Charity begins at home’ is an age-old adage that we have learned and practised in our daily lives. Do we need any special occasions to go on about this. No, we do not. The joy experienced in helping out someone in need or someone less fortunate is unparalleled and this should not be limited only to humans. Often we end up having excesses beyond our needs and even if sharing that can bring a smile to a single needy person it would make your day. Helping out others has brought about a calm in my mind, a sense of relaxation and accomplishment knowing that I have taken a small step in uplifting someone’s

For 2 people at

life. Kindness shown towards others will definitely rub off on others and help make the world a better place to live in. Stay blessed and make sharing and compassion an integral part of your lives.

POORNIMA EDIRISURIYA

Ramadan is a holy month in which all of us focus on spiritual well-being. Happiness and a feeling of contentment is definitely a part of it. We celebrate this special event by sharing and caring for others. Many donation campaigns take place during this time of the year and all are eager to give donations and arrange facilities for the needy. In fact this is a good act and it brings joy to lot of people. Ramadan can be an ideal time to practise generosity and it is more successful if we continue this good habit lifelong because we all know that the happiest people are not those who are getting more, but those giving more. We all are not gifted the same. Some of us might have a comfortable life with zero worries but some might be fighting for their daily food. When we overconsume basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter we can allocate the extras to help a person to fulfill their basic needs. I used to save a small percentage of my income to donate to patients who were suffering with diseases such as leukemia, and those who needed expensive medical treatment etc. Also these savings went to people who became helpless due to natural calamities such as floods and earthquakes etc. It gives great joy to see how people become stronger with the help you provide. Rather than buying something for yourself and being happy about it, which is short

SCAN THESE QR CODES &

FOLLOW US

term; the happiness you receive by helping others is long-lasting. I strongly believe that life is meaningful when you share your thoughts, happiness and beliefs with others.

A single act of kindness can be a lifechanging moment for someone who needs it. Helping others is not about making a donation, it is about making a difference.

MUTHUMARI PANDIAN

Kindness means being generous, considerate and friendly. Our happiness increases when we exchange love and compassion on good days. That’s why our ancestors formulated these methods to practise during special occasions. The science suggests that performing acts

/YTABLOID

WWW.Y-OMAN.COM

of kindness increases serotonin, the feel-good chemical in our brains that increases energy levels and happiness and decreases stress and anxiety. Many of us are struggling with stress and sorrows which life gives us. Life is an uncertainty, nothing is stable here.

Yes, we are chasing money to pursuit happiness. But, true happiness means making others happy and helping others.

We tend to focus only on our materialistic lives and completely forget about the deeds that fulfill our soul.

Giving unto others and spreading kindness are the easiest ways to fulfill our soul. Without soulful thoughts and deeds our lives won’t be complete.

@YTABLOID

/YMAGAZINE

MUTHUMARI PANDIAN was spotted with her favourite Y Magazine in Muscat.

New Debate: Child abuse rates in Oman have doubled since 2017, with more children coming forward to report incidents.

Yet officials say that many cases still remain. Why do you think these unreported incidents are staying under wraps and how can we tackle this sensitive issue?

Share your view with us and you could be in with a chance of winning dinner for two.

THIS IS YOUR SPOT! Just send us your picture with Y Magazine or pose with our photographer and we will publish it on this page

Send it to: info@y-oman.com

Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo credit: Shutterstock

with

MB + 500 RO1 250 7pm - 6am Anytime

 MB

TH WI

EEE FR UP R S

SIM

SUPER INTERNET

*555# SUPER SAVINGS

RO3

 1GB + 2GB Anytime 7pm - 6am

RO5

 2GB + 4GB Anytime 7pm - 6am

Bonus data valid until 30th June 2019.

For latest offers & details, visit www.friendimobile.om

SUPER NETWORK

98400000 friendimobile.om

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

09

NEWS LATEST VISA BAN FOR

T

EXPATS ANNOUNCED

he Ministry of Manpower (MoM) has banned the issue of new visas for all administrative and clerical positions in the private sector, in addition to several other job categories.

Visas of workers employed under the specified categories will not be renewed on expiry.

The decision (No 221/2019) has been issued

by HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Abdullah al Bakri, Minister of Manpower.

Article 1 of the decision states, “The decision prohibits hiring of expatriate manpower in the private sector in the following positions; assistant general manager, administration manager, human resources manager, employee affairs manager, training manager, public relations manager, follow-up manger, assistant manager, and all administrative and clerical occupations.”

Article 2 of the decision adds that the expatriates employed in the above-mentioned categories shall continue until the expiry of their visa/work permit, which will be not renewed afterwards.

The decision is based on the Omani Labour Law promulgated by Royal Decree 35/2003 and Royal Decree 76/2004, which defines the competencies of the Ministry of Manpower and the adoption of its organisational structure.

FOOD PREPARATION RAID BY OFFICIALS LEADS TO ARRESTS

T

he Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources (MRMWR) says its inspection teams have arrested a number of people who were found making food in allegedly unhygienic conditions in several wilayats.

An official at MRMWR said: “In the first case, our team raided a farm in Bidbid that was being used by expatriates to make and supply food to local restaurants and cafés.

“In the second case, the Khabourah Municipality in cooperation with the ROP and the Public Prosecution arrested expatriates who were engaged in selling mishkak meat. The inspection team also seized 1,000 mishkak meat items.”All the accused were transferred to the Public Prosecution for legal action.

15 MUSCAT CITY ROUNDABOUTS

then all commuters on those roads try to exit the roundabout at the same time. In the process, all get traffic lights. What follows is a stuck in the traffic. Traffic lot of chaos and police have to police have to intervene to regulate traffic in these areas. clear the congestion. That Traffic on each road that leads is why it was thought to to the roundabout comes to a introduce traffic lights at standstill because there is no traffic the roundabouts.” light.

The main roundabouts “If there are say five roads, that will get traffic lights include the Seeb, Qurum, and Amerat areas.

The spokesman added: “A roundabout with a traffic signal will facilitate collision-free movement of vehicles.”

Muscat Municipality has plans to do away with many roundabouts and replace them with junctions.

TO GET TRAFFIC LIGHTS

T

raffic lights are to be installed at 15 roundabouts in Muscat as part of a move by the Municipality to keep traffic moving, Muscat Daily reports.

A ministry spokesman said: “These roundabouts do not have

010

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

YOUR

OMAN

SALAMAIR SETTLES SAUDI AIR DISPUTE

S

alamAir has resolved a dispute with Saudi authorities after one of its aircraft was not permitted to enter the kingdom’s airspace, Muscat Daily reports.

On Saturday last week, a SalamAir flight from Muscat to Jeddah returned to Oman after it was denied entry due to missing information of passengers’ data from previous flights.

This is normally transmitted automatically between the airline’s and Saudi authorities’ systems.

After taking this up with the Saudi authorities, the flight flew from Muscat to Jeddah on Sunday as planned.

Capt. Mohamed Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer, SalamAir, said: “All SalamAir flights are now cleared to fly to their Saudi destinations according to their scheduled times.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the authorities in both the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their valuable contributions to resolve this matter.

“SalamAir is committed to comply with all regulations abiding by the highest standards of aviation practices.”

OXY LOWERS CARBON FOOTPRINT WITH FLARED GAS REDUCTION

O

ccidental Petroleum (Oxy), the largest independent producer of hydrocarbons in Oman, has announced that it has dramatically cut flared gas volumes across its operations in the Sultanate, the Oman Observer reports.

The move means the company is helping to lower its carbon footprint.

Flared gas reductions are part of a broad array of initiatives adopted by the company in line with a wider push by the US-based energy corporation.

They’re aimed at mitigating climaterelated risks while also embracing lowcarbon technology solutions to drive its operations.

OMAN TO RE-OPEN ITS EMBASSY IN IRAQ

O

man has announced it will reopen its embassy in Baghdad, Iraq.

In a Tweet, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said the decision has been made based on fraternal ties and historical relations between Oman and Iraq.

MoFA said that the reopening of the Omani Embassy in the capital Baghdad will contribute to the development of relations between the two countries and people in various fields.

012

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

A SHARED IDENTITY

GALLERY

AHLIBANK UNVEILS ITS NEW ISLAMIC BRAND IDENTITY THROUGH ITS ‘AHLI ISLAMIC’ PRODUCT DURING A VIPSTUDDED EVENT AT THE CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

013

YOUR

GRAND OPENING

OMAN

MG MOTORS CELEBRATED THE LAUNCH OF ITS NEWEST SHOWROOM IN WATTAYAH WITH A LAVISH GRAND OPENING RECEPTION

014

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

GALLERY

GALLERY

THE GERMAN BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE GETS UNDERWAY AT THE KEMPINSKI HOTEL MUSCAT UNDER THE THEME OF ‘TOURISM IN OMAN’

Ramadan Nights at Sheraton Oman Hotel

OMR 15 IFTAR BUFFET

Enjoy our lavish Iftar buffet served every evening at Courtyard restaurant. Offering a rich array of Arabic special dishes, a fine selection of hot and cold starters, famous Ramadan desserts and a selection of traditional drinks such as Tamar Hindi, Laban and Qamar El Deen. Enjoy listening to authentic oud melodies throughout the holy month of Ramadan amidst beautiful settings.

Iftar buffet for OMR 15 net per person Sohour menu for OMR 7 net per person For more information please call +968 2237 7777 or email info.oman@sheraton.com All prices are in Omani Rial and inclusive of taxes and service charge. Terms and conditions apply.

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

015

A SUMPTUOUS IFTAR

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE In celebration of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel will be hosting daily iftar buffets and delectable suhoors.

Starting at RO18, guests can experience a global culinary journey at Al Khiran Kitchen with iftars featuring cuisine from countries beyond Oman including Syria, Malaysia, Iran, Morocco, Jordan, and much more. For suhoor, visitors can begin each day of fasting with a special Turkish menu at the hotel’s Turkuaz Restaurant & Lounge.

From a menu of dishes sure to delight diners, to a number of initiatives to feed people with love, Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel is making this Ramadan one to remember. For more information or to make a reservation, call (+968) 2476-4444 or email restaurant. reservation.albustanpalace@ritzcarlton.com

The Holy Month of Ramadan is a time of sharing and caring. It’s also a perfect time for a get-together with family and friends. And Grand Hyatt Muscat is geared up to offer a magical experience as they present a delectable array of traditional Ramadan favourites in a grand setting with various iftar options.

Enjoy their lavish iftar open buffet served every evening at Al Majlis - Mokha Café, where guests can experience a delectable Oriental-Arabic buffet, DURING including juices and laban, throughout the Holy RAMADAN Month of Ramadan. Their iftar buffet is RO20 net per person. For more information, call (+968) 2464-1234, or email- muscat.dining@hyatt.com.

DURING RAMADAN

SPIRIT OF THE HOLY MONTH

THIS

WEEK M

A

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

Y

The Grand Millennium Muscat is excited to welcome guests to enter into the spirit DURING of Ramadan with a spectacular iftar menu served at its family-friendly Taybat RAMADAN restaurant.

The Grand Millennium Muscat offers many Middle Eastern specialties and beverages including hot and cold mezze, slow-roasted Oman shuwa with Oriental rice, Levant kabsa, and fresh seafood as well as four live cooking stations presenting tandoori, Arabic, and Persian grills, shawarma, and fresh pasta, followed by Arabic sweets and desserts.

For those looking for a special place to enjoy the celebrations it costs RO18 per person. Children up to six years-old are welcomed to dine for free, while kids between the ages of 7-12 years enjoy 50 per cent off.

For more information or to reserve a table, call (+968) 2234-2222, or email fb.gmm@millenniumhotels.

016

FLAVOURS OF RAMADAN

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

MOVIES MOVIES UglyDolls Cast: Kelly Clarkson, Nick Jonas, Janelle Monae There aren’t any ugly dolls, are there? If there were, who would buy them?

Well, clearly there are. In this lively

The Beach Bum Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Snoop Dog, Isla Fisher

Moondog (McConaughey) is a poet who, it’s fair to say, is no William Blake or Robert Burns. He lives life by his own rules as he wanders along the Florida coast for inspiration.

His sleeping arrangements include the

animated film, a motley crew of dolls set out to find love and prove to themselves and others that what matters is what’s inside.

In the unique town of Uglyville, where its residents dare to be different, Moxy (Clarkson) and her friends live their lives.

One day, they all take a trip to Perfection, a town that more than lives up to its name.

Of course, it’s the biggest cliché going, and adults may find it heavy going. This is not one for Grandad to take your little darlings to.

However, the delightful ditties are colourful, catchy, and infectious and your little ones will love them.

It’s all humourous, happy fun.

beach pier or the mansion of his wife Minnie (Fisher), with whom he has an unconventional relationship.

Minnie, in turn, is canoodling with a rapper called Lingerie (Snoop Dog).

Moondog’s long-suffering daughter Jennifer sums him up when she says: “He may be a jerk but he’s a great man.” As a movie, though, it’s one you’re going to either love or hate.

Still, it’s an interesting watch as a showcase of how to carry on after life’s adversities.

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 2479-1641

It looks like McConaughey is doing this one in his sleep but it’s a masterclass performance from him.

The Convent Cast: Hannah Arterton, Rosie Day, Michael Ironside

In 17th century England, any woman who was not married or a nun had a fairly high chance of being singled out for persecution. That meant usually being put to death after trumped up charges of witchcraft. In this, innocent Persephone (Arterton) finds herself facing execution, but then the Reverend Mother of a secluded priory steps in to offer her sanctuary.

Of course, the convent is a sinister, forbidding place; where the sisters live in the most miserable of surroundings.

But then Persephone soon begins to ‘see things’.

Soon it’s not the salvation of her soul that needs attention but her very survival.

As a horror chiller, it’s very well done. The acting is excellent; the suspense, taut; and the attention to period detail accurate apart from the magistrate, who appears to have an American accent. Well, you can’t have everything.

Contract to Kill Cast: Steven Seagal, Russell Wong, Jemma Dallender

Harmon (Seagal) is a CIA enforcer investigating terrorists captured in Mexico.

Along with his fellow agent Zara (Dallender) and his spy drone pilot Sharp (Wong), he uncovers a plan by extremists to use drug smuggling routes to bring deadly weapons into the United States.

Harmon and his team must work tirelessly against the clock to stop that calamity from happening. Seagal has clearly decided that age shall not wither him but he’s clearly knocking on a bit and his martial arts prowess is simply not what it was. Still, the fact that he thinks he can still do it should merit an approving nod or two. I’m not sure it makes for a very authentic movie, though.

Even the legendary Roger Moore realised he couldn’t cut it as James Bond when he was in his 50s.

RAMADAN CELEBRATIONS AT INTERCONTINENTAL MUSCAT Experience a memorable Ramadan and its traditions in a unique setting at Musandam Café & Terrace Restaurant. Guests can enjoy our extensive Iftar buffet with a rich selection of Arabic cuisine including kunafa, shawarma, and saj bread stations, barbeque and live cooking stations, a selection of Ramadan juices, and other international dishes. This Ramadan, InterContinental Muscat also partnered with the Oman Cancer Association and for every Iftar sold, the hotel will donate RO 1 to OCA. Kids and kids at heart are also invited on May 20 as they celebrate Garangao Night; a tradition celebrated every 15th day of Ramadan where the evening is filled with song, colorful traditional clothing, and sweets for the children.

The hotel has prepared gifts and prizes for all the kids coming to join Garangao Night. Weekly raffle prizes will also be given away to lucky winners including a weekend stay and food and beverage gift vouchers. Guests dining for Iftar are entitled to be part of the raffle.

As being together as a family remains at the heart of the Ramadan celebration, InterContinental Muscat is inviting everyone to spend time with their loved ones with stays and exclusive room packages starting at RO 90++ that include Iftar for two, access to the pool, gym, and recreational facilities.

For inquiries, please call 2468-0000 or visit www.intercontinental.com/muscat.

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

017

Acts of

Kindness

IT’S A SPECIAL TIME OF YEAR, ONE THAT’S DEVOTED TO INTROSPECTION AND GENEROSITY. TEAM Y TALKS TO SOME OF MUSCAT’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE TO FIND OUT WHAT RAMADAN MEANS TO THEM AND HOW CONSISTENT ACTS OF KINDNESS ALL YEAR-ROUND MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO OUR COMMUNITY

018

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

T

hirty days of prayer, fasting and abstinence encapsulates the Holy Month of Ramadan to the outside eye; yet, to those observing the fast, it’s more than that: it summons in the spirit of giving, sharing, and above all; caring for one another.

Marked by acts of kindness and generosity, it’s also seen as a time for individuals and companies to reach out to those less fortunate in a bid to show them that they care about one and all – keeping any form of discrimination at bay and teaching the world of the concept of equality that has lost its charm in the modern world.

The belief of giving charity has been penned down in the Holy Quran – as the Surah Baqarah, 2:215 reads: “Whatever of your wealth you spend, shall (first) be for your parents, and for the near of kin, and the orphans, and the needy, and the wayfarer; and whatever good you do, verily, Allah has full knowledge thereof ”.

It’s a notion that has been in practice for centuries and is as old as Islam itself. And thus forms the basis of Zakat – a form of mandatory almsgiving that’s seen as one of the five pillars of Islam and is compulsory for every adult.

But, the spirit of charity is one that Muslims all around tend to keep closer to their hearts as opposed to wearing it on their sleeves, for the act of kindness, they say, comes from charity that is done in private.

It’s also elucidated in depth in the Holy Quran. It reads, “If you do deeds of charity openly, it is well; but if you bestow it upon the needy in secret, it will be even better for you, and it will atone for some of your bad deeds. And Allah is aware of all that you do”.

We find that it is a belief that echoes itself in a trip to find out some of the acts of kindness and charity, as we head out on a mission to understand what’s being done to help the needy and how the Holy Month of Ramadan falls into the grand scheme of things.

It was last week when Y and its sister radio station Al Wisal headed out on a mission to Baushar to learn about the case of two orphan sisters who were struck down with a life-threatening skin disease (name withheld upon request) that left them on wheelchairs and in need of urgent medical attention.

Unfortunately, funds were short and help from the public was scarce.

However, a video posted on our social media is all it took for the two girls and their uncle to receive help from and substantial monetary support from the public.

Shared and re-posted numerous times across all social media platforms, the video has had several individuals contacting the uncle, Saud al Rahbi, to offer the girls all the support they need and deserve.

It’s something Ali al Harthy, the media coordinator of a leading bank in Oman, believes is the power of social media. He says: “The first thing that came to my mind when I saw the video is to reach out to the family and help them in any way possible.

“While a lot of people see this as an opportunity to help them, there’s a gap between those in need of money and platforms that can propagate such information – and social media is slowly bridging this.”

Ali keeps the details of his donation quite close to his heart citing his belief of keeping such “sensitive matters” away from the public’s eye.

We also encounter this with several others who made donations to the girls’ treatment and the purchase of new wheelchairs – no one was ready to reveal how they helped the family get through what can be said is a tough period of their lives.

But, with more than 150 responses and requests from people with regards to the same, we’re left to believe that the spirit of Ramadan and of giving knows no bounds.

It’s something that also brought tears to the eyes of Saud al Rahbi, as was reported to us by one lady (who wished to remain anonymous) who had donated.

To understand more about this, we speak to several members of the public, companies running Ramadan initiatives and charity organisations, this week, to understand the importance of the Holy Month and how the act of giving is indeed spread over the course of the year.

While a lot of people see this as an opportunity to help them, there’s a gap between those in need of money and platforms that can propagate such information – and social media is slowly bridging this

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

019

Fatima Hamayon, founder and director of New Heights Agency Muscat, on the importance of social media in almsgiving and how to keep the spirit of giving going even after the Holy Month

T

he Holy Month of Ramadan is the period of time that is usually believed to be one of fasting and prayer – and we’ve all been taught about it from our childhood. We use this time to connect with Allah and become better people.

As a part of this, people around the world also partake in the act of almsgiving as a part of Zakat. But one thing about charity itself is that you don’t have to restrict yourself to it during the Holy Month.

The month undeniably encourages people to give to the needy and help them in every way possible but I believe that we must have that feeling instilled in us during every single month.

There are several people out there who run campaigns on WhatsApp and through NGOs to provide money and gifts in kind to the poor in Oman, and I’d like to see a bit more support from the people here in that aspect.

As a Muslim who observes Ramadan, I believe that it is our duty to follow the Holy Quran

020

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

and show the world that we care about each and every person on this Earth.

And that’s why the Holy Month of Ramadan is one that’s of great importance to us; it reminds everyone out there about the core values of being a Muslim.

Keeping that aside, I believe that social media is taking the act of Zakat to a whole new level.

While this is being proven across the globe every day, I think that in Oman, it’s slowly gaining popularity.

This goes to show in the case of the two girls who have been struck down with the disease and have been confined to wheelchairs. My first instinct when I watched the video was to take action and spread the word to help collect some funds to help them.

I won’t reveal how much we’ve collected from our family and friends, but we’d certainly like to continue extending our support to the people of the country who are in dire need of help.

Yamin al Balushi, a philanthropist and photographer, talks about how a group of people have been involved in offering donations during the Holy Month and how they hope to take it to the next level this year

F

irstly, I would like to wish everyone a blessed and holy Ramadan.

Our group, Kun Aban Li – translated in English to ‘Be My Father’ – blends the idea of giving charity and setting up a platform for several philanthropists to get the right means to get their efforts to the right people.

The group itself is six years old and I’ve been with them for two years now. The greatest achievement we can say that the group has achieved is in collecting money and giving it to the poor.

All of us in this group believe that goodness comes from within and that Allah

has blessed us enough that we need to now begin concentrating our efforts to help those who cannot make ends meet.

This could be due to several reasons but we don’t discriminate – and that’s what our group has successfully been able to do.

We’re still drawing up our plans for this year’s charity events, and we’re working overtime to bring it to life. While we wouldn’t be comfortable revealing our plans before it has materialised, I would be happy to let you know that it will be the biggest event in our group’s history.

H Khimji Ramdas’ social and charity wing, Eshraqa, helps in providing needy families with food boxes

ealth and well-being is every human being’s birthright.

Today, we live in a world where we see people struggling to make ends meet or even put a wholesome meal on the table for their families.

But, no one must struggle for food, believes Eshraqa – the CSR wing of Khimji Ramdas. It’s a concept they’re putting into practice as they distributed more than 10,000 food boxes to the needy families in Oman.

The 10,500 Ramadan boxes contained basic foodstuffs that included items such as oil, rice and even sugar – and it found its way into the homes of families in Muscat, Khaburah, Ibri, Saham, Suwaiq, Seeb, Buraimi, Nakhal, Rustaq, and Fanja.

Eshraqa’s initiative this year was in collaboration with 22 organisations, including several members of the Majlis al Shura, sports teams, volunteer groups, social funds, schools and social welfare committees.

In a statement to local media, Rajiv Ahuja, the director of corporate communications and CSR at Khimji Ramdas, said: “Over the years we have been associated with certain teams and institutions that we have grown to trust for proper and equitable distribution.

A

Ooredoo’s Goodwill Journey hits the grand 15 as they continue helping in building a communityfocused outlook more so than ever before

s an integral member of Omani society, Ooredoo is a community-focused company that is guided by a vision to enrich people’s digital lives and stimulate human growth.

One of the company’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes, the Goodwill Journey, was launched in 2005 and has impacted more than 140,000 people across the Sultanate over the past 14 years. Now, the team of dedicated Ooredoo volunteers is ready to embark on its 15th Journey this Ramadan.

An enabler of social and economic progress, the Goodwill Journey focuses both on digital enablement, education and training for women and also providing much-needed donations and support to communities countrywide. This includes helping those with disabilities and special needs and community projects.

As every year, Ooredoo will continue to focus on driving the empowerment of the female workforce through their incubators, by enhancing their skillsets through a series of workshops in a variety

“We also distribute some boxes through our staff members.

“The process of fabricating boxes, sourcing and packaging is almost a month long, while distribution through our partnering teams takes about two to three weeks.

“Each box is meant for a family unit, and we do the distribution through charity teams, volunteering groups, and welfare associations.”

Meanwhile, Nailesh Khimji, Director of Eshraqa, added to the company’s statement: “We are humbled by the way our long-standing tradition of engaging the community and enriching their lives has been appreciated by the community.

“Our annual Ramadan charity boxes contain basic foodstuffs meant for the underprivileged sections of our society.

“To ensure equitable support to as many as possible, Eshraqa partners with various social welfare organisations and volunteering teams before the Holy Month to reach these essentials to people even in far-flung villages.

He added: “Khimji Ramdas has been conducting this activity for a long time now, but it is only after Eshraqa, our Corporate and Social Responsibility arm was set up four years ago that our process has become more streamlined and organised.” of disciplines including IT, beauty, cooking, sewing, handicrafts and furniture. The company continues to foster the right eco-system for women’s incubators to thrive and grow.

The company also invests in sustainable programmes that enhance the learning abilities of children. In addition, Ooredoo has entered an alliance with the Ministry of Social Development to develop a sustainable project in the Al Wafa Rehabilitation Centres for Disabled Children in different Wilayas and other associations under the umbrella of the Ministry.

The caring nature of the Ooredoo family is demonstrated year after year as the Goodwill Journey leaves an everlasting impression. A mission of care, compassion and sustainability, this year’s Journey will build on the successes of previous years and go the extra mile with new initiatives and enriching partnerships to empower more communities across the Sultanate. ■

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

021

Wonders of Worship

The world has been blessed with some truly magnificent mosques. Here, Aftab Husain Kola picks his Top 5

A

llah says in the Qur’an, “Salah at fixed times, has been enjoined on the Believers”. So Muslims need to go to a mosque to offer prayers five times a day. Among the most distinctive sights in any place is a mosque. From simple, open spaces surrounded by walls of sun-baked brick of a bygone era to more recent stunning edifices, the mosque is a religious centre. It

also occasionally serves as an educational and social place for a town’s Muslims.

Into the blessed month of Ramadan, mosques are teeming with devotees for prayers, which earn them additional rewards during Ramadan. Here, we focus on what we think are the world’s five most iconic mosques.

1

The Al Haram Mosque, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Also called the Grand Mosque or the Sacred Mosque, Masjid Al Haram in Makkah, along with the Kaabah (the black square building in the central courtyard towards which Muslims all over the world turn for Prayer) is Islam’s holiest sanctuary. The place is a beacon of guidance and a sanctuary of Peace, radiating true faith. The Haram mosque, the world’s largest, attracts an estimated 900,000 worshippers daily. The Grand Mosque is also home to the Well of Zamzam, which Muslims have used since Prophet Ibrahim’s era, and still supplies Muslims and pilgrims with water. The site also includes other important areas such as the Black Stone, the Station of Ibrahim, and the hills of Safa and Marwa. The Haram area dates back to the era of Prophet Ibrahim, who built a smaller, simpler version with his son, Ismael.

2

Al-Aqsa Mosque with Dome of the Rock, East Jerusalem, Palestinian Territories

Islam attaches rich, deep and historical associations with the city of Jerusalem. Al Aqsa mosque (Baitul Maqdis) is considered to be the third important mosque for Muslims. Situated in the Old City of Jerusalem and standing alongside the seventh-century structure Dome of the Rock, a monumental, gold-capped shrine; these two major religious buildings can be found in a complex known as Haram as-Sherif, or the Noble Sanctuary, by Muslims and as the Temple Mount

by Jews. It is from here the Prophet’s ascent to the heavens took place and is known as Al Isra’wal Miraj. The earliest Muslims, for a time, turned toward Jerusalem to pray. A later revelation transferred the qibla, the direction of prayer, to Makkah.

022

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

3

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE

4

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, located in Ghubra in the Bausher district in Muscat, covers an area of 416,000 square metres and the complex spans an area of around 40,0000 sq m. The mosque is a fine specimen of Islamic architecture. The massive hall, with the exterior walls, is entirely clad in off-white Bianco P and dark-grey Bardiglio marble panelling sheathed in cut-tile work.

There is a fine wool carpet spanning the entire floor as well as a magnificent Swarovski crystal-adorned chandelier that drops down from the central dome. There is a separate ladies’ prayer hall and a very spacious courtyard. There is also a library of 20,000 books and an Islamic Information centre.

A glistening architectural masterpiece, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi features 82 elegant domes, 24 carat gold-glided chandeliers and a beautiful hand-woven carpet. The vision for the Grand Mosque was to incorporate architectural elements from different Muslim civilisations and celebrate cultural diversity by creating a haven that is truly diverse and inspirational in its foundation. With the capacity for 40,000 worshippers, the mosque was named after the founder and first President of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The calligraphy encircling the hollows of the domes, etched with verses from the Quran and painted with gold leaves in An-Naskh lettering, are eye-catching.

5

Faisal Mosque, Islamabad, Pakistan

Pakistan’s largest mosque, the Faisal mosque’s construction began in 1976 after Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal announced a gift of US $120 million for the mosque. Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay designed its blueprint. Nestled at the foot of the Margalla Hills, it can accommodate 250,000 people. Faisal Mosque broke from traditional Islamic structures like domes and was built along clean, modern lines resembling the tents used by nomadic Arab Bedouin tribes, with sloping roofs and a unique angular body. The mosque’s white marble structure, flanked by four, 260-feet-high minarets; sits in eye-popping juxtaposition to the backdrop of the majestic Margalla Hills. The interiors are adorned with intricate mosaics and calligraphy, which were designed by the Pakistani artist Sadequain.

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

023

An Omani harvest

024

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

The apricots, grapes, and mangoes bulging out of the bottom of your fridge may have a bit of a back story.

Swati Basu Das explores an oasis and learns how well-grown fruit can be, well, sweet inspiration

T

he wilderness of the desert lies in every single grain of sand that shapes the intricate creases of its dazzling golden dunes.

But its refreshing beauty lies in the oasis nurtured secretly in the remoteness of it all.

With 82 per cent of its topography ruled by the desert and rugged mountains, Oman also fosters some of the world’s lushest oases.

While some are high-on-demand weekend getaways with their refreshing emerald pools, there are also a few best known as agricultural belts.

Within this vast stretch of parched terrain, these green wedges are where Oman brings up its blooms.

Cradled amid the rugged Hajjar Mountains, plants and produce are irrigated by the ancient falaj system that dates back to 500AD. The water channelling through the aflaj has an underground source, consisting of either a geothermal spring or rainwater, which occasionally floods the wadi.

Faraway from the city, these are the ‘green baskets’ of Oman. Each season here spreads its charm. Whether it’s the spring blossoms or the ripe fruit harvested during the summer, these fertile green blocks are indeed Mother Nature’s goodie bags.

Here, the countless sunny days, occasional rains, the burbles of aflaj and cool climate all have a part to pay in yielding the freshest watermelon, grapes, pomegranates, bananas, mangoes, exotic apricots and peaches.

While supermarkets have exotic fruit and veg imported from abroad, local shops sell seasonal harvests from local farms. These desert oases truly are booming commercial zones.

Me to local shopkeeper: “Are these mangoes from India?”

Local shopkeeper Ali to me: “No, they are from Oman. Try apricot, pomegranate, grapes; they are sweet. All are from our local farms.”

A desire to taste these succulent fruits, and grabbing them fresh from the garden took me to locales as exotic as their yields.

There I witnessed the farmlands and their farmers meticulously harvesting everything healthy and mouth-watering.

A drive along the tree-lined lane is a rare view in Oman. One hundred kilometres from the city of Muscat, the mango trees on either side of the driveway form a canopy at Hail Al Ghaf. They

make the village entrance not only scenic but also a serene summer retreat.

Along the footpath, we spotted a few farmers toting baskets filled with papaya, lemon and raw mangoes. Sorting them in separate carrier bags, they wasted no time offering them to customers at a knockdown price.

“RO1 for a bag of 15 raw mangoes and six ripe papayas for RO2,” a farmer pitched to a local.

Grabbing three such bags, a satisfied customer gave me a streetwise smile.

Here, I came across Firdaus, a farmer who was diligently inspecting raw mangoes before handing them over to his customers.

The bunch of mangoes dangling on each branch behind him was green and aromatic. I plucked a few with his permission.

“It’s tangy and the best for chutney (pickle), a month later they will all ripen,” he said.

There are more than a hundred such plots and several skilled planters cultivating the land.

Some of the trees are leased out to expat farmers at an auction held by local owners of the farm.

Firdaus said: “During the season, mango trees are leased out to us for RO800 – RO1200 per tree. A large variety of mangoes cultivated here includes the Al Holkum, Zanzibarya, Al Mishmish and Zafran are the best quality mangoes grown in Oman.”

A gorgeous hamlet studded atop the Western Hajjar Range, Wakan village is a hidden gem.

It displays the best of nature.

The apricot blossoms and the butterflies feeding on the nectar in February are a true delight to witness, as is the picking of luscious fruit in the summer months. With its beautiful and productive green terrace farms, photographers claim Wakan is ‘the adorable’ oasis in Oman.

It’s spring, and the flowers that are white, pink and red are all withered, and the matured pulpy fruits have taken shape.

Waleed, a farmer, handed me a few freshlyplucked apricots and pomegranates.

He gently plucked and gathered them in square boxes.

“Twenty of them will cost you RO4,” he said. That was quite a number to bring back home. I settled for just a few.

“Do visit during the grape season, in July.

Black and white grapes of Wakan are high in demand,” he exclaimed.

Almost three hours’ drive from Muscat; Wilayat of Yankul presents the most picturesque palm oasis. The Al Wuqba village is best-known for the black grapes harvested in the summer months.

Each “alaba” (plot of land) has a vineyard. I met Ahmed who auctioned his land during the season.

“We reap a rich harvest every year,” he said.

Ahmed Al Harthy, owner of the vineyards, said: “Grapes are high on demand. The plots are leased out to dexterous framers for RO460 during the season.”

The cultivated land falls amidst the Western Hajjar Range, nourished by the ancient aflaj.

The farmlands produce an array of fruits and vegetables such as figs, apples, cherry, guavas, cabbages and cucumbers to name but a few.

All these lush farms proved to be a real treat.

And you thought replenishing desert oases are only about the date palms?

You are so wrong. A trip here offers a rewarding insight into a world where meticulous farmers work wonders in the desert so that we can all eat healthily. What’s not to like? ■

Do visit during the grape season, in July. Black and white grapes of Wakan are high in demand MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

025

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

SUV

O T E D I U G D A E R T S U M G Y’S N I R U D S L A E D O T U A P T H E TO H T N O M Y L O H E TH

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

027

SUV

The three-pointed Mercedes star represents only the exclusive top echelons of the vehicle market and appeals to status-conscious customers. The brand stands for the aspiration to deliver ‘The best or nothing’ in terms of products, technology and services, combined with exclusivity and individuality.

T

he Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC Coupé is a successful combination of SUV and coupé. The design exudes sportiness and superiority. In terms of its proportions, the coupé differs consciously from the GLE SUV: it is 77 mm longer, 96 mm wider, and thus 28 mm lower, with the result that the vehicle adopts an aggressive road stance which at the same time is imposing and sportily low set. This allows drivers to experience the best in a vehicle that combines the presence of an SUV together with the dynamism and agility of a coupé. This particular coupé isn’t solely defined by its body, but instead its soul. From its aggressive stance to its muscular shape, this vehicle is a new breed of thoroughbred performance and nothing reveals true depth of character together with its unmatched range of capabilities like the star in its grille. In and out, the four-door coupé stretches the imagination of what is possible.

Defining comfort, its generous rear doors welcome three passengers into the widest rear seat in its class. Fold the split seat backs down and take advantage of up to 1720 lts of carpeted luggage space, the most of any coupé in the world. With an available Panorama roof, passengers can enjoy more of the sun and stars too.

FEATURES ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 7G-TRONIC. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. AIRMATIC package.

DYNAMIC SELECT Controller.

Driving Assistance Package PLUS. AMG High performance brake system.

● AMG speed-sensitive sports steering. ● AMG Cross spoke 22” rims ● 650-1720 Lts of carpeted luggage space. ● 9 Exterior color options, 3 upholstery options and 6 trim choices.

It’s hard to pinpoint what makes the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S a pioneer in the superSUV segment – there are that many distinctive attributes working in its favour. Even so, we can’t deny the allure of the V8 motor that breathes out power like no other SUV we’ve ever tested before. That alone earns it brownie points that several other can only ever dream to achieve. www.mercedes-benz.co.om

028

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

@MercedesBenzOman

Engine Capacity: 5461 cc (5.5 Lts) Horsepower: 585 hp @

5500 rpm Torque: 760Nm @ 1750-5250 rpm Acceleration (0-100kmph): 4.2 secs Cylinders: V8 Biturbo Transmission: AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 7G-TRONIC Drivetrain: 4MATIC All wheel drive (50:50 split) Fuel Economy: 14 Lt/100km

Price Range:

Y Recommendation:

FOLLOW US ON:

SPECIFICATIONS MERCEDES-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC COUPÉ

@MercedesBenzOman

@MercedesBenzOm

Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC Coupé starting from RO 50,495.

Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4MATIC Coupé starting from RO 36,570.

VARIANTS

Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC Coupé Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4MATIC Coupé

Start a journey of pure excellence.

Exclusive Ramadan Offer on the new Mercedes-Benz models.

A time of new beginnings is just the right time to bring home a new Mercedes-Benz.

Its excellence, perfection and comfort will bring you a rewarding experience, for a lifetime.

• 5 years/75,000km service package • 3 years unlimited mileage warranty • 3 years Mobilo on road assistance • Free registration for the first year • A free gift from Mercedes-Benz Lifestyle Collection Offer extends over the new Mercedes-Benz Cars and SUVs stock range.

Mercedes-AMG G 63 Facelift and Tactical editions excluded.

Promotion runs from 7th April 2019 until 6th June 2019.

For more information visit our showroom or call 80077333.

C. R. 1054074

Muscat: Al Wallaj Street, Qurum. P.O. Box 58, Postal Code 100, Sales Tollfree: 80077333, Tel: 24659222, E-mail: sales@mercedes-benz.co.om, Website: www.mercedes-benz.co.om. Working hours: Showroom: Sat.-Thu. 9am to 1pm, 7pm to 12am, Service: Sun.-Thu. 7am to 4.30pm.

SUV

Nissan has demonstrated a commitment to innovation since the company’s founding in 1933. Since its establishment Nissan has been creating the kinds of cars that move people’s hearts. Nissan’s passion is to create ever-better cars for its customers. It is driven by the goal of moving people, moving their hearts, and changing history. In Oman, people have increasingly opted for Nissan models because they come with class leading features, great performance, ideally suited to the local conditions and offer great value for money besides being among the safest cars on the road.

N

issan Kicks is a compact crossover that features expressive style, personal technology, intelligent safety, efficient powertrain, and a strong value positioning that ensures the perfect blend between dynamic performance and an all-round driving experience. It achieves this by incorporating cutting-edge chassis control technology into the structure that helps it deal with all the rough and tumble of the urban jungle, while also adding features such as an ‘Around View Monitor’ and a 7-inch touchscreen to help keep you safe from the surroundings, and moreover, completely covered on the entertainment front. In short, the Nissan Kicks blends the best of both worlds, and then some too.

FEATURES

● Automatic Climate Control Air Conditioner

Exterior : ● Signature Floating Roof ● Boomerang Headlamps & Tail Lamps ● 17” Alloy Wheels

Technology : ● D-Step CVT ● 7” Digital Information Display ● Intelligent Key with Push Button Start

Interior : ● Gliding Wing Dash Board Design ● Best-in-Class Passenger Space ● 432L of Cargo Space ● Flat Bottom Steering Wheel with Auto &

Bluetooth Control ● 7” LCD Touch Screen with Navigation

Safety : ● Nissan Intelligent Around View Monitor ● Active Engine Brake & Rife Control

Hill Start Assist ● Dual Front Airbags, Front Side & Curtain Airbags ● Active Trace Control

Y Recommendation: Whether you’re in the market looking for a fuel-efficient crossover or a value proposition with technology to match, the Nissan Kicks has you covered. Not only does it offer five passengers the utmost comfort and space, it also chucks in a well-sized boot for all your luggage and crams in features such as a 7-inch touchscreen and a thumping audio system that are best in class.

FOLLOW US ON:

030

www.nissanoman.com

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

sbanissanoman

SPECIFICATIONS NISSAN KICKS Engine Capacity: 1.6-litres Horsepower: 118hp Torque: 149Nms Cylinders: 4 Transmission: Continuously Variable

Transmission (CVT) Exterior Dimensions: 4295 x 1760 x 1590 (mm) Fuel Tank Capacity: 41-litres Fuel Economy: 17.8 Km/L. Excellent rated, as per GSO standards.

Price Range:

RO 6,650 – RO 8,750 (after Cash Gift)

Includes Free Insurance, 4year / 60,000Km PMS, Registration, scratch and win up to RO 1000 fuel

VARIANTS S, SV, SV Dual Tone, SL, SL Dual Tone

SUV

Al Jenaibi International Automobiles is the exclusive importer for BMW in Oman. Al Jenaibi has achieved huge success since becoming the exclusive importer for the BMW Group in 2003, having one of the biggest premium car showrooms in the country.

T

he new BMW X5 has set the benchmark for driving dynamics and ride comfort. It features the new design style of all future BMW X models, with a more athletic and robust look. The X5 is already the Middle East’s most popular BMW and latest model represents the next stage in BMW’s drive to push beyond the limits of possibility and create the ultimate Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). The SAV’s tough and robust design, superior onboard technology and refined levels of comfort have established it as the new leader in the global SAV market. The ultimate ‘go everywhere’ SAV; the new X5 provides both the driver and passengers with sophisticated levels of comfort and accessibility combined with superb performance, both on and off the road.

FEATURES

● Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System ● BMW Laserlight ● Sky Lounge panoramic ● Swarovski elements in the interior trim sunroof ● Premium leather seating ● Ambient Air Package ● BMW Live Cockpit Professional ● Parking Space Assistant ● 20-, 21-, or 22-inch alloy wheels ● M Sport Package (Optional) ● Power tailgate ● BMW Digital Key ● Dynamic Damper Control ● Two 12.3-inch displays ● Integral Active Steering (Optional) ● Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function w/BMW Operating System 7.0 (Gesture ● Steering and Lane Control Assistant ● Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure controls, iDrive, speech, and touchscreen) Warning

Y Recommendation: With just the right dose of luxury, performance and technology, the BMW X5 stands out as one of the best SAVs currently in production. The power and torque from the potent six- and eight-cylinder engines are addictive and the powertrain matches up with the handling and driving dynamics like no other vehicle of its size. Its laurels speak for itself: the X5 is the best-selling luxury SAV currently prowling around Omani roads – and it will continue to do so for years to come.

FOLLOW US ON:

032

www.bmw-oman.com

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

BMWGroup

SPECIFICATIONS BMW X5 Engine Capacity: 3.0-litre ‘twin-turbo’ i6 (xDrive40i) or

4.4-litre ‘twin-turbo’ V8 (xDrive50i) Horsepower: 340hp or 462hp Torque: 400Nms or 650Nms Cylinders: 6 or 8 Transmission: Eight-speed automatic Acceleration (0-100kph): 5.5 seconds or 4.7 seconds Fuel Economy: 8.5 to 8.8 litres/100km (xDrive40i) or 11.6 litres/100kms (xDrive50i) Boot Space: 650-litres to 1,860-litres (with seats folded flat)

Price Range:

Contact dealer for more information.

VARIANTS BMW X5 xDrive40i and BMW X5 xDrive50i

CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D E ST I N AT I O N P o s t c a r d s f r o m

Y- F i

Indoors

Destination

BARKA SOUQ

THE LONG RAMADAN NIGHTS COME ALIVE IN THIS BUSTLING NIGHT MARKET THAT SWELLS WITH THE COMMERCE OF THE HOLY MONTH. SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI EXPLORES IT THROUGH HIS LENS 034

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

Cars

evening.

It’s a sight best seen to be believed; for the Holy Month – aside from being a time for fasting and prayer – is also a time for families to recoup their lost moments, forge stronger bonds, and spend some time stocking up on essentials.

It’s heartwarming to see teenagers keeping their parents company as they stock up on groceries for the 25-odd iftars that lay ahead, paving the way for Eid. We – my cousin Imran and I – catch it all as we head to shop after shop shooting photos to paint a picture of a souq whose story remains untold.

Much of the action is animated, with numbers thrown from one end of the shop to the other.

Then, the haggling starts. We catch a formal dishdasha marked at RO20 before it finally goes under the hammer to an Omani who has travelled all the way from Azaiba for a good deal at RO15.

Moments later, we stumble upon a string of restaurants, all serving up the most delectable iftar treats – starting from farm-fresh Khajoor (dates) and laban (buttermilk) to the more carbheavy yet scrumptious stuffed samosas and even shawarmas.

It’s a gastronomic journey for us, just as much as it is window-shopping – as the aura of fried food is one that we can’t quite resist, especially as we too observe fast during the Holy Month.

We trod along the busy thoroughfares of the newly-built souq which sits adjacent to the iconic Barka Fort, looking for pictures to click while avoiding the eyes of those that’d rather be left alone.

The shops in the Barka Souq are a far cry from the distinguished ones within the Muscat city limits – such as those found in Seeb or Muttrah – but even as we train our lens to the colours of Barka, we learn that there’s something more to this souq than what meets the eye: a soul arising from the several centuries-old Barka Fort that overlooks it.

For that very reason, the Barka Souq scores high in my books as a place to linger and while away a warm Ramadan evening in the company of family and friends. You just might find a bargain to boot.

TRAVEL GUIDE

L

ike a cityscape from an alternate universe, during the Holy Month of Ramadan souqs across the Sultanate remain empty and lifeless for the better part of the day. Storefronts with large, red ‘Closed’ signs turned up to the eyes of the unacquainted – and getting accustomed to the workaround schedules and split shifts of the plethora of shops in these souqs during the Holy Month can be quite a mission indeed.

Yet, only moments after iftar – sometime around quarter to seven, after sundown – it all grinds back to life like a well-oiled machine. The hustle and bustle return, bringing back all the exuberance that’s been missing from these lively and colourful markets.

It all plays out in front of my eyes at the Barka Souq – one of the lesser known ones just outside the city limits, but still teeming with life from the throngs of visitors that make their way into the confines of the shops after Maghrib prayer.

Carpets, jewelry, clothes, paintings, and foodstuffs abound, and the souq seems prepped to welcome us – the shopkeepers ever so ready to clock their first sale of the

HOW TO GET THERE The road to Barka is long, but simple. From Muscat, it’s advisable to make use of the Muscat Expressway rather than Route 1. Either road will span over 70kms and the drive should take you anywhere between 50 minutes to an hour. Once you reach Barka, the key is to find a parking spot and head out shopping in the souq on foot.

Coordinates: 23°42’18.2”N; 57°53’32.5”E MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

035

&

CARS ADVENTURES

VIVE PARIS! In spite of recent

tragedy, the French capital forges on

1. Get sketched by a Montmartre street artist.

2. Take a walking tour down the city boulevards.

3. Enjoy a lunch-time cruise on the River Seine.

4. Relish in the artworks of the Louvre Museum.

5. Snag a birds-eye view from atop the Eiffel Tower.

036

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

Destination

Cars

Y- F i

G a m i n g POSTCARDS FROM

Swati Basu Das recommends

PARIS, FRANCE A

s a piece of a travelogue, this postcard from Paris dates back to April 1, 2019. At the time, little did I - or anyone for that matter - think that devastation would befall its icon, the Grand Lady of Paris - the Cathédrale Basilique Notre Dame de Paris on April 15. On the day I visited, it stood flawless. Two weeks later the cathedral spire collapsed in a catastrophic fire.

This city of lights and romance, with all its lustre of diversity is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most iconic of capitals. A city well-connected by Metro and best explored on foot, Paris showcases its indelible Haussmanian architecture at every step. The range of buildings dates back centuries and highlights the city’s early Medieval period, alongside current contemporary designs.

Be it its ornate limestone facades, the old bridges, or the tree-lined boulevards along the banks of the River Seine, Paris is a city that glitters with history. Apart from its grand buildings, monuments, and patios, it’s also a metropolis that revels in a love for life - or ‘joie de vivre’ as the French say.

For history buffs wanting to explore the darker side of this City of Lights that runs deep underneath its most subterranean corners, you’ll want to check out the infamous catacombs of Paris. These dark chambers of the dead and underground cemeteries date back to the 1700s. A tour down below can be a spooky experience, so only the brave should venture down to explore its Catacomb Museum.

Built around the River Seine, Paris has several bridges that connect the Right Bank and the Left Bank of the city - each with their own unique cultural distinction.

Possessing an old-world charm, Pont Neuf claims to be the oldest among the the city’s 37 bridges. Easily accessible by the Number 7 Metro line to Pont Neuf Station, the bridge is an ideal location to view the Eiffel Tower from a distance.

Between Pont Marie and the Louvre Museum are the Seine-side book-stalls or the ‘bouquinistes’, selling old and rare titles. It’s a readers’ haven, and a walk along the riverfront to explore these treasure troves is worth an afternoon’s diversion.

A 30-minute metro ride from Champ de Mars Station will take you to Rue Montorgueil - a perennial street market in Paris. Walking down its cobbled path, you can spot fine restaurants, bistros, cheese shops, and some of the city’s oldest bakeries.

Artistically magnificent and majestic, Paris will always remain a cultural and architectural delight despite the structural loss it has incurred. Our Grand Lady of Paris will rise again.

SUNSE T IL L C H A M U M IN A T E S T AND A PS-ELYSEE HE RC DE S T R IO M PHE

ON Y MACAR T H E M IG H T LAR M OS T P OP U FR A N C E ’S IE !

P A T IS S E R

My favourite place A Metro ride to Abbesses will take you to the hilltop Montmartre. An 800-metre walk uphill from the

station to the Basilica of Sacre-Coeur (the white church) unfolds Bohemian architecture at every step. This charming cobbled quarter is best experienced over a cup of coffee as you admire the landscape that inspired Vincent Van Gogh and Pablo Picasso. Having your sketch done by one of the local street artists is the only souvenir you’ll need. An evening walk around this unique neighbourhood is simply unforgettable and it’s the best place to sample a variety of French culinary delights.

Highlights It’s impossible to think of Paris and not think of the monumental icons that it’s constructed over the centuries – and a trip up the Eiffel Tower was one of our most cherished memories from the trip. Braving the hours in a long queue to climb high up the tower and viewing the city from this height is nothing short of breath-taking. The more you pay, the higher you can ascend, and it’s the best sunset point after Montmatre and, of course, one of the city’s most Instagram-able.

Paris is also a city of immeasurable art. Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’ and many more, it’s iconic Louvre Museum is the world’s most magnificent art gallery.

While the 850-year-old Cathédrale Basilique Notre Dame de Paris was and is, one of the most stunning examples of French Gothic architecture and it’s recent devastating fire may have stripped its spires, but will never extinguish its soul.

Lowlights Keep your wits about you and don’t fall victim to pickpockets in many of the city’s touristic public hotspots – it can ruin your trip. Plus, all major attractions in Paris have terrifyingly long queues, so expect to spend hours to get your tickets and see the sights.

Souvenirs Buy books and antique items from the ‘bouquinistes’ along the River Seine; Eiffel Tower miniatures; delicious French sweet treats like chocolates, éclairs, and macarons; street art paintings; or decadent French cheese.

Getting there Oman Air operates direct flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport from Muscat International Airport.

Where to stay There are several luxury and budget hotels around the central Opera Garnier area and sites such as

THE FA MOUS P THE RIV ONT NEUF SPA NS ER SE INE

Booking.com and TripAdvisor can offer a plethora of other choices.

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

037

-FI

THE TECH IN YOU

D e s t i n at i o n

Cars

Gaming

Y- F I

GROUNDBREAKING GADGETS

The Y Geek Squad gets a grip on those devices that changed the world TELERECORDERS The television series and movies you stream on services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video can trace their roots back to the JVC HR-3300 videocassette recorder – a device that has probably saved more relationships and jobs than one can ever count. Back when the broadcasting of movies and live events (sports, news, etc.) was just beginning to gain traction, this device gave you control over your viewing needs like never before. You could record shows and view them at your convenience. You could also fast-forward through commercials or stop programmes you had taped to go and make a cup of tea. The VCR also opened up a world of illegal copying and reproduction but let’s not go into that. You can buy one of these retro gadgets for RO1,800 from eBay, or do the righteous thing and subscribe to a video streaming service for about RO7.

VIDEO GAMING SMARTPHONES It wasn’t long ago that Apple appeared to have got all the credit for creating the first smartphone during its launch of the first iPhone. Yet, to us tech aficionados, it was IBM with its IBM Simon Personal Communicator that set the ball in motion.

Sold back in 1994, the tech brought capabilities such as composing emails and faxes, cellular connectivity, personal management, and the possibility of creating handwritten annotations. You can buy this from ebay.com for about RO462 – which, ironically, is the same cost of a fullyloaded iPhone XS. Either way, this can be considered the genesis of smartphones.

Gaming arcades are expensive – can we all just agree on that? They were designed to replace such set-ups – wherein malls and parks were flooding their floors with glitzy tech to rip every penny off unsuspecting children – that video game developers found a newer market to capitalise on while keeping gaming a relatively low-cost affair: the video game console. Thus, in 1979, the Atari 2600 was born. It retailed at US$199 at the time, but gave players the scope to play as many games as they wanted, and for as long as they wanted. Today, Atari consoles are mere collectibles, but it gave rise to the video game marvels such as Sony’s PlayStation and Microsoft’s Xbox.

THE TELLY

EDITOR’S PICK

TODAY, TELEVISIONS WEIGH LESS THAN THE BOXES THEY COME IN, STREAM VIDEOS AT RESOLUTIONS FAR BEYOND WHAT WE’D EVER HAVE IMAGINED, AND MEASURE UP AT SIZES THAT WERE ONCE DEEMED IMPOSSIBLE TO MANUFACTURE. BUT HERE WE ARE, SHAKING HANDS WITH THE FUTURE, AND EXPERIENCING THE BEST OF WHAT TECHNOLOGY HAS TO OFFER… OR SO WE THINK. IT’S PROBABLY WHAT OUR FOREFATHERS THOUGHT AS THEY TOOK DELIVERY OF THEIR BRAND NEW RCA 630-TS – THE FIRST MASS-PRODUCED TELEVISION SET IN 1946. ITS 10-INCH BLACK-AND-WHITE SCREEN, COUPLED WITH ENORMOUS SPEAKERS, MADE FOR AN ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE UNLIKE ANYTHING ELSE. NOT ONLY DID IT GIVE RISE TO A GENERATION HOOKED ONTO WHAT WOULD SOON BE CALLED THE ‘IDIOT BOX’, IT ALSO PAVED THE WAY FOR MODERN ENTERTAINMENT AND MEDIA. IMAGINE COZYING UP ALONGSIDE YOUR FAMILY WITH AN EPISODE OF ‘ALFRED HITCHCOCK PRESENTS’ ON A COLD WINTER’S NIGHT. YOU CAN STILL BUY ONE OF THESE FOR RO132 FROM AMAZON.COM. KEEP IN MIND THAT IT COSTS THE SAME NOW AS IT DID BACK WHEN IT WAS BEING PRODUCED; MEANING, IT’S THE ULTIMATE VALUE-FOR-MONEY GADGET HERE.

038

JULY MAY 1603 - - 2209/ /ISSUE ISSUE569 327

Art Attack

The Y Geek Squad takes a look to see if you really can judge a game by its cover

A

rt can come in various shapes, sizes, colours and even forms. While we wouldn’t go so far as to stretch that notion into some modernday concoction that the youth could pass off as art (modern dance comes to mind), we do reminisce of an era that has long been left behind in favour of modern-day digitalisation: box art or cover art. While cover art generally depicts the contents of a music album, movie, book or even a comic, we’ve compiled a list of video game boxes that feature unparalleled graphical renders, and paintings from a bygone age. Creative and imaginative to say the least, the top three contenders have been chosen based on their cover design, contents, and value in today’s currency against the vogue that has become digital downloads and sloppy artwork.

THE ELDER SCROLLS V: SKYRIM Whether Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim falls into the category of modern gaming or not is debateable, but buying the collector’s edition of the action-role playing game also signed you up for some of Adam Adamowicz’s best creations – starting with the box art.

Featured extensively on the box is Aldiun – a dragon fondly known as

the ‘World-Eater’ – and the cover keeps in line with the game’s industrial theme.

Then there are the shadows and depths that bring the character to life so well it’s unreal. Buying the Special Edition would be the way to go if you’re looking to buy this game now. It will get you a 12-inch figurine of Alduin and a 200-page concept art book complete with striking full-colour illustrations of characters, creatures, environments, and even weaponry as conceptualised; and a DVD feature about the makings of the game. The box retailed for RO110 when new but can go as high up as RO135 today.

DEAD SPACE ULTRA LIMITED EDITION This one’s for the zombie fans from the early 2000s. Dead Space was a fantastic

game that took slaying zombies to a whole different level, and it’s the box art featured on the 1000-piece limited edition that has us wanting one. At RO350, it’s perhaps a bit out of reach today, but there’s no denying the appeal of a minimalistic cover featuring a blood-soaked arm illustrated to perfection. Aside from that, the box also comes with custom lithograph art illustrated and signed by comic artist, Ben Templesmith, a 97-page art book written and illustrated by the development team with 3D imagery and 3D glasses, and a 160-page hard cover graphic novel.

METAL GEAR SOLID 4: GUNS OF THE PATRIOTS

The Metal Gear experience begins even before you grab the game CD and shovel it into the disc drive in your PC or console.

It begins with the box art of Yoji Shinkawa – the game’s artist.

It’s reminiscent of what we’ve seen on several Metal Gear boxes from the era, but perhaps it’s the character lines on Solid Snake (protagonist)’s face that’s then complemented by the droid-like elements that add a bit more colour to the otherwise manga-style cover. It may seem rather plain today, but it’s still deemed one of the best covers by purists.

JULY MAY 03 16 - 22 09 / ISSUE 569 327

039

HEALTH& BEAUTY

Health

Beauty

RAMADAN NIGHTS

FASHION

Ramadan is a time of giving, sharing, and belief. Why not do that in style? This Holy Month season, look dashing and elegant in a Ramadan-inspired number such as this one from Vera Mont.

040

FEB 1116- -1722/ /ISSUE MAY ISSUE407 569

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 e G

Animal prints are back in trend, and this Ramadan we recommend a stylish tiger print jacket that can be styled in numerous ways.

Our recommendation?

Just drape it over a simple, monochromed outfit. Buy it from F&F at RO13.

Be a vision in white this Ramadan season in this netted and laced white dress from Zara.

It’s a perfect fit for evening gatherings and for attending elegant iftars. Buy it for RO60.

For those Instagram moments, this golden ruffle skirt from ZARA is a perfect wear when coupled with a contrasting blouse.

Stylish and bold, we’re keen to see you pull this off. Buy it for RO36.

A woman always needs a bag to complete her look, and we love this sophisticated clutch from Dune London’s Ramadan Collection.

Matching the animal print jacket, you need a pair of shoes to complement the look. Dune London’s Ramadan Collection has the perfect pair. Embellished with rhinestones on an animal print base, this is a shoe for the fearless.

For those of you not yet ready to embrace the floral themes of summer, this mid-knee length dress is for you. Elegant and chic, and thanks to a draping floral design on the hips, this will give an illusion of a much smaller hip line. Buy it from M&Co at RO30.

Keep your style soft and natural in this floral print wraparound-style skirt. Pair it with a beautiful shade of magenta lipstick and you’ll be ready to rock the party. Buy it from Lipsy at RO23.

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

041

HEALTH&

Health

BEAUTY

Fashion

Home

Family

out with a Blur and Glow Brush (RO14), which I’m not using on this occasion but am deploying my regular Kabuki brush instead.

The product glides smoothly over the skin and a little pump goes a long way. The pigmentation in this product is high, which some may like and others may not.

In my case, I love it! The highlighter on my legs is stunning with each hit of the sunlight, and indoor lighting makes my legs shine and shimmer.

Mind you, the product does dry off quite quickly and might form lumps when you blend it. So act fast and integrate swiftly. That said, the quickdrying formulas prevent the product from transferring onto your clothes.

Another way to use this face and body highlighter is to use it a base before applying foundation to give that ‘golden goddess glow’.

I try it out, with one pump on my moisturised face, and blend it quickly. Then, I apply my long wear foundation over, and buff it out using a brush and a beauty blender. I’m glimmering like a golden glow goddess.

The highlighter is easy to wash off too under running water and with a quick scrub.

Finally, is N.Y.M.P.H- Face and Body highlighter really worth your money? It is, especially if you hit party floors regularly. ■ Prices supplied by Sephora.ae

Making the skin shimmer this summer should be a breeze, thanks to a clutch of face and body highlighters. Christine Karan takes a look at how to achieve that healthy glow

H

uda Beauty is a name many of us have come to know and splurge out on without batting an eyelid.

Its founder, Huda Kattan, has been hailed as a mover-and-shaker not only in the Middle East but also globally, and her products are winning an enthralled throng of followers.

Her latest product Huda Beauty: N.Y.M.P.H. (RO22) has just made its debut in the field of face and body highlighters, and we at Y had to try this gorgeous ‘nymph’.

N.Y.M.P.H, which stands for ‘Not Your Mama’s Panty Hose’ is an overall face and body highlighter designed to give you radiant-looking skin.

It uses a water-based formula – perfect for keeping your skin hydrated – and comes in three different shades: Lune, Aphrodite and Aurora, which all come in various tones of tan and gold; perfect for summer.

Packaging is something that Huda pays attention to. The transparent elegant bottle lets you see the product clearly. A typical bottle contains 55ml of highlighter, which is much less than that of its very close rival Fenty Beauty’s Body Lava, which comes in a 90ml bottle.

Now, I’ve got the main details out, it’s time to test it. I choose Luna – a light golden/ champagne shade. Huda recommends a larger area of the body, such as the legs, and two to three pumps should suffice. For the application, Huda beauty has come

042

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

Beauty

HEALTH

Fashion

Home

Family

FACING FACTS

Facial pain can be more than normal neuralgia.

David Hughes reports on a condition that can cause real misery, and what you can do if you’re suffering from it

L

ike most Brits, I have occasionally been told, “shut your face”. It is basically an indicator that you have said too much, are too loud or are talking nonsense.

But there was a time in recent years when I found it difficult to open it, when the slightest gust of wind would hit the side of my face as hard as any boxer on a good night.

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition in which the sufferer is hit with a jabbing-like pain on the side of his or her face. These can often occur without warning, and can be set off by actions as innocuous as washing your face or even going out on a windy day.

Between five and ten in every 100,000 people in my own country of the UK are diagnosed with the condition each year, although it is more common in older adults.

In my case, it meant getting hit by several ‘jabs’ a day, making serious inroads into my daily routine.

Shaving became a painful process, and my mouth throbbed as I brushed my teeth.

Moving on to breakfast, I could only handle soft foods like scrambled eggs. Eating a croissant felt like biting into barbed wire.

There wasn’t a whole lot to laugh about (as if I could, anyway).

The pain occurs when one branch of the trigeminal nerve – the part that conveys feeling from the eyes, forehead, cheeks, lips and jaw to the brain, is compressed; usually by a blood vessel.

My GP put me on a course of preventative medication, called carbamazepine. It is an anticonvulsant, and slows impulses to the nerve and reduces its ability to transmit

pain messages.

But after almost a year, it was clear it wasn’t working, which meant being referred to a neurologist. The MRI didn’t lie; an artery had wrapped itself around my trigeminal nerve like a crudely-applied bandage.

Just to be able to return to a normal life; to be able to eat without pain to laugh, talk and go out in the wind meant a three-hour operation.

To undergo it was not an easy decision to make.

There was only an 80 per cent chance of success, and there was also the risk of complications, such as losing my hearing or a stroke. A surgeon drilled into my skull to remove the artery, and used a 2mm piece of Teflon to cushion the nerve.

Now life is back to normal, so it was obviously

worth it. But like everything else, everyone’s case is different.

Trigeminal neuralgia is a very real pain in the face. Here are some of the symptoms to look out for: ● Instances of jabbing pain that feels like an electric shock. ● Attacks of pain triggered by chewing, speaking or brushing teeth. ● A constant aching, burning feeling that occurs before painful spasms. ● Pain in areas such as the cheek, law, gums, lips, the eyes and the forehead. ● Episodes of pain becoming more constant and incisive over time.

Meantime, while waiting for a definitive diagnosis or for effective medication, there are a few things you can do to help you cope.

These include: ● Wear a scarf, balaclava or snook around your face when out in windy weather. ● Avoid sitting in draughty rooms, and stay away from the AC unit. ● Don’t drink hot drinks, cold drinks or food that is too spicy. Avoid caffeine.

Editor’s note: This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the advice of a medical expert if you have any questions regarding a health issue.

(Sources: The Mayo Clinic, NHS UK) MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

043

Trend

New Restaurant

YUMMY

GET GRILLING

Meat-lovers, make the most of these finger-lickin’ good barbecue recipes!

Cookin’

with fire Summer’s here and that means stoking the coals and whetting our appetites with a good old-fashioned char-grilled barbecue!

Here are our best tried-and-tested recipes and tips that will have you all fired up!

044

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

Reviews

Honey Ginger Cedar Plank Salmon with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Potato Salad § ¼ cup plus 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided § ½ tsp black pepper, divided § 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced § 1/3 cup thinly-sliced Vidalia or other sweet onion

§ 1 Tbsp chili paste Nectarine, Corn, and Avocado Salsa § 1 nectarine, chopped § 1 ear grilled corn, kernels removed § 1 avocado, diced § 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped § Juice of ½ a lemon § juice of ½ a lime § 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped § 2 Tbsp, fresh basil, chopped

The use of planked cedar adds a smoky-sweet infusion to this ultimate barbecue comfort food.

Ingredients: § 1 (2 pound) wild caught, skin-on salmon § zest of 1 lemon § 1-inch fresh ginger, grated § 1 clove garlic, grated § Black pepper § ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce § 2 Tbsp honey

Method: § Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling, but 2-4 hours is ideal. Heat grill to medium heat. § Lay the whole salmon, skin side facing down, on top of the cedar plank. Rub the flesh of the salmon with lemon zest, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Place on the grill and cover the grill.

Grill for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked to your liking. § Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, and chili paste. During the last five minutes of cooking, brush the soy sauce mix over the salmon. § Using a large spatula, remove from the grill. Top with salsa and serve. § To make the salsa, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Spoon over the salmon.

(Source: www.halfbakedharvest.com)

Because no barbecue is complete without the perfect creamydreamy side dish!

Ingredients: § 2 pounds baby red potatoes § ¼ cup plus ½ tsp kosher salt, divided § ½ cup sour cream § ½ cup mayonnaise § 2 Tbsp white vinegar § 1 garlic clove, minced § 2 tsp finely-chopped fresh oregano § 2 tsp thinly-sliced fresh chives § 1 Tbsp chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley § 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

Method: § Preheat grill to medium (about 400°F). Bring the potatoes, ¼ cup of the salt, and water to cover to a boil in a large saucepan over high heat.

Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes. Drain and cool for five minutes. Cut potatoes in half. § Whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, garlic, oregano, chives, parsley, and lemon juice in a medium bowl.

Gradually whisk in ¼ cup of the olive oil, ¼ tsp of the pepper, and remaining ½ tsp salt. § Toss potatoes with the remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil and ¼ tsp pepper in a large bowl. Grill potatoes cut side down and cover with grill lid until lightly charred, about eight minutes. Turn and grill, covered with grill lid, two more minutes. Transfer to a bowl, and cool for five minutes. § Toss together the cucumber, sweet onion, potatoes, and one cup of the dressing. Serve with remaining dressing.

(Source: www.southernliving.com)

Grilled Greek Chicken Light on calories, full on flavour, and char-grilled to perfection – what more could we ask for from a summer barbecue staple?

Ingredients: For the marinade: § ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (use fullfat yogurt for best results) § ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil § ¼ cup fresh lemon juice § Zest of 1 lemon § 1 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar § 2 Tbsp fresh oregano leaves, chopped (or 2 tsp dried) § 1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves, or 1 tsp dried § 6 medium garlic cloves, minced § 1 tsp Kosher salt § 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper § ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

Method: § Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large Zip-Loc bag. Seal and massage the bag to combine all the ingredients. § Add the chicken to the bag, turning

Grill like a pro! to coat. Marinate for 4-24 hours.

Turn the bag a few times while marinating. § Pre-heat gas grill to 400°F. § Pour the marinated chicken pieces into a large strainer to remove the excess marinade. Thread chicken pieces onto the skewers alternating with peppers and onions. Grill until the chicken is cooked through, about four minutes on each side or until juices run clear.

(Source: www.savingdessert.com)

Here are our top five need-to-know tips for barbecue perfection: ● Buy a meat thermometer so you’ll know exactly when that steak is the perfect medium-rare. ● Clean your grill so previous build-up and residue won’t add a burned flavour to your food. ● Avoid the temptation to press or flatten meats on the barbie as their flavourful juices will be lost. ● Always let meat rest for up to 15 minutes after grilling so those same juices can saturate through. ● For meat that’s more evenly cooked, let it come up to room temperature before placing on the grill.

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

045

(Source: Adapted from www.foodnetwork.com)

For the skewers: § 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch pieces for skewers § 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1 ½ -inch cubes § 1 medium red onion, cut into 1 ½ -inch cubes § 6-8 skewers (if using wooden skewers soak in water for 30-minutes before grilling)

&

FOOD DRINK

ge

an id-R

M

Trend

N e w R e s t a u r a n t REVIEWS Info Box

PAPARAZZI November 18th Street, Muscat Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. till midnight Contact: (+968) 2254-6919 Dinner for three: RO21.3 Verdict : 8/10 SERVICE 8/10 FOOD 7/10 AMBIENCE

An authentic take on Italian cuisine without unnecessary showmanship or markup, which leaves a lasting impression.

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

wasn’t what we’d call healthy but if there were such a thing, this dish would qualify for that spot.

Next up were our pizzas. The rectangular-cut pizzas were perfect for one person and no more, but they smashed the risotto balls out of the park for flavour of the toppings, consistency of the base and freshness of ingredients.

It also turned into a race to find out who could eat the fastest so that we could move onto the next slice.

Not only did the margherita outdo most of what we’ve had from fast-food outlets across the region, it also reminded us of the simple and soulful pizza we were once served up in Turin, Italy.

Just the right amount of char to the base and the TEAM Y TAKES TO AN ITALIAN JOINT right marbling of cheese to the lush tomato sauce paved the way for a great bite before we jumped THAT CAN TALK TUSCAN, NURTURE into the creamy Alfredo pizza.

NEAPOLITAN, AND SERVE SICILIAN The latter was splendid too, ticking every single aparazzi aren’t a bunch of people held box we expected from it. The creamy alfredo in high esteem. Keeping aside tabloid coupled with the mozzarella was a masterpiece in newspapers and yellow journals in the itself though, not as much as what was to follow.

West that rely heavily on their services, The pink sauce pasta – an unassuming (and most of us have a pretty low opinion more rosy than pink) dish to the naked eye – of these unscrupulous photographers. elevated our experience to the next level. Not only Yet their trade forms the basis – and name – of was the penne done just right, it was also seasoned the resto that has been placed bang at the heart to perfection and beyond, courtesy the “pink” of the November 18th Street en route to the Al sauce. Again, thick in texture but rich in flavour, Mouj cordon. each bite of the penne resulted in a burst of zest so A small eatery by all means, Paparazzi, is delectable that we soon ordered up another plate themed around the glitz and glam of modernbefore we jumped into our dessert for the evening. day Hollywood – with several pictures of celebs To keep things simple, we ordered a plate of snapped at gala events, and fashion and gossip Nutella and Lotus biscuit waffles – an indulgent magazines placed on racks around the tiny dish that bordered into a more satisfying nosh-up seating area. mellow. But we must point out that the card is than regular Belgian waffles.

They’ve also shuffled into the mix a handful of witty with a generous use of television guff.

The waffle base itself was quite sweet and Oman-based ‘influencers’ to give it a local touch.

For instance, it read that the calzones would be crunchy, signifying that it was made from a fresh Aside from that, and a couple of interior décor prepared by ‘Dough-ey Tribyani’ while our drinks batch of dough. elements – like the booking photograph booth, would be prepped by none other than television’s Everything about Paparazzi invites those passing mirrors running across the sides, and the amber most certified clumsy waitress ‘Rae-chilled Green’ by to give it a try – yet for the most part it remains lighting inside – things are kept rather simple – a play on characters Joey Tribbiani and Rachel quite vacant to customers. Whether that’s because even if it all borders on the upbeat.

Green from the comedy TV series Friends. of its name or relatively mysterious status on the Seating itself is limited to only two groups of There’s plenty more for you to chuckle at while market remains to be seen. three members each, making this one of the waiting for your food.

But, since our casual visit to the eatery, we’ve smallest eateries we’ve ever tried out to date.

Given that we were at an Italian restaurant, hit this joint many times in search of genuine and At no point did it feel jammed, and during we decided to kick things off by ordering up a reliable pizzas without having to dish out a fortune our outing we got a sense of respectable distance margherita and alfredo chicken and cream pizza, every single time. And we’ve returned home from the lone waiter and chef, both of whom a pink sauce pasta, and a plate of cheesy risotto satisfied every single time. ■ kept a close eye on us. balls.

The menu is quite focused: the restaurant Having fewer crowds to serve has its pluses, as Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see serves up Italian nosh and a few other American the waiter kept us entertained with small talk while reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com. varieties of dessert to keep things on the the chef was rustling up our orders. It still took a good five minutes before we were served our first dish of the night – the cheesy risotto balls.

Golden brown and crunchy on the outside and softened with cheese on the inside, the risotto balls were an absolute delight, and we’d gobbled them all up and ordered a second helping of the same before moving onto the pizzas.

It was a lighter take on risotto than the gooey muddle that one would imagine, with only a dash of cheese stuffed alongside the creamy rice. It

PAPARAZZI

P

046

MAY 16 - 22 / ISSUE 569

#BeatTheHeat THIS SUMMER.

Al Jabal Al Akhdar

24°C

Muscat / Dubai

38°C

Cool off at the highest five star resort in the Middle East.

Only a short 4 ½ hours drive from Dubai or Abu Dhabi and 2 hours from the new Muscat International Airport, enjoy a journey past date plantations and dramatic Omani mountain ranges to reach our majestic hideaway.

Choose your ideal haven – a spacious room with a captivating canyon view, a private pool villa with garden or cliff views. An abundance of Spa and Recreation activities from hiking to sunrise yoga.

GCC RESIDENTS PACKAGE* Up to 30% off Best Flexible Rate for a room or villa Daily buffet breakfast or Suhour for two persons Daily dinner or Iftar for two persons

10% off Anantara Spa 10% off food & beverage in all outlets

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com Book at anantara.com and get resort credit of up to OMR 20. *terms and conditions apply.

CAMBODIA  CHINA  INDONESIA  MALDIVES  MOZAMBIQUE  PORTUGAL  OMAN  QATAR  SRI LANKA  THAILAND  UNITED ARAB EMIRATES  VIETNAM  ZAMBIA

Expand your data for free with More Internet

RO 5 | 4GB RO 10 | 10GB To subscribe, use our app or dial *115*3* recharge code# Ooredoo.om/Morebonus